Sacred Valley and Maras Moray Full Day Tour

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Sacred Valley and Maras Moray Full Day Tour Details

The Full Day Sacred Valley, Maras, Moray Tour takes you on an unforgettable journey through the heart of the Inca civilization, offering a perfect blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. From the bustling markets of Chinchero to the awe-inspiring ruins of Ollantaytambo and Pisac, this tour is a deep dive into the ancient traditions and architectural marvels of the Andes.

Sacred Valley of the Incas-Xplor Machupicchu

Early Morning Pickup: Begin Your Inca Adventure

Your day begins with a convenient hotel pickup in Cusco, where you’ll set off to explore the wonders of the Sacred Valley. As you leave the city behind, the scenic drive offers breathtaking views of the Andean highlands, setting the stage for an enriching day.

  • Scenic Drive: Travel through the Andes, passing local communities and vast agricultural fields as the valley unfolds before you.
  • Expert Guidance: Your knowledgeable guide will provide fascinating insights into the history and culture of each destination along the way.

Explore the Charm of Chinchero: A Blend of Culture and History

The first stop on your journey is Chinchero, a town known for its vibrant textile markets and stunning colonial architecture. Here, you’ll witness the intricate weaving techniques passed down through generations, and explore the Chinchero ruins, which offer a glimpse into Incan agricultural practices.

  • Chinchero Market: Browse the vibrant stalls where local artisans sell traditional handmade textiles.
  • Colonial Church & Ruins: Visit the Chinchero Church, built on the foundations of an Incan palace, blending Inca and Spanish colonial history.

Chinchero, a palace in the Sacred Valley of the Incas -Xplor Machupicchu

Discover the Maras Salt Mines: An Ancient Tradition

Next, you’ll head to the incredible Maras Salt Mines, a unique sight where thousands of shimmering salt pans cascade down the mountainside. These salt mines have been in use since Incan times, and you’ll learn about the traditional salt-harvesting methods that are still in practice today.

  • Salt Pans: Marvel at the sight of over 5,000 salt pools, still harvested by local families.
  • Cultural Insight: Learn how the Incas utilized these natural salt pans, and how the tradition has been passed down for centuries.

Adventure Destinations in Peru The best destinations and tours in Peru -Xplor Machupicchu

Marvel at Moray’s Ingenious Terraces: An Agricultural Laboratory

A short drive from Maras brings you to the fascinating archaeological site of Moray, where the Incas created a series of circular terraces that resemble a natural amphitheater. Believed to have been used as an agricultural laboratory, Moray’s terraces demonstrate the Inca’s advanced understanding of farming and climate.

  • Circular Terraces: Walk through the concentric terraces, each level representing a different microclimate.
  • Agricultural Experimentation: Discover how the Incas used these terraces to grow various crops in different temperature zones.

Discover Moray, an ancestral agricultural research center -Xplor 
Machupicchu

Ollantaytambo: A Fortress of the Inca Empire

After Moray, the tour continues to Ollantaytambo, one of the most impressive Incan ruins in the Sacred Valley. This massive complex served as both a fortress and temple, and its steep terraces offer commanding views of the surrounding valley.

  • Terraced Ruins: Climb the ancient terraces and explore the Temple of the Sun, where the Incas once held religious ceremonies.
  • Strategic Location: Learn about Ollantaytambo’s significance in resisting the Spanish conquest.

Aerial view of the Pisac archaeological site with impressive agricultural terraces and Inca ruins in the Sacred Valley - Xplor Machu Picchu

Savor Local Flavors in Urubamba: A Midday Break

After a morning of exploration, you’ll stop in Urubamba for a well-deserved lunch at a local restaurant. Enjoy traditional Peruvian cuisine as you recharge for the rest of the day’s adventures.

  • Lunch in Urubamba: Sample local dishes such as lomo saltado, trout, or quinoa soup.
  • Relax and Recharge: Take in the serene surroundings of the Urubamba River as you rest before the afternoon’s activities.

A buffet spread featuring traditional Andean cuisine, including quinoa, root vegetables, fresh salads, and local delicacies in a rustic restaurant setting - Xplor Machu Picchu

Discover Pisac’s Rich History: Inca Ruins and a Bustling Market

The final stop of the day is Pisac, where you’ll explore extensive Inca ruins perched high above the valley. The Pisac ruins offer sweeping views and provide insight into the Inca’s architectural prowess. Before heading back to Cusco, you’ll have time to visit the famous Pisac market, known for its handicrafts and local produce.

  • Pisac Ruins: Wander through the temples, agricultural terraces, and residential areas of this vast archaeological site.
  • Pisac Market: Pick up a unique souvenir, such as handwoven textiles or jewelry crafted by local artisans.

Return to Cusco: Reflect on a Day of Adventure

As the day winds down, you’ll return to Cusco, filled with awe-inspiring memories of the Inca civilization’s ingenuity and the Sacred Valley’s natural beauty. Your guide will drop you off at your hotel, where you can reflect on the day’s discoveries.

Tour Stats:

  • Distance Covered: Approximately 160 kilometers (99 miles) round trip.
  • Highest Altitude: 3,762 meters (12,342 feet) at Chinchero.
  • Lowest Altitude: 2,871 meters (9,419 feet) in Urubamba.
  • Level of Difficulty: Moderate, with some walking on uneven terrain and at high altitudes.

