The Sacred Valley of the Incas is a captivating region in Peru that offers a window into the rich cultural heritage of the ancient Inca civilization. This private tour promises an immersive experience, guiding visitors through the stunning sites of Maras and Moray. Explore the unique circular terraces of Moray, where the Incas experimented with agricultural techniques, and discover the traditional salt mines of Maras, a testament to the Inca’s ingenuity. With breathtaking views and a knowledgeable guide, this tour promises to unveil the remarkable history and ingenuity of the Inca people, leaving you eager to delve deeper into their remarkable legacy.
This experience made our list of the 5 Best Tours In Pisac.
Key Points
- Explore the archaeological wonders of the Sacred Valley, including the Inca sites of Chinchero, Moray, Maras, Ollantaytambo, and Pisac on a private 12-hour tour.
- Experience the unique circular agricultural terraces of Moray and the traditional salt production at the Maras Salt Mines, providing insights into Inca agricultural practices.
- Tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, professional bilingual guide, entrance fees, and buffet lunch (lunch cost not included), ensuring a hassle-free experience.
- Enjoy breathtaking views of the Inca ruins and Andean landscape, along with insights into Andean traditions and history from the knowledgeable guide.
- Confirm availability and booking details before reservation, as flexibility is crucial, and no date changes are allowed post-confirmation.
Tour Overview and Pricing
The Sacred Valley of the Incas tour offers a private exploration of this historic region, including visits to the archaeological sites of Chinchero, Moray, Maras, Ollantaytambo, and Pisac.
Priced from Kč8,407 per group (up to 4 participants), the tour lasts 12 hours with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
Guests can enjoy stunning views, cultural insights, and a personalized experience with a professional bilingual guide.
The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, tourist transport, entrance fees, and a buffet lunch, though the cost of the lunch isn’t included.
Availability and booking details should be confirmed before reserving the tour.
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Itinerary Highlights
The Sacred Valley of the Incas tour begins with a morning pickup from hotels in Cusco around 6:30 AM.
The first stop is the Chinchero Archaeological Park, known for its colonial church built on an Inca palace and traditional textile production.
Next, the tour explores the unique circular agricultural terraces of Moray, used for experimental crop cultivation.
The group then visits the Maras Salt Mines, with over 3,800 salt production pools at an elevation of 3,000 meters.
After a buffet lunch in Urubamba, the tour proceeds to the Ollantaytambo Archaeological Park and concludes at the Pisac Archaeological Park, including its citadel and local crafts.
- Chinchero Archaeological Park
- Moray circular agricultural terraces
- Maras Salt Mines
- Ollantaytambo and Pisac Archaeological Parks
Inclusions
The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, tourist transport, and a professional bilingual guide fluent in both English and Spanish.
Entrance fees to all tourist sites are covered, with children under 10 getting free admission. A buffet lunch and extra food are provided, though the cost of the lunch itself isn’t included.
Tips are also part of the package, ensuring a hassle-free experience.
This personalized tour offers stunning views of the Sacred Valley and Inca sites, as well as valuable cultural insights into Andean traditions and history.
Experience and Scenic Views
What can one expect from the personalized tour of the Sacred Valley? The dedicated guide and transportation provide a tailored experience, allowing visitors to fully enjoy the stunning vistas of the region.
The tour offers:
- Breathtaking views of the Inca ruins and the surrounding Andean landscape
- Insightful cultural commentary on the Andean traditions and history from the knowledgeable guide
- An opportunity to witness the unique circular agricultural terraces of Moray and the salt production at Maras
- A chance to explore the archaeological wonders of Ollantaytambo and Pisac, providing a glimpse into the Inca Empire’s architectural achievements.
This personalized tour promises an unforgettable journey through the Sacred Valley, blending remarkable scenery with deep cultural exploration.
More Great Thing To Do NearbyImportant Information
Booking flexibility is crucial for this tour, as visitors must check availability for starting times before confirming their reservation.
