Imagine a day where you can see some of Peru’s most iconic Inca sites without the hassle of planning, all while enjoying a comfortable and well-organized experience. For around $35 per person, this Sacred Valley VIP tour offers a 12-hour journey through a stunning landscape dotted with archaeological marvels, lively markets, and picturesque salt flats. Guided by friendly and knowledgeable guides, you’ll visit five key locations: Chinchero, Moray, Maras Salt Mines, Ollantaytambo, and Pisac.

Two things we especially appreciate are the well-paced itinerary—giving ample time at each stop—and the inclusion of lunch and transportation, which means you won’t be scrambling for logistics. Plus, the tour’s focus on authentic sites and local markets makes it a great choice for travelers craving a genuine experience.

However, keep in mind that this tour is quite full, and some may find the 12-hour length a bit exhausting—especially if you’re not accustomed to long days on the road. It’s best suited for those comfortable with early mornings and with an interest in Inca history and local culture.

If you’re eager to explore the Sacred Valley without breaking the bank or overloading your day, this tour provides a practical and enriching option.

Key Points

Comprehensive itinerary covering five major sites in the Sacred Valley
Inclusive transportation and lunch for convenience and value
Cultural immersion with guided explanations and local market shopping
Flexible free time at key stops to explore at your own pace
Authentic experiences with visits to Inca ruins, salt mines, and colonial churches
Suitable for most travelers with an average physical demand and open to those interested in history and culture

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A Deep Dive into the Sacred Valley VIP Tour

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Starting the Day: Early Pickup and Comfortable Transport

Your adventure begins early, around 7:00 am, with a pickup from your Cusco hotel. The journey on a comfortable coach lasts roughly 40 minutes to reach the first stop, setting a smooth tone for the day. The guide, speaking both English and Spanish, will likely introduce you to what’s ahead, setting the stage for an exciting day.

Chinchero: Inca Ruins and Colonial Charm

Arriving at Chinchero, you’ll get a window into both Inca and colonial history. The site features impressive Inca wall constructions—stones fitted together with remarkable precision—paired with a colonial church built atop Inca foundations. We loved the way the guide explained how the Incas used the natural terrain for agriculture and how Spanish colonizers repurposed those structures for their churches.

Plus, there’s a visit to a textile center, giving insight into traditional weaving techniques still practiced today. For those keen on local crafts, the market here offers a chance to buy handmade textiles and souvenirs.

Moray: Circular Terraces and Agricultural Ingenuity

Next, the tour heads to Moray, famous for its astonishing circular terraces. The Inca used this site for agricultural experiments, taking advantage of the different microclimates created by the terraces. We found the design both fascinating and beautiful, and the guide’s explanations helped us understand how the Incas maximized their farming capabilities.

This stop typically lasts about 20 minutes, but don’t be surprised if you find yourself wishing for more time to appreciate the craftsmanship of these terraces. The site’s acoustics and geometry add an almost mystical quality to the experience.

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Maras Salt Mines: A Working Landscape

The next highlight is Maras, home to over 3,000 salt wells that have been used since Inca times. The salt pans are visually striking—bright white against the surrounding earth—and the history of salt extraction here adds depth to the visit. We appreciated the guided tour, which explained how salt is harvested and the importance of this site historically and today.

You’ll have around 30 minutes here for photos, exploration, and maybe a quick souvenir purchase. The salt flats are both photogenic and a reminder of how resourceful the Incas and subsequent inhabitants were.

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Lunch in Urubamba: Rest and Refuel

Midday, you’ll enjoy a buffet lunch in Urubamba, a fertile valley town. The meal typically includes local dishes, offering a taste of Peruvian cuisine. The 50-minute break is well-placed, providing a chance to relax and recharge before continuing. The buffet format allows you to try a variety of flavors, making the experience more than just a quick bite.

