Sacred Valley Tour Full Day in Cusco

A full-day adventure through the Sacred Valley in Cusco offers a blend of breathtaking scenery, ancient Inca sites, and local culture. For just $40 per person, this tour takes you on a 10-12 hour journey that includes visits to iconic spots like Moray, Maras salt mines, and Ollantaytambo, with transportation, a buffet lunch, and a professional guide included. Led by passionate guides such as Jhon (as some reviews mention), you’ll get a real sense of both the natural beauty and the historical importance of this fertile valley.

Two things we especially appreciate about this tour: first, the opportunity to see well-preserved archaeological sites that tell stories of Inca ingenuity and resilience; second, the chance to enjoy a delicious local buffet in Urubamba, giving you a taste of regional flavors after a morning of sightseeing.

A potential drawback? The itinerary is packed, which means some stops are pretty brief—around 40 minutes each—so if you’re looking for a deep dive into each site, this might feel a little rushed. However, if your aim is to get a rundown in one day without sacrificing comfort, this tour hits the mark.

This tour suits travelers who want an affordable, guided, and all-encompassing experience of the Sacred Valley. It’s especially good for those with a moderate fitness level, as the sites involve walking and some uneven terrain. Families, first-time visitors, or anyone looking to cover the highlights while enjoying local cuisine will find this tour well worth the investment.

Key Points

• Affordable Price: At $40, it offers great value for a full-day guided tour with transportation and lunch.
• Cultural Highlights: Visits to Chinchero, Pisac, Moray, and Ollantaytambo showcase the region’s rich Inca history.
• Natural Beauty: Stunning views of the Urubamba mountain range and lush green fields are front and center.
• Authentic Experiences: Explore traditional markets, watch textile workshops, and see ancient salt pools.
• Efficient Itinerary: Although each stop is brief, it’s a well-organized way to see a lot in one day.
• Comfort and Support: Group size is limited to 10 travelers, ensuring personalized attention and ease of movement.

Exploring the Sacred Valley: A Detailed Review

Starting Bright and Early in Cusco

Your day begins around 6:30 a.m., with a pickup from your hotel in Cusco—an aspect that simplifies logistics and means you won’t need to worry about navigating public transport or arranging taxis. The small group size (up to 10 travelers) ensures a more intimate experience, and guides like Jhon are often praised for their helpfulness and local knowledge. Expect comfortable transportation that gets you smoothly through the countryside, allowing you to relax and gaze out at the beautiful landscapes.

First Stop: Chinchero – A Touch of Tradition

Chinchero is the first glimpse into authentic Andean life. This humble town, with its white adobe houses and cobblestone streets, feels like stepping back in time. Here, locals still wear traditional clothing, and the market buzzes with artisans demonstrating textile making—an age-old craft. We loved the visual contrast between colonial arches and indigenous dress, which captures the town’s layered history.

While only 40 minutes are allotted, you’ll get a quick taste of local life and arts. Many travelers mention the quality of textiles and workshops, which are ideal for those interested in traditional crafts or souvenir shopping. This stop sets a great tone, blending culture with scenic beauty.

The Wonder of Moray – Agricultural Terraces

Moray’s semi-circular terraces are truly a marvel, showcasing Inca engineering mastery. Carved into the hillside, the site resembles natural amphitheaters, each level with microclimates that likely served as experimental farms. The contrast of the green terraces against the rugged terrain makes for incredible photos.

Most visitors comment that the 40-minute visit feels like enough to appreciate the ingenuity without feeling rushed. The site is situated with spectacular views of the Waninmarka hill—perfect for understanding how the Incas adapted to their environment. Note that entrance tickets aren’t included here, so plan for an extra 20 SOLES if you want to enter.

Maras Salt Mines – A Unique Natural Phenomenon

Las Salineras de Maras is a highlight. Over 3,000 salt pools, fed by an underground hypersaline spring, sparkle in the sunlight like a giant mosaic. It’s no surprise that this activity is a favorite among travelers, with some quotes calling it a “beautiful landscape.” The pools have been used since Inca times and continue to be a local salt source.

The 40-minute stop gives plenty of time to walk among the pools, take photos, and learn about their history. Entrance is not included, so budget for 20 SOLES if you want to see the pools up close. We appreciated how this site combines natural beauty with historical continuity.

