The Best of the Sacred Valley Private Tour offers travelers an unparalleled opportunity to enjoy the rich cultural heritage and awe-inspiring landscapes of this storied region. Led by expert guides, this comprehensive excursion takes visitors on a journey through the renowned sites of Chinchero, Moray, Maras, Ollantaytambo, and Pisac, each with its own captivating history and unique charm. From traditional weaving demonstrations to the captivating salt-making process, this tour promises a truly authentic and personalized experience that will leave you eager to uncover more of the Sacred Valley’s timeless wonders.
Good To Know
- Comprehensive full-day private tour exploring the highlights of the Sacred Valley, including Chinchero, Moray, Maras, Ollantaytambo, and Pisac.
- Opportunity to witness traditional weaving demonstrations, observe the salt-making process, and explore ancient Inca ruins and fortresses.
- Buffet lunch and English-speaking guide included to enhance cultural and historical understanding throughout the tour.
- Hassle-free hotel pickup and drop-off, along with flexible cancellation policy up to 24 hours before.
- Personalized pricing starting at $225 per person, varying by group size for a customized experience.
Tour Overview and Highlights
This private full-day tour from Cusco takes visitors on a comprehensive exploration of the Sacred Valley.
You’ll visit a blend of Incan and colonial structures, including the village of Chinchero, the agricultural laboratory at Moray, the ancient salt pools of Maras, the Inca fortress of Ollantaytambo, and the impressive Inca ruins of Pisac.
Along the way, you’ll experience a weaving demonstration in Chinchero, marvel at the circular formations at Moray, and discover the unique salt-making process at Maras.
With a buffet lunch and an expert English-speaking guide, this tour ensures you make the most of your time and see the highlights of this remarkable region.
Tour Logistics
Boasting an impressive 5.0 rating from 16 reviews, this private full-day tour whisks guests from Cusco starting at 7:00 am and concluding at 7:00 pm.
Offering hassle-free hotel pickup and drop-off, the tour provides the flexibility to start from any hotel in Cusco city. Guests can take advantage of the free cancellation policy up to 24 hours before the experience.
With English-speaking tour guides and admission tickets included, travelers can maximize their sightseeing time and enjoy a traditional buffet lunch at a local restaurant.
Priced starting from $225.00, the tour’s cost varies depending on group size, ensuring a personalized and memorable experience in the Sacred Valley.
Inclusions and Pricing
Alongside the convenient logistics, this tour offers an inclusive package with various amenities.
The tour includes a delectable buffet lunch at a local restaurant, ensuring you’ll savor authentic Peruvian cuisine. An English-speaking guide is also provided, allowing you to fully learn about the cultural and historical significance of the sites.
The tour pricing starts from $225.00 per person, with variations based on group size. The admission tickets for key attractions like Moray are included, eliminating any additional out-of-pocket expenses.
Plus, you’ll have the flexibility to cancel your booking up to 24 hours in advance, providing peace of mind.
- Buffet lunch at a local restaurant
- English-speaking tour guide
- Admission tickets included
- Pricing starts from $225.00
- Free cancellation up to 24 hours
Chinchero Textile Experience
A highlight of the tour is the visit to Chinchero, an Andean village known for its Inca ruins and colonial church.
Here, guests will learn about the local textile production from a master weaver. They’ll discover the raw materials, washing, and natural dyeing processes used to create these vibrant, handmade textiles.
After the demonstration, there’s an opportunity to purchase these unique, high-quality products.
The Chinchero textile experience offers a glimpse into the region’s rich cultural heritage and a chance to support local artisans.
This interactive and educational activity is a memorable part of the Sacred Valley tour.
Moray Archaeological Site
The Moray Archaeological Site lies 4.5 miles from Maras and 39 miles from Cusco. This intriguing Inca ruin features a series of circular agricultural terraces that descend up to 330 feet deep.
Believed to have been used as an ancient agricultural laboratory, the site offers a fascinating glimpse into the Incas’ advanced farming techniques.