Conclusion: Sacred Valley and Maras Moray Full Day Tour

The Full Day Sacred Valley, Maras, Moray Tour offers a perfect mix of cultural exploration and scenic beauty. From the impressive ruins of Ollantaytambo to the ancient agricultural wonders of Moray, this tour provides a deep dive into Inca history while showcasing the breathtaking landscapes of the Sacred Valley.

Price Includes

  • Professional Bilingual Tour GuideAn expert guide fluent in both English and Spanish will accompany you throughout the day.
  • Comfortable TransportYou will have our private transportation for the entire route of the group tour.
  • Guided Tour of EachAt each site you will enjoy a guided tour.
  • Visit to Chinchero Market and RuinsThe tour includes a visit to the traditional market and ruins in Chinchero.
  • Panoramic Views and Photo OpportunitiesYou will have opportunities to take photos of the stunning landscapes and panoramic views of the Sacred Valley.

Price Excludes

  • Maras Salt Mines Entrance FeeThe entrance to Maras salt mines is not on the final price. You should purchase it on-site. Or arrange with Xplore Machu Picchu.
  • DrinksBeverages are not on the tour’s final price.
  • Additional Snacks or MealsAny extra meals or snacks outside the optional buffet lunch are not on the final price.
  • Tips for the Guide and DriverThese are at discretion of the guests based on their satisfaction with the service.
  • Personal ExpensesAny personal purchases or expenses, such as souvenirs or artisanal goods, are not on the price.
  • Other Optional ExcursionsAny additional activities or excursions that are not part of the scheduled itinerary.
  • Cusco Tourist TicketYou must consult the tour operator

Recommended To Carry

  • Valid Passport or ID
  • Cash
  • Sun Protection
  • Comfortable Clothing
  • Comfortable Footwear
  • Water Bottle
  • Snacks
  • Camera or Smartphone
  • Samll Backpack
  • Insect Repellent
  • Hat and Gloves

Itinerary

Full DaySacred Valley & Maras, Moray Tour

Here’s a quick overview of the Full Day Sacred Valley, Maras, and Moray Tour, highlighting key moments and important stats for your journey.

Departure from Cusco:

  • Morning Pickup: Start your adventure with a scenic drive through the Andes.

Stop 1: Chinchero

  • Explore the Market: Discover traditional Peruvian textiles and handicrafts.
  • Visit Colonial Ruins: See the Chinchero Church and ancient Inca terraces.

Stop 2: Maras Salt Mines

  • Shimmering Salt Pans: Learn about centuries-old salt harvesting methods.

Stop 3: Moray

  • Ingenious Terraces: Explore the circular terraces used by the Incas for agricultural experimentation.

Stop 4: Ollantaytambo

  • Imposing Ruins: Climb the terraces of Ollantaytambo and explore its fortress and temples.

Lunch in Urubamba:

  • Local Cuisine: Recharge with traditional Peruvian food in the Sacred Valley.

Stop 5: Pisac

  • Inca Ruins: Visit the extensive Pisac archaeological site with panoramic views.
  • Pisac Market: Shop for local crafts and souvenirs at the famous market.

Return to Cusco:

  • Evening Drop-off: Return to Cusco after a day filled with history, culture, and scenic beauty.

Tour Stats:

  • Distance Covered: Approximately 160 kilometers (99 miles) round trip.
  • Highest Altitude: 3,762 meters (12,342 feet) at Chinchero.
  • Level of Difficulty: Moderate, with some walking on uneven terrain.

Photos

FAQs About the Full Day Sacred Valley, Maras, and Moray Tour

1How long is the Sacred Valley and Maras Moray Full Day Tour?

The tour generally lasts for a full day, starting early in the morning and returning to Cusco in the evening.

2Should I bring cash on the tour?

Yes, bringing cash is advisable for personal expenses. Credit card facilities may be short in more remote areas.

3Can I book the tour if I'm not staying in a hotel in Cusco?

If you’re not staying at a hotel, you should contact the tour operator. We can arrange a convenient pickup location within Cusco.

4Is the tour suitable for children?

The tour is generally suitable for children. But the walking involved and the high altitudes, it may not be suitable for young children or infants.

5What happens if the weather is bad on the day of the tour?

Tours generally operate regardless of weather conditions. If the tour operator deems it necessary to cancel the tour, they will inform you of your options.

6How far in advance should I book the tour?

Booking in advance is recommendable, especially during peak tourist seasons, to ensure availability. If there isn’t a lot of affluence, you can book hours in advance.

2 Reviews
Sort By:RatingDate

David T

Group Traveller

The full day tour was impeccable planned. It had enough time at each site to soak in the atmosphere. Our guide was personable and knew his stuff, providing insights that you just can’t get from a guidebook.
The views are incredible, and the memories I’ve made are priceless. Kudos to the team for such a well-executed trip.

September 15, 2023

Maria G

Family Traveller

I went through Machu Picchu, but the Sacred Valley tour has a special place in my heart. From the awe-inspiring terraces of Moray to the bustling local markets, every moment was a treasure.
And the lunch! Such a delightful array of local cuisine. I highly recommend this tour for an authentic taste of the Inca culture.

July 28, 2023