Day Tour Sacred Valley of the Incas With Salt Mines

Exploring the Sacred Valley of the Incas is a must-do experience for any traveler to Peru. This day tour offers a chance to discover the region’s stunning natural beauty and rich cultural heritage. From visiting the captivating salt mines of Maras to exploring the impressive Ollantaytambo Fortress, the itinerary is designed to immerse visitors in the essence of Andean civilization. With a private van, an experienced guide, and a delectable Peruvian buffet lunch, this tour promises to be a truly memorable adventure. What secrets and surprises might this journey unveil?

About Your Stay

• Explore the Awanacancha living museum to witness traditional Andean weaving techniques and hand-feed gentle llamas and alpacas.
• Immerse in the vibrant Pisac Indian Market, discovering handcrafted textiles, jewelry, pottery, and fresh local produce.
• Discover the historic Ollantaytambo Fortress, marveling at the Incas’ advanced engineering and architectural feats.
• Enjoy a hearty buffet lunch featuring a variety of traditional Peruvian delicacies to refuel for the day.
• Travel in a comfortable private van or SUV with an experienced tourism guide who provides insights into the region’s history and culture.

Discover Awanacancha’s Llamas and Alpacas

After departing Cusco, the tour makes its first stop at Awanacancha, a living museum showcasing traditional Andean weaving techniques.

Visitors can observe skilled artisans demonstrating how they create vibrant textiles using alpaca and llama fibers. The highlight for many is interacting with these gentle herd animals. Guests have the opportunity to hand-feed the llamas and alpacas, marveling at their soft coats and friendly demeanors.

The tour provides an immersive cultural experience, allowing participants to appreciate the rich heritage and enduring craftsmanship of the region. This stop sets the tone for the day’s exploration of the Sacred Valley’s natural wonders and Inca legacy.

Explore Pisac Indian Market

From Awanacancha, the tour journeys onward to the lively Pisac Indian Market.

This vibrant marketplace offers a unique opportunity to take in Andean culture. Visitors can explore:

1. Handcrafted textiles, including colorful ponchos, shawls, and weavings.
2. Intricate silver jewelry and pottery.
3. Fresh local produce, such as potatoes, quinoa, and exotic fruits.
4. Traditional Andean musical instruments and folk art.

The Pisac Indian Market is a hub of activity, where locals and travelers alike come together to exchange goods and share stories.

Wandering through the stalls, one can feel the pulse of the Andes and gain a deeper appreciation for the rich heritage of the region.

Climb Ollantaytambo Fortress

Upon reaching the historic site of Ollantaytambo, the tour group ascends over 200 steps to the imposing Inca fortress.

This grand structure, dating back to the 13th century, offers a glimpse into the advanced engineering and architectural feats of the Incas. The group explores the intricate stone walls, terraces, and ceremonial plazas, marveling at the impressive scale and craftsmanship.

The guide shares insights into the fortress’ strategic military purpose and its role as a royal estate. Visitors can envision the grandeur of the Inca Empire as they wander through the well-preserved ruins, surrounded by the majestic Andes mountains.

The climb provides a rewarding physical challenge and a deeper understanding of Ollantaytambo’s enduring historical significance.

Enjoy Buffet Lunch

The tour group indulges in a hearty buffet lunch, savoring a variety of Peruvian delicacies.

The spread includes:

• Traditional Andean dishes like lomo saltado (stir-fried beef) and quinoa salad
• Freshly grilled meats and fish
• A selection of vibrant vegetable dishes
• An assortment of desserts, including classic Peruvian treats like suspiro de limeña (meringue cookies)

The meal provides a flavorful respite, refueling the group for the remainder of the day’s adventures in the Sacred Valley.

With attentive service and a picturesque setting, the lunch is a highlight of the immersive cultural experience.

Private Van/SUV Transport

After savoring the delicious Peruvian lunch, the group is ready to continue their exploration of the Sacred Valley. They’ll be traveling in the comfort of a private air-conditioned van or SUV, accompanied by an experienced tourism guide. This mode of transportation ensures a smooth and efficient journey, allowing the group to fully enjoy the breathtaking landscapes and cultural sites without the hassle of navigating on their own.

Transport	Capacity	Comfort
Private Van	Up to 7 passengers	Air-conditioned
Private SUV	Up to 5 passengers	Spacious and comfortable

The guide’s expertise enhances the experience, providing valuable insights and ensuring a safe and enjoyable tour throughout the Sacred Valley.

Experienced Tourism Guide

Accompanying the group on this journey through the Sacred Valley is an experienced tourism guide. They offer a wealth of local knowledge, seamlessly weaving together the history, culture, and natural wonders of the region.

Some key benefits of this knowledgeable guide include:

1. Providing fascinating insights into the Inca legacy at sites like Ollantaytambo Fortress.
2. Offering expert recommendations on the best viewpoints, photo opportunities, and places to explore.
3. Navigating the itinerary with ease, ensuring a smooth and efficient tour experience.
4. Answering questions and addressing any needs or concerns that arise throughout the day.

Travelers can rest assured they’re in capable hands, poised to make the most of their day in the Sacred Valley.

Tour Recommendations and Preparation

To ensure a comfortable and memorable experience, travelers are recommended to bring appropriate attire and essential items. This includes comfortable walking shoes, a hat, sunglasses, and a camera to capture the stunning Andean landscapes.

Plus, a raincoat and insect repellent can be helpful, as the weather in the Sacred Valley can be unpredictable.

It’s important to note that the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, but most travelers can participate. A minimum of two people is required per booking, and free cancellation is available up to three days in advance.

With these recommendations in mind, visitors can fully enjoy the cultural and natural wonders of the Sacred Valley.

Questions About Your Stay

What Is the Maximum Group Size for This Tour?

The tour is a private one, so the group size is flexible and can accommodate your party. The description states that a minimum of 2 people is required per booking.

Is There an Option to Customize the Itinerary?

The tour offers a private, customizable experience. Travelers can work with the tour provider to adjust the itinerary to their preferences within the tour’s scope, allowing for a personalized experience during their visit to the Sacred Valley.

Do I Need to Bring My Own Snacks and Water?

The tour includes a buffet lunch, so there’s no need to bring your own snacks. However, you may want to pack some water to stay hydrated during the day’s activities.

Are There Any Age Restrictions or Requirements?

There are no age restrictions for this tour, but it’s recommended for most travelers. Children are welcome, but the tour may not be suitable for very young kids due to the walking required.

Can I Book This Tour for a Solo Traveler?

Yes, solo travelers can book this tour. The booking requires a minimum of 2 people, but solo travelers can join a group tour and be paired with other travelers to meet the minimum requirement.

Final Verdict On This Stay

The Day Tour of the Sacred Valley of the Incas provides an immersive cultural experience, showcasing the region’s stunning landscapes, historical sites, and vibrant local markets. Travelers can explore the captivating salt mines of Maras, interact with llamas and alpacas, and savor traditional Peruvian cuisine. With private transportation and an experienced guide, this tour offers a comprehensive and enriching journey through the heart of the Andes.