From Cusco: Sacred Valley, Maras, and Moray Day Trip

If you’re looking to get out of Cusco for a day and want a taste of what the Incas achieved, this tour hits all the highlights of the Sacred Valley. For $95 per group of up to three people, you’ll visit iconic sites like Ollantaytambo, Moray, Maras, and Pisac — all in one day, with private transport and hotel pickup. It’s a great way to learn about Inca history without the hassle of planning every detail yourself.

What we love about this tour is how it balances cultural insight with spectacular scenery. The stop at Ollantaytambo offers a chance to walk through a living Inca town, while Moray’s terraced circles give insight into Inca agricultural experimentation. The salt mines of Maras are not only mesmerizing but also a reminder of traditional practices still in use today. Plus, a buffet lunch in Urubamba provides a relaxing break amid the mountains.

A potential consideration is that this is a long day — roughly 13 hours from pickup to return — so it’s not ideal if you’re looking for a more relaxed pace or have mobility issues. Also, entrance fees aren’t included, so you’ll want to budget extra for those. But if you’re eager to see as much as possible in a single day, this tour offers excellent value.

This experience suits travelers who want a comprehensive look at the Sacred Valley’s highlights, especially those interested in Inca archaeology, traditional practices, and authentic local markets. It’s perfect for adventurous spirits eager for a full day of exploration from a comfortable, private setting.

Key Points

• All-in-One Sacred Valley Tour: Combines visits to Ollantaytambo, Moray, Maras, and Pisac in one day.
• Private Group Experience: More personalized than large bus tours, with hotel pickup included.
• Cultural and Historical Highlights: Learn about Inca terraces, salt mining, and local markets.
• Active Day: Expect lots of walking and outdoor exploration.
• Additional Costs: Entrance fees and lunch are not included, so plan accordingly.
• Timing: Starts early and ends around 7:00 PM, ideal for full immersion but long for some travelers.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Sacred Valley Day Trip

The Itinerary Breakdown

This tour is carefully curated to give you a well-rounded experience of the Sacred Valley, with stops that showcase both ancient ingenuity and current local traditions. It begins with a hotel pickup in Cusco between 6:00 and 6:30 am, ensuring you beat some of the crowds and enjoy cooler morning temperatures for sightseeing.

Chinchero is usually the first stop — a small town famed for its well-preserved Inca walls and vibrant textile tradition. Here, you might find yourself marveling at the skill of local weavers, and some tours include a textile demonstration. Although not explicitly listed in this tour, it’s a common feature of Sacred Valley excursions.

Next, your journey heads to Moray, a peculiar archaeological site with circular terraces that look like an inverted amphitheater. We loved the way these terraces showcase Inca experimentation with different microclimates, which allowed them to grow a variety of crops at high altitudes. As one review noted, “Moray’s terraces look like a giant, ancient science experiment — fascinating and a little surreal.”

From Moray, you’ll visit Maras, a sprawling network of over 5,000 salt pools. The sight of shimmering white pools cascading down the hillside is striking. The salt mining here has remained largely unchanged since Inca times, and you’ll learn how local families continue to harvest salt using traditional methods. Traveling here offers a glimpse into living history, making it one of the most memorable parts of the trip.

The Town of Urubamba and Lunch

After the archaeological sites, the tour makes a stop in Urubamba for a buffet lunch — optional but highly recommended to recharge. The setting offers a chance to enjoy local flavors and relax before continuing the adventure.

Ollantaytambo — The Inca Fortress and Town

Ollantaytambo is often called a “living Inca town,” as it’s inhabited continuously since the time of the Incas. We enjoyed walking through its narrow cobblestone streets and exploring the impressive fortress perched above the town. The site’s strategic position and massive stone terraces reveal the Incas’ sophisticated engineering. One reviewer praised the “stunning views from the fortress, especially at sunset,” though this tour’s schedule ends in the early evening.

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Pisac and Its Market

Finally, the tour visits Pisac, famous for its vibrant market and impressive Inca ruins. Exploring the market gives a chance to browse local crafts and buy souvenirs. The archaeological site here, with terraced slopes and stone structures, offers excellent photo opportunities and insight into Inca urban planning.

Transport and Logistics

The private transport provided is comfortable, and the driver speaks Spanish. While a guide isn’t included, the tour is designed to be flexible, allowing you to explore at your own pace. You’ll be back in Cusco around 7:00 pm, making it a long but rewarding day.

Authentic Experiences and Practical Tips

Many travelers appreciated the personalized nature of a private group, which allows for flexibility and comfort. As one reviewer mentioned, “Having a private driver made the day stress-free, and we could ask questions freely.” We also found that the early start lets you enjoy sites with fewer visitors, especially at popular spots like Ollantaytambo.

However, keep in mind that entrance fees are not included. Budgeting around $20–$30 for site tickets and another $10–$20 for lunch is wise. Also, wear comfortable shoes because walking on uneven surfaces is inevitable, and bring sunscreen, a hat, and plenty of water to stay hydrated.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This trip is well-suited for history buffs interested in Inca architecture, families (with some physical stamina), and curious travelers eager for a comprehensive snapshot of the Sacred Valley. It’s especially appealing if you prefer a private, flexible experience over crowded group tours.

Final Thoughts

This Sacred Valley day trip offers an excellent blend of history, tradition, and natural beauty at a reasonable price. The itinerary hits all the main sites, with enough flexibility to tailor your experience. It’s perfect for those who want to see the best of the Sacred Valley in one well-organized, private day.

While it’s a full schedule, the opportunity to walk through living Inca towns, explore ancient terraces, and witness traditional salt mining makes it a worthwhile adventure. Keep in mind the early start and long day, but if you’re eager to understand the heart of Inca ingenuity and culture, this tour will not disappoint.

In short, whether you’re a history lover, an adventurous traveler, or someone craving an authentic local experience, this tour brings you close to the soul of the Sacred Valley — with comfort, insight, and a touch of sparkle.

FAQs

• What is included in the tour? The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off in Cusco (center), private transportation, and visits to key sites in the Sacred Valley. Entrance fees and lunch are not included.

• How long does the tour last? The tour lasts approximately 13 hours, starting early in the morning and returning around 7:00 pm.

• Is lunch included? No, but an optional buffet lunch is available in Urubamba for an additional cost.

• Do I need to pay entrance fees separately? Yes, entrance fees are not included, so you should budget for tickets to sites like Ollantaytambo, Moray, and Pisac.

• Is the tour suitable for children or elderly travelers? The tour involves a good amount of walking and outdoor activity, so it’s best suited for those in good mobility. It may not be ideal for very young children or travelers with mobility issues.

• What should I bring? Comfortable shoes, a hat, sunscreen, water, camera, and cash for personal expenses.

• Are pets allowed? No, pets are not permitted on this tour.

• Can I cancel if my plans change? Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

• Is the tour guided? No professional guide is included, but the driver is Spanish-speaking, and you can ask questions during the trip.

• Can I customize the itinerary? Since it’s a private group, there’s some flexibility to adjust the stops, especially if you inform the provider in advance.

This Sacred Valley tour combines everything most travelers seek: history, culture, stunning landscapes, and authentic local traditions — all wrapped in a convenient, private package that maximizes value.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby