Enjoy the ancient Incan legacy of Peru’s Sacred Valley. This captivating one-day tour takes visitors on a journey through the region’s most iconic sites – from the mystical ruins of Raqchi to the mesmerizing salt mines of Maras and the ingenious agricultural terraces of Moray. But the true highlight awaits at Ollantaytambo, where you’ll uncover the impressive architectural feats of the Inca civilization. With a knowledgeable guide and a traditional Andean lunch, this adventure promises to unveil the rich cultural and historical tapestry that has long captivated travelers from around the world. What secrets will you uncover in the Sacred Valley?
Key Points
- This one-day tour explores the Sacred Valley’s most significant Inca ruins, including Raqchi, Maras, Moray, and Ollantaytambo.
- Highlights include panoramic Andean views, the Maras salt mines, Moray’s agricultural terraces, and the historic Inca site of Ollantaytambo.
- The tour provides insights into the Inca’s engineering prowess, advanced agricultural practices, and the region’s enduring cultural legacy.
- The tour includes round-trip transportation, a bilingual guide, entrance fees, and a typical Andean lunch.
- The tour is priced from $259 per person, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
Tour Overview
The Sacred Valley tour covers a range of captivating destinations, including Raqchi, Maras, Moray, and Ollantaytambo.
Priced from $259 per person, the tour lasts one day and offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance. Guests can choose the convenient reserve now and pay later option.
The tour begins with a hotel pickup at 8 AM and includes visits to the Raqchi viewpoint, Maras salt mines, Moray’s concentric terraces, and the Inca architectural complex of Ollantaytambo.
Lunch at a local restaurant and entrance fees are included, while tips, drinks, and personal expenses are not.
Participants can explore the natural beauty, historical significance, and living culture of the Andean region.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Ollantaytambo.
Itinerary Highlights
Beginning with a hotel pickup at 8 AM, the Sacred Valley tour takes guests on a captivating journey through the region’s renowned landmarks.
First, the tour visits the Raqchi viewpoint, offering panoramic vistas of the surrounding Andean landscapes.
Next, participants explore the Maras salt mines, renowned for their exceptional salt extraction techniques.
The tour then moves on to Moray, where the ancient Inca used the site’s concentric terraces as a botanical laboratory.
After a typical Andean lunch, the tour culminates at Ollantaytambo, an impressive Inca architectural complex and the site of a significant Spanish battle.
Guests can marvel at the main temple, terraces, fountains, and the original Inca urban design.
Cultural and Historical Significance
The Sacred Valley tour offers a captivating glimpse into the region’s natural beauty and Andean cultural heritage.
Visitors will discover the historical and archaeological significance of the sites, including the Inca ruins at Raqchi, Moray, and Ollantaytambo. These ancient sites provide insights into the ingenuity and engineering prowess of the Inca civilization, from the intricate terraced agricultural systems to the impressive architectural complexes.
The tour also allows for engagement with the living culture and traditions of the Andean peoples, offering a unique opportunity to learn about their customs, craftsmanship, and connection to the land.
The immersion in this rich cultural tapestry enhances the overall experience and deepens the understanding of the region’s enduring legacy.
Inclusions
What’re the inclusions for this Sacred Valley tour?
The tour includes round-trip transportation from your hotel in Cusco.
You’ll have a professional bilingual guide, who can provide commentary in both English and Spanish.
The entrance fee to the Maras salt mines is covered.
Enjoy a typical Andean lunch at a local restaurant.
The tour also includes a partial Tourist Ticket, which provides access to some of the archaeological sites.
Keep in mind that tips, additional food, drinks, and personal expenses aren’t included in the tour price.
More Great Thing To Do NearbyPricing and Booking
The Sacred Valley tour is priced from $259.00 per person. The 1-day tour covers the highlights of Raqchi, Maras, Moray, and Ollantaytambo.
Travelers can take advantage of the free cancellation policy up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. The tour also offers a reserve now & pay later option.
Pickup is provided from Cusco hotels, and the tour includes transportation, a professional bilingual guide, entrance fees, and lunch.
However, tips, additional food, drinks, and personal expenses aren’t included. Travelers should check availability and select their preferred start time when booking this culturally and historically significant tour of the Sacred Valley.
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Site Descriptions
Raqchi, a captivating Inca archaeological site, offers visitors panoramic vistas of the surrounding Andean landscape. Next, the tour explores Maras, renowned for its intricate salt evaporation ponds, where the finest Andean salt is harvested. Continuing on, Moray’s concentric terraces, believed to have served as an agricultural laboratory, present a mesmerizing sight. The tour culminates at Ollantaytambo, a significant Inca architectural complex and the site of a historic Spanish battle.
Site | Highlights |
---|---|
Raqchi | Panoramic views of Andean landscapes |
Maras | Intricate salt evaporation ponds |
Moray | Concentric terraces, agricultural laboratory |
Ollantaytambo | Inca architectural complex, Spanish battle site |
Lunch | Typical local cuisine |
Transportation and Logistics
Your Sacred Valley tour begins with a pick-up from your hotel in Cusco at 8:00 am.
You’ll be transported in a comfortable vehicle to each of the sites on the itinerary.
At Raqchi, you’ll enjoy panoramic views from the viewpoint.
Next, you’ll explore the Maras salt mines, known for producing the finest salt.
Then, you’ll visit the archaeological site of Moray, with its concentric terraces used as a botanical laboratory.
After a typical Peruvian lunch, you’ll head to Ollantaytambo to see its impressive Inca architectural complex.
Throughout the day, your bilingual guide will provide insightful commentary on the cultural and historical significance of these remarkable sites.
Additional Details
One important detail to note is that tips, food, drinks, and personal expenses are not included in the tour price. Travelers should budget accordingly for these additional costs. Plus, it’s recommended to check availability for starting times and participant selection prior to booking. This will help ensure the desired tour fits one’s schedule and group size preferences.
Starting Times | Available Slots |
---|---|
8:00 AM | 15 |
10:00 AM | 20 |
12:00 PM | 10 |
Frequently Asked Questions
Are Restrooms Available at Each Site During the Tour?
The tour itinerary doesn’t explicitly mention restroom facilities at each site, but it’s likely that basic restrooms will be available at the major stops like Maras, Moray, and Ollantaytambo to accommodate visitors. Guests should check with the guide for specifics.
Can We Purchase Souvenirs Along the Way?
Yes, visitors can purchase souvenirs along the way during the tour. The itinerary includes stops at sites known for local handicrafts and artisanal products, providing ample opportunities to browse and buy unique souvenirs.
Are There Any Age Restrictions for This Tour?
There are no age restrictions for this tour. The tour is suitable for travelers of all ages, from children to seniors. Participants should be able to walk and navigate uneven terrain at the historical sites.
Can We Take Photographs at the Sites?
Yes, visitors are generally allowed to take photographs at the sites during the tour. However, there may be some restrictions or additional fees for photographing in certain areas. It’s best to confirm with the tour guide upon arrival.
Is the Tour Wheelchair Accessible?
The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible as the sites feature uneven terrain, stairs, and steep inclines. However, the tour operator can provide assistance for travelers with limited mobility upon request.
Recap
The Sacred Valley tour is a comprehensive day-long exploration of the region’s rich cultural and historical heritage. From the panoramic vistas of Raqchi to the stunning Inca architecture of Ollantaytambo, each site offers unique insights into the ingenuity and resilience of the Andean peoples. With a traditional Andean lunch and a knowledgeable bilingual guide, this tour provides a truly immersive experience for visitors seeking to deepen their understanding of this captivating region.
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