Sacred Valley Tour with Moray & the Salt Mines 1 Day

1 Day
Book your next adventure at the best price.
Group Size
Min 2 Persons
Duration
1 Day
Activity Type
Tour Cultural
Season
All Year
Food
Not included
Physical Level
Easy
Physical Level
Easy
Lodge/Hotel
Easy

Overview

This experience provides a direct way to observe several locations in a valley that supported Inca communities. The area between certain settlements holds evidence of past practices in farming and resource use.

Travelers receive transport from a central point in the region. The path follows mountain areas with stops at places showing Inca work.

The conditions in this valley differ from higher nearby zones. They allow for varied plant growth and activities.

Personnel offer facts on each stop. These cover how the sites functioned in daily and ceremonial ways.

A representative from Sacred Tours Peru stays informed of the group’s movement. This helps with any needs during the day.

The setup includes time for meals independently. This lets participants choose based on preferences.

The format works for those with one day available. It covers main points without overnight stays.

BEST TOUR OPTION
Price from $ 45.00 USD Per Person
1 Days
  • Visit Machupicchu with a professional expert guide.
  • Enjoy a comfortable and safe journey with transport and trains.
  • Use your free time in Aguas Calientes to explore.
  • Make a quick and reliable booking with flexible payments.
  • Ask about essential items and optional services like hotels.

Overview

Trip details

  • Duration: 1 day
  • Starting Point: Pickup from hotel in Cusco at 7:30 a.m.
  • Ending Point: Return to hotel in Cusco around 6:30 p.m.
  • Group Size: Up to 10 people
  • Maximum Altitude: Approximately 3,600 meters
  • Service Type: Group or private
  • Transportation: Private transportation owned by Sacred Tours Peru, operated by highly trained drivers
  • Difficulty: Mild
  • Meals: Not provided, with time for lunch in Urubamba
  • Guides: Experts from Sacred Tours Peru with extensive knowledge of the routes, skilled in directing travelers from around the world in several languages
  • Special Features: Visits to archaeological zones with detailed explanations by guides, observation of salt extraction processes

Trip Summary

Day 1: Sacred Valley Tour

  • 7:30 a.m.: Pickup from hotel in Cusco
  • Drive to Taray viewpoint
  • Proceed to Pisac archaeological site
  • Explore site for approximately 1.5 hours
  • Descend to Pisac market for 20 minutes
  • Drive to Urubamba for lunch
  • Continue to Moray archaeological site
  • Move to Maras town and salt pans
  • Drive to Ollantaytambo archaeological site
  • Explore site for 1 hour
  • Return drive to Cusco
  • Arrival around 6:30 p.m.

DAY 1 Sacred Valley Tour

Your tour begins with a pickup from your Cusco hotel at 7:30 a.m. Private transportation owned by Sacred Tours Peru—driven by highly trained professionals—takes you toward the Sacred Valley.

The first stop is the Taray viewpoint, where you can admire the Urubamba Valley and its surrounding farming communities. Your Sacred Tours Peru guide, experienced along this route, highlights how many agricultural practices visible today have been preserved across generations.

You then continue to the Pisac archaeological complex, home to an Inca cemetery containing more than 2,000 tombs. Here, you explore the remarkable terraces that climb the mountain slopes, designed to support agriculture in steep terrain. After passing through an ancient Inca tunnel, you arrive at the ceremonial sector, where religious activities once took place.
You spend about 1.5 hours at this site, with your guide offering detailed context about its functions and importance for Inca society.

Next, you descend to the Pisac market, where you have around 20 minutes to browse local products and handicrafts.

The journey proceeds to Urubamba for lunch, chosen independently at a restaurant of your preference.

Afterward, you head to Moray, an archaeological site distinguished by its immense circular terraces. Each level creates a distinct microclimate, which the Incas ingeniously used to test conditions for cultivating different crops. You observe the retaining walls designed to hold fertile soil while your guide explains the experimental purpose of the site.

Continue toward the town of Maras, from where you’ll enjoy a panoramic view of the extensive salt mines below. Thousands of shallow pans—managed by local families for generations—fill with water from a natural spring. As the water evaporates under the sun, it leaves behind crystallized salt, often tinged pink due to mineral content. This ancient technique predates the Inca civilization, and your guide describes its cultural and economic relevance.

The final visit of the day takes you to the Ollantaytambo archaeological site. Over the course of an hour, you explore the terraces and ascend to the Sun Temple, learning about its ceremonial purposes as well as its defensive role during early encounters with the Spanish. Guides with multilingual experience offer insight into the site’s significance and history.

You return to Cusco by private transportation, arriving at your hotel around 6:30 p.m. Throughout the entire day, a Sacred Tours Peru representative remains attentive to your itinerary and progress.

