From Cusco: 2-Day Overnight Misminay Community Tour

The ‘From Cusco: 2-Day Overnight Misminay Community Tour‘ offers a captivating opportunity to take in the rich cultural heritage of the Andean highlands. Departing from the historic city of Cusco, this immersive journey transports visitors to breathtaking landscapes, where they’ll engage with the traditions and livelihoods of the Misminay community. From exploring the iconic Maras salt ponds to participating in agricultural activities, this tour promises a deep connection with the Andean way of life. But the true essence of this experience lies in the chance to forge personal bonds with the local people, uncovering the stories that have shaped their community for generations.

This experience made our list of the 20 Best 2 Day Tours In Cusco.

Key Points

• Immersive two-day cultural experience in the Misminay community, including visits to Maras, Moray, and participation in traditional activities like weaving and agriculture.
• Includes private transportation, a professional English-speaking guide, and accommodation in a local homestay for enhanced culture.
• Offers a chance to taste authentic Andean cuisine and learn about the community’s rich heritage through storytelling and guided tours.
• Suitable if you’re after a genuine connection with the local Andean culture, with activities that are not recommended for those with back problems or pre-existing conditions.
• Flexible cancellation policy with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, making it a convenient option for travelers.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Tour Overview

The Misminay Community Tour is a two-day immersive cultural experience that invites travelers to explore the authentic traditions and daily life of the Misminay community.

The tour is priced from £264.07 per person and includes a free cancellation policy up to 24 hours in advance.

Travelers will enjoy a live tour guide in Spanish and English, as well as an audio guide. Pickup is provided from any hotel in Cusco’s downtown area.

The itinerary features visits to Maras, Moray, and the Misminay community, where travelers will participate in agricultural activities, learn about textile weaving, and enjoy traditional meals and storytelling.

Itinerary Highlights

The two-day Misminay Community Tour kicks off with a 7:00 AM hotel pickup.

Travelers will first visit the Raqchi viewpoint, where they’ll be treated to stunning vistas of the Chicon, Salkantay, and Veronica mountains.

Next, they’ll explore the remarkable Maras salt ponds and the ancient Moray agricultural terraces.

Upon arrival at the Misminay community, guests will be greeted with traditional music and dance.

The itinerary includes:

1. A traditional Andean lunch with the locals.
2. A guided visit to the Waninmarca viewpoint.
3. An evening by the fireside, complete with storytelling.

On the second day, travelers will participate in agricultural activities, learn about textile weaving, and savor a hearty Andean stew for lunch before returning to Cusco.

Day 1 Itinerary

At 7:00 AM, the tour begins with pickup from any hotel in Cusco’s downtown area.

The group travels to Maras, stopping at the Raqchi viewpoint to admire the majestic Chicon, Salkantay, and Veronica mountains.

Next, they visit the Las Salineras, with its 3,000 salt pools, and the Moray, the remarkable circular farming terraces.

Upon arriving at the Misminay community, they’re welcomed with traditional music and dance.

After a local lunch, the group embarks on a guided visit to the Waninmarca viewpoint.

The day concludes with a dinner and captivating storytelling by the fireside.

Arrival at Misminay

Upon arriving at the Misminay community, the group is warmly welcomed with traditional music and dance.

The lively performance sets the tone for the immersive cultural experience to come. As the travelers take in the sights and sounds, they’re struck by the vibrant energy of the community.

The villagers’ hospitality is evident in three key ways:

1. The melodic rhythms of Andean instruments fill the air, inviting everyone to participate.
2. Locals in colorful traditional dress gracefully move to the beat, beckoning the visitors to join.
3. Smiling faces and outstretched hands create an atmosphere of genuine connection and cultural exchange.

This auspicious arrival sets the stage for a deeply meaningful journey into the heart of the Andes.

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Traditional Lunch and Guided Tour

After the lively welcome, the group is ushered to a communal dining area for a traditional Andean lunch. The meal features hearty regional stew made with local ingredients. The host community eagerly shares the cultural significance of the dish and mealtime traditions.

