The Sacred Valley and Maras Moray offer a remarkable glimpse into Peru’s storied past. Visitors can explore the ancient Inca terraces of Moray, marveling at the site’s innovative engineering and unique microclimates. Just nearby, the salt mines of Maras provide a captivating visual display, with intricate ponds carved into the hillside. This guided tour immerses travelers in the local culture, allowing them to engage with Quechua communities and witness artisan demonstrations. From the breathtaking landscapes to the immersive cultural experiences, there’s much to discover in this enchanting region of the Andes.

Key Points

Sacred Valley and Maras Moray - Key Points

  • The tour focuses on exploring the Sacred Valley and the ancient Inca agricultural terraces of Maras Moray.
  • Maras Moray is a highlight of the tour, featuring concentric circular terraces with unique microclimates and showcasing Inca agricultural sophistication.
  • The tour includes visits to local communities, where travelers can witness textile weaving and ceramics demonstrations, and sample Andean cuisine.
  • The tour is operated by Turismoi.pe, has a maximum capacity of 15 travelers, and includes transportation, professional guidance, and a buffet lunch.
  • The tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours before the scheduled departure and is priced starting at $36.00.

Tour Overview

Sacred Valley and Maras Moray - Tour Overview

The Sacred Valley and Maras Moray tour offers visitors an immersive exploration of ancient Inca sites and stunning natural landscapes in the Cusco region of Peru.

Rated 5.0 based on a single review, this tour is operated by Turismoi.pe and accommodates a maximum of 15 travelers.

The tour includes transportation, professional guidance, a buffet lunch, and entrance fees to the Salineras and partial tickets for the domestic and foreign visitors.

Pickup is provided from central Cusco hotels, with coordination required for locations outside the central limits.

The tour starts at 6:30 am, and free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the experience.

Inclusions

The tour includes tourist transport and professional guidance throughout the experience.

A buffet lunch is provided, allowing participants to refuel and enjoy the local cuisine.

Plus, the tour covers the entrance fees, which include:

  1. Domestic travelers: 40 PEN for a partial ticket, plus an additional 10 PEN for the Salineras.
  2. Foreign travelers: 70 PEN for a partial ticket, plus an additional 10 PEN for the Salineras.

Gifts, souvenirs, snacks, and drinks are also included during the tour, enhancing the overall experience.

Pickup Information

Sacred Valley and Maras Moray - Pickup Information

Pickup from hotel in central Cusco is provided for this tour. The pickup time interval is between 6:40 am and 7:00 am.

For locations outside the central limits of Cusco, coordination is required, which may incur additional costs. The tour starts at 6:30 am, so the pickup time ensures guests arrive on time.

This service makes it convenient for travelers to join the tour without having to make their own way to the starting point. The pickup arrangements are clear and practical, allowing guests to focus on the experience ahead.

Booking Details

Booking for the Sacred Valley and Maras Moray tour can be made online, with a start time of 6:30 am. The tour is priced from $36.00, with a lowest price guarantee.

Free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the experience starts, in the local time zone.

The booking process includes:

  1. Confirmation received at the time of booking.
  2. Coordination required for pickup locations outside the central Cusco limits, which may incur additional costs.
  3. A pickup time interval between 6:40 am and 7:00 am from hotels in central Cusco.

Most travelers can participate in this tour, though it’s not wheelchair accessible, and infants must sit on laps.

Exploring the Sacred Valley

On this guided tour, visitors explore the captivating landscapes and rich cultural heritage of the Sacred Valley in Cusco, Peru.

They explore the ancient Inca agricultural terraces of Moray, marveling at the intricate concentric circles that were used for crop experimentation.

Next, they visit the salt mines of Maras, where salt has been extracted from the mountain springs for centuries.

Travelers gain insights into the local communities and their centuries-old traditions.

Throughout the journey, the knowledgeable guide provides fascinating commentary, bringing the region’s history and significance to life.

With stunning vistas and immersive cultural encounters, the Sacred Valley tour offers a truly immersive experience.

The Wonder of Maras Moray

Sacred Valley and Maras Moray - The Wonder of Maras Moray

One of the highlights of the Sacred Valley tour is the captivating Inca site of Maras Moray. This remarkable agricultural experimentation center features a series of concentric circular terraces, each with its own microclimate.

Visitors can explore:

  1. The intricate engineering behind the terraces, designed to study the effects of different temperatures and soil conditions on crop growth.
  2. The breathtaking vistas overlooking the stunning landscapes of the Sacred Valley.
  3. The opportunity to gain insights into the Inca’s advanced understanding of agriculture and their innovative approaches to food production.

Maras Moray is a true testament to the ingenuity and sophistication of the Inca civilization, making it a must-see destination on any Sacred Valley adventure.

Local Culture and Traditions

Beyond the architectural marvels of Maras Moray, the Sacred Valley tour provides a unique window into the rich cultural tapestry of the region. Visitors are immersed in the age-old traditions and customs that have sustained the local Quechua communities for centuries. From vibrant textile weaving demonstrations to expertly crafted ceramics, the tour offers a chance to engage with skilled artisans and learn about their time-honored techniques. Plus, the tour incorporates opportunities to explore local markets, sample traditional Andean cuisine, and witness cultural performances, providing a holistic understanding of the region’s vibrant heritage.

Artisan Encounter Culinary Delight Cultural Performance
Witness expert weavers and ceramic artists at work Savor the flavors of traditional Andean dishes Experience captivating dance and music traditions
Gain insights into their time-honored techniques Enjoy the region’s unique culinary identity Witness the preservation of ancestral cultural expressions
Purchase unique handmade souvenirs Indulge in the rich, diverse flavors of the Andes Appreciate the deep-rooted significance of these performances
Engage with artisans and learn about their craft Discover the nutritional and cultural significance of local ingredients Gain a deeper understanding of the region’s vibrant heritage
Support the livelihoods of these skilled tradespeople Savor the fusion of indigenous and colonial culinary influences Witness the passing of cultural traditions to future generations

What to Bring

Sacred Valley and Maras Moray - What to Bring

What should travelers bring on this Sacred Valley and Maras Moray tour?

While the tour includes transportation, lunch, and entrance fees, there are a few essential items travelers should pack.

These include:

  1. Comfortable walking shoes – The tour involves exploring the ancient ruins and salt ponds, so having sturdy, closed-toe shoes is a must.

  2. Sun protection – With the high altitude and strong Peruvian sun, travelers should bring a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen to protect themselves.

  3. Extra layers – The weather in the Andes can be unpredictable, so packing a light jacket or sweater is recommended.

Recap

Enjoy the ancient wonders of Peru’s Sacred Valley and Maras Moray. Witness the intricate engineering of Inca agricultural terraces, explore the vibrant salt mines, and engage with local Quechua communities. This guided tour offers an unforgettable experience, blending rich cultural heritage with breathtaking landscapes in the heart of the Andes.