Sacred Valley Tour: Chinchero, Maras, Moray and Ollantaytambo

Exploring the Sacred Valley: Chinchero, Maras, Moray, and Ollantaytambo

If you’re visiting Cusco and want to see some of the most iconic sites in the Sacred Valley without feeling rushed, this tour offers a well-paced, richly rewarding experience for around $99 per person. In roughly 10 to 12 hours, we visit vibrant markets, marvel at ancient terraces, and walk through impressive Inca ruins—all in a small, intimate group of no more than 10 travelers. The tour includes hotel pickup, transportation, a delicious buffet lunch, and a knowledgeable bilingual guide who keeps things lively and informative.

What we really appreciate about this tour is how it balances culture with breathtaking scenery. The chance to interact with local artisans in Chinchero and feed alpacas in their farmyard makes the experience personal and authentic. Plus, the stops at Maras Salt Mines and Moray’s circular terraces are not only visually stunning but also packed with stories about Inca ingenuity.

On the flip side, a potential consideration is that this tour requires some walking and standing, and depending on your pace, the full day might feel a bit long. Also, entrance fees to the sites are not included, so budget 90 soles in cash for those. This tour suits travelers who want a comprehensive, small-group look at the Sacred Valley’s highlights with plenty of insider stories and authentic Peruvian flavors.

Key Points

• Small-group experience: With a maximum of 10 travelers, you’ll enjoy a more personalized and relaxed atmosphere.
• Authentic cultural encounters: Visiting local weaving families and feeding alpacas enriches the experience beyond just sightseeing.
• Stunning scenery: From terraced Moray to the salt flats of Maras, the landscapes are a feast for the eyes.
• Delicious regional cuisine: The included buffet lunch offers vegetarian and vegan options, highlighting Peruvian flavors.
• Flexible options: You can choose to stay in Ollantaytambo after your visit or return to Cusco, which is perfect if you’re heading to Machu Picchu.
• Expert guides: Knowledgeable bilingual guides help you understand the history and significance of each site.

A Deep Dive into the Sacred Valley Tour

Starting Off: Early Morning Pickup and Scenic Drive

The day begins at 7:45 am with a hotel pickup in Cusco, giving us a head start before the crowds arrive at the sites. As we leave the bustling city behind, the landscape transforms into lush, rolling hills dotted with traditional farms. Our guide, who is clearly passionate and well-informed, offers insights into the region’s history and modern life, making the ride as enriching as the stops themselves.

Chinchero: A Weaving Tradition Alive

Our first stop, about an hour from Cusco, is the charming town of Chinchero. Here, we get a rare peek into indigenous craftsmanship, visiting a local family that keeps the weaving tradition alive. We’re greeted warmly and even have the chance to feed the alpacas and guinea pigs, setting a friendly, informal tone for the day. The highlight? Watching artisans use natural dyes and traditional techniques to craft vibrant textiles—an art form still thriving in this mountain village.

Reviews highlight how this stop is more than just sightseeing. Sandra D. raved about the “weaving demonstration,” and the personal touch of meeting local families adds a layer of authenticity. It’s a quiet reminder of how ancient skills continue to shape everyday life in the Sacred Valley.

Moray: An Inca Agricultural Laboratory

Next, we ascend into the highlands to Moray, a site famed for its circular terraces. This natural amphitheater of terraces is more than pretty scenery—it’s an Inca agricultural experiment station, where different microclimates allowed the Incas to test crop varieties. Our guide explains how ancient farmers used this knowledge to adapt crops to diverse environments, which helped sustain the empire.

While entrance tickets aren’t included, the 45-minute visit is worth every penny for the views and the story behind them. We loved the way the terraces seem to plunge into the valley, a surreal visual that makes you marvel at Inca ingenuity. A guide’s storytelling here really brings the terraces to life, transforming stone and soil into a fascinating science lab.

Maras Salt Mines: A Surreal Landscape

At around 11:30 am, we arrive at the Salinas de Maras, a sprawling network of about 3,000 salt wells carved into the mountainside. Salt extraction here has been a tradition since Inca times, and the sight of glistening white pools crisscrossing the landscape is truly striking. This site lends itself well to photography—many travelers, including Sandra, have captured iconic shots of the salt flats.

The salt is still harvested by hand, and you can watch local workers at work. Our guide is happy to take photos, and we appreciate the chance to learn about how this traditional industry remains vital today. Entrance is not included, so remember to bring cash (around 90 soles) if you want to explore further or buy souvenirs.