Lunch in Urubamba – A Rest and Replenish Point

A buffet lunch in Urubamba provides a welcoming break. Made with local ingredients, it offers a hearty way to recharge before the afternoon. Travelers often mention the quality of the meal, which is included in the tour price, adding significant value. This break also offers a chance to chat with fellow travelers and share impressions of the morning.

Pisac – An Inca and Astronomical Treasure

The archaeological park of Pisac, perched on Cerro Apu Inti Huatana, demonstrates Inca advanced knowledge of astronomy and urban planning. Although the 40-minute visit is brief, it’s enough to appreciate the terraced terraces, temples, and the panoramic views of the valley.

Many reviews highlight the beauty of this site—some mentioning it as a kind of open-air observatory. Its strategic position and well-preserved structures make it one of the more accessible and fascinating sites in the Sacred Valley.

Ollantaytambo – The Living Inca Town

The final stop is Ollantaytambo, often called the “living Inca city.” Its streets and buildings still follow the original Inca urban design, with impressive terraces and stonework. As a key stop before heading to Machu Picchu, it’s a favorite for its authenticity and historical significance.

You’ll have 40 minutes to soak in the atmosphere, explore the archaeological remains, and appreciate the views of the surrounding mountains. Many travelers mention that Ollantaytambo is not just a tourist spot but a thriving community that keeps its Inca roots alive.

Practicalities and What You Should Know

Transportation and Guide

The included transportation is comfortable, and the small group size adds a personal touch. The professional guide is key in making the experience informative and engaging—some reviews highlight guides like Jhon for their helpfulness and knowledge.

Cost and Value

For $40, this tour covers a full day’s worth of visits, transportation, and lunch. Entrance tickets to sites like Moray and Salineras are not included in the price, but the overall package remains competitive, especially considering the convenience of transportation and guided commentary. The extra SOLES for entrance fees are a minor addition compared to the hassle of organizing these visits independently.

Timing and Pacing

While the itinerary is tight, each stop is carefully timed to maximize sightseeing without overwhelming. Expect about 40-minute visits, which provide enough time to explore and take photos. Be prepared for a physically moderate day—walking over uneven terrain and some stairs at archaeological sites.

Who Would Enjoy This Tour?

This experience is ideal for first-time visitors wanting an overview of the Sacred Valley’s highlights without the hassle of planning individual visits. It suits those who appreciate a guided experience, local culture, and stunning landscapes. The moderate physical activity is manageable for most, but travelers with mobility issues may need to consider the walking involved.

The Sum Up

If you’re looking for a well-organized, affordable way to see some of the most iconic sites of the Sacred Valley, this tour hits the sweet spot. It offers a good balance of cultural storytelling, natural beauty, and local flavor—plus, the inclusion of a delicious buffet lunch is a big plus. While the brief visits mean you won’t get in-depth at each location, they’re enough to inspire curiosity and give you a solid understanding of Inca achievements and Andean life.

The personal touches from guides, the scenic drives, and the chance to experience authentic markets and salt pools make this tour a great introduction to the region. It’s perfect for travelers who want a taste of Inca history and Andean landscapes without the stress of independent planning.

In short, you’ll leave with a richer appreciation of the Sacred Valley’s beauty, history, and enduring cultures—plus some fantastic photos and stories to share.

FAQs

What is included in the tour?
Transport, a professional guide, and a buffet lunch are included in the $40 price.

Are entrance fees included?
No, entrance tickets to Moray and Salineras are not included. Expect to pay around 20 SOLES for Salineras and 70 SOLES for the general archaeological site ticket.

What is the start time?
The tour begins at 6:30 a.m., with pickup from your Cusco hotel.

How long is the entire tour?
It lasts approximately 10 to 12 hours, returning to Cusco late afternoon or early evening.

Is this tour suitable for children or seniors?
It’s best for those with moderate physical fitness. The sites involve walking and some uneven terrain, but no strenuous activity.

What should I wear?
Comfortable walking shoes, sun protection, and layered clothing for possible weather changes are advisable.

How many people are in the group?
Small groups of up to 10 travelers ensure personalized attention and a more relaxed atmosphere.

Can I customize the stops?
This tour follows a set itinerary, but guides are generally flexible within the schedule.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour requires good weather; if canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

In choosing this Sacred Valley tour, you’re opting for a practical, well-paced, and engaging experience that brings together history, culture, and stunning scenery—ideal for travelers eager to see the best of Cusco’s surroundings without breaking the bank.