Three excellent day tours await visitors in Ollantaytambo, a historic town in Peru’s Sacred Valley. Time-tested favorites include the Sacred Valley and Maras Moray Tour (perfect for history buffs who love seeing both the salt mines and textile demonstrations), the comprehensive Machupicchu Voyager & Expedition Tour (which gets you to all the must-see spots with zero hassle), and the Full Day Sacred Valley Tour (great for archaeology enthusiasts). What makes these tours special? Each includes reliable transportation, knowledgeable English-speaking guides, and all entrance fees – no hidden costs. I’m especially fond of the small group sizes that let you really connect with the places you’re visiting. Let’s look at the details of our favorite tours…
Key Points
- The Sacred Valley and Maras Moray Tour offers a comprehensive 12-hour excursion to explore Inca ruins, salt mines, and the vibrant town of Chinchero.
- The Machupicchu Voyager & Expedition Tour provides an all-inclusive full-day experience to visit Machu Picchu, with transportation, train tickets, and lunch included.
- The Full Day Sacred Valley Tour encompasses key archaeological sites like Pisac and Ollantaytambo, as well as a buffet lunch and a visit to Chinchero.
- All tours include round-trip transportation, professional bilingual guides, and entrance fees, ensuring a hassle-free and informative experience.
- The tours are highly rated, suitable for various travelers, and offer excellent value for the experiences and sights included.
Sacred Valley and Maras Moray Full Day Tour
One of the most popular full-day tours from Ollantaytambo is the Sacred Valley and Maras Moray tour. This 12-hour excursion takes visitors to explore the stunning landscapes and cultural sites of the Sacred Valley. The tour includes pickup from your accommodation, providing a convenient and hassle-free experience.
During the tour, you’ll visit the impressive Inca ruins of Moray, which feature a series of concentric agricultural terraces believed to have been used for agricultural experimentation.
Next, you’ll stop at the Maras salt mines, where you can see the traditional salt-harvesting process and purchase local salt products.
The tour also includes a visit to Chinchero, a picturesque Andean town known for its vibrant textile traditions and colorful markets.
With a small group size and skip-the-line access, this tour offers an intimate and efficient way to discover the highlights of the Sacred Valley. Priced at $42 per person, it’s an excellent value for the experiences and sights included.
Read our full review: Sacred Valley and Maras Moray Full Day Tour Review
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From Cusco: Machupicchu Voyager & Expedition – Full Day
Travelers seeking an unforgettable journey to the majestic Machu Picchu can embark on the Machupicchu Voyager & Expedition – Full Day tour. Priced from $420 per person, this full-day activity offers a comprehensive exploration of the ancient Inca citadel.
The tour kicks off with an early morning pickup from Cusco’s historic center, followed by a transfer to Ollantaytambo to board the tourist train to Aguas Calientes. Upon arrival, a representative will guide the group to the bus that takes them to the iconic Machu Picchu site.
The tour includes approximately 2.5 hours exploring the ruins, with a live guide providing commentary in English and Spanish. After the on-site visit, you will enjoy lunch in Aguas Calientes before taking the train back to Ollantaytambo and a transfer to Cusco.
The tour package covers transportation, train tickets, bus service, entrance fees, and lunch, making it a convenient and all-inclusive way to experience the wonder of Machu Picchu.
Read our full review: From Cusco: Machupicchu Voyager & Expedition – Full Day Review
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Full Day : Sacred Valley
Visitors can embark on a full-day exploration of the Sacred Valley, discovering the rich cultural and historical treasures that lie within. This comprehensive tour, priced from $24 per person, begins with pickup from the historical center of Cusco around 7 AM.
The first stop is the archaeological site of Pisac, where guests can admire the impressive Inca terraces and architecture. After a buffet lunch in Urubamba, the tour continues to the town of Ollantaytambo, where a guided visit showcases the impressive Inca ruins and scenic vistas.
The final destination is Chinchero, known for its colonial temple and local textile production. The tour concludes with a return to Cusco around 7 PM.
Included in the price are round-trip transportation, a professional bilingual guide, and entrance fees to the sites. Travelers should bring personal medication, binoculars, and their passport or ID, as well as be prepared for the pickup and drop-off locations.
With an overall rating of 5/5, this full-day Sacred Valley tour is highly recommended for couples, solo travelers, and families alike.
Read our full review: Full Day Sacred Valley Review
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Frequently Asked Questions
What Is the Best Time of Year to Visit Ollantaytambo?
The best time to visit Ollantaytambo is during the dry season, from May to September. The weather’s mild and sunny, making it ideal for exploring the Inca ruins and surrounding Andean landscapes.
Can I Book These Tours in Advance or on the Day?
Travelers can generally book full-day tours in Ollantaytambo in advance or on the day, depending on availability. Advance booking is recommended, especially during peak seasons, to ensure availability and secure preferred tour times.
Are There Any Discounts Available for Group Bookings?
Yes, many tour operators offer discounts for group bookings. Travelers can typically save anywhere from 5-20% on the total cost of the tour when booking as a group. It’s best to inquire about group rates when making a reservation.
What Should I Bring With Me on These Tours?
When going on a tour, it’s best to bring essentials like sunscreen, a hat, comfortable walking shoes, and water. Depending on the activity, you may also need layers of clothing, snacks, and a camera to capture the stunning scenery.
Can I Customize the Itinerary for These Full-Day Tours?
Yes, most full-day tours in Ollantaytambo can be customized to suit your preferences. Many tour operators offer flexibility in the itinerary, allowing you to adjust the activities or locations based on your interests and needs.
Recap
Ollantaytambo offers a range of full-day tours that allow visitors to explore the Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu. The Sacred Valley and Maras Moray tour provides a comprehensive experience, while the Machupicchu Voyager & Expedition tour offers a full-day adventure to the iconic Inca citadel. Visitors can choose the tour that best suits their interests and schedule to make the most of their time in Ollantaytambo.