Full-Day Tour of Moray Salinas De Maras and the Sacred Valley From Cusco

Exploring the rich cultural heritage of Peru’s Sacred Valley has never been easier. The full-day tour of Moray, Salinas de Maras, and the Sacred Valley from Cusco promises an immersive experience that’s sure to captivate even the most discerning traveler. With professional guides leading the way, visitors can explore the Incan settlements and innovative agricultural practices that have shaped this region for centuries. What insights will this tour unveil about the ingenuity of the Inca people?

Key Points

• Explore the Incan agricultural terraces at Moray and the ancient salt ponds of Salinas de Maras on a private full-day tour from Cusco.
• Visit the colorful markets and weavings of Chinchero, and discover the impressive Incan ruins of Ollantaytambo and Pisaq.
• Learn about Incan settlements and their sophisticated agricultural practices, including Moray’s experimental terraces and Salinas de Maras’ water management.
• Enjoy a guided tour with personal exploration time at each of the six significant sites included in the 11-hour itinerary.
• The tour package includes private transportation, a professional guide, and a partial tourist ticket, with the Salinas de Maras entrance fee and lunch not included.

Tour Overview

This full-day tour from Cusco offers visitors a chance to explore the remarkable Moray Salinas de Maras and the captivating Sacred Valley.

Rated 5.0 out of 97 reviews, it’s 100% recommended by travelers. The private tour lasts approximately 11 hours, starting at 7:00 am and finishing at 6:00 pm, with a minimum of 2 people per booking.

Guests will visit six significant sites, including Moray, Salinas de Maras, Chinchero, Ollantaytambo, and Pisaq, with guided tours of at least 40 minutes at each location, plus 10 minutes for personal exploration.

Main Attractions

The tour explores six significant sites, immersing visitors in the rich Incan history and agricultural practices of the region.

First, travelers visit Moray, the famous Incan agricultural terraces believed to have been an experimental crop site.

Next, they explore the nearby Salinas de Maras, salt ponds that have been in use since pre-Incan times.

The tour then visits Chinchero, an Incan town known for its colorful markets and weavings.

Ollantaytambo and Pisaq, two well-preserved Incan towns, showcase impressive ruins and provide insights into daily life.

Guides lead at least 40-minute tours at each location, allowing time for personal exploration.

Incan Settlements and Agricultural Practices

One of the highlights of the tour is the opportunity to learn about the ingenious Incan settlements and agricultural practices that sustained this ancient civilization.

At Moray, visitors can explore the intricate system of circular terraces, which the Incas used as an agricultural research laboratory. The guides explain how the Incas precisely engineered these terraces to mimic different microclimates, allowing them to experiment with crop cultivation.

Similarly, the Salinas de Maras salt mines demonstrate the Incas’ sophisticated water management and evaporation techniques. Insights into these innovative practices provide a deeper appreciation for the Incas’ advanced understanding of their environment.

Guided Tour Itinerary

The full-day tour takes visitors on an immersive journey through the Sacred Valley, starting with a pickup from their Cusco accommodation.

First, they’ll explore the ancient Incan agricultural terraces of Moray, learning about the Incas’ advanced farming techniques.

Next, they’ll visit the iconic Salinas de Maras, an otherworldly salt evaporation pond complex.

The tour then continues to the traditional Andean town of Chinchero, Ollantaytambo’s Inca fortress, and the vibrant market of Pisaq.

At each site, the knowledgeable guide provides in-depth commentary, allowing guests to fully appreciate the historical and cultural significance of these remarkable locations.

Included in the Tour Package

The tour package includes several key components to ensure a comprehensive and enjoyable experience.

Travelers are provided with private transportation throughout the day, with hotel pickup and drop-off included. A professional guide accompanies the group, sharing their expertise on the Incan settlements and agricultural practices at each site.

The partial tourist ticket, costing 70 soles per person, is also covered. However, the entrance fee for the Salinas de Maras salt mines, 20 soles per person, is an additional cost.

Lunch isn’t included, but the tour stops in Urubamba, allowing participants to purchase a meal.

Additional Costs

While the tour package covers a range of services, there are a couple of additional costs travelers should be aware of.

The first is the entrance fee for Salinas de Maras, which is 20 soles per person. This fee isn’t included in the tour price and must be paid separately.

The entrance fee for Salinas de Maras is 20 soles per person, which is not included in the tour price.

Plus, lunch isn’t provided during the tour. Travelers will stop in Urubamba, where they can purchase their own meal.

These extra expenses, while modest, should be factored into the overall cost of the tour for an accurate budget.

Ticket Options and Purchase

Two tourist ticket options are available for this tour.

The partial ticket costs 70 soles and is valid for 2 days, while the full ticket costs 130 soles and is valid for 10 days, covering 16 sites.

Tickets can be purchased on the way to the attractions during the tour. This gives visitors flexibility in choosing the option that best suits their needs and budget.

Whether travelers opt for the partial or full ticket, they’ll have the opportunity to explore the rich history and cultural significance of the Moray Salinas de Maras and the Sacred Valley.

Customer Feedback and Recommendations

Travelers have overwhelmingly praised the tour, with 97 reviews and a 100% recommendation rate.

Reviewers highlighted the tour guide’s exceptional knowledge and flexibility, allowing for a well-paced experience covering many significant sites. Visitors were particularly impressed by the unique insights shared at the Salinas de Maras salt mines and the culture throughout the Sacred Valley.

The tour is highly recommended for those with limited time who want to efficiently explore the region’s historical and agricultural significance.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Book This Tour as a Solo Traveler?

Yes, the tour can be booked as a solo traveler. The tour has a minimum of 2 people per booking, so solo travelers can join a group tour or request a private tour for an additional cost.

What Is the Cancellation and Refund Policy for This Tour?

The tour operator offers a flexible cancellation policy. Travelers can receive a full refund if they cancel 24 hours before the tour start time. Partial refunds may be available for cancellations within 24 hours, subject to the operator’s discretion.

Are There Any Age Restrictions or Requirements for This Tour?

The tour does not have any age restrictions or requirements. It’s suitable for travelers of all ages, making it an ideal choice for families. Children are welcome to join the tour.

Can I Customize or Modify the Tour Itinerary to Suit My Interests?

Yes, the tour itinerary can be customized to suit your interests. The private tour format allows for flexibility, and the guide is happy to modify the schedule or activities based on your preferences.

What Should I Bring or Wear for the Best Experience on This Tour?

Wear comfortable walking shoes, a hat, and sunscreen. Bring a light jacket, camera, and small bills for entrance fees. Stay hydrated and pack snacks to make the most of this immersive tour through Peru’s stunning landscapes and ancient ruins.

The Sum Up

The full-day tour of Moray, Salinas de Maras, and the Sacred Valley from Cusco offers a captivating glimpse into Incan history and agricultural innovations. With expert guides, visitors can explore the stunning Moray terraces, the ancient salt ponds of Salinas de Maras, and the breathtaking Sacred Valley, seeing the rich cultural heritage of the region. This comprehensive tour is a must-do for anyone seeking to uncover the remarkable legacy of the Inca Empire.