Cusco: Sacred Valley + Maras and Moray

Nestled in the heart of Peru’s Sacred Valley, the Cusco: Sacred Valley + Maras and Moray tour offers a captivating glimpse into the region’s rich cultural tapestry. This one-day excursion takes visitors on an enlightening journey through the iconic Chinchero textile center, the mesmerizing Moray agricultural laboratory, and the historic Salineras de Maras salt mines. With a convenient hotel pickup, a sumptuous buffet lunch, and expert English or Spanish-speaking guides, this tour promises an immersive experience that will leave you with a deeper appreciation for Peru’s remarkable heritage. Uncover the secrets that lie within these remarkable sites and embark on an unforgettable adventure.

Key Points

• This one-day tour from Cusco offers visits to the Sacred Valley, including the Chinchero textile center, Moray agricultural terraces, and the Salineras de Maras salt mines.
• The tour is priced at $43 per person, includes hotel pickup, transportation, a buffet lunch, and entry fees to the various sites.
• Knowledgeable English and Spanish-speaking guides lead the tour, which has a maximum of 15 participants and can be canceled with a full refund up to 24 hours in advance.
• The Chinchero textile center showcases traditional Andean weaving techniques, while the Moray site demonstrates the Inca’s advanced agricultural practices and engineering.
• The Salineras de Maras salt mines, operated since pre-Inca times, offer a glimpse into the region’s cultural heritage and salt-making process.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Tour Overview and Pricing

The tour, titled "Cusco: Sacred Valley + Maras and Moray," is priced from $43.00 per person and lasts for 1 day.

It’s limited to 15 participants and offers a live tour guide in English and Spanish.

Travelers can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, and they can reserve now and pay later.

The tour includes hotel pickup, tourist transportation, a buffet lunch, a professional guide, and entrance fees to the sites.

Travelers should ensure they provide the correct contact number with the country code, and availability checks are required for starting times.

Any additional food not mentioned in the itinerary will incur extra charges.

Itinerary Highlights

The tour begins with a 6:30 am hotel pickup in the Historical Center.

The first stop is Chinchero, a textile center with an archaeological site and colonial temple.

Next, the group explores Moray, an agricultural laboratory with remarkable circular terraces.

After that, they visit the Salineras de Maras, where salt has been harvested since pre-Inca and Inca times.

A buffet lunch in Urubamba provides a break before touring the archaeological center of Ollantaytambo.

The final stop is the Pisac archaeological center before returning to Cusco around 7:00 pm.

Inclusions

The tour includes hotel pickup near or inside the Historic Center, tourist transportation, a buffet lunch, and a professional guide.

The inclusions for this Cusco tour cover the essential elements to ensure a seamless and enriching experience:

• Tourist entrance fees to sites like Moray and Salineras de Maras
• Partial tourist ticket for $20 USD and $5 USD for Maras
• All transportation to and from the various locations
• A delicious buffet lunch to refuel during the day

These thoughtful inclusions create a well-rounded tour that allows participants to enjoy the ancient wonders of Cusco’s Sacred Valley without worrying about additional costs or logistics.

Important Information

To ensure a seamless tour experience, a few important details are worth noting. First, it’s crucial to provide the correct contact number, including the country code, to receive any updates or notifications. Plus, availability checks are required to confirm the starting times, as schedules may be subject to change. The following table outlines some key considerations for a successful tour:

Consideration	Recommendation
Contact Info	Provide accurate number with country code
Timing	Confirm availability and starting time
Attire	Dress comfortably for walking and weather
Hydration	Bring plenty of water
Medications	Pack any necessary personal medications

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Extra Charges

Additional expenses beyond the tour package are minimal.

While the tour includes hotel pickup, transportation, lunch, guide services, and entry fees, there are a few extra charges to be aware of.

These include:

• Any food or drinks not specified in the itinerary
• Personal expenses such as souvenirs, tips, or optional activities
• Travel insurance, which is highly recommended but not included
• Potential single supplement fees for solo travelers

Chinchero Textile Center and Site

Nestled in the heart of the Sacred Valley, Chinchero is a vibrant hub of Andean textile traditions. Visitors explore the town’s archaeological site, home to the ruins of an Inca palace and a colonial-era church.

But the real draw is the local textile cooperative, where artisans demonstrate the intricate weaving techniques that have been passed down for generations.

Travelers can witness the entire process, from spinning the wool to dyeing the fibers with natural pigments and weaving the colorful textiles on traditional looms.

It’s a captivating glimpse into the rich cultural heritage of the region, offering a unique opportunity to connect with the skilled weavers who carry on these time-honored practices.

Moray Agricultural Laboratory

Tucked away in the rolling hills of the Sacred Valley, the Moray agricultural site reveals a remarkable feat of Inca engineering.

This ancient site features a series of circular terraces, descending in a step-like pattern, that were used as an experimental agricultural laboratory. The stepped terraces created microclimates at different elevations, allowing the Incas to test the cultivation of a variety of crops, including:

• Potatoes
• Corn
• Quinoa
• Herbs and spices

The intricate design and engineering of Moray demonstrate the Inca’s advanced understanding of agricultural practices and their ability to adapt to the diverse environments of the Andes.

Salineras De Maras Salt Mines

Situated in the heart of the Sacred Valley, the Salineras de Maras salt mines have been continuously operated since pre-Inca times.

This ancient salt-harvesting complex consists of over 5,000 small, individual salt pools carved into the mountainside.

Visitors can witness the traditional salt-making process, where salt water from a nearby spring is channeled into the salt pans, where it evaporates in the sun, leaving salt deposits behind.

The local community carefully maintains and harvests the salt, which is then sold in local markets.

With its dramatic landscape and timeless traditions, the Salineras de Maras offers a glimpse into Peru’s rich cultural heritage.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Dress Code for the Tour?

There is no specific dress code for the tour. Visitors should wear comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing and sturdy walking shoes. Layering is recommended, as temperatures can vary throughout the day.

Are Photography and Videography Allowed During the Tour?

Photography and videography are generally allowed during the tour. Participants are encouraged to document their experiences, but they should be mindful of not disrupting the tour or intruding on others. It’s best to check with the guide for any specific restrictions.

Is There Any Age Limit or Requirement for the Tour?

The tour has no age limit or requirement. Participants of all ages are welcome to join this one-day excursion, which is suitable for families and individuals alike. Younger children may require additional supervision during the activities.

Can I Request a Private Tour Instead of a Group Tour?

Customers can request a private tour instead of a group tour, which will provide a more personalized experience. However, private tours may have additional costs and require advanced booking. Availability of private tours should be checked with the tour operator.

Are There Any Health or Fitness Requirements to Participate in the Tour?

The tour has no specific health or fitness requirements. Participants should be able to walk short distances and climb stairs comfortably. Comfortable walking shoes and appropriate clothing for the weather are recommended.

Recap

The "Cusco: Sacred Valley + Maras and Moray" tour provides an immersive exploration of Peru’s cultural and natural wonders. Visitors can expect a comprehensive itinerary featuring renowned sites, a delectable lunch, and knowledgeable commentary, all at a reasonable price. With convenient transportation and a small group size, this tour offers an intimate and enriching experience for those seeking to discover the essence of the Sacred Valley.

You can check if your dates are available here: