Full Day Excursion in the Sacred Valley, Pisac, Ollantaytambo From Cusco City

The Full Day Excursion in the Sacred Valley promises an immersive exploration of Peru’s iconic sites. Travelers will visit the traditional Pisac market, marvel at the impressive Inca ruins of Ollantaytambo, and gain insights into the region’s rich history and culture. With round-trip transportation, a buffet lunch, and entrance fees included, this 13-hour tour offers a convenient and comprehensive way to discover the essence of the Sacred Valley. Whether you’re a history buff or simply seeking to experience the highlights of this remarkable region, this excursion provides an opportunity not to be missed.

Good To Know

• A full-day guided tour of the Sacred Valley near Cusco, visiting key attractions like Chinchero, Moray, Salineras, Ollantaytambo, and Pisac.
• Includes round-trip transportation, a buffet lunch, and entrance tickets to cultural and archaeological sites.
• Provides opportunities to explore Inca ruins, learn about traditional weaving, and observe salt harvesting techniques.
• Offers a personalized experience with a maximum group size of 15 travelers.
• Tour duration is approximately 13 hours, starting from 6:15-6:30 a.m. and ending around 7:30 p.m.

Overview of the Tour

The Sacred Valley tour is a full-day excursion that takes visitors on a journey through the stunning landscapes and rich cultural heritage of this iconic region near Cusco.

The tour starts between 6:15 a.m. and 6:30 a.m. from Cusco and returns around 7:30 p.m., lasting approximately 13 hours.

Travelers will visit key attractions like Chinchero, Moray, Salineras, Ollantaytambo, and Pisac, accompanied by a professional guide who provides commentary on the history and culture.

The tour includes round-trip transportation, a buffet lunch, and the necessary entrance tickets, catering to a maximum group size of 15 travelers.

Tour Inclusions

The tour includes all-inclusive transportation with round-trip from the hotel.

A professional guide provides commentary on the history and culture throughout the day.

Travelers will enjoy a buffet lunch in Urubamba featuring traditional Peruvian dishes.

The tour price also covers the tourist ticket (70 soles) and entrance to the salt pans (10 soles).

Group size is limited to a maximum of 15 travelers, ensuring a more personalized experience.

Chinchero Highlights

At the site of the royal treasury of Túpac Inca Yupanqui, visitors encounter a well-preserved Inca wall and a colonial-era temple in Chinchero.

This Andean village, known for its traditional weavers, offers a glimpse into the region’s rich cultural heritage. Tourists can admire the exquisite textiles and observe the locals’ time-honored dyeing and weaving techniques.

The highlight of the visit is the impressive Inca wall, which displays the remarkable engineering skills of the ancient civilization. The colonial church, built atop Inca foundations, further highlights the area’s layered history.

Chinchero provides a captivating introduction to the wonders of the Sacred Valley before exploring the other remarkable sites along the tour.

Moray Archaeological Site

Descending into Moray’s remarkable circular terraces, visitors are captivated by this ancient Inca archaeological site.

The site features several massive concentric agricultural terraces, with the innermost ring reaching a depth of over 120 meters. Scholars believe these unique terraces were used by the Inca as an agricultural experiment station, where they tested different crops and micro-climates.

The fascinating layout and engineering of Moray continue to intrigue archaeologists and visitors alike. Exploring the serene site, one can imagine the Inca studying the effects of temperature, sun exposure, and irrigation on their crops, showcasing their advanced agricultural knowledge.

This iconic stop on the Sacred Valley tour offers a glimpse into the Inca’s innovative approach to cultivating the land.

Salineras Salt Pans

After leaving the remarkable Moray site, visitors arrive at the Salineras, a captivating display of Peru’s traditional salt extraction methods.

The salt pans stretch across the valley, with intricate terraced pools where salt water is channeled and left to evaporate, leaving behind the valuable mineral.

Visitors can explore the salt pans, learning about the ancient techniques used by the local people to harvest the salt.

