Welcome to the most fascinating tour of the Sacred Valley of the Incas! On this journey, we will explore some of the region’s most iconic sites, beginning with the remarkable Moray, an archaeological complex of circular terraces that reveals the agricultural secrets of the Incas.
We’ll then continue to Maras, famous for its salt mines — a system of thousands of small pools used for salt extraction since pre-Inca times. The result is a breathtaking and truly unique landscape.
Join us in discovering the magic of these ancient wonders, where history, culture, and nature come together to offer an unforgettable experience.
Get ready to immerse yourself in the richness of the Sacred Valley and be captivated by its stunning beauty!
Cusco Hotel
Moderate
Located 28 km from Cusco on the road to Urubamba, this town was once the royal estate of Tupac Inca Yupanqui. A beautiful colonial church built on Inca foundations still stands as a reminder of its rich past. However, the town’s main attraction is its artisan market, which originally served as a barter space for agricultural products between highland and valley communities.
Today, it is a colorful spectacle that captivates tourists with its wide variety of handmade crafts and textiles made in pure pre-Columbian style.
Located 7 km from Maras and about 1 hour from Cusco via the Chinchero route, Moray is one of the most spectacular and unique archaeological sites in the region.
It features large circular terraces of different sizes, believed to have been used by the Incas as an agricultural laboratory for experimenting with crops at different altitudes.
Some also consider Moray to be a spiritual site, a center of feminine energy, and a magnetic point of connection with Pachamama (Mother Earth).
Located northwest of the town of Maras, these salt ponds — sometimes referred to as “salt mines” — consist of over 3,000 small pools.
Salt has been extracted here since pre-Inca times, using an ancestral method of sun-drying salt water from an underground stream.
Once the water evaporates, the salt crystals are harvested and sold. The striking white terraces against the mountain backdrop create a truly stunning landscape.
This fertile valley was one of the most important agricultural centers during the Inca Empire, especially for its production of corn.
Today, Urubamba is a peaceful countryside town surrounded by beautiful scenery and fruit orchards.
It is also the perfect place to enjoy a traditional buffet lunch, featuring delicious local cuisine.
This well-preserved Inca town is located 21 km from Urubamba, at 2,800 meters above sea level.
Named after the legendary Inca general Ollanta, known for his romance with an Inca princess, Ollantaytambo features 15 blocks of ancient Inca buildings still in use today.
Its archaeological site is situated on a hill overlooking the town, and highlights include the Temple of the Sun, the Intihuatana ritual stone, and the Princess’ Baths.
From here, a road leads to the Málaga Pass (4,200 m) and into the cloud forest, passing communities like Huilloc, famous for their traditional clothing and fine weavings.
Located 33 km from Cusco, Pisac includes both a modern colonial town and one of the most important archaeological sites in the region.
The archaeological complex features impressive terraces, ceremonial sites, and aqueducts believed to be part of a royal estate of Pachacutec.
Pisac is also home to a vibrant artisan market, attracting locals and visitors alike.
Here, you’ll find some of the best-priced souvenirs and handicrafts, often more affordable than those in Cusco city.
The Sacred Valley VIP tour starts at 7:00 AM. We will pick you up from your hotel in Cusco 10 to 15 minutes before departure.
Our first visit is to the picturesque town of Chinchero, also known as the “Village of the Rainbow.” There, we’ll visit the Church of Our Lady of Monserrat, built in 1607 on top of the palace of Tupac Yupanqui, as well as the agricultural terraces and Chinchero artisan market.
We then continue to the town of Maras and the fascinating circular terraces of Moray, which are believed to have been an Inca agricultural laboratory for experimenting with microclimates.
Next, we head to the Maras Salt Mines (Salineras), located just below the town. These ancient salt ponds are still active and worked daily by local farmers using traditional methods.
After our visit, we continue to Urubamba, where we will enjoy a buffet lunch featuring a variety of delicious Peruvian dishes.
In the afternoon, we head to the impressive Ollantaytambo Fortress, a strategic Inca military, religious, and agricultural center. The site features multiple agricultural terraces, large finely-carved stone blocks, and watchtowers that may have served to defend against jungle tribes.
Our final stop is the archaeological site of Pisac. This incredible location showcases the advanced Inca engineering and agricultural design. Believed to have been a royal estate of Pachacutec, Pisac includes terraces, ceremonial structures, homes, and a complex aqueduct system. You will also have time to visit its famous artisan market, perfect for finding authentic souvenirs.
The tour ends back in Cusco at around 7:00 PM. We will drop you off at the Main Square (Plaza de Armas) or at your hotel.
I had the chance to do the “Sacred Valley + Moray and Salt Mines” tour, and it was an amazing experience. I loved how the guide explained the history behind each place, especially Moray with its unique circular terraces. The salt mines were impressive — seeing how salt is still traditionally harvested was fascinating. The landscape of the Sacred Valley is simply beautiful, full of peace and living culture. I definitely recommend it if you want to connect with the essence of Peru and enjoy a day full of learning and natural beauty.
