Sacred Valley of the Incas and Maras Moray Full Day Tour

Experience the Sacred Valley and Maras Moray—A Full Day of Inca Wonders from Cusco

When it comes to exploring the heart of Inca civilization, this Sacred Valley of the Incas and Maras Moray Full Day Tour offers a fantastic blend of history, culture, and landscapes for just $44 per person. Starting at 7:00 am, your adventure takes you through some of the most iconic sites in the Sacred Valley, including Chinchero, Moray, the Salt Mines of Maras, Urubamba, Ollantaytambo, and Pisac. With a duration of roughly 8 hours, this tour balances immersive sightseeing with comfortable transport and a tasty buffet lunch.

What sets this experience apart are two key highlights: firstly, the guides—passionate and knowledgeable, they bring the ruins and stories to life in a way that really enriches your understanding. And secondly, the small group size—capped at 15 travelers—means you’ll get a more personalized experience, with plenty of opportunities to ask questions or steer the tour towards your specific interests.

Of course, no tour is perfect. A potential consideration is the additional entrance fees for some sites, like the Salt Mines of Maras, which aren’t included in the base price. Also, the day involves quite a bit of moving around, so it’s best suited for active travelers comfortable with walking and sightseeing over a full day.

This tour is ideal for those craving an authentic, well-rounded introduction to the Sacred Valley without the hassle of planning every detail themselves. It’s especially suited for travelers who value expert guidance, cultural insights, and good value, making the most of limited time in Cusco.

Key Points

• Comprehensive itinerary covers major Inca sites and local markets.
• Expert guides enhance understanding with passionate storytelling.
• Small group size fosters a more personal experience.
• All logistics handled—hotel transfers, entry fees, and buffet lunch.
• Additional site fees apply for Maras Salt Mines and some sites.
• Ideal for active travelers who want a balanced, informative day.

Discovering the Sacred Valley: What to Expect

This tour is designed for travelers eager to see a variety of the Sacred Valley’s most fascinating sites in a single day. From the moment we are picked up from our Cusco hotel, the experience begins with a comfortable, air-conditioned ride through scenic landscapes. The proximity of the sites means we’re rarely on the road for longer than 45 minutes at a stretch, allowing us to maximize our time exploring.

Chinchero: The Cultural Heartbeat

Our first stop is Chinchero, about a 45-minute drive from Cusco. At 3,762 meters (around 12,340 feet), it’s high enough to give you a sense of the altitude but still accessible. Here, we explore Inca ruins and colonial churches, and get an introduction to Andean weaving—a craft still thriving in the region. One reviewer commented on the “blend of rich historical and cultural experiences,” appreciating the chance to see both pre-Columbian structures and Spanish-era architecture side by side.

Moray: The Agricultural Laboratory

Next, we head to Moray, famous for its amphitheater-like terraces. This site showcases the Inca’s advanced farming techniques—think of it as their version of a giant, outdoor laboratory. We loved the way the terraces seem to stretch infinitely, and it’s a fascinating glimpse into how the Incas experimented with different crops at various altitudes. One traveler mentioned, “You can really feel the ingenuity of the Inca at Moray.”

Salt of Maras: A Salt Pan Wonder

From Moray, it’s just a short 15-minute drive to the Salt Mines of Maras. The salt pans are a striking sight—thousands of small pools shimmering in the sun, still in operation since Inca times. The site is a visual feast, but note that the entrance fee of 10 Soles is not included in the tour price. Visitors have about an hour here to wander among the pools and learn how salt is extracted. One review noted, “The salt pans are truly eye-catching, and it’s incredible to think they’re still used today.”

Urubamba: A Tasty Break

After marvelling at the salt pans, we arrive in Urubamba for a buffet lunch. The meal offers a welcome break and a chance to sample local flavors—think hearty Andean dishes and fresh ingredients. The lunch is included in the tour, adding value and convenience, especially for those who want a sit-down meal without hunting around for restaurants.

Ollantaytambo: The Inca Fortress

Post-lunch, our journey continues to Ollantaytambo, a site of immense historical importance. Its stone terraces and massive fortress walls are visually impressive. This site also serves as a departure point for trains to Machu Picchu, making it a hub for travelers heading further into Inca territory. Visitors appreciated the “large stone terraces carved into the hillside,” and the fact that it’s a lively town with local markets and artisan shops.