- Explore the mesmerizing circular terraces carved into the earth.
- Marvel at the impressive scale and engineering of this Inca experiment.
- Imagine the Incas studying crop growth and adaptation in this unique setting.
- Gain insight into the Incas’ deep understanding of local ecology and climate.
- Experience the serene and contemplative atmosphere of this archaeological wonder.
This 30-minute visit to Moray is an integral part of the Best of the Sacred Valley Tour.
Maras Salt Pools
Where do the Maras Salt Pools lie? Just 3 miles northwest of the Moray archaeological site, the Maras Salt Pools are an ancient salt-making facility dating back to the Inca Empire. Visitors can see the intricate system of over 3,000 small, terraced pools that are filled with salty spring water and used to extract salt. The process is still in use today by local people. Take a look at the table below to understand more about this unique site:
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Location | 3 miles northwest of Moray |
| History | Dates back to Inca Empire |
| Pools | Over 3,000 small, terraced pools |
| Salt Extraction | Still used by local people today |
This stop on the tour offers a fascinating glimpse into the region’s ancient salt-making traditions.
Ollantaytambo Inca Fortress
Located just 60 kilometers from Cusco, Ollantaytambo is an impressive Inca fortress that offers a glimpse into the architectural feats of the ancient civilization.
Visitors can explore the massive stone terraces, admire the intricate stonework, and climb to the top of the fortress for panoramic views of the surrounding valley. The site is renowned for its engineering marvels, including its water channels and storage silos.
Highlights of a visit to Ollantaytambo include:
- Climbing the steep stone stairways to the top of the fortress
- Marveling at the precision of the Inca stonework
- Exploring the ancient palace ruins and ceremonial center
- Learning about the site’s strategic military importance
- Appreciating the stunning mountain backdrop
Pisac Handicraft Market
After exploring the impressive Inca fortress of Ollantaytambo, the tour moves on to the renowned Pisac Handicraft Market.
This vibrant marketplace is a hub for local artisans, offering a diverse array of handcrafted textiles, ceramics, jewelry, and souvenirs.
Visitors can enjoy the lively atmosphere, bargaining with vendors and discovering unique, authentic Peruvian crafts.
The market’s layout is designed to showcase the finest examples of Andean artistry, allowing guests to appreciate the skill and tradition behind each item.
Whether in search of vibrant weavings, intricate pottery, or eye-catching accessories, the Pisac Handicraft Market promises a memorable shopping experience and a chance to support the local creative community.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Tour Suitable for Travelers With Mobility Issues?
The tour may not be suitable for travelers with significant mobility issues. Some sites like Moray involve steep staircases and uneven terrain. Travelers should consider their physical abilities before booking to ensure they can fully participate in the activities.
Can the Tour Be Customized to Include More or Fewer Sites?
The tour can be customized to include more or fewer sites based on the traveler’s interests and needs. The tour operator is flexible and can tailor the itinerary to suit individual preferences.
What Language Options Are Available for the Tour Guide?
The tour guide is available to provide the Sacred Valley tour in English. They can also accommodate other languages like Spanish or Quechua upon request, based on the preferences and needs of the tour participants.
Is There an Option to Extend the Tour Duration?
Yes, the tour’s duration can be extended. Customers can discuss extending the tour with the tour provider, who may accommodate requests for a longer excursion to explore additional sites in the Sacred Valley.
Can the Tour Be Booked for a Solo Traveler?
Yes, the Sacred Valley tour can be booked for solo travelers. The tour price varies based on group size, so solo travelers can enjoy the full-day excursion at a personalized rate starting from $225.
The Sum Up
The Best of the Sacred Valley Private Tour offers an immersive and personalized adventure through Peru’s rich cultural heritage. Highlights include traditional weaving, ancient agricultural sites, and the unique Maras salt-making process. Led by an expert guide, the tour provides an in-depth exploration of the region’s iconic landmarks, ensuring a memorable and insightful experience tailored to each traveler’s interests.