Ingredient	Description
Potatoes	Rustic, earthy Andean tubers
Corn	Kernels from vibrant purple and yellow cobs
Meat	Tender alpaca or lamb, slow-simmered
Vegetables	Seasonal greens, roots, and squash

Following the satisfying meal, the group sets out on a guided viewpoint visit of Waninmarca to admire the sweeping valley vistas. The tour provides deeper insight into the Misminay community’s heritage and way of life.

Dinner and Storytelling

As evening falls, the group gathers around the crackling fire pit for a captivating evening of Andean storytelling.

The community members share their rich heritage through folktales and legends, transporting your to a world of ancient traditions and mystical beliefs.

The stories evoke a range of emotions:

1. Wonder, as they learn about the significance of the Pachamama, the revered Earth Mother goddess.
2. Nostalgia, as the elders recount tales passed down through generations.
3. Appreciation, as the group gains a deeper understanding of the Misminay community‘s way of life.

Sipping warm coca tea, your are immersed in the cultural tapestry of the Andes, leaving with a newfound connection to the land and its people.

Day 2 Itinerary

The second day of the Misminay Community Tour begins with a hearty breakfast featuring a variety of local Andean products. Participants will then have the opportunity to engage in agricultural activities such as plowing and harvesting, gaining a firsthand understanding of traditional farming practices. After the hands-on experience, they’ll learn about the intricate textile weaving techniques used by the local community. For lunch, guests will savor a hearty Andean stew made with fresh, locally-sourced ingredients. The tour concludes with the return to the hotel in Cusco.

Activity	Description
Breakfast	Local Andean products
Agricultural Activities	Plowing, harvesting
Textile Weaving	Traditional techniques
Lunch	Hearty Andean stew

Inclusions and Important Information

The package includes several key items to ensure an immersive and seamless experience.

Travelers will enjoy 1 breakfast, 2 lunches, and 1 dinner, including a hearty Andean stew made with local products.

Hotel pickup and drop-off, private transportation, and a professional English-speaking guide are also provided.

Plus, the tour includes:

• 1 night accommodation in a homestay to fully immerse in the local culture
• Entrance fees to the impressive Maras salt ponds and Moray archaeological site
• Recommended gratuities for the welcoming Misminay community

Please note that this tour isn’t suitable for those with back problems or pre-existing medical conditions.

Proper attire and essentials like a passport or ID, comfortable shoes, and sun protection are recommended.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Customize the Tour Itinerary to My Preferences?

Yes, the tour can be customized to suit the traveler’s preferences. Guests can discuss their interests with the tour operator and work together to tailor the itinerary to their specific needs and desires within the tour’s overall structure.

What Is the Minimum and Maximum Group Size for This Tour?

The tour’s group size is flexible, ranging from a minimum of 2 participants up to a maximum of 15. The tour operator can accommodate small intimate groups as well as larger parties, depending on availability and guest preferences.

Are There Any Discounts Available for Students or Seniors?

The tour does not mention any discounts for students or seniors. However, some tour operators may offer discounted rates for these groups, so it’s best to inquire directly with the tour provider.

Can I Bring My Own Food and Beverages During the Tour?

Participants are not allowed to bring their own food and beverages during the tour. The tour includes all meals, with 1 breakfast, 2 lunches, and 1 dinner provided. Snacks and water are also available throughout the experience.

What Is the Cancellation and Refund Policy for This Tour?

The tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Customers can cancel their booking and receive a complete refund if they notify the provider at least a day before the tour’s start.

Recap

This 2-day tour offers an immersive cultural experience in the Andean highlands. Visitors will explore iconic sites, engage with the Misminay community, and learn about local traditions. With accommodations and meals included, the tour provides a unique opportunity to deeply connect with the region’s rich heritage and stunning natural landscapes.

You can check if your dates are available here: