From Cusco: Complete Sacred Valley Tour

The "From Cusco: Complete Sacred Valley Tour" offers an immersive experience that explores the breathtaking landscapes and rich cultural heritage of Peru’s Sacred Valley. Priced at just $30 per person, this 12-hour excursion takes travelers on a journey through key historical sites, including the Inca ruins of Chinchero, the unique circular terraces of Moray, and the mesmerizing Maras Salt Mines. With a delightful buffet lunch in Urubamba and insights into the Incas’ innovative agricultural practices, this tour promises an authentic and unforgettable adventure. Whether you’re a history buff, nature enthusiast, or simply seeking to dive deeper into the wonders of Peru, this comprehensive tour provides an unmissable opportunity to uncover the secrets of the Sacred Valley.

Key Points

• Comprehensive 12-hour tour exploring the highlights of the Sacred Valley, including Chinchero, Moray, Maras Salt Mines, Urubamba, and Ollantaytambo.
• Convenient hotel pickups in downtown Cusco, with a flexible cancellation policy and a reserve now, pay later option.
• Opportunity to witness traditional Quechua weaving techniques and explore the Inca agricultural laboratory at Moray.
• Enjoy a delectable buffet lunch in the charming town of Urubamba, surrounded by stunning mountain views.
• Immerse in the rich cultural heritage of the region by visiting the Inca fortress and ancient streets of Ollantaytambo.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Tour Overview

The Complete Sacred Valley Tour from Cusco provides an immersive exploration of the region’s rich cultural and historical heritage. Priced from $30.00 per person, this 12-hour excursion takes visitors through key sites like Chinchero, Moray, and the Maras Salt Mines.

With convenient hotel pickups in downtown Cusco between 6:20 AM and 7:00 AM, the tour is available in both English and Spanish. Guests can enjoy a delicious buffet lunch in Urubamba and explore the Living Inca City of Ollantaytambo before concluding at either Plaza Kusipata or Regocijo Square.

While entrance fees for certain attractions are additional, the tour offers a flexible cancellation policy and a convenient reserve now, pay later option.

Itinerary Highlights

The tour’s Itinerary Highlights provide an immersive exploration of the Sacred Valley‘s cultural and historical sites.

Visitors start at the historical site of Chinchero, known for its cultural significance. Next, they’ll marvel at the impressive Inca agricultural laboratory of Moray.

The tour then ventures to the Maras Salt Mines, where 3,700 salt ponds are used by locals. After a buffet lunch in Urubamba, the tour visits Ollantaytambo, the "Living Inca City," to admire its unique architecture.

Chinchero

Chinchero is a historical site in the Sacred Valley that holds significant cultural importance.

Visitors can expect to spend approximately 40 minutes exploring this fascinating location.

The key highlights include:

1. Stunning Inca ruins and colonial-era architecture, showcasing the blend of ancient and colonial influences.
2. A vibrant local market, offering an array of traditional textiles, handicrafts, and produce.
3. The opportunity to witness the traditional weaving techniques of the local Quechua people, a centuries-old cultural practice.
4. Breathtaking views of the Andes mountains, providing a scenic backdrop to the historical site.

This stop on the Sacred Valley tour offers a glimpse into the rich cultural heritage of the region.

Moray

After visiting the historical site of Chinchero, the tour proceeds to the impressive Inca agricultural laboratory at Moray.

This unique site features a series of circular terraces descending into a vast bowl-shaped depression in the earth. The Incas used these terraces to experiment with different microclimates, allowing them to cultivate a variety of crops at different elevations.

Visitors can explore the well-preserved terraces and marvel at the Incas’ advanced understanding of agriculture and climate. The tour guide will provide insights into the site’s significance and the Incas’ innovative farming practices.

Moray’s beautiful and enigmatic landscape offers a captivating glimpse into the Inca Empire’s agricultural prowess.

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Maras Salt Mines

Next, the tour visits the remarkable Maras Salt Mines, a unique site featuring over 3,700 salt ponds that have been used by locals for centuries.