Lunch at Don Angel Inka Casona

Midday, we enjoy a well-earned buffet lunch at Don Angel Inka Casona, reputed as one of the best in the Sacred Valley. The meal offers authentic flavors of the region, with vegetarian and vegan options available. It’s a perfect chance to relax, swap stories with fellow travelers, and savor Peruvian dishes like ceviche, causa, or quinoa salad.

Reviews frequently emphasize the quality and variety of the food, with Sandra noting that the lunch “was delicious, and the restaurant is highly rated.” The included meal is a real value addition, especially considering the quality and the generous portion size.

Ollantaytambo: A Fortress and Living Village

Post-lunch, our journey continues to Ollantaytambo, a stunning Inca archaeological site that doubles as a working town. The fortress here is impressive, with massive stone walls and terraces that once defended against invaders. The highlight is the giant monolith representing the Inca god Wiracocha, a testament to Inca engineering and spiritual symbolism.

The site is quite expansive, so we plan to spend about an hour exploring. Our guide shares stories about Inca warfare, religion, and daily life, making history tangible.

Optional Stay or Return to Cusco

At around 3:30 pm, travelers have a choice: stay in Ollantaytambo to catch a train to Machu Picchu later, or return with the group to Cusco. For those heading to Machu Picchu, staying here is a smart move, as it cuts down travel time and adds a scenic stop to your adventure.

Return Journey and Hotel Drop-Off

The group departs Ollantaytambo around 4:30 pm, heading back to Cusco for an arrival around 5:30 pm. The comfortable, modern transportation and hotel drop-off make the logistics smooth, especially after a long day of exploring.

Why This Tour Offers Good Value

For $99, you get a full day immersed in Inca heritage, local culture, and stunning landscapes. The small group size means fewer crowds and more personalized attention, and the expert guides help you understand the significance of each site. The inclusion of a buffet lunch with regional flavors enhances the experience, making it more than just sightseeing—it’s tasting, touching, and learning about Peruvian traditions.

While entrance fees are extra, the overall cost remains reasonable considering the comprehensive itinerary, expert guidance, and scenic drives. The fact that many travelers book this tour 41 days in advance speaks to its popularity and perceived value.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience suits travelers who want to see multiple highlights of the Sacred Valley without the fuss of organizing multiple trips. It’s ideal for those interested in Inca architecture, traditional crafts, and natural landscapes. The tour is perfect for curious travelers who enjoy storytelling, authentic interactions with locals, and stunning scenery. If you prefer a more relaxed pace with plenty of time to take photos and ask questions, this tour checks all the boxes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is hotel pickup included in this tour?
Yes, the tour offers hotel pickup and drop-off in Cusco, making logistics simple and stress-free.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience takes approximately 10 to 12 hours, from early morning pickup to late afternoon return.

Are entrance tickets to the sites included?
No, entrance fees (~90 soles) are paid in cash at the site. The tour provides guided explanations that add context to your visit.

Can I stay in Ollantaytambo after the tour?
Yes, you can choose to stay and take a train to Machu Picchu later or return with the group to Cusco.

What is the group size?
The tour is limited to a maximum of 10 people, ensuring a more intimate experience.

Is vegetarian or vegan food available?
Yes, the buffet lunch includes vegetarian and vegan options.

What is the best time to book?
Many travelers book about 1-2 months in advance; the average booking window is 41 days beforehand.

What should I bring?
Cash for entrance fees, a hat, sunscreen, water, and comfortable walking shoes are recommended.

Final Thoughts

This Sacred Valley tour offers a well-rounded glimpse into Inca culture, local traditions, and spectacular scenery. The small-group setting, knowledgeable guides, and authentic stops make it a standout choice for travelers eager to experience the region’s highlights without feeling like just another tourist. The inclusion of a hearty buffet lunch, personalized attention, and optional train or return options makes this a flexible, value-packed day.

If you’re interested in learning about ancient agricultural innovations, walking through village markets, and capturing breathtaking vistas, this tour will serve you well. It’s especially perfect for those who want a meaningful, well-organized day that balances history, culture, and nature.

Whether you’re visiting Cusco for a short time or looking to deepen your understanding of Inca civilization, this Sacred Valley tour provides a memorable, authentic experience that covers the essentials and more.