Join us for an extraordinary journey through the Sacred Valley of the Incas, one of Cusco’s most iconic and visited destinations. Explore ancient Inca cities, marvel at breathtaking landscapes, and learn about the rich history and customs of the Inca civilization. Our expert guides will lead you through Chinchero, Moray, Salinas de Maras, Ollantaytambo, and Pisac, offering fascinating insights into the Inca legacy. With stunning views along the Urubamba River and visits to significant archaeological sites, this tour promises an unforgettable experience.
Your journey through the Sacred Valley begins at 7:00 AM at the SALKANTAY TREKKERS PERU office in Cusco. From there, a scenic 45-minute drive takes you to the picturesque village of Chinchero, nestled in the Andean highlands. Known as the “birthplace of the rainbow,” Chinchero offers a perfect introduction to Inca history and culture. Upon arrival, you’ll explore the ancient Inca ruins, where agricultural terraces and stone walls whisper stories of the past. A beautiful colonial church, built atop Inca foundations, stands as a testament to the merging of two cultures.
In Chinchero, you’ll also have the unique opportunity to meet a local family. They’ll demonstrate how they craft traditional Andean textiles using natural dyes derived from plants, insects, and minerals. Watching this process up close provides a deep appreciation for the artistry and cultural heritage passed down through generations.
Next, a short drive brings you to Moray, an awe-inspiring archaeological site renowned for its circular terraces. These remarkable formations, believed to have been used by the Incas for agricultural experimentation, showcase the ingenuity of their civilization. Each concentric terrace represents a different microclimate, allowing the Incas to cultivate a variety of crops. Here, your guide will explain the fascinating history of the site while you take in its extraordinary design and enjoy ample time for photos.
From Moray, the adventure continues to the Maras Salt Mines, just 20 minutes away. This unique site features thousands of salt ponds carved into the mountainside, forming a patchwork of white and golden hues. The salt, harvested by hand since pre-Inca times, is still produced using traditional techniques. As you walk among the pools, your guide will share insights into the history and significance of salt production in this region. You’ll also have the chance to browse locally crafted salt products, perfect as souvenirs.
Around 12:30 PM, you’ll arrive in the charming town of Urubamba for a delicious buffet lunch. With a variety of local dishes to choose from, including vegetarian and vegan options, this meal is the perfect way to refuel for the afternoon ahead.
After lunch, the journey takes you to Ollantaytambo, one of the most significant Inca archaeological sites. This living Inca town, with its cobblestone streets and impressive fortress, offers a fascinating glimpse into the past. The massive terraces and intricate stonework reflect the remarkable engineering skills of the Incas. You’ll have time to explore the site with your guide, learning about its role as a ceremonial center and strategic military stronghold. If you wish, you may choose to end your tour in Ollantaytambo, especially if you plan to continue to Machu Picchu later in the day.
The final destination of the day is the Pisac archaeological site, renowned for its sweeping agricultural terraces and breathtaking views of the Sacred Valley. Here, your guide will share the history of this ancient citadel, which served as a key Inca administrative and ceremonial center. As the sun begins to set, the valley’s vibrant colors create a magical atmosphere, making this the perfect spot to conclude your exploration.
By approximately 6:30 PM, you’ll return to Cusco, enriched by a day filled with history, culture, and unforgettable landscapes. Along the way, the stunning views of the Sacred Valley and the Urubamba River will ensure that even your travel time is part of the experience.
Comfortable and specialized transportation for the Sacred Valley tour, ensuring seamless travel between all points of interest.
A bilingual (English and Spanish) guide with extensive knowledge of the Sacred Valley, providing detailed insights and enriching your experience.
Delicious buffet lunch at a renowned restaurant in Urubamba, featuring a variety of dishes, including vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options.
The General Tourist Ticket (GTT) costs 130 soles and is valid for 10 days. This ticket grants access to 16 sites in the Cusco region, including key locations in the Sacred Valley such as Chinchero, Moray, Ollantaytambo, and Pisac. It also includes access to sites in Cusco like Sacsayhuaman, Qenqo, Pucapucara, Tambomachay, six city museums, and attractions in the south such as Tipón and Pikillacta.
The Partial Tourist Ticket (PTT) costs 70 soles and is valid for 2 days. It provides access to four specific sites based on the selected area. For the Sacred Valley, it includes Chinchero, Moray, Ollantaytambo, and Pisac.
The entrance fee for the Salineras de Maras (Salt Mines) is 20 soles per person.
Tourist tickets must be purchased in cash (soles) as no other currency or payment method is accepted. They are available at the municipality office in Cusco or at the first site visited. Single-site tickets are not available, so travelers should choose between the General or Partial Tourist Ticket based on their itinerary.
The group service for the Sacred Valley Tour 1 Day is a shared experience where you join other travelers, typically in groups of 10 to 20 people. This option includes shared transportation from Cusco, a professional guide, and visits to key sites such as Chinchero, Moray, Maras Salt Mines, Urubamba for lunch break, Ollantaytambo, and Pisac. It features confirmed daily departures, making it convenient even for solo or small parties to participate without needing to form a full group. The service emphasizes affordability and social interaction while covering the main highlights of the tour.
| Service Type | Price per Person (USD) |
|---|---|
| Group Service | $350 |
The private service for the Sacred Valley Tour 1 Day offers an all-inclusive experience with personalized attention, including private transportation, a dedicated guide, entrance fees to sites, and a buffet lunch. This allows for a flexible itinerary, avoiding large crowds, and tailoring the pace to your group’s preferences. Advantages include more in-depth explanations from the guide, opportunities for extended stops at preferred sites, and a more comfortable, exclusive atmosphere ideal for families or those seeking privacy.
| Number of People | Price per Person (USD) |
|---|---|
| 1 | $150 |
| 2 | $90 |
| 3 | $75 |
| 4 | $65 |
| 5 | $58 |
| 6 | $52 |
| 7 | $45 |
| 8 | $42 |
| 9 or more | $35 |
Based on offerings from various agencies, a 10% discount is available for bookings made during the low season from October to December, applicable to both group and private services. Additionally, groups of 4 or more receive a 5% discount on private tours when booked in advance.
Get Ready to Explore? With your booking confirmed, all that's left to do is pack your bags and get ready to explore. Whether you're a seasoned traveler or embarking on your first journey, we'll be with you every step of the way. At SALKANTAY TREKKERS, we believe that every journey begins with a single step. So why wait? Start your adventure today and let the world be your guide.
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