Tour Sacred Valley & Maras – Moray with buffet lunch

Exploring Cusco’s Sacred Valley with Chullos Travel Peru

If you’re looking to see some of the most iconic sites near Cusco without the hassle of navigating on your own, this Sacred Valley & Maras – Moray with buffet lunch tour offers a well-rounded, manageable day out. For just $32 per person, you get a 9 to 10-hour journey through some of the region’s top archaeological sites, along with a tasty traditional Peruvian buffet lunch. With a small group of no more than 15 travelers and transportation that’s both convenient and comfortable, it quickly becomes a favorite for those who value a guided experience that balances sightseeing with relaxation.

Two things we really like about this tour: First, the personalized feeling of traveling in a small group meant that we could enjoy each stop at a relaxed pace, which is rare for such full-day excursions. Second, the expert guide (notably Christian, from reviews) adds depth by sharing insights that make the ruins and towns come alive, beyond just clicking photos.

A potential consideration is the tight schedule—there’s a lot to see, and some travelers might find the stops a bit hurried, as the tour tries to balance multiple sites within a single day. If you’re a slow traveler or prefer more time at each location, this might feel rushed.

This tour is ideal for travelers who want an efficient, all-in-one introduction to the Sacred Valley and its highlights, especially if you’re short on time and prefer a guided experience to maximize what you see.

Key Points

• Small group size ensures a more personal experience and better interaction with guides.
• All-inclusive transportation means no stress about navigating or parking.
• Multiple archaeological sites packed into one day offer a rundown of Inca civilization.
• Buffet lunch provides a chance to enjoy local flavors without worrying about meal planning.
• Limited time at each site means you’ll get a good snapshot but might need to return if something deeply interests you.
• Professional guides add context and stories that make the ruins more meaningful.

A Deep Dive into the Sacred Valley Tour

Starting with Convenience: Hotel Pickup and Small Group Comfort

One of the biggest perks of this tour is the hotel pickup from Cusco, saving you the hassle of figuring out where to meet or navigating busy streets early in the morning. Once aboard the air-conditioned vehicle, you’re in for a comfortable ride through the scenic landscapes of the Sacred Valley. The small group size means we never felt lost in a crowd, and it fostered a more relaxed atmosphere where questions were encouraged.

Chinchero: The First Stop with Cultural Flavor

Your first stop at the Chinchero archaeological site gives a glimpse into pre-Columbian structures and a vibrant local market if timing aligns. Though admission tickets aren’t included, the site offers a quick but enriching taste of Inca craftsmanship and traditional town life. Reviewers note that this site sets the tone for what’s to come, blending ancient ruins with living culture.

Maras and Moray: Salt Mines and Terraced Wonder

Next, we visit Moray, famous for its Inca agricultural terraces arranged in concentric circles, believed to have been used for experimental farming. From the viewpoints, you’ll love the sweeping vistas and the chance to imagine how ancient farmers adapted to the environment.

Just nearby are the Salt Mines of Maras, a fascinating network of thousands of shallow pools that have been harvested for salt since pre-Incan times. As one reviewer pointed out, the stops at these salt flats can feel a bit touristy, especially with some vendors trying to sell souvenirs, but the scenery is still striking. It’s a quick stop, but well worth it for the photo opportunities and insight into traditional salt extraction.

Lunch in Urubamba: A Well-Deserved Break

The buffet lunch in Urubamba is a highlight—a chance to refuel with local dishes in a relaxed setting. The inclusion of lunch really boosts the value of the tour, allowing you to enjoy regional flavors without extra expense or planning. The stop here is about 30 minutes, enough to stretch your legs and sample some Peruvian staples, which many reviewers found satisfying.

Ollantaytambo: The Inca Fortress

The archaeological site of Ollantaytambo is often called a “living town” because it still functions as a local community. The imposing terraces and stonework reveal the engineering skills of the Incas, and the panoramic views from the site are breathtaking. One reviewer loved how their guide Christian shared stories about Inca history, making the visit more engaging.

