Exploring the captivating Sacred Valley near Cusco promises an unforgettable adventure. This one-day tour takes visitors on a journey through the region’s stunning landscapes and rich cultural heritage. From the traditional textile demonstrations to the fascinating local salt production process, each stop along the way offers a unique glimpse into the traditions that have shaped this remarkable area. With round-trip transportation, a knowledgeable bilingual guide, and access to impressive sites like Chinchero, Moray, and Ollantaytambo, this tour provides an immersive experience that leaves one eager to uncover more about the enchanting Sacred Valley. What intriguing discoveries await those who embark on this captivating expedition?
This experience made our list of the 6 Best Lunch Experiences In Andes Mountains Peru.
Key Points
- This one-day tour from Cusco visits the Sacred Valley sites of Chinchero, Moray, Maras, Ollantaytambo, and Pisac, excluding lunch.
- The tour includes round-trip transportation, a bilingual professional guide, and entrance fees for a comprehensive experience.
- Highlights include a textile demonstration in Chinchero, exploring the circular terraces of Moray, and observing the local salt production at Maras.
- The tour provides an excellent value, covering top Sacred Valley attractions with seamless access and transportation.
- Recommended essentials include passport, sunscreen, comfortable walking shoes, and snacks for a smooth and enjoyable exploration.
Activity Overview
The tour is titled "Sacred Valley with Maras & Moray without Lunch" and is priced from $23.00 per person.
It’s a one-day activity that includes round-trip transportation and a bilingual professional guide. The tour starts with a 6:30 am pickup from hotel lobbies.
Guests will visit Chinchero, Moray, Maras, Ollantaytambo, and Pisac. The tour is conducted in Spanish and English.
Entrance fees for the sites are included, totaling 130 soles plus an additional 10 soles for the Salineras. An optional buffet lunch in Urubamba is available but not part of the tour price.
The tour returns to Cusco around 6:30-7:00 pm.
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Itinerary Highlights
Visiting Chinchero, guests encounter Inca and colonial temples while witnessing a local family’s textile demonstration.
Next, the tour explores the circular terraces of Moray, where a guided explanation provides insights into this remarkable Inca site.
Continuing on, the group visits Maras to observe the local salt production process at the iconic salt mines.
Afterward, they explore the largest archaeological site in the Sacred Valley – Ollantaytambo.
Inclusions and Costs
This tour package includes round-trip transportation and the services of a bilingual professional tour guide.
The total cost of entrance tickets is 130 soles for the general ticket, plus an additional 10 soles for the Salineras (salt mines).
While the tour price doesn’t include an optional buffet lunch in Urubamba, customers can choose to purchase this separately.
The tour offers excellent value, providing access to the top sites in the Sacred Valley, including Chinchero, Moray, Ollantaytambo, and Pisac, at a reasonable price.
- The general admission ticket covers entry to Chinchero, Moray, Ollantaytambo, and Pisac.
- An additional 10 soles is required for entry to the Salineras (salt mines).
- All transportation and a bilingual guide are included in the tour price.
Important Information
Free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance, allowing for a full refund. Travelers can reserve their spot without upfront payment, paying later.
A tourist ticket is required to access the Sacred Valley, and this is included in the tour price. Visitors should arrive 10 minutes early for pickup, as the guide will contact them 15 minutes prior to departure. This ensures a smooth start to the day’s exploration of Chinchero, Moray, Maras, Ollantaytambo, and Pisac.
With round-trip transportation, a bilingual guide, and all necessary entrance fees covered, this comprehensive tour provides an immersive experience in the heart of the Sacred Valley.
More Great Thing To Do NearbyRecommended Essentials
For the Sacred Valley tour, visitors are recommended to bring their passport or ID, biodegradable sunscreen, travel insurance, binoculars, personal medication, and biodegradable insect repellent.
Arriving 10 minutes early for pickup is advised, as the guide will contact participants 15 minutes prior to departure.
Plus, visitors should keep the following in mind:
- Dress in layers and wear comfortable walking shoes, as the tour involves outdoor exploration.
- Bring snacks and water to stay hydrated throughout the day.
- Consider purchasing the tourist ticket for seamless access to the Sacred Valley sites.
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Pickup and Dropoff
The tour includes pickup from hotel lobbies, with a departure time set for 6:30 am. This ensures a timely start to the day’s activities.
The guide will contact guests approximately 15 minutes prior to the departure, allowing them to be ready and waiting in the lobby.
After exploring the Sacred Valley sites, the tour will return to Cusco around 6:30 to 7:00 pm, ensuring a full day of sightseeing.
Guests should arrive 10 minutes early for the pickup to ensure a smooth start to the day.
The tour’s transportation is included, providing a hassle-free experience from beginning to end.
Textile Demonstration
One of the highlights of the Sacred Valley tour is the opportunity to witness a textile demonstration by a local family in Chinchero.
Visitors can observe the traditional weaving techniques passed down through generations, learning about the significance of the intricate patterns and the use of natural dyes. The demonstration provides a glimpse into the cultural heritage of the region and the skilled craftsmanship of the local people.
The demonstration typically includes:
- An explanation of the weaving process, from spinning the wool to dyeing the threads.
- A display of the traditional patterns and their symbolic meanings.
- The opportunity to purchase handmade textiles directly from the artisans.
Guided Explanations
Guided explanations are a key component of the Sacred Valley tour, providing visitors with in-depth insights into the historical significance and cultural relevance of the sites visited.
At Moray, for instance, the guide offers a detailed explanation of the circular terraces, which were used by the Incas as an agricultural laboratory to experiment with different microclimates and crop varieties.
Similarly, at Ollantaytambo, the guide shares the fascinating history of this largest archaeological site in the Sacred Valley, including its role as a former Inca stronghold and the architectural marvels of its stone fortress.
These knowledgeable explanations enhance the overall experience, allowing visitors to better understand and appreciate the rich cultural heritage of the region.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Tour?
Yes, participants can bring their own food and drinks on the tour. The tour does not include lunch, so bringing snacks or a packed meal is recommended to sustain energy during the day’s activities.
Is There a Dress Code for the Tour?
There is no strict dress code for this tour, but visitors are advised to wear comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing and sturdy walking shoes. Layering is recommended as the weather can be unpredictable in the Sacred Valley.
What Is the Maximum Group Size for the Tour?
The tour does not specify a maximum group size. However, the tour is conducted with a bilingual professional guide, providing a personalized experience for participants. Group sizes are typically small to medium, allowing for a more intimate and engaging tour.
Are There Any Age Restrictions for the Tour?
The tour has no specific age restrictions. It welcomes participants of all ages, though children should be accompanied by an adult. The tour is suitable for families, groups, and solo travelers alike.
Can I Purchase Additional Activities or Services During the Tour?
Yes, travelers can purchase additional activities or services during the tour. The tour includes entrance tickets, but an optional buffet lunch is available for purchase in Urubamba. Travelers can choose to add this or other optional experiences.
Recap
The "From Cusco: Sacred Valley With Maras & Moray Without Lunch" tour provides an immersive, one-day experience in the breathtaking Sacred Valley. Travelers will explore the region’s cultural heritage, witness traditional salt production, and enjoy a textile demonstration, all while being guided by a bilingual professional. This affordable tour offers round-trip transportation and comprehensive insights, making it an excellent choice for those seeking to discover the wonders of the Sacred Valley.
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