The entrance fee provides access to this unique cultural heritage site, offering a glimpse into the region’s history and the importance of salt production in the local economy.

With its stunning scenery and traditional practices, the Salineras is a highlight of the Sacred Valley tour.

Ollantaytambo Inca Ruins

The impressive Ollantaytambo archaeological site, situated at the far end of the Sacred Valley, commands attention with its formidable Inca ruins.

This once-important fortress and administrative center features massive stone terraces, temples, and storehouses that showcase the engineering prowess of the Incas.

Visitors can explore the ruins, climb the steep steps to the top of the site, and marvel at the impressive stonework and intricate water channels.

Ollantaytambo provides a glimpse into the Inca Empire’s architectural legacy and offers a chance to take in the history and culture of this ancient civilization.

Pisac Market and Archaeology

Perched atop the Andes, Pisac’s renowned market draws visitors seeking a glimpse into Peru’s vibrant artisanal traditions. Browsing the lively stalls, travelers discover an array of handcrafted textiles, jewelry, pottery, and more, all created by skilled local artisans.

Beyond the market, the Pisac archaeological site commands attention with its impressive Inca ruins. Climbing the steep terraces, visitors can explore remnants of the former Inca administrative center and marvel at the site’s engineering feats.

From the top, sweeping vistas of the surrounding Sacred Valley unfold, providing a breathtaking backdrop to this cultural experience. Whether shopping for unique souvenirs or delving into Inca history, Pisac offers an immersive glimpse into the region’s rich heritage.

Important Tour Details

The Sacred Valley tour kicks off early, with pickup around 6:15-6:30 a.m. from hotels in Cusco. The full-day excursion lasts approximately 13 hours, with stops at several iconic sites like Chinchero, Moray, Salineras, Ollantaytambo, and Pisac. The tour includes round-trip transportation, a knowledgeable guide, a buffet lunch, and all necessary tickets. Travelers should expect a moderate level of activity, as the itinerary involves some steep walks. The maximum group size is 15, ensuring a personalized experience. While the tour receives positive reviews, some feedback mentions brief visits and unexpected stops, so flexibility and managing expectations are advised.

Tour Inclusions	Timing	Group Size
Round-trip transportation	Starts 6:15-6:30 am	Max 15 travelers
Professional guide	Lasts 13 hours	–
Buffet lunch	–	–
Entrance tickets	–	–

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Customize the Tour Itinerary to Visit Specific Sites?

Yes, you can typically customize the Sacred Valley tour itinerary to visit specific sites. Many tour operators allow flexibility to accommodate personal interests and preferences within the overall excursion.

Is There an Option to Book a Private Tour Instead of a Group Tour?

Yes, there’s an option to book a private tour of the Sacred Valley. Private tours allow customized itineraries and more personalized experiences compared to group tours. Contact the tour provider to inquire about private tour availability and pricing.

Are Photography Restrictions in Place at Any of the Archaeological Sites?

Photography is generally allowed at the Sacred Valley sites, but visitors should check with their guide for any specific restrictions. Some sites, like Moray, may have limits on filming or photography to preserve the archaeological integrity.

What Is the Cancellation and Refund Policy for This Tour?

The tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours before the start. Customers can receive a full refund if they cancel within this timeframe, providing flexibility in case of changes in plans.

Are Snacks or Beverages Provided During the Tour, or Should I Bring My Own?

The tour does not provide snacks or beverages during the day. Travelers should bring their own food and drinks to enjoy throughout the approximately 13-hour excursion in the Sacred Valley.

The Sum Up

This full-day excursion through the Sacred Valley from Cusco offers an immersive experience, visiting iconic sites like Pisac and Ollantaytambo. Travelers will benefit from personalized attention, insightful commentary, and the convenience of round-trip transportation, a buffet lunch, and entrance fees. With a maximum group size of 15, it’s an unforgettable exploration of Peru’s rich history and culture.