Exploring the Sacred Valley of the Incas with Maras and Moray
If you’re after a day packed with Inca archaeology, breathtaking scenery, and authentic Peruvian culture, then this tour is a must. For around $24, you’ll spend roughly 12 hours exploring some of the most iconic sites in the Sacred Valley, including Chinchero, Moray, the Salt Mines of Maras, Ollantaytambo, and Pisaq. The tour starts early, with hotel pickups in Cusco, and offers a comprehensive look at Inca ingenuity and natural beauty.
What we genuinely love about this experience is how it combines history and nature—you’ll learn about traditional dyeing techniques in a picturesque village, marvel at the terraces in Moray, and walk through a working salt mine with over 3,000 salt wells. Plus, the included buffet lunch with authentic Andean products is a real highlight, giving you a taste of local flavors in a scenic setting.
One thing to consider is that this tour involves a full day of walking and sightseeing, so it’s best suited for those in good health who don’t mind a long day. Also, entrance fees are not included, so you’ll want to budget extra for that. But if you’re eager to get a broad overview of the Sacred Valley without fuss and at an accessible price, this tour offers excellent value.
This experience is ideal for history lovers, culture seekers, and anyone who wants to see some of the most photogenic spots of the Inca civilization in one jam-packed day. If you’re short on time in Cusco but want a well-rounded, authentic look at the Sacred Valley, this tour will suit you perfectly.
Key Points
- Affordable and comprehensive: At $24, it offers a wide range of sites with transport and a meal included.
- Authentic cultural visits: Learn about traditional dyeing in Chinchero and see real salt wells in Maras.
- Stunning scenery: Enjoy panoramic views of the Sacred Valley’s natural beauty and impressive Inca architecture.
- Guide-driven experience: Knowledgeable bilingual guides make history engaging and accessible.
- Long but rewarding day: 12 hours of sightseeing, so prepare for a full day out.
- Skip the lines and logistics: Hotel pickup and transport are included, making it convenient.
A Deep Dive Into the Sacred Valley Tour
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The Early Wake-up and Hotel Pickup
The tour begins with a hotel pickup around 6:30 am, which is ideal for maximizing your day. Being picked up from central Cusco locations means you won’t need to worry about extra transportation. Once on the road, the guide will set the tone with a brief overview of what’s ahead, helping you get excited for the sights to come.
Chinchero: A Traditional Andean Village
Our first stop was Chinchero, a charming village famous for its vibrant textiles and traditional dyeing techniques. Here, we saw artisans practicing centuries-old methods, providing a glimpse into everyday life in the Andes. The archaeological complex is also interesting, with terraces and Inca remnants that tell stories of ancient agriculture and community planning.
What makes Chinchero special is how it retains its local charm, and the guides often share stories about its history and the ongoing craft traditions. It’s a perfect spot to stretch your legs and soak in authentic rural life while admiring panoramic valley views.
Moray: Inca Agricultural Terraces
Next up was Moray, renowned for its astonishing circular terraces. These terraces are not just pretty—they were an experimental agricultural site, where the Incas tested different crops at various microclimates. We loved how the guide explained the purpose behind these terraces, adding depth to the visual spectacle.
The expansive, concentric terraces create a surreal scene, and the altitude gives you sweeping views of the surrounding landscape. It’s a reminder of how innovative Inca engineering was—making the most of a challenging environment with clever design.
More Great Tours NearbyMaras Salt Mines: Thousands of Salt Pools
The Salt Mines of Maras are a highlight, with over 3,000 salt wells that have been in use since Inca times. Walking among these pools is mesmerizing—each well appears as a tiny, shimmering square. The salt is harvested by evaporating mineral-rich water, a process that’s been ongoing for generations.
The guide will explain how local families work together, and you’ll get a real sense of how these ancient techniques are still relevant today. It’s a fantastic photo opportunity, and walking through the salt pans feels like stepping into a living history book.
Lunch in Urubamba
Midday, you’ll arrive in the scenic province of Urubamba for a buffet lunch featuring authentic Andean products. The meal is well-organized, and the setting often offers views of the surrounding mountains. The food provides a much-needed energy boost after several hours of sightseeing, and it’s a chance to mingle with fellow travelers.
Ollantaytambo: The Last Living Inca City
Post-lunch, we continued to Ollantaytambo, a village with a grand Inca fortress and sophisticated urban layout that’s still inhabited today. We loved walking through its cobbled streets, imagining what life was like during Inca times. The impressive stone terraces and the Temple of the Sun dominate the landscape, and the guide shared stories about the site’s strategic and ceremonial importance.
Ollantaytambo’s preservation makes it unique—a living testament to Inca resilience, with a vibrant local community surrounded by history.
Pisaq: The Archaeological Complex and Market
Our last major stop was Pisaq, home to a stunning Inca site perched on a hillside, with terraced slopes and intricate stonework. The views from Pisaq are breathtaking, and the site offers great photo opportunities. If you have time, the nearby market is lively and full of local handicrafts, perfect for picking up souvenirs.
Return to Cusco: A Long Day Comes Full Circle
After a full day of exploring, the return trip to Cusco starts late afternoon, and we arrived back around 7:45 pm. It’s a long day, but the experience is truly rewarding, especially knowing you’ve seen a diverse cross-section of Sacred Valley highlights.
Practicalities and Value
Transportation and Guides
The included tourist transport makes handling the logistics easy, especially if you’re unfamiliar with the area. The bilingual guides (English and Spanish) are knowledgeable and enthusiastic, adding context that makes the sites come alive. Their commentary often incorporates historical insights and local stories, enriching the experience.
Cost and What’s Included
At just $24, this tour offers remarkable value. The price covers hotel pickup, transport, guide, and buffet lunch. Entrance fees to the archaeological sites are not included, so you’ll want to have some extra cash for those. Still, this setup keeps costs transparent and manageable.
Considerations
This is a full-day tour, so be prepared for an early start and a lot of walking. The altitude and long hours may be tiring, especially for those with mobility issues or who prefer relaxed sightseeing. Also, since entrance fees aren’t included, check your budget accordingly.
Who Should Take This Tour?
If you love history, culture, and stunning scenery, and want a value-packed day, this tour fits the bill. It’s perfect for travelers with a moderate level of fitness who enjoy walking and exploring outdoor sites. It’s also great if you prefer having a knowledgeable guide to add depth to your visit, rather than self-guided wandering.
The Sum Up
This Sacred Valley tour balances authentic cultural experiences, remarkable scenery, and historical insights in a way that appeals to curious travelers. For a modest fee, you gain access to key Inca sites, learn about traditional crafts, and enjoy spectacular views—all with the convenience of transport and a guided narrative.
While it’s a full day, the variety of stops—from working salt mines to ancient terraces—keeps the experience engaging and inspiring. The inclusion of a delicious buffet lunch and the opportunity to see both rural and archaeological highlights make it a standout option for those wanting an efficient, meaningful introduction to the Sacred Valley.
If you’re visiting Cusco and want a well-organized, value-oriented tour that reveals the richness of Inca civilization amidst stunning landscapes, this trip is ideally suited. It offers a balanced mixture of guided commentary, outdoor exploration, and local culture—an experience that leaves many travelers eager to return for more.
FAQ
What time does the tour start?
The pickup begins around 6:30 am, but check availability for specific starting times, as they can vary.
Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, pickup from centrally located hotels in Cusco is included, making logistics easy.
Do I need to pay extra for entrance fees?
Entrance fees to the archaeological sites are not included; you will need extra cash to access these locations.
How long is the total duration?
The tour lasts approximately 12 hours, ending around 7:45 pm, so be prepared for a full day.
Is the tour suitable for children or pregnant women?
It’s not recommended for pregnant women, and children should be comfortable with walking and long hours.
What should I bring?
Bring your passport or ID, sunglasses, a hat, water, and breathable clothing suitable for outdoor exploration.
Can I cancel or reschedule?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance; you can also reserve now and pay later for flexibility.
Is this tour bilingual?
Yes, guides speak both English and Spanish.
Will I see local crafts and markets?
Yes, Chinchero and Pisaq offer opportunities to see traditional crafts and buy souvenirs if you wish.
This tour offers an authentic, comprehensive taste of the Sacred Valley—perfect for travelers who want to absorb history, culture, and stunning scenery in one well-organized day.
You can check availability for your dates here: