Sacred Valley with Maras and Moray day trip from Cusco

Discover the Sacred Valley and Beyond: A Day Trip from Cusco

This full-day tour from Cusco offers a well-rounded look at some of the most iconic and lesser-known Inca sites in the Sacred Valley, including Chinchero, Moray, Maras, and Ollantaytambo, with a tasty buffet lunch in Urubamba. Priced at $50 per person, it lasts about 13 hours, making it a substantial and affordable way to explore the highland wonders. The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, ensuring a comfortable start and end to your day, especially if you’re staying in Cusco’s Historic Center.

What we love about this trip are two key points. First, the door-to-door service saves you the hassle of figuring out transportation, especially if you’re unfamiliar with local transit options. Second, the combination of archaeological sites and local markets offers a rich taste of Inca history alongside vibrant Andean culture. One consideration to keep in mind is that admission tickets aren’t included for the key archaeological sites, so you might want to budget around $20 USD for these.

This tour is ideal if you’re eager to see a diverse array of significant sites without the hassle of planning multiple trips. It suits travelers who appreciate authentic cultural insights, scenic landscapes, and a comfortable, guided experience. If you’re short on time but want to maximize your exposure to Inca history, this full-day trip from Cusco hits many highlights in one go.

Key Points

• Comprehensive Itinerary: Visits to Chinchero, Moray, Maras, Urubamba, Ollantaytambo, and Pisac.
• Inclusive Service: Hotel pickup and drop-off, guided tour, lunch, and transportation included.
• Cost-Effective: At $50, it provides access to multiple major sites with the convenience of a guided experience.
• Flexible Options: Optional drop-off near Ollantaytambo train station for those heading to Machu Picchu.
• Authentic Experiences: Opportunities to explore Inca terraces, salt mines, and traditional markets.
• Tour Guide Quality: Generally high ratings, with many travelers praising the knowledgeable guides and well-organized schedule.

A Close Look at the Itinerary and Highlights

Starting at Chinchero: A Tapestry of History and Culture

The day kicks off early, with pickup from your Cusco hotel. Your first stop is Chinchero, a village often called the birthplace of traditional weaving. Here, you’ll find remnants of an Inca palace, much of which was covered during Spanish conquest, hiding its original grandeur. Today, it’s a lively spot with a textile exhibition center where you’ll see artisans weaving vibrant fabrics using age-old techniques.

Though admission is not included, many travelers appreciate the chance to glimpse Inca architecture layered beneath colonial buildings. One reviewer noted, “The guide was good. The tour was very well organized,” which helps set the tone for the day.

Moray: An Inca Agricultural Laboratory

Next, we visit Moray, a site that looks like a series of amphitheater-shaped terraces carved into the earth. These terraces aren’t just beautiful; they served as an agricultural testing ground for the Incas, allowing them to experiment with different crops in varying microclimates.

Expect to spend about two hours here. The site’s unique shape and purpose often leave visitors imagining the ingenuity required for such a complex experiment. As one traveler said, “We loved the way the terraces were built, and you can really picture Inca farmers experimenting with crops.”

Salt Mines of Maras: A Living Heritage

A highlight for many is Salinas de Maras, a sprawling network of over 5,000 salt wells that have been exploited since Inca times. The wells are still operational, with salt extracted through traditional evaporation methods. It’s truly a photographer’s paradise—imagine vast, shimmering pools set against Andean mountains.

Spending around three hours here allows time for exploration and photos. The salt mines are a tangible reminder of Inca ingenuity. One review states, “The salt wells are impressive, and you can walk through the terraces and see the salt harvesting process firsthand.”

Lunch in Urubamba: Local Flavors

After a busy morning, we pause in Urubamba for a buffet lunch. It’s included in the tour, and many find the food satisfying and reflective of local flavors. The setting often offers a chance to relax and discuss the morning’s adventures.

Ollantaytambo: Fortress and Living Village

Post-lunch, the tour offers an optional visit to Ollantaytambo, a town continuously inhabited since Inca times. The highlight is the fortress, built into the mountainside, with terraced walls and impressive stonework. Climbers get rewarding views of the valley, and history buffs will enjoy walking through the narrow streets.

For travelers heading to Machu Picchu, this is a strategic stop, as many choose to leave from here to catch the train. One reviewer shared, “Climbing the fortress was exhilarating, and the views of the valley are unforgettable.”

