Hidden Treasures: Maras, Moray & Ollantaytambo (Private tour)

Cusco , Peru

Hidden Treasures: Maras, Moray & Ollantaytambo (Private tour)

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For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

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About this experience

The Sacred Valley became an area of royal estates and country homes for the Inca, for the religious establishment and also agriculture one of this was the maize, a prestige crop for the Incas, to make chicha, a fermented maize drink the Incas and their subjects consumed at their many ceremonial feasts and religious festivals.

On this full day of Sacred valley tour you will visit impressive constructions of cities such as Pisac and Ollantaytambo, which still working their water fountains coming from the mountains rivers. The Sacred valley tour will take you around local villages, and meet local people with their traditional costumes that it will add up an unforgettable experience to your journey.

Available options

Private Service

Pickup included

What's included

Private transportation (Hote-tour-hotel)

Professional tour guide

Maras entrance fee

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

Start your adventure with a hotel pickup in Cusco around 8:00 AM, heading through breathtaking Andean landscapes of wheat fields, traditional villages, and snow-capped peaks. After approximately 1.5 hours, arrive at Moray, the impressive Inca agricultural laboratory. Your guide will walk you through its fascinating circular terraces, ingeniously designed to test optimal growing conditions for crops—a true testament to Inca innovation.

After exploring Moray, we’ll continue to Maras, just a short 10-minute drive away. Here, you’ll marvel at the stunning salt evaporation ponds, a tradition dating back to the Incas and possibly even earlier. Over 3,000 pools are carved into the mountainside, fed by a natural spring rich in salt. Watch as the sun works its magic, evaporating the water and leaving behind the famous pink Maras salt, still harvested communally. From above, the glistening ponds resemble a snow-covered mountainside—an unforgettable sight!

After exploring the breathtaking salt ponds of Maras, we’ll make our way to a local restaurant, perfectly situated to enjoy the charm of the Sacred Valley. Here, you’ll have about 45 minutes to relax and savor a meal of your choice (lunch is not included). Take this time to sample traditional Andean flavors or international dishes while soaking in the tranquil surroundings and reflecting on the incredible sites you've experienced so far. This break offers a chance to recharge before continuing our journey to Ollantaytambo.

After a satisfying lunch break, we’ll continue our adventure with a 30-minute drive to the historic town of Ollantaytambo, a jewel of the Inca Empire. Here, we’ll spend approximately 1 hour exploring its remarkable archaeological site, including the impressive Temple of the Sun, where massive stones—expertly carved and polished—stand as a testament to Inca engineering.

You’ll also admire Ollantaytambo’s ingenious agricultural terraces and advanced water channels, designed to harness the land’s resources while creating unique microclimates for crop experimentation. This captivating site offers a perfect blend of history, innovation, and natural beauty, making it a fitting conclusion to our Sacred Valley exploration before returning to Cusco.

What's not included

Buffet Lunch

Tips

Partial Tourist Ticket (BTP)

Available languages

Guide guide

EN ES

Reviews breakdown

Tripadvisor 5.0

2 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Note: The Cusco Tourist Ticket is about 130 soles or around $45 USD and there is 50% discount for students with an ISIC card. You can also use this ticket on the city tours OR purchase a partial ticket which allows a one day visit of just the two sites of Pisac and Ollantaytambo. This ticket is recommended if you are not planning to visit any of Cusco's other sites

About Cusco

Cusco, the historic capital of the Inca Empire, is a captivating blend of Indigenous and colonial influences. Known for its well-preserved archaeological sites, vibrant culture, and stunning Andean landscapes, it's a gateway to Machu Picchu and the Sacred Valley. The city's rich history, combined with its lively arts scene and delicious cuisine, makes it a must-visit destination in South America.

Top Attractions

Sacred Valley

The Sacred Valley is a stunning region filled with Inca ruins, traditional villages, and breathtaking landscapes. It's a must-visit for history and nature lovers.

Historical/Nature Full day PEN 10-50 (USD 2.50-12.50) depending on the site

Machu Picchu

Machu Picchu is the iconic Inca citadel and one of the most famous archaeological sites in the world. Its breathtaking views and rich history make it a must-see.

Historical/Adventure Full day or overnight PEN 152 (USD 38) for entrance, train tickets vary

Qorikancha

Qorikancha, or the Temple of the Sun, was the most important temple in the Inca Empire. It's a fascinating blend of Inca and colonial architecture.

Historical/Religious 1-2 hours PEN 10 (USD 2.50)

Sacsayhuaman

Sacsayhuaman is a massive Inca fortress with impressive stone walls and panoramic views of Cusco. It's a testament to Inca engineering and military might.

Historical 1-2 hours PEN 10 (USD 2.50)

San Pedro Market

San Pedro Market is a bustling market offering a variety of fresh produce, local crafts, and traditional foods. It's a great place to experience local life.

Cultural/Food 1-2 hours Free to enter, prices vary for purchases

Must-Try Local Dishes

Cuy al Horno

Roasted guinea pig, a traditional Andean dish.

Main Course Not vegetarian

Lomo Saltado

Stir-fried beef with onions, tomatoes, and fries.

Main Course Can be made vegetarian

Aji de Gallina

Shredded chicken in a creamy, spicy sauce.

Main Course Not vegetarian

Sopa de Quinoa

Quinoa soup, a nutritious and traditional dish.

Soup Can be made vegetarian

Popular Activities

Hiking Trekking Mountain biking Whitewater rafting Visiting spas Exploring parks Enjoying local cafes Visiting museums

Best Time to Visit

May to September

This is the dry season, offering the best weather for exploring the city and its archaeological sites. The skies are clear, and temperatures are mild.

5°C to 20°C (41°F to 68°F) 41°F to 68°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Spanish
Widely spoken: Quechua, English (in tourist areas)
English: Moderately spoken in tourist areas, limited elsewhere

Currency

Peruvian Sol (PEN)

Time Zone

GMT-5

Electricity

220VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe with common-sense precautions

Cusco is generally safe for tourists, but petty crime can occur, especially in crowded areas. Be cautious with your belongings and avoid walking alone at night in poorly lit areas.

Important Precautions:

• Keep valuables secure
• Use reputable tour operators
• Be cautious with street food

Getting there

By air

Alejandro Velasco Astete International Airport • 5 km (3 miles) from city center

By train

San Pedro Station

By bus

Cusco Bus Terminal

Getting around

Public transport

Shared taxis (colectivos) are a common and affordable way to get around Cusco. They follow specific routes and can be flagged down.

Taxis

Available • Apps: InDriver, Easy Taxi

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Historic Center San Blas San Cristobal

Day trips

Pisac

35 km (22 miles) from Cusco • Full day

Pisac is a charming town known for its vibrant market and impressive Inca ruins. It's a great day trip from Cusco.

Ollantaytambo

60 km (37 miles) from Cusco • Full day or overnight

Ollantaytambo is a picturesque town with well-preserved Inca ruins and a gateway to Machu Picchu. It's a must-visit for history and adventure lovers.

Tipon

25 km (16 miles) from Cusco • Half day

Tipon is a beautiful archaeological site with well-preserved Inca terraces and water channels. It's a peaceful and less crowded alternative to other Inca sites.

Festivals

Inti Raymi • June 24 Cusco Festival of Music and Dance • August

Pro tips

Acclimatize to the altitude before engaging in strenuous activities
Dress in layers to accommodate changing temperatures
Learn a few basic phrases in Spanish or Quechua to enhance your experience
Visit the San Pedro Market early in the morning for the best selection and prices
Book tickets and train tickets in advance for Machu Picchu and other popular attractions