No date changes are allowed after booking confirmation, so it’s essential to ensure the chosen date works for your schedule.
The tour provides a personalized experience with a dedicated guide and transportation, allowing for cultural insights and stunning views of the Sacred Valley and Inca sites.
With a 12-hour duration and free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, this tour offers a comprehensive exploration of the region’s archaeological wonders and Andean traditions.
Explore Chinchero Archaeological Park
Visitors kick off their Sacred Valley exploration at the Chinchero Archaeological Park, renowned for its colonial church built atop an Inca palace and the area’s traditional textile production.
The site offers a glimpse into the region’s rich cultural heritage:
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The 17th-century church, constructed using stones from the original Inca structures, showcases a unique blend of colonial and indigenous architectural styles.
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Locals demonstrate the time-honored techniques of weaving and dyeing textiles, providing visitors with a hands-on cultural experience.
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Intricate Inca terracing and irrigation systems dot the landscape, offering a window into the advanced agricultural practices of the Inca civilization.
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Striking vistas of the surrounding Andean mountains and valleys complete the captivating setting of this archaeological gem.
Discover Moray’s Agricultural Terraces
After exploring the colonial charm of Chinchero, the tour moves deeper into the Sacred Valley, unveiling the remarkable Moray archaeological site.
Moray features a series of unique circular agricultural terraces, which the Incas used for experimental crop cultivation. These terraces, built at over 3,000 meters above sea level, showcase the Inca’s advanced understanding of agriculture and climate adaptation.
Visitors can wander through the concentric depressions, marveling at the engineering feat and imagining the scientific experiments that once took place here.
The site provides a captivating glimpse into the Inca’s innovative approach to farming in the challenging Andean environment.
Tour Maras Salt Mines
From Moray, the tour proceeds to the remarkable Maras Salt Mines.
Situated at over 3,000 meters above sea level, this awe-inspiring site features 3,800 small, individual salt evaporation ponds.
Visitors can explore the intricate system of salt production that has been in use for centuries, passed down through generations of the local Maras community.
The salt ponds glisten in the sun, creating a captivating visual experience.
Guests can:
- Observe the traditional salt harvesting process
- Wander through the salt ponds and learn about their historical significance
- Purchase locally-produced salt as a unique souvenir
- Immerse themselves in the stunning natural landscape surrounding the mines
Frequently Asked Questions
What Should I Bring on the Tour?
For this tour, it’s recommended to bring comfortable walking shoes, sun protection, a camera, snacks, and water. Dressing in layers is also advisable as the temperature can vary throughout the day.
Is There an Option for a Vegetarian or Vegan Lunch?
The tour itinerary includes a buffet lunch in Urubamba, though the cost is not covered in the tour price. Vegetarian and vegan options may be available, but it’s best to check with the tour operator in advance to accommodate any dietary requirements.
Can I Purchase Handicrafts During the Tour?
Yes, participants can purchase handicrafts during the tour. The itinerary includes a visit to the Pisac Archaeological Park, where travelers can browse and buy traditional Andean textiles, ceramics, and other locally-made crafts.
Are There Any Physical Requirements for the Tour?
The tour involves moderate hiking and walking on uneven terrain. Participants should be able to walk for extended periods and navigate steps. There are no age or physical fitness requirements, but guests with mobility issues should consult the tour operator.
What Is the Best Time of Year to Visit the Sacred Valley?
The best time to visit the Sacred Valley is during the dry season from May to October. This offers clear skies, comfortable temperatures, and fewer crowds, providing an optimal experience to explore the region’s ancient Inca sites.
Recap
This private tour of the Sacred Valley offers an immersive exploration of Inca history and innovation. Visitors can marvel at the stunning natural landscapes, ancient ruins, and agricultural wonders of Maras and Moray. With a knowledgeable guide providing insights, travelers can discover the cultural heritage and remarkable accomplishments of the Inca civilization in a personalized setting. This captivating journey through the Sacred Valley promises an unforgettable adventure.
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