Sacred Valley of the Incas Tour with Moray & the Salt Mines

Exploring the Sacred Valley of the Incas with a focus on Moray and the Salt Mines offers an engaging way to connect with Peru’s legendary past. For $99 per person, you’ll spend roughly nine hours uncovering archaeological sites, picturesque villages, and stunning mountain scenery—all with the guidance of knowledgeable locals. The tour starts early from Cusco, with pickup included, making it a seamless way to see the highlights without the hassle of planning logistics.

What we really appreciate about this experience is how it balances cultural insights with spectacular views. The guide’s explanations help bring these ancient sites alive, and the small-group size ensures you won’t get lost in a crowd. Plus, the included buffet lunch in Urubamba is a welcome break, giving you a taste of local cuisine amidst beautiful surroundings.

One thing to keep in mind: entrance fees to the archaeological sites are not included**, which adds around USD 20, plus a small fee for Maras. This means the total cost isn’t entirely covered by the ticket price, but it’s a fair addition considering the level of access and guided experience.

This tour suits travelers who enjoy learning about history but also want a comfortable, well-organized day. If you’re eager to see multiple Inca sites in one go without sacrificing depth of understanding, this trip will fit the bill. But if you’re after more time at each stop or a less rushed experience, you might prefer a more leisurely, private tour.

Key Points

• Authentic cultural experience with a licensed guide explaining each site’s significance
• Beautiful scenery including views from Pisac viewpoint and the terraces at Moray
• Visited historic sites such as Ollantaytambo and Chinchero, blending Incan heritage with local traditions
• Inclusive lunch in Urubamba offers a generous break and local flavors
• Small group size fosters a more personal and engaging atmosphere
• Cost considerations include optional entrance fees to archaeological sites

The Sacred Valley, stretching between Cusco and Machu Picchu, is a treasure trove of Incan history, vibrant villages, and breathtaking mountain landscapes. This tour offers a practical way to enjoy many highlights in one day, with convenient transportation and a knowledgeable guide leading the way.

Transportation and Timing: Starting early at 7:00 AM, the tour’s roundtrip transport from Cusco saves you the stress of navigating unfamiliar roads. The itinerary covers seven stops in about nine hours, which means a busy day—if you’re the type who prefers a more relaxed pace, be prepared for a quick visit at each site.

Small Group Advantage: With a maximum of nine travelers, the experience feels more intimate. You’ll have ample opportunity to ask questions and get personalized insights—something many travelers find invaluable. One reviewer mentioned how “Adolfo’s energy and helpfulness made the whole experience fantastic,” highlighting the benefit of a guided tour in a small group.

Cultural Highlights: The tour’s real strength lies in its variety—from the impressive ruins of Pisac overlooking the Urubamba River to the continuously inhabited town of Ollantaytambo, which still retains its Incan layout. Visiting the village of Chinchero, with its traditional textiles and Inca water channels, offers a genuine glimpse into the enduring Andean way of life.

Natural and Archaeological Marvels: The visit to Moray, with its circular terraces, reveals how Incas experimented with agriculture, creating microclimates at different levels—an ingenious adaptation worth witnessing firsthand. The salt mines at Maras show still-practiced traditional salt farming, with locals harvesting salt in the same manner as generations before.

Culinary Delight: The included buffet lunch in Urubamba is a highlight for many—generous, tasty, and a chance to relax before heading to the next stops. One reviewer raved about the “delicious lunch” as a perfect refreshment amid a busy day.

Pisac: The Hilltop Fortress and Market

The tour kicks off with an early pickup and a quick stop at Taray viewpoint, where the valley unfurls below in a mosaic of terraced fields and river bends. Standing here, you’ll understand why the Incas chose this location for their settlement.

Driving up to the main Inca complex in Pisac, your guide will explain its strategic importance, with expansive terraces, ceremonial plazas, and impressive stonework. If your visit coincides with a weekend, you’ll experience the lively local market—overwhelming with colorful textiles, jewelry, and crafts—but even on weekdays, the site’s archaeological grandeur impresses.

One reviewer commented on the detailed explanations from their guide Julio, emphasizing how knowledgeable guides can bring the ruins to life, making history tangible rather than just a series of stones.

Urubamba: A Well-Deserved Lunch Break

Nestled in the valley’s lowlands, Urubamba provides a scenic backdrop for a buffet lunch. The restaurant often features local dishes, giving you a taste of regional flavors. This pause in the day is appreciated, especially after the morning’s walking and exploring.