Pisac: Art, Markets, and Archaeology

The final major stop is Pisac, famous for its vibrant handicraft market and impressive Inca archaeological site. You’ll have around two hours to explore the market stalls, where artisans sell textiles, jewelry, and ceramics. The archaeological complex offers stunning terraced fields and ancient terraces, showcasing Inca agricultural brilliance.

As one guest put it, “The market was lively and full of color, and the ruins were a fascinating glimpse into Inca engineering.” This stop rounds out the day with both culture and historical insight.

Practical Details and What You Can Expect

The tour is designed for convenience and value. The air-conditioned vehicle ensures comfortable travel between sites, and door-to-door pickup means you don’t need to navigate public transport or taxis. The tour typically starts at 6:30 am, so be prepared for an early start that pays off with a full day of exploration.

While admission tickets to sites like Moray, Ollantaytambo, and Pisaq are not included, the $20 USD approximate fee for the partial tourist ticket grants access to these highlights. Many travelers find this fee worthwhile for the access and the depth of experience.

The group size is limited to 15 travelers, fostering a more intimate environment. Guides are generally well-reviewed, with some travelers noting their friendliness and knowledge, making the experience both educational and enjoyable.

What to Keep in Mind

• The lunch is a buffet, which suits most tastes but might not be suitable for dietary restrictions unless specified.
• If you want to visit all sites, including Pisaq, you’ll need to purchase the Boleto Turístico Parcial.
• The optional Ollantaytambo drop-off is ideal for those heading to Machu Picchu, but it might limit your visit to Pisac.
• The tour is suitable for most travelers, provided they’re comfortable with a full day of walking and sightseeing.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour?

This experience is perfect for history buffs, curious travelers eager to see multiple key Inca sites, and those who prefer a guided, hassle-free day. It’s especially suitable for visitors who want to combine culture with scenic landscapes without the complexity of planning multiple separate excursions.

If you’re heading to Machu Picchu afterward, the Ollantaytambo drop-off option makes this a strategic choice. And if you’re looking to experience authentic markets and archaeological marvels in one day, this tour covers a lot of ground with good value.

Final Thoughts

This Sacred Valley tour offers a thoughtfully curated itinerary that balances cultural, historical, and scenic highlights. The inclusion of a lively market, impressive terraces, and authentic salt mines ensures you’ll leave with a well-rounded picture of Inca ingenuity and Andean life.

The value for money is high, especially considering the included transport, guide, and lunch. The flexible options and small group size further enhance the experience, making it appealing to those who want the convenience of a guided day without sacrificing authenticity.

Whether you’re a history enthusiast, a cultural explorer, or simply a traveler who wants to see more of the Sacred Valley in a single day, this tour hits the mark. It’s a well-organized, enjoyable way to deepen your understanding of the Incas and their enduring legacy.

FAQ

What is included in the tour price?
The tour price covers hotel pickup and drop-off in Cusco’s historic center, guided visits, transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle, and a buffet lunch.

Are the site entrance tickets included?
No, admission to sites like Moray, Ollantaytambo, and Pisaq is not included. You’ll need to purchase the Boleto Turístico Parcial (around $20 USD) if you want access to these sites.

What time does the tour start?
The tour begins at 6:30 am, so be prepared for an early start to maximize your day.

How long is the tour?
It lasts approximately 13 hours, giving plenty of time to explore each site comfortably.

Can I do the tour if I have mobility issues?
Most sites involve walking and some uneven terrain, so consider your mobility level. The tour is generally physical but adaptable with some effort.

Is lunch included?
Yes, a buffet lunch in Urubamba is included, providing a chance to relax and enjoy local flavors.

Can I be dropped off near Machu Picchu afterwards?
Yes, if you choose the Ollantaytambo drop-off option, you’ll be taken close to the train station for your journey to Machu Picchu.

What’s the group size?
The tour is limited to 15 travelers, allowing for a more personalized experience.

What should I bring?
Comfortable walking shoes, sun protection, water, and your camera. Consider bringing some cash for optional site tickets or souvenirs.

This Sacred Valley day trip from Cusco is a well-rounded, accessible way to see some of the most striking Inca sites with expert guidance and all-in-one convenience. It’s an excellent choice for travelers wanting to balance culture, history, and scenery in one memorable day.