Pisac: A Cultural and Archaeological Gem

The final stop at Pisac offers a sprawling archaeological complex, famous for its terraced fields and vibrant local market (if open). The site is a great way to wrap up your day, with enough time for photos and wandering. Reviewers appreciated that this site offers a good overview of Inca architecture wrapped in a lively town environment.

Returning to Cusco

The tour concludes with a drop-off near Cusco’s main square, making it extremely convenient to explore the city afterward or head back to your accommodations. The transportation is designed to be efficient and stress-free, ensuring you finish your day feeling satisfied, not exhausted.

Authentic Experiences and Genuine Value

What sets this experience apart is its balance. The guided visits are detailed enough to satisfy history buffs, but the relaxed pace means you aren’t rushing around. The small group size enhances interaction, and the comfortable transportation makes the long day feel less tiring.

Reviewers consistently mention the knowledgeable guides, like Christian, who bring the sites to life with stories, context, and humor. The scenic stops at Moray and Maras are especially appreciated; the former because it’s an ingeniously designed terraced landscape, and the latter because it’s a striking, tangible example of ancient salt harvesting.

However, some note that more time at each site would be preferable, as the stops are brief—around 30 minutes each. If you’re someone who likes to linger or take extensive photos, you might feel the schedule is a little tight. Still, given the price and the number of sites covered, it’s a fair compromise.

Transportation and Cost-Effectiveness

For just $32, this tour offers excellent value. The price includes all land transportation, guide services, and lunch, removing the surprise expenses that can crop up during self-guided touring. The air-conditioned vehicle makes the long drive comfortable, and the small group ensures personalized attention.

Who Should Book This Tour?

This tour is best suited for those with limited time in Cusco who want a rundown of Sacred Valley’s highlights. It’s particularly appealing to travelers who appreciate guided storytelling, convenience, and a good balance of culture, history, and scenery. If you’re okay with a busy schedule and short stops, you’ll find it hits the sweet spot.

Final Thoughts

This Sacred Valley tour combines practicality with authentic insights, providing a generous look at the Inca civilization’s impressive engineering and cultural traditions. The small-group experience, paired with expert guides and comfortable transportation, makes it an enjoyable day out that feels just right for most travelers.

While it might be a bit rushed for those wanting to explore each site at leisure, it offers a solid, value-packed option for visitors who prefer a guided overview and want to maximize their limited time in the region. The inclusion of a buffet lunch and the efficient itinerary makes this a smart choice for a first taste of Cusco’s surroundings.

If you’re eager for a well-organized, culturally rich, and cost-effective trip that hits the main highlights of the Sacred Valley in one go, this tour will meet or exceed expectations.

FAQs

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour includes pickup from your hotel in Cusco, making it easy to start your day without extra planning.

How long is the tour?
Expect a full day of approximately 9 to 10 hours, including travel time and site visits.

Are entrance fees included?
No, entrance tickets to sites like Chinchero, Moray, Ollantaytambo, and Pisac are not included in the price.

What should I bring?
Bring comfortable shoes, sunscreen, a hat, water, and perhaps a light jacket. Since lunch is provided, no need to worry about meals.

Is this tour suitable for children or elderly travelers?
Most travelers can participate, but consider the walking involved and the pace of the stops. It’s best for those who are mobile and comfortable with a full schedule.

Can I customize the itinerary?
This particular tour follows a set schedule, but you might find options that allow more time at specific sites if you book privately.

What is the group size?
The tour is limited to a maximum of 15 travelers, ensuring a more intimate and engaging experience.

Whether you’re a history enthusiast, a first-time visitor, or someone simply eager to see the highlights without the hassle, this Sacred Valley tour offers a solid, enjoyable way to connect with Peru’s iconic Inca sites and landscape.