Ollantaytambo: The Living Inca Village

Ollantaytambo is a highlight for many travelers. The town’s layout mirrors its ancient roots—narrow cobblestone streets, traditional houses, and the looming ruins guarding the entrance. The massive stone terraces and the unfinished stonework at the temple are testaments to Inca craftsmanship.

One traveler noted, “Ollantaytambo is one of the oldest and continuously inhabited villages of the Inca empire,” which adds to its charm as a living heritage site. It’s also a key point for those heading to Machu Picchu, making this stop particularly practical.

Moray: Agriculture as Art

The circular terraces here resemble giant amphitheaters carved into the hillside. These “experimental gardens” allowed Incas to understand how different crops thrived at various temperatures. It’s a fascinating look at Inca ingenuity—something you probably wouldn’t see without this guided visit.

Maras Salt Mines: A Living Tradition

The salt mines at Maras have been in use since pre-Incan times. Here, local families continue harvesting salt through solar evaporation, a centuries-old process. Your guide will explain how this tradition persists and why it remains vital for the community.

Chinchero: Textiles and Water Engineering

The final stop, Chinchero, offers a peaceful village with a whitewashed church built on an Inca foundation. Known for its textiles, you’ll see local artisans weaving traditional patterns—highlighting the cultural continuity of the region.

The Inca water channels and terraced fields here showcase sophisticated engineering, still visible today. It’s a quiet end to a busy day, and many appreciate the chance to see a less touristy, more authentic village.

Return to Cusco: Wrapping Up the Day

By evening, you’ll be back in Cusco, dropped off near Plaza Regocijo. The long day may be tiring, but the memories of these impressive sites and vibrant traditions will stay with you.

This tour is especially suited for travelers who want an overview of the Sacred Valley’s highlights without the hassle of planning each stop. The small-group format and knowledgeable guides mean you’ll gain rich insights into Inca culture and history. If you’re keen on stunning vistas and learning from expert storytellers, this experience will satisfy.

However, keep in mind the short duration at each site—about 30 minutes—so if you prefer a more leisurely pace or an in-depth exploration, you might want to consider a private or longer tour. Also, because entrance fees are not included, you’ll want to budget around USD 20 for sites like Pisac and Ollantaytambo, and a small fee for Maras.

This tour offers excellent value, blending cultural education, scenic beauty, and local interaction—a well-rounded introduction to the Sacred Valley for most visitors.

Are entrance tickets included in the price?
No, the entrance fees to sites like Pisac, Ollantaytambo, Moray, and Maras are not included. Expect to pay around USD 20 in total, plus small fees for Maras.

What’s the group size?
The tour accommodates a maximum of 9 travelers, making for a more intimate experience and better interaction with your guide.

Is the tour suitable for all ages?
Most travelers can participate, but be prepared for a full day of walking and some uphill climbs at sites like Pisac and Ollantaytambo.

What should I bring?
Comfortable walking shoes, sunscreen, a hat, and water are recommended. A light jacket might be useful if the weather changes.

Does the tour pick me up from my hotel?
Yes, pickup from your hotel in Cusco is included. The meeting point is Plaza Regocijo, close to the main square.

How long is the buffet lunch?
The lunch break is approximately one hour, giving you enough time to relax and enjoy regional dishes.

Can I customize this tour?
This is a fixed itinerary, so if you’re looking for a more personalized experience, consider private options.

This Sacred Valley tour offers a comprehensive snapshot of Incan culture, history, and everyday life in the Andes. With experienced guides, scenic stops, and a comfortable pace, it’s a solid choice for those wanting to maximize their Sacred Valley visit in a single day. The inclusion of a delicious buffet lunch and the chance to see authentic villages make it stand out.

If you’re intrigued by ancient engineering, stunning mountain views, and traditional textiles, this tour will meet your expectations. It’s especially ideal for travelers who appreciate guided insights and small-group intimacy, making the experience both educational and personal.

While it’s a busy day and site entries are extra, the overall value and depth of the sights make this tour a memorable way to connect with the spirit of the Incas and the enduring beauty of the Sacred Valley.

Note: Always check the latest updates on site opening hours and entrance fees, and confirm pickup details when booking to ensure a smooth experience.