Ollantaytambo: The Last Living Inca City

After lunch, the tour visits Ollantaytambo, often called “The last living Inca city” because of its continuous habitation. The site is impressive, with finely crafted stone terraces, Inca temples, and narrow streets that feel like stepping back in time. The guide points out details about the astronomical alignments and military architecture.

You’ll have about an hour here, giving enough time to wander, take photos, and soak in the atmosphere of this vibrant town.

Pisac: Market and Archaeological Site

The final major stop is Pisac, famous for its indigenous market and archaeological park. The market is a lively place to browse for handicrafts, jewelry, and textiles, supporting local artisans. We loved the buzz of bargaining and the chance to pick up authentic souvenirs.

The archaeological park, located on the slopes of Intihuatana hill, features Inca stonework and terraces overlooking the valley. The guide’s commentary helps you appreciate the site’s strategic and ceremonial importance.

Ending the Day: Return to Cusco

After exploring Pisac, the bus heads back to Cusco, arriving around 7:00 pm. While it’s a long day, the experience is packed with memorable sights and stories that make it worthwhile.

Practical Aspects: What to Know Before You Go

Transportation and Group Size

Transportation is included and generally comfortable, making this a stress-free way to see the sights. Group sizes tend to be moderate, fostering a friendly atmosphere where you can ask questions and get personalized insights.

Cost and Value

At $35 per person, the tour offers a well-rounded experience with transport, lunch, and guided commentary. You’ll need to budget extra for the tourist tickets (around PEN 70 for multiple sites and PEN 20 for Maras salt mines), but these are small fees for the access and context they provide.

What to Bring

Pack comfortable shoes and clothes suitable for varying weather and some dirt or dust. Don’t forget your passport (necessary for buying tickets), some cash, personal medication, and biodegradable insect repellent.

Suitability

This tour is not suitable for people with high blood pressure or those over 70 due to the long hours and walking involved. It’s best for active travelers who appreciate history, culture, and a full day of exploration.

Authentic Reviews and Traveler Insights

Multiple reviews highlight the value and organization of the tour. One traveler mentioned, “The sites were fantastic, and the guide was very knowledgeable,” emphasizing the quality of explanations. Others appreciated the timing—not too rushed, allowing a comfortable experience at each stop.

A few noted that the long day can be tiring, but most agreed that it’s a worthwhile way to see the Sacred Valley’s highlights efficiently. Some wish for more time at certain sites, but overall, the balance of guided tours and free exploration struck a good compromise.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This Sacred Valley VIP tour is perfect for budget-conscious travelers who want a comprehensive look at key Inca sites without the hassle of arranging transportation or guides themselves. It suits those who enjoy culture, history, and local markets—and who are comfortable with a long, active day.

If you’re eager for a value-packed experience that covers major highlights, this tour provides a great introduction to the Sacred Valley.

Final Thoughts

In essence, this tour offers a well-organized, engaging, and affordable way to explore some of Peru’s most treasured Inca sites. The combination of guided explanations, authentic sites, and local markets ensures an enriching experience that balances sightseeing with cultural insight.

While the length may be a challenge for some, travelers who appreciate structured, informative excursions with included meals and transportation will find this a very good deal. It’s especially suited for those new to the region or visitors eager to maximize their day without the stress of planning every detail.

FAQ

What does the tour include?
The tour covers roundtrip transportation, a buffet lunch, guided commentary in English and Spanish, first-aid equipment, and trekking poles.

How long is the tour?
It lasts about 12 hours, starting early in the morning and returning around 7 pm, making it a full but rewarding day.

Are there additional costs?
Yes, you need to buy tourist tickets for sites like Chinchero, Moray, Ollantaytambo, Pisac (around PEN 70) and Maras Salt Mines (about PEN 20).

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
It’s best for active travelers who can handle long days and walking. It’s not recommended for people over 70 or with high blood pressure.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, clothes for changing weather, passport, cash, personal medication, and biodegradable insect repellent are advised.

Can I customize this tour?
Since it’s a set group tour, customization options are limited, but the stops offer some free time for individual exploration.