Pisac: The Colorful Market and Ruins

Our final archaeological stop is Pisac, where stunning agricultural terraces and Inca structures await. The town’s market is renowned for crafts and souvenirs, making it a good spot to pick up authentic keepsakes. Many travelers enjoy the relaxed atmosphere here, with some remarks about the vibrant colors and friendly vendors.

Return to Cusco

After a full morning and afternoon of exploring, we’re driven back to Plaza Regocijo in Cusco, ending the day around 5 pm. The ride back offers a chance to reflect on the day’s discoveries and enjoy the scenic views one last time.

What We Love About This Tour

One of the most significant advantages of this tour is the quality of guides. Several reviews highlight the guides’ passion and expertise, which transform the visit from a simple sightseeing trip into an educational experience. We appreciated the clear explanations and stories that made the ruins come alive.

Another aspect we value is the balanced itinerary. It hits all the major sites of the Sacred Valley—each site offering something unique—and the inclusion of a buffet lunch means no need to search for food afterward. The small group size ensures you’re not just another face in the crowd, enabling more interaction and tailored attention.

A Few Considerations

While the tour offers great value overall, it’s worth noting that additional entrance fees for some sites—like the Salt Mines (10 Soles)—are not included in the base price of $44. If you’re eager to visit every site, this adds a small extra cost.

The itinerary involves quite a bit of walking and moving between sites, so it’s best suited for travelers comfortable with active days. Also, some reviews mention that the quality of the experience can vary depending on the guide, so your enjoyment hinges partly on who’s leading the tour.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This tour is perfect for travelers who want a rundown of the Sacred Valley without the hassle of organizing multiple visits. It suits those with an interest in Inca history and culture, and who appreciate local cuisine as part of their experience.

It’s also a good pick for those who prefer small groups and guided commentary, making the experience more intimate and informative. If you’re looking for a balanced day of sightseeing, learning, and local flavor, this tour hits the mark.

Final Words

For just $44, this Sacred Valley and Maras Moray Tour offers a memorable day packed with stunning views, cultural insights, and practical logistics. The combination of well-chosen sites, expert guides, and a hearty lunch makes it a real value for anyone wanting to understand the Inca civilization beyond Machu Picchu.

While it’s not without minor extra costs and the usual day-long travel demands, the experience’s authenticity and richness make it well worth considering. If you’re in Cusco and want a taste of Inca life with a comfortable, guided approach, this tour will serve you well.

FAQs

Is hotel pickup included in the tour?
Yes, the tour offers hotel pickup within Cusco, making logistics hassle-free for travelers.

How long is the entire tour?
The full experience lasts about 8 hours, starting early at 7:00 am and returning around 5:00 pm.

What’s included in the price?
You get hotel transfers, transportation to all listed sites, an expert guide (English and Spanish), and a buffet lunch. Entrance fees to some sites, like Moray and Pisac, are free, but others like the Salt Mines require an additional fee.

Are there any age or physical activity restrictions?
Most travelers can participate, but be prepared for some walking and outdoor activity. It’s best suited for those comfortable with active sightseeing.

Can I customize the itinerary?
This is a structured tour with a set itinerary, but the small group size allows some flexibility in discussion and focus, depending on your interests.

Do I need to pay extra for entrance fees?
Yes, the tour price does not include the entrance fee to the Maras Salt Mines (10 Soles) and the Cusco Tourist Ticket (20 USD) for certain sites.

What is the best way to prepare for the altitude?
Since sites like Chinchero are at high elevation, stay hydrated, avoid heavy meals beforehand, and take it easy if you’re sensitive to altitude.

How do reviews reflect the experience?
Most reviews praise the value, stunning views, and guides, but some mention variability based on guide performance. It’s a good idea to ask about the guide upon booking if possible.

For travelers eager to see the varied beauty and history of the Sacred Valley without overextending their schedule or budget, this tour from Cusco hits many marks. With expert guides, manageable group sizes, and a thoughtful itinerary, it offers a memorable introduction to Inca life—and all for a very reasonable price.