+51 984 751 486 perutravelcompany@gmail.com Cuesta Santa Ana N° 701 and siete cuartones Nº 245

Price

From$30

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Length

Full Day

Group

Min 8, Max 19

Trip Style

Cultural

Grading

1,2,3,4,5

Tour Details

Embark on the comprehensive “Moray, Maras, Salt Mine & Sacred Valley of the Incas Tour” for a full-day journey that captures the essence of Incan heritage, blending stunning natural scenery with profound historical sites. This tour provides an in-depth exploration of the Peruvian Andes and the heart of the once-mighty Incan Empire.

Detailed Itinerary Highlights:

Introduction to the Sacred Valley: The day begins with a departure from Cusco, heading into the Sacred Valley, or “Willka Qhichwa” in Quechua. This fertile and strategically important valley was the food basket of the Inca Empire, renowned for its rich production of maize. As you travel, enjoy views of the Urubamba River, the sacred lifeline of the Incas, winding through terraced fields and rugged landscapes.

Moray – The Incan Agricultural Laboratory: Your first stop is Moray, an archaeological wonder featuring a series of concentric terraces carved into a huge earthen bowl. Each layer’s microclimate varies from those above and below it, and it is thought that the Incas used these differences to experiment with crops. This site provides unique insights into the advanced agricultural techniques of the Incas, which were far ahead of their time.

Maras Salt Mines – An Ancient Industry: Next, visit the nearby salt mines of Maras. This spectacular site consists of over 5,000 small pools constructed on a hillside, where salt from natural springs is evaporated and harvested by local families using traditional methods. The patchwork of crystalline pools against the stark mountainous backdrop offers breathtaking views and fantastic photo opportunities.

Lunch and Local Flavors: Enjoy a lunch of regional dishes in a local restaurant, where you can taste traditional flavors that are rooted deeply in the Andean culture.

Ollantaytambo – A Living Inca Town: The tour may also include a visit to Ollantaytambo, a town that features an impressive archaeological site with terraces climbing up steep valley walls and a temple with views over the valley. Ollantaytambo remains uniquely connected to its Inca past, with water channels that quietly weave through streets lined with original stone walls.

Return to Cusco: As the day winds down, you’ll return to Cusco, reflecting on a journey that not only showcased the grandeur of Incan architecture and innovations but also offered a window into the soul of Andean culture.

Inclusions

Guide
Buffet lunch
Tourist bus round trip

Excludes

Entrance fees to all touristic attractions

Recommended to carry

Original Student card
Water to drink, Camera, Waterproof jacket or rain poncho, Warm jacket
Sun hat, Comfortable hiking zip off trouser
Basic toiletries, Hat or cap for the sun, essential
Sunscream with sun protection
Sun protection cream (factor 35 recommended) sun is strong

Itinerary

Every DayExcursion Sacred Valley of the Incas & Maras Salt Mine, Moray

6:30 AM – Hotel Pickup and Departure:
Begin your day with an early pickup, embarking on a journey to the Sacred Valley’s most iconic sites, starting with Chincheros.

Chincheros Visit:

Meet Roxana: In the picturesque town of Chincheros, immerse yourself in ancient weaving traditions at Roxana’s home. Here, amidst alpacas, llamas, and guinea pigs, discover the art of textile creation using natural dyes.
Explore Chincheros: Known as the “Rainbow City,” Chincheros is a testament to Inca resilience and culture. Marvel at the snow-capped vistas of Salkantay, Veronica, and Soray, and explore Inca ruins that have withstood the test of time.

9:30 AM – Moray Terraces:
Journey to Moray to witness the astonishing agricultural terraces, believed to be an ancient Incan laboratory for studying climatic conditions on crops. Spend about 45 minutes to an hour here, delving into the ingenuity of Inca agriculture.

11:00 AM – Maras Salt Mines:
Next, stand before the Maras Salt Mines, where thousands of salt ponds, crafted into the mountainside, have been harvested since Incan times. Capture this iconic landscape with help from your guide.

Lunch in the Sacred Valley:
Enjoy a sumptuous lunch in the valley, savoring local flavors and dishes that reflect the region’s rich culinary heritage.

2:40 PM – Ollantaytambo Fortress:
Conclude your explorations at Ollantaytambo, an ancient fortress that served as a strategic military, religious, and agricultural center. Uncover the history of this site, which played a crucial role during the Spanish invasion.

Return to Cusco:
The day ends with a return to Cusco around 7:00 PM, leaving you with a deeper appreciation for the enduring legacy of the Inca Empire and the natural beauty of the Sacred Valley.

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FAQs

1.What time does the excursion typically start with hotel pickup?

The excursion typically starts with hotel pickup at 6:30 AM.

2.What can visitors experience at Roxana's home in Chincheros?

At Roxana’s home in Chincheros, visitors can immerse themselves in ancient weaving traditions and discover the art of textile creation using natural dyes, amidst alpacas, llamas, and guinea pigs.

3.What is the significance of Moray terraces?

The Moray terraces are believed to be an ancient Incan laboratory for studying climatic conditions on crops.

4.How long is the visit to Moray?

The visit to Moray typically lasts about 45 minutes to an hour.

5.What is the next destination after Moray?

The next destination after Moray is the Maras Salt Mines, where thousands of salt ponds have been harvested since Incan times.

1 Review

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Max S.

Solo Traveller

My day excursion to the Sacred Valley and Maras Salt Mine was a highlight of my trip to Peru! The tour provided a perfect blend of cultural immersion and natural beauty. Starting with the visit to Roxana’s home in Chincheros, we learned about ancient weaving traditions and were captivated by the stunning mountain views.

The stops at Moray and the Maras Salt Mines were equally impressive, offering unique insights into Inca history and craftsmanship. Lunch in the Sacred Valley was delicious, featuring authentic local cuisine. The tour concluded with a visit to the historic Ollantaytambo Fortress, providing a fitting end to our exploration. Overall, this excursion exceeded my expectations and left me with cherished memories of the Sacred Valley’s enchanting landscapes and rich cultural heritage.

May 21, 2023

Moray, Maras, Salt mine & Sacred Valley of Incas Tour 1 Day