Description
Most important tour information
- Pickup time
- 6:00 AM – 6:30 AM Pickup window from your accommodation Details: Your exact pickup time or meeting details are sent via WhatsApp no later than the evening before departure.
- Arrival in the ending city
- 7:00 PM Approximate arrival time in the city where the tour ends
Highlights
- No forced stops at silver or souvenir shops. Only a real textile explanation and Maras salt tasting.
- Visit all Sacred Valley highlights: Chinchero, Maras, Moray, Ollantaytambo and Pisac.
- Enjoy a high quality buffet lunch at El Embrujo in Urubamba, rated 4.6, not at a large tourist restaurant.
- Travel in comfort in a new, spacious Sprinter van.
What is included
Included
- Round-trip transportation in a 20-person Sprinter van
- Bilingual professional tour guide (English/Spanish)
- Delicious Buffet lunch in Urubamba at Restaurante El Embrujo de Gildo Jara
- First aid kit
- Oxygen tank
Not included
- Breakfast
- Optionally not included, entrance tickets:
- 70 soles for Chinchero, Moray, Ollantaytambo, Pisac
- 20 soles for Salineras de Maras
- Tips
- Extra expenses
Itinerary
- Start point: You will be picked up at your stay in Cusco around 6:30 am.
- Chinchero: A 45-minute drive takes you to Chinchero. Here, you’ll visit impressive Inca and colonial remains and stop at a local family’s home for a brief introduction to traditional Andean textile art. (Optional opportunity to buy handmade items.)
- Moray: See the unique circular terraces of Moray. Your guide will explain their agricultural importance.
- Salineras de Maras: Visit the famous salt mines of Maras and see how locals extract salt from natural springs. Optional Maras salt tasting available.
- Urubamba: Buffet lunch in a local restaurant and a short rest before the second half of the tour.
- Ollantaytambo: Explore one of the most important archaeological sites in the Sacred Valley. Your guide will show you around this Inca fortress and explain its history.
- Pisac: Visit the Pisac archaeological site with time to walk around and enjoy the views. (Note: We do not stop at the artisan market here to focus on the cultural site.)
- Return to Cusco: Arrive back in Cusco around 6:30-7:00 pm.
Times are approximate and the order may change with weather, traffic, or local conditions.
Practical information
Meeting and timing
- End point
-
7:00 PM
Trail and tour details
- Difficulty
- Easy
- Tour duration
- 1 day
- Average group size
- 12 people
Full tour description
The Sacred Valley Maras Moray tour is a one-day trip in a region of Peru along the Urubamba River, stretching from Pisac to Ollantaytambo. This area was central to the Inca Empire, boasting numerous archaeological gems like Machu Picchu and Ollantaytambo. Known for its stunning beauty and fertile lands, the Incas deemed it sacred. It played a crucial role in connecting the highlands to the jungle, aiding in trade and military efforts.
Now, it’s a beloved spot for tourists, drawing crowds for its ancient ruins, vibrant Andean culture, and breathtaking scenery. It also serves as the main route to Machu Picchu, a world-renowned archaeological marvel.
Tips for your Sacred Valley + Maras and Moray tour
- Best time to visit: May to September, during the dry season, for less rain and more stable weather.
- Must-see sites: Include Chinchero, Ollantaytambo, Pisac, Salineras de Maras, and Moray in your tour.
- What to wear: Opt for comfortable shoes and layered clothing, as temperatures can change.
- Cultural respect: Be mindful of local cultures and customs, especially in indigenous communities. Always ask before taking photos.
Sacred Valley + Maras and Moray tour summary
- Start: 6:00-6:30 am pick up at your stay.
- Finish: 6:30-7:00 pm at Cusco City Center – Plaza Regocijo.
- Duration: 12 hours.
- Visits: Chinchero, Moray, Salineras de Maras, Ollantaytambo, Pisac.
- Diet options: Vegetarian/Vegan meals available on request at no extra cost.
- Includes: Buffet lunch.
Note: The Sacred Valley + Maras and Moray tour covers many highlights in just one day, which can feel a bit rushed. If you prefer to travel at a more relaxed pace, we recommend splitting it into two days:
- Day 1: Sacred Valley → See the Sacred Valley tour here
- Day 2: Maras & Moray → Maras and Moray by bus/minivan or Maras and Moray by ATV
This way you’ll have more time and a calmer experience at each site.
What to bring
- Clothing: Dress in layers. Bring a warm jacket, hat, gloves for cooler months, and lightweight clothes, sun hat for warmer months. Comfortable walking shoes are a must.
- Sun protection: High altitude means stronger sun. Pack sunscreen, sunglasses, and a sun hat.
- Personal items: Include any needed medications, toiletries.
- Camera: Don’t forget your camera or smartphone for photos.
- Cash: For souvenirs, snacks, entrance tickets, and tips.
- Water bottle: Stay hydrated with a refillable water bottle.
- Snacks: Energy bars, nuts, and dried fruit are great for energy.
- Backpack: A small backpack is essential for carrying your items.
Remember to pack light and check the weather forecast to ensure you’re prepared for the day’s conditions.