Sacred Valley Tour From Ollantaytambo
Duration
Full day
Altitude
2,792 msnm
Distance
56.7 km
Difficulty
Level 2: Easy
Tour Guide
ES / EN
Destination
Sacred Valley
Overview
We will start the Sacred Valley Tour from Ollantaytambo, exploring the region’s breathtaking landscapes and rich Inca history. Our journey will take us through vibrant Andean villages and impressive archaeological sites. You will admire the beauty of the valley while discovering its cultural and historical significance.
We will first visit Moray, where circular terraces demonstrate the advanced agricultural techniques of the Incas. These perfectly designed terraces will amaze you with their precision and purpose. You will learn how the Incas adapted crops to different climates using this impressive site.
Next, we will head to the Maras Salt Mines, a stunning network of thousands of salt pools cascading down the mountainside. Local families have harvested salt here for centuries, using traditional techniques. You will see how the sun and wind naturally extract salt, creating a mesmerizing white landscape.
Our tour will continue to Chinchero, a town known for its colorful markets and skilled weavers. You will watch artisans create beautiful textiles using ancient dyeing and weaving techniques. The town’s colonial church, built on Inca foundations, will provide a unique blend of Spanish and Inca heritage.
Finally, we will travel to Cusco, the historic capital of the Inca Empire. Along the way, you will enjoy incredible views of the valley, surrounded by snow-capped mountains. We will arrive in Cusco with unforgettable memories of this spectacular journey through the Sacred Valley.
What we Recommended to Bring for The Sacred Valley Tour
- Valid Passport or ID – Required for entrance at archaeological sites.
- Tourist Ticket (Boleto Turístico) – Necessary for access to Moray and Chinchero.
- Comfortable Clothing – Light layers for the day and a warm jacket for higher altitudes.
- Sturdy Walking Shoes – Essential for uneven terrain at archaeological sites.
- Sun Protection – Sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat to protect against strong UV rays.
- Reusable Water Bottle – Stay hydrated at high altitudes.
- Rain Gear – A waterproof jacket or poncho, especially during the rainy season (November to March).
- Camera or Smartphone – Capture stunning landscapes and cultural experiences.
- Cash in Small Bills – Useful for market purchases, entrance fees, and tips (Peruvian Soles recommended).
- Personal Medications – Any necessary prescriptions, altitude sickness pills, or motion sickness remedies.
Snacks – Light snacks such as nuts, fruits, or energy bars for the journey.
Included/Excluded
- Professional Guide – Expert bilingual guide (English and Spanish) providing historical and cultural insights throughout the tour.
- All Ground Transfers – Comfortable transportation with a professional driver from Ollantaytambo to Cusco, including all stops.
- Cultural Experiences – Visits to key archaeological sites, local markets, and traditional Andean weaving workshops.
- Opportunities to Explore Local Markets – Time to visit Chinchero Market, interact with artisans, and learn about traditional crafts.
- Flexible Itinerary – Adjustments to accommodate traveler preferences while covering all main attractions.
- Customizable Tour Options – Option to start the tour from Ollantaytambo or Urubamba and conclude in Cusco.
- Entrance Fees – This tour does not include tickets to Moray, Maras Salt Mines, and Chinchero archaeological site.
- Meals and Drinks – You must purchase breakfast, lunch, dinner, and beverages separately.
- Personal Expenses – Souvenirs, textiles, and other personal purchases at local markets.
- Travel Insurance – We do not provide coverage for accidents, medical emergencies, or trip cancellations.
- Tips and Gratuities – The tour does not include voluntary tips for guides, drivers, and artisans.
Tour Plan
We will begin our Sacred Valley Tour from Ollantaytambo with an early morning hotel pickup. Our professional guide and driver will ensure a smooth start. Leaving Ollantaytambo, we will travel through breathtaking Andean landscapes toward Moray.
At Moray, we will explore the famous circular terraces, a masterpiece of Inca engineering. These terraces, built in concentric circles, created different microclimates for agricultural experimentation. Our guide will explain how the Incas adapted crops to diverse conditions, improving their farming techniques. You will take stunning pictures of this remarkable site while learning its historical importance.
From Moray, we will continue to the Maras Salt Mines, a surreal landscape of over 3,000 salt evaporation ponds. Local families have harvested salt here for centuries using traditional methods. Walking along the narrow paths, we will observe how the sun and wind naturally produce pure Andean salt. The contrast between the white pools and the surrounding mountains will offer a perfect photography opportunity.
Afterward, we will head to Chinchero, a picturesque town famous for its Inca ruins, colonial church, and skilled weavers. We will visit a traditional textile workshop where artisans will demonstrate ancient weaving techniques. You will learn how they use natural dyes from plants, minerals, and insects to create vibrant colors. Our guide will explain the town’s rich history while we explore its charming streets and lively market.
We will finish our journey in Cusco, the historic heart of the Inca Empire. Along the way, we will admire breathtaking views of snow-capped peaks, lush valleys, and traditional Andean villages.
Day’s Tour Statistics:
- Total Distance Traveled: 80 km
- Highest Altitude: 3,762 meters – Chinchero
- Lowest Altitude: 2,792 meters– Ollantaytambo
- Route: Ollantaytambo – Moray – Maras – Chinchero – Cusco
- Difficulty Level: Easy – Suitable for all travelers