Visitors can explore this historic salt-harvesting operation, which has remained largely unchanged for generations.

The key highlights include:

1. Witnessing the intricate system of salt ponds carved into the mountainside.
2. Learning about the traditional salt-harvesting techniques employed by local workers.
3. Purchasing artisanal salt products directly from the source.
4. Marveling at the stunning natural landscape that frames the salt mines.

After this captivating stop, the tour continues on to the next destination on the itinerary.

Urubamba

Around midday, the tour makes its way to the charming town of Urubamba, where participants are treated to a delectable buffet lunch.

The town serves as a central hub in the Sacred Valley, offering stunning views of snow-capped peaks and verdant landscapes.

After a satisfying meal, visitors have the opportunity to explore the local market, browsing a diverse array of handicrafts, textiles, and produce.

This culinary stop provides a much-needed respite before continuing the journey to the next archaeological site.

The lunch marks a midpoint in the day’s adventures, allowing travelers to recharge and prepare for the remaining highlights of the comprehensive Sacred Valley tour.

Ollantaytambo

From Urubamba, the tour continues its journey to the remarkable town of Ollantaytambo. Known as the "Living Inca City", Ollantaytambo offers a fascinating glimpse into Inca architecture and urban planning.

Visitors can explore:

1. The impressive Inca fortress, with its massive stone terraces and remarkable engineering.
2. The ancient streets and alleyways, lined with original Inca stone walls and homes.
3. The lively local market, where vendors sell traditional handicrafts and produce.
4. The stunning mountain scenery, with the Urubamba River flowing through the valley.

The tour allows 40 minutes to take in the rich history and vibrant culture of this well-preserved Inca settlement.

Pisac

Concluding the tour, the group travels to Pisac, a significant agricultural and spiritual center for the Incas.

Perched high in the Andes, Pisac’s ruins showcase the Incas’ impressive architectural and engineering feats. Visitors explore the remains of an Inca fortress, with intricate terracing, stone buildings, and a ceremonial plaza. The site’s strategic location allowed the Incas to control the valley below.

Pisac also boasts a vibrant local market, where artisans sell traditional handicrafts, textiles, and produce. Tourists can enjoy the rich cultural heritage of this ancient Inca stronghold before returning to Cusco, their tour’s final destination.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Take Photographs During the Tour?

Yes, participants can take photographs throughout the tour. Photography is generally permitted at the historical sites, cultural attractions, and scenic viewpoints visited during the Sacred Valley tour, subject to any specific restrictions at individual locations.

Are There Any Dress Code Requirements for the Tour?

There are no strict dress code requirements for the tour, but comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing is recommended. Visitors should avoid wearing revealing or overly casual attire as they’ll be visiting historical and cultural sites.

Will There Be Any Breaks or Time for Personal Exploration?

The tour includes scheduled stops at each site, but travelers will have time for personal exploration and breaks, including a buffet lunch around 12:30 PM in Urubamba. The duration of the tour is 12 hours, allowing ample time for sightseeing.

Can I Purchase Handicrafts or Local Products During the Tour?

Yes, the tour includes stops at Chinchero and Pisac, where travelers can browse and purchase handicrafts, textiles, and other local products. There may also be opportunities to make purchases at other sites along the itinerary.

What Are the Tour Group Sizes Typically Like?

The tour group sizes typically range from small to medium, often accommodating between 8-20 participants. The size allows for a more personalized experience while exploring the sacred sites of the valley.

Recap

The "From Cusco: Complete Sacred Valley Tour" offers an immersive and affordable experience exploring the stunning landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and innovative agricultural practices of the Sacred Valley. Visiting iconic sites like Chinchero, Moray, and the Maras Salt Mines, travelers can gain profound insights into the Inca civilization while enjoying a delightful lunch in Urubamba. This tour is a perfect choice for those seeking an authentic Peruvian adventure.

You can check if your dates are available here: