Sacred Valley VIP Tour (Full-Day)

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Duration 1 Day

Tour Type Daily Tour

Group Size 18

Languages English, Spanish

Description

Explore the absolute highlights of the Sacred Valley of the Incas in a single, comprehensive day. Visit six world-class archaeological and cultural landmarks without rushing.

The Sacred Valley VIP Tour is the most complete way to experience the main archaeological wonders and living culture of the Inca heartland in just one day.

During this premium circuit, you will explore Chinchero, famous for its deep-rooted textile traditions; Moray, the hypnotic circular agricultural laboratory of the Incas; and the breathtaking Maras Salt Mines. You will then head to Urubamba to enjoy a rewarding buffet lunch before discovering the majestic fortress of Ollantaytambo and the sweeping archaeological complex of Pisac, one of the most important strongholds of the ancient Inca Empire.

Combining history, archaeology, living culture, and striking Andean landscapes, this itinerary is the ultimate choice for travelers with limited time who want to maximize their experience in Cusco.

Overview Sacred Valley VIP Tour (Full-Day)

Day 1

Sacred Valley VIP tour

Detailed Itinerary

06:20 – 06:50 | Hotel Pickup in Cusco

We kick off the morning with a convenient pickup directly from your centrally located hotel in Cusco’s historical center.

Chinchero (Textile Village & Ruins)

Our first stop is the picturesque town of Chinchero. Here, we will visit a traditional textile interpretation center to see a live demonstration of ancient weaving techniques and natural dyeing methods. Afterward, you will explore the Chinchero archaeological site and its beautiful colonial church built directly over massive Inca foundations.

Moray (Inca Agricultural Laboratory)

We continue our drive to Moray, an awe-inspiring complex of concentric circular terraces. The Incas cleverly engineered these structures to experiment with different crops, taking advantage of the unique microclimates created within each terrace level.

Approximate visit duration: 40 minutes.

Maras Salt Mines (Salineras)

Next, we visit the famous salt pans of Maras, where over three thousand white terraced pools coat the canyon mountainside. You will witness a natural saltwater spring feeding these pools, which have been hand-harvested by local community families since pre-Inca times.

Approximate visit duration: 40 minutes.

Buffet Lunch in Urubamba

Our journey takes us deep into the valley floor to Urubamba. Here, you will take a well-deserved break to enjoy a delicious buffet lunch showcasing a premium selection of traditional Peruvian cuisine and international options.

Ollantaytambo Fortress

After lunch, we explore the living Inca town and fortress of Ollantaytambo, one of the most critical military and ceremonial centers of the empire. You will walk through its colossal stone terraces, ancient temples, and beautifully preserved stone streets.

Pisac Archaeological Site

Our final exploration will be at the breathtaking archaeological complex of Pisac, world-renowned for its massive agricultural terraces, ancient storehouses, and spectacular clifftop views over the valley. Depending on our timing, we will also make a quick stop at the vibrant Pisac artisan market.

18:30 – 19:00 | Return to Cusco

After a rich and fulfilling day uncovering the entire Sacred Valley, our direct transport will bring you back to Cusco’s city center.

Amenities & Inclusion

Included

Hotel Pickup: From centrally located hotels in Cusco.
Touristic Transportation: Clean, modern vehicle managed directly by our team.
Expert Guiding: Certified professional bilingual tour guide (English and Spanish).
Buffet Lunch: Included at a top restaurant in Urubamba.
Safety Equipment: First aid kit and emergency medical oxygen on board.
Permanent Assistance: 24/7 local support throughout your excursion.

Not Included

Cusco Tourist Ticket (Boleto Turístico): Required for Chinchero, Moray, Ollantaytambo, and Pisac.
Maras Salt Mines Entrance Fee: Paid in cash directly at the local site checkpoint.
Extra Drinks & Personal Expenses.
Tips & Gratuities (Optional for guide and driver).
Travel Insurance.

Important Information

Altitude Acclimatization: We highly recommend spending at least one day in Cusco before taking this tour to prevent altitude sickness.
Bring Cash: Please carry local currency (Peruvian Soles) in cash to cover the Maras Salt Mines entrance fee and the Cusco Tourist Ticket if you don’t own it yet.
Footwear: Wear comfortable hiking or walking shoes suitable for stone trails and uneven dirt paths.
Rainy Season (November to March): Weather can be unpredictable; always pack a waterproof jacket or a rain poncho.

Packing Check List

Original Passport or ID card.
Cusco Tourist Ticket (if already purchased).
Cash in Peruvian Soles (for entrance fees and shopping).
Comfortable clothing layered for changing temperatures.
Light jacket or windbreaker.
High-SPF Sunscreen, sunglasses, and a sun hat.
Refillable water bottle.
Camera or smartphone.

Questions & Answers

The VIP Tour is an expanded route that includes Chinchero, Moray, and the Maras Salt Mines on top of the traditional stops (Urubamba, Ollantaytambo, and Pisac). This allows you to visit six major highlights in a single day instead of just three.

Yes. The tour includes a full buffet lunch at a restaurant in Urubamba, featuring a wide variety of Peruvian specialties and international dishes.

Yes. Accessing Chinchero, Moray, Ollantaytambo, and Pisac requires the Cusco Tourist Ticket (Boleto Turístico). Please note that the entrance fee for the Maras Salt Mines is a separate community fee and is paid independently.

No. This is a low-to-moderate difficulty tour involving short, guided walks through the archaeological ruins. It is perfectly suitable for families, seniors, and travelers of almost all fitness levels.

From $22

Sacred Valley VIP Tour (Full-Day)

Description

Overview Sacred Valley VIP Tour (Full-Day)

Sacred Valley VIP tour

Detailed Itinerary