Embark on an unforgettable private tour from Ollantaytambo to explore the captivating sites of Maras, Moray, and Salineras in Peru’s renowned Sacred Valley. This half-day experience promises a small-group setting, ensuring personalized attention as you discover the intricate circular terraces of Moray, an ancient Inca agricultural laboratory, and the vibrant salt ponds of Maras, operated by local families. With insightful commentary from bilingual guides, you’ll soak in the breathtaking scenery and rich cultural heritage of the region. But this is just the beginning – the true wonder lies in the stories these sites have to share.
Key Points
- Private tour from Ollantaytambo exploring Maras, Moray, and Salineras sites in Peru’s Sacred Valley, priced from K£2,635 per person.
- Guided visits to Moray’s Inca agricultural terraces, Maras’ salt ponds, and Chinchero textile interpretation center, with small group size and multilingual guides.
- Package includes pickup, transportation, entrance fees, and travel insurance, with recommendations for essential items and restrictions for pregnant women and wheelchair users.
- Highlights include insights into Inca agricultural practices, centuries-old salt harvesting techniques, and appreciation for the region’s cultural heritage.
- Flexible and personalized tour experience, with comfortable transportation and opportunities to purchase salt products and textiles.
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Contents
- Key Points
- Tour Overview and Pricing
- Itinerary and Highlights
- Group and Language Details
- Inclusions and Exclusions
- Preparation and Important Information
- Pickup and Transportation
- Guided Tour of Moray
- Exploring Maras Salt Ponds
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I Bring My Pet on the Tour?
- Is This Tour Suitable for Young Children?
- Can I Customize the Tour Itinerary?
- What Are the Payment Options Available?
- Are There Any Additional Fees or Taxes?
- Recap
- Our Top Picks in Cusco
- More Tours in Cusco
- More Tour Reviews in Cusco
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Tour Overview and Pricing
This private tour offers travelers a comprehensive exploration of the renowned archaeological sites of Maras, Moray, and Salineras in the heart of Peru’s Sacred Valley.
Priced from K₤2,635 per person, the half-day tour provides pickup from Ollantaytambo and features guided visits to the Inca agricultural laboratory of Moray, the salt ponds of Maras, and a textile interpretation center in Chinchero.
The small-group experience, limited to 15 participants, is led by a live guide available in both Spanish and English.
With scenic views of the Sacred Valley throughout, the tour includes transportation, entrance fees, and travel insurance, making it an inclusive and convenient way to discover these iconic Inca sites.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Cusco.
Itinerary and Highlights
The tour begins with a pickup from the hotel or train station in Ollantaytambo, scheduled between 8:00 am and 9:00 am.
The first stop is the archaeological site of Moray, where visitors will embark on a guided tour of the circular terraces. These terraces are believed to have been an Inca agricultural laboratory, featuring intricate irrigation canals and microclimates.
Next, the tour explores the salt ponds of Maras, where over 2,000 salt wells are operated by local families. Visitors can observe the salt-making process and purchase salt products.
The tour also includes a visit to the Chinchero textile interpretation center, where guests learn about the dyeing techniques using natural pigments.
Throughout the tour, visitors will enjoy scenic views of the Sacred Valley.
Group and Language Details
The private tour is limited to small groups of no more than 15 participants. This ensures a more personalized and intimate experience for each guest.
Live tour guides are available in both Spanish and English, catering to the diverse language needs of the group. The small group size allows the guide to provide more attentive and engaging explanations of the historical and cultural significance of the sites visited.
This attention to detail and personalized service helps to create a memorable and enriching experience for all participants, regardless of their language proficiency.
Inclusions and Exclusions
Included in the private tour package are the pickup from the hotel or train station in Ollantaytambo, private transportation, and the services of a professional guide.
The tour also includes the Tourist Ticket, which covers admission to the archaeological sites, as well as entrance to the Salineras salt ponds. Travel insurance is also provided for participants’ peace of mind.
However, the tour isn’t suitable for pregnant women or wheelchair users. Guests should come prepared with recommended items like sunglasses, sun hat, sunscreen, and water.
