From Cusco: Sacred Valley, Maras, Moray, and Ollantaytambo

A Day Exploring the Sacred Valley: Cusco’s Hidden Treasures

If you’re visiting Cusco and eager to see the heart of the Inca Empire, a full-day tour of the Sacred Valley offers an authentic and engaging way to explore some of the most iconic sites. For just $35 per person, you’ll visit the charming town of Chinchero, marvel at Moray’s circular terraces, wander through Maras’ salt mines, and soak in the history of Ollantaytambo. The tour wraps up with a visit to Pisac’s lively market and impressive ruins, all within a comfortably paced day.

What we love most about this experience are the knowledgeable guides—they make the history come alive—and the stunning landscapes, from the terraced hills of Moray to the salt flats of Maras. These stops aren’t just photo ops; they offer a real sense of Inca ingenuity and local tradition.

On the flip side, a consideration is that entrance tickets aren’t included—meaning you’ll need to budget for those separately. Also, with a full day packed tight, some travelers might find the schedule a bit brisk, especially if they prefer more time at each site.

This tour is perfect for budget-conscious travelers who want a broad overview of the Sacred Valley, appreciate guided insights, and enjoy seeing a variety of sites in one day. It suits those who don’t mind a busy schedule and want a solid introduction to Inca culture and scenery.

Key Points

• Authentic Sites: Visit highlights like Moray, Maras, Ollantaytambo, and Pisac with guided commentary.
• Cultural Insights: Learn about Inca and local traditions from knowledgeable guides.
• Scenic Landscapes: Experience breathtaking views, terraced hills, salt flats, and vibrant markets.
• Value for Money: For $35, this tour packs in multiple attractions and includes transportation and lunch.
• Flexible Booking: Free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance offers peace of mind.
• Ideal for Day-Trippers: Great for those with limited time but wanting a comprehensive Sacred Valley experience.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring the Sacred Valley: What to Expect on Your Day Trip

We found this tour to be a well-balanced introduction to the Sacred Valley, especially for first-time visitors or those on a budget. The experience begins early with hotel pickup, which is a huge plus—no need to worry about figuring out transportation. From there, the journey whisks you away from Cusco into the lush, historically significant region of the Incas.

First Stop: Chinchero

Your guide, perhaps a friendly local named Emilio, will point out how Chinchero combines Inca remains with colonial architecture. You’ll visit an Inca-built colonial church and stroll through a town where centuries-old traditions still thrive. A highlight here is a quick visit to a textile center, where we appreciated seeing traditional weaving techniques firsthand—an authentic peek into local craftsmanship.

Moray’s Circular Terraces

Next, you’ll see Moray, which is often called the “Agricultural Laboratory” of the Incas. These large, concentric terraces are not just visually striking; they’re a testament to Inca ingenuity in agriculture. We loved the way the terraces seem to spiral into the sky, and the guide’s explanations about their purpose helped bring the site alive. Expect to spend about 30-40 minutes here, enough to appreciate the scale and craftsmanship without feeling rushed.

Salt Mines of Maras

Descending into the salt flats of Maras, you can’t help but be captivated by the landscape—dotted with thousands of salt wells that have been used since Inca times. Our guide shared stories about how local families still harvest salt using traditional methods, giving us a tangible connection to the past. It’s a photo-worthy spot, with a panoramic view of the Andes in the background.

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Lunch in Urubamba

Midday, the tour stops for a buffet lunch in Urubamba, a bustling town with a range of local and international options. The meal is included in the tour price, which is a good value considering the variety and quality of food. It’s a relaxed time to reflect on what you’ve seen so far and chat with fellow travelers.

Ollantaytambo: The Last Living Inca City

Post-lunch, the group heads to Ollantaytambo, famous for its well-preserved Inca fortress and town layout. We loved wandering through the narrow, cobblestone streets lined with ancient stone houses—remarkably unchanged for hundreds of years. The ruins here, especially the terraces and temple complex, are impressive and tell stories of Incas’ military and agricultural prowess.

Pisac Market and Ruins

The final stop is Pisac, renowned for its vibrant indigenous market and stunning hillside ruins. Here, you’ll find a lively atmosphere filled with local artisans selling textiles, jewelry, and crafts—perfect for souvenirs or just soaking in local life. The archaeological park offers panoramic views of the valley and intriguing Inca stonework, with some structures dating back to the 15th century.

Return to Cusco

The day wraps up with a scenic drive back, arriving around 7:00 PM. Expect a full day of walking, exploring, and absorbing local culture—be prepared for tired feet but full hearts.

The Experience: Pros and Cons

Based on feedback and our own impressions, this tour excels in guidance and scenery. Emilio, our guide, was enthusiastic and knowledgeable, making each stop educational and engaging. As one traveler put it, “The guidance provided allows you to learn about each tourist site in detail,” which really enhances the experience.

The transportation was comfortable, with a small group size that didn’t feel overwhelming. The inclusion of lunch and hotel pickup adds convenience, letting you focus on the sights rather than logistics.

However, since entrance fees to sites like Moray and Pisac are not included, you’ll need to budget extra—something to keep in mind if you’re trying to keep costs down. Also, the busy schedule might not leave much time for lingering at any one spot, so if you’re looking for a relaxed pace, this might feel a bit rushed.

Why This Tour Is a Great Fit

If you’re eager to see a broad slice of Sacred Valley highlights in one day without fuss, this tour delivers. It’s especially ideal if you value guidance that enriches your understanding of Inca sites and stunning landscapes that make for memorable photos. It’s suited for travelers who don’t mind a full schedule and are comfortable with walking and some basic site entrances.

Not for those with mobility issues or pregnant travelers, as the sites involve some walking and uneven surfaces. The value for the price is significant, considering transportation, lunch, and guided insights are included.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are entrance tickets included?
No, the tour price does not include entrance fees for Chinchero, Moray, Ollantaytambo, and Pisac, or the salt mines. You’ll need to purchase these separately.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, a hat, sunscreen, water, and your camera are recommended for the day. It can be warm during the day and cooler in the shade or higher elevations.

How long is the tour?
The entire experience lasts about 12 hours, arriving back in Cusco around 7:00 PM. It’s a full day of sightseeing.

Is the tour suitable for children?
While generally suitable, the physical activity involved might be tiring for very young children or those with mobility issues.

What languages are guides available in?
Guides speak both Spanish and English, ensuring clear explanations regardless of your language preference.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility if your schedule shifts.

Does the tour include hotel pickup?
Yes, hotel pickup is included, making it easy to start your day stress-free.

Final Thoughts

This full-day Sacred Valley tour from Cusco offers a well-rounded introduction to some of the most famous Inca sites and local traditions. For a modest price, you gain the convenience of transportation, a guided narrative, and a taste of authentic Peruvian culture—all packed into one memorable day.

The locations visited are not just Instagram-worthy; they’re woven into the story of the Incas’ ingenuity and resilience. Whether it’s the terraces of Moray, the salt flats of Maras, or the bustling market of Pisac, each stop adds a layer to your understanding of this fascinating civilization.

If you’re someone who values insightful guides, stunning scenery, and getting the most out of a single day, this tour hits the mark. It’s particularly great for travelers on a budget or those wanting a comprehensive taste of the Sacred Valley without the hassle of planning each stop.

For those seeking a more leisurely experience or more time at each site, consider supplementing this tour with additional visits on a different day. But overall, it presents a practical, engaging way to connect with the vibrant culture and history of Peru’s Sacred Valley.

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