Included

  • Small group up to 10 people: This size allows for more individual attention from the guide, making it easier to ask questions and move at a comfortable pace, which helps everyone absorb the details without feeling rushed.
  • Professional English speaking guide with extensive knowledge of each site: Specialists from Sacred Tours Peru who understand the routes deeply, skilled in directing travelers from different countries in several languages, providing thorough explanations that connect the historical context to visible features.
  • Private comfortable transportation: Vehicles owned by Sacred Tours Peru, operated by highly trained drivers, ensuring safe and smooth travel on mountain roads, with space for relaxation between stops.
  • Tax: All required fees covered, so no additional payments needed during the tour, simplifying the day for participants.

Not Included

  • Entrance tickets to archaeological sites: 70 soles (approximately $20 USD) per person for the day pass, which covers access to multiple locations and must be purchased in local currency at the first site visited.
  • Meals: Food stops like lunch in Urubamba, allowing choice of local eateries or buffets independently.
  • Salt pans entrance: 20 soles per person for entry to the Maras area, paid directly at the site.

Pricing

Prices are in USD and adjust based on group size. For private service, add 20% to the group rates below. Contact Sacred Tours Peru for custom quotes on larger groups or special needs.

  • 2 Persons: $75 per person
  • 3 Persons: $65 per person
  • 4 Persons: $55 per person
  • 5 or More Persons: $45 per person

Private Group Prices (Any Date)

  • 1 to 2 Persons: $197 total
  • 3 to 5 Persons: $240 total
  • 6 or More Persons: $280 total

To reserve, pay an initial amount per person; settle the balance online or at the Cusco office with any card, no fees.

How to Book the Tour

Step 1 — Complete the Booking Form

Please complete the BOOK NOW form on our homepage. For each participant, we require:

  • Full name (exactly as shown on passport)
  • Gender
  • Passport number
  • D.O.B. (dd / mm / yyyy)
  • Nationality

Step 2 — Deposit

A deposit of $53.00 USD per person is required to Buy the entrance to Machu Picchu and the train ticket. The deposit can be made using VISA or PAYPAL on our homepage or booking page.

Payment of the Balance

To avoid additional credit card fees, you may pay the remaining balance in cash (US dollars or Peruvian soles) in our Cusco office. Several ATMs are available in the historical center. Online payments through VISA or PAYPAL are also possible, but they include a 5.5% service fee.To pay via PAYPAL, log into your account and use the email samtravelperu@gmail.com.

Boleto Turístico (Tourist Ticket)

The Boleto Turístico can be purchased as:

  • 1-day ticket: 70 soles (approximately $20 USD)
  • 10-day general ticket: 130 soles (approximately $40 USD)
    • Students under 25 with a valid ISIC card and teenagers under 18 pay 70 soles.
    • Children under 8 enter free.

These tickets allow entry to various archaeological sites and cultural centers in Cusco and the Sacred Valley. This is the most practical way to Visit different Inca sites in a short period.

Sites included in the Boleto Turístico

  • Sacsayhuaman
  • Q’enqo
  • Puca Pukara
  • Tambomachay
  • Pisaq
  • Ollantaytambo
  • Chinchero
  • Moray
  • Tipon
  • Piquillaqta
  • Museo Histórico Regional
  • Museo de Arte Contemporáneo
  • Museo de Arte Popular
  • Museo de Sitio de Qorikancha
  • Centro Qosqo de Arte Nativo
  • Monumento al Inca Pachacutec

Important:These entrances are not included in the Boleto Turístico:

  • Qorikancha / Santo Domingo Convent (15 soles)
  • Cathedral (25 soles)

Payment must be made in soles only at Avenida El Sol or at the first site you Visit.

Travel Guide

Climate in the Valley

Weather moves from cool mornings near 10 degrees Celsius to warmer afternoons up to 20 degrees, dry season May-September little rain. Wet November-March adds humidity, showers. Stats: 50% afternoon wet rainy. Layers handle; cold start warmed by lunch once, jacket early.

Local Residents

People Quechua descent farm terraces, use traditional tools. Open polite chats. Greet basic Quechua rapport. Permission photos. Anecdote: Seller explained goods sources, felt community part.

Food Eaten Commonly

Potatoes, corn staples; trout rivers. Organics salads. Cheap vendors empanadas 5 soles. Veg rocoto peppers. Portions mild walks; herbal teas digest.

Spots See Free

Taray viewpoint valley free, Urubamba churches open. 55% overlook, miss quiet. Local plazas events sometimes no charge.

Eat Cheap Places

Pisac stalls soups 8 soles. Urubamba menus 15 soles. Locals authentic. Compare: Saves 50% hotels. Spot lomo saltado half tourist price.

LocationDish ExampleCost (Soles)
UrubambaSet Lunch12-15
PisacEmpanada5-8
MarasSnack10

Clothing Year

Breathable shirts pants base. Wet jackets rain. Dry hats sun. Shoes grip sites. Synthetics dry; 60% discomfort wet cotton.

Effort Physical Health Tour

Mild walks 3 hours total, steps terraces balance. Altitude 3,600 meters breath light; acclimate Cusco. No skills, steady. Health: Standard shots; water hydration. Load: Low, 15% steps hard, rests ease.


FAQs

What is the ideal time of year for this tour?

The most convenient season for this experience is from May to September, when clear skies and dry weather make exploring sites like Pisac more enjoyable. Daytime temperatures average around 20°C, although mornings remain cool, so wearing layers is recommended. July is the busiest month, so early reservations are advised. During the wetter months, such as January, landscapes become greener but trails may turn muddy. Sacred Tours Peru adjusts stop durations and pacing to maintain safety and comfort in changing conditions.

How much physical activity is there?

This tour involves gentle walking for approximately 3 hours in total, spread across several archaeological and scenic sites. The longest segment is at Pisac, lasting around 1.5 hours on soft, uneven terrain. There are no steep climbs, but terrace steps require stable footing. Guides maintain a slow, easy-going pace with pauses, making the route suitable for most visitors. If mobility is limited, informing the team in advance allows arrangements for shorter walking distances or closer vehicle access.

Can dietary needs be handled?

Yes. Guests with dietary restrictions—such as dairy-free, vegetarian, or other requirements—should notify Sacred Tours Peru when booking. Although meals are not included, guides recommend restaurants that use fresh local ingredients and can customize dishes. In towns like Urubamba, many eateries can replace certain components to create balanced meals. Some international-style dishes may incur additional costs, so checking with reservations helps avoid unexpected fees and ensures proper meal options throughout the tour.

Is altitude a problem on this route?

The tour reaches altitudes of up to approximately 3,600 meters. Travelers arriving from low altitudes may experience mild symptoms such as shortness of breath or light headaches. Spending at least one day acclimatizing in Cusco is strongly recommended. Staying hydrated, eating light meals, and avoiding alcohol also help minimize discomfort. Guides often suggest traditional Andean herbal teas, which many visitors find helpful for easing mild altitude effects without medication.

Where can I charge devices during the day?

The private transportation used on this one-day tour does not have charging outlets. However, due to the short duration, starting the day with a fully charged phone is typically sufficient. Charging is available at hotels in Cusco before and after the excursion. To avoid running out of battery—especially for photography—bringing a small power bank is recommended. In case of a more urgent need, the company representative will assist with communication support.

What if rain occurs?

The tour operates in light to moderate rain, with minor adjustments such as using covered areas at sites or reducing time spent in exposed sections. Rain ponchos are provided if needed. The Sacred Valley drains well, but waterproof shoes or footwear with good traction are recommended to prevent slipping on wet surfaces. Sacred Tours Peru monitors weather conditions throughout the day and ensures essential highlights, including Moray, remain part of the itinerary whenever safely possible.

Do kids participate?

Yes, children aged 5 and above are welcome when accompanied by adults. The mild difficulty level makes this tour suitable for families with young travelers. Discounts may apply for children under 11 with passport verification. Guides adapt explanations to keep kids engaged and make the historical content accessible. While the route is not highly elevated compared to high-altitude treks, it is still important to monitor children for mild altitude effects.

How to manage cool mornings?

Morning temperatures can drop to around 10°C, so dressing in layers is essential. A sweater or light jacket is ideal for early starts, as temperatures rise to around 20°C by midday. Hats or light beanies provide extra warmth without adding weight, especially at scenic spots like the Taray viewpoint. Once the day warms, layers can be easily removed to stay comfortable.

What is the typical group makeup?

Tour groups usually consist of international travelers, with a maximum of 10 participants to maintain a comfortable and personable atmosphere. Solo travelers are welcomed and integrate naturally into the group. Guides are bilingual in English and Spanish, supporting an inclusive and positive environment where travelers can interact and share experiences.

Can I extend time at certain sites?

Group tours follow a structured schedule that includes set time allocations, such as the 1.5-hour visit to Pisac. Guests can request priority focus on specific spots within the group’s time frame. For more extended or customized exploration—particularly at popular locations like Ollantaytambo—private tours booked through Sacred Tours Peru offer full flexibility and more personalized pacing.

What currency should I carry?

Peruvian soles in small denominations are recommended for entrance fees (e.g., 70 soles for site access, 20 soles for the salt mines) and small purchases. Card payment is not always available in remote areas. ATMs are accessible in Cusco. Since transportation is included in the tour, about 100 soles per person typically covers any personal expenses.

Is tipping common?

Tipping is optional yet appreciated for both guides and drivers. A typical amount ranges from 20 to 50 soles per traveler, depending on the level of service and group size. This gesture acknowledges their work in providing explanations, ensuring safe transportation, and taking care of logistics—consistent with standard tipping customs in the Andes.

How sustainable is this tour?

Sacred Tours Peru operates with a strong commitment to sustainability by limiting groups to 10 participants, employing local guides, and encouraging responsible behavior at archaeological sites. Guests are asked to avoid leaving litter and to follow designated paths to protect cultural and natural heritage. Visits to the salt mines also support local families who rely on traditional salt production.

What is the cancellation process?

Cancellations made at least 30 days before the tour date receive a full refund minus the deposit. Cancellations made closer to the date qualify for partial refunds depending on the amount of notice provided. Travel insurance is highly recommended to cover unexpected changes. Sacred Tours Peru also assists with rescheduling whenever possible to minimize inconvenience.

Are restrooms available at the sites?

Yes, restroom facilities are available at major stops including Pisac and Ollantaytambo, though they may be basic. Travelers should carry tissues and hand sanitizer. Guides plan restroom breaks throughout the day, and for remote areas such as Moray, facilities are accessible before or after the visit during transportation stops.

What to Bring

Packing List for the Sacred Valley Tour with Moray & the Salt Mines

For a full day in the valley with mild walking and variable weather, prepare light items that handle sun, possible rain, and cooler mornings. Focus on comfort for short explorations at sites.

  • Original passport: This document is necessary for identification at certain checkpoints or if needed for purchases, and it should be the same one used for any bookings to match records.
  • Hat and sunglasses: A breathable hat with a strap prevents loss in wind, while sunglasses with UV protection shield eyes from bright high-altitude sun during open stops.
  • Rain gear, rain ponchos: A lightweight waterproof layer folds small for carrying, useful if sudden showers occur in the variable Andean conditions; Sacred Tours Peru can supply a basic one if forgotten.
  • Warm clothes: A light sweater or jacket layers over shirts for early starts when temperatures hover around 10 degrees Celsius, removable as the day heats up to 20 degrees.
  • Sunscreen and bug spray: Broad-spectrum cream with SPF 30 or higher applies to skin to block intense rays, while spray with DEET wards off insects in greener areas near rivers.
  • Hand sanitizer, toilet paper, and wet wipes: Sanitizer kills germs after handling market items, tissue serves for facilities that may lack supplies, and wipes refresh during dust or sweat.
  • Toothbrush and paste: If sensitive to travel changes, a small set in a bag maintains oral care, especially after lunch, keeping light for the day pack.
  • Camera, extra batteries: A device with zoom captures distant terraces without outlets available, spares ensure power for all sites visited.
  • Flashlight or headlamp: A compact light aids if delays extend into evening, hands-free type for any dim areas in tunnels.
  • Camel bags or water containers for at least 2 liters: A hydration system with tube allows sipping without stopping, capacity prevents dehydration on walks; no single-use plastics at sensitive zones.
  • Additional snacks, power bars, and chocolate: Personal favorites like nuts boost energy between meals, useful if lunch timing shifts.
  • Extra money in small denominations (soles): Local currency pays for entrances like 70 soles for sites and 20 soles for salt pans, small bills ease transactions at markets.

What to Pack for a Sacred Valley One-Day Tour

  • Warm jacket and rain jacket
  • Hat
  • Water
  • Sun protection
  • Insect repellent
  • Extra money for souvenirs
  • Soles for the Boleto Turístico and the entrance to the salt mines
  • Original passport
  • Student ID card (for those using the 10-day Boleto Turístico)

Book Now

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To check availability for any of our services, please contact us at  info@sacredtoursperu.com or via WhatsApp at +51 999 999 999 or +51 999 999 999

We’ll be happy to provide detailed information, rates, and booking conditions.

We offer special discounts for groups, and all our tours are fully guaranteed with daily departures.
Feel free to get in touch for more details about your preferred experience or to start creating a personalized travel itinerary based on your interests.

Sacred Tours Peru is a trusted travel agency based in Cusco, Peru, dedicated to offering authentic and memorable experiences throughout the region.

Whether you’re seeking a family adventure, a romantic escape, or a nature-filled journey, our professional team ensures comfort, quality, and a genuine connection with local culture and traditions.

NOTE: At Sacred Tours Peru, we specialize in custom-made travel experiences across Peru.
With access to exclusive deals and carefully selected partner hotels, we can help you design your perfect itinerary.
For assistance with your tailor-made package, don’t hesitate to contact us anytime.

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