Snacks and dried fruits are permitted, but alcohol and drugs aren’t allowed. The itinerary may be subject to change due to weather or unforeseen events, and cancellations don’t apply for refunds.
More Great Tours NearbyPreparation and Important Information
Guests should come prepared with a few recommended items for the tour.
Sunglasses, a sun hat, and sunscreen are essential to protect against the intense Andean sun.
Bringing a water bottle is also advised, as the tour involves walking through the salt ponds and exploring the archaeological site.
Visitors should carry cash for any purchases they wish to make, such as salt products or textiles.
Alcohol and drugs are strictly prohibited during the tour.
While snacks and dried fruits are permitted, guests should avoid consuming heavy meals that may weigh them down during the day’s activities.
The itinerary is subject to change due to weather or unforeseen events, and cancellations don’t apply for refunds.
Pickup and Transportation
Commencing at your hotel or train station in Ollantaytambo, a private vehicle will shuttle you to the day’s first destination – the archaeological site of Moray.
Your tour guide will ensure a smooth and efficient transport, navigating the winding roads and scenic vistas of the Sacred Valley.
The private nature of the tour allows for a flexible and personalized experience, catering to your preferences and pace.
Whether you’re traveling solo or as part of a small group, the private transportation guarantees a comfortable and hassle-free journey throughout the tour’s itinerary, including visits to Maras and Salineras.
Guided Tour of Moray
The first stop on the tour is the remarkable archaeological site of Moray, where the guide leads visitors on a captivating exploration of the site’s iconic circular terraces. Believed to be an Inca agricultural laboratory, this unique site features a series of nested bowls with irrigation canals and microclimates, allowing the Incas to experiment with different crops and growing conditions.
| Moray Highlights | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Circular Terraces | Irrigation Canals | Microclimate Experiments | Agricultural Research | Inca Engineering |
The guide provides fascinating insights into the site’s history and purpose, leaving visitors with a deeper appreciation for the Incas’ advanced understanding of agriculture and their remarkable feats of engineering.
Exploring Maras Salt Ponds
After exploring the fascinating Inca agricultural site of Moray, the tour moves on to the Maras salt ponds.
Here, visitors discover over 2,000 salt wells that have been operated by local families for centuries. Brightly colored ponds dot the landscape, their evaporation pools creating a stunning visual display.
Guests have the opportunity to purchase a variety of natural salt products, from coarse pink salts to fine, white seasonings. The guide provides insights into the centuries-old techniques used to harvest this precious mineral.
The entire experience offers a unique glimpse into the rich cultural heritage and sustainable practices of the Andean region.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Bring My Pet on the Tour?
No, pets are not allowed on this tour. The tour is not suitable for pregnant women or wheelchair users, and only snacks or dried fruits are permitted. Alcohol and drugs are strictly prohibited during the excursion.
Is This Tour Suitable for Young Children?
The tour is generally not suitable for young children. It involves walking and exploring sites that may not be appropriate or engaging for younger participants. However, the tour operator may allow children on a case-by-case basis with prior arrangements.
Can I Customize the Tour Itinerary?
The tour company allows some customization of the itinerary, but major changes may incur additional fees. Travelers should discuss their specific interests and needs with the tour operator to see what can be accommodated.
What Are the Payment Options Available?
The tour offers flexible payment options. Travelers can reserve their spot without immediate payment, or they can choose to pay in full upfront. Cancellations made up to 24 hours in advance qualify for a full refund.
Are There Any Additional Fees or Taxes?
There are no additional fees or taxes beyond the tour price provided. The price includes all necessary costs such as transportation, guide services, and entrance fees. Customers can expect a straightforward total price without hidden charges.
From Ollantaytambo |Private Tour Maras Moray and Salineras
Recap
This private tour from Ollantaytambo offers a captivating exploration of the Sacred Valley’s iconic sites. Visitors can enjoy the rich cultural heritage and stunning natural landscapes of Moray, Maras, and Salineras. With personalized attention from bilingual guides, this small-group experience ensures an unforgettable journey through Peru’s ancient Inca legacy.
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