Sacred Valley Tour with Moray and Salt Mines Included!


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DOOR TO DOOR SERVICES
From

$45USD Per Person

1 Day

SPEAK WITH A TRAVEL SPECIALIST
Max. Altitude: 3400 m.s.n.m
Group Size: 8 person(s)
Service: Group
Transportation: Hike, Bus, Train
Duration 1 Day

The Sacred Valley is a treasure trove of timeless ancient Inca archeological sites and stunning natural landscapes that will simply take your break away.  As you can imagine, agriculture presented a massive challenge for the Incas because of the craggy, mountainous terrain of the Andes. However, the Sacred Valley is a fertile and lush stretch of land with endless sources of fresh water. This was the heart of Inca land; the temperature is mild compared to the rest of Cusco and the views are incredible.

Our tour takes you on a comprehensive journey through traditional weaving villages and the Inca ruins of Pisac that remain a true representation of Inca agricultural practices. We explore a camelid farm surrounded by llamas, alpacas and vicunas among many other camelids. Driving of the main road, we visit the experimental farming terraces of Moray and the Pre- Inca Maras Salt mines, that’s still function as a main source of income for this small community and supplies Peru with over 90% of its salt. As the sun begins to set, we visit the archeological site of Ollantaytambo, where the ultimate and most intense battle between the Inca Empire and Spanish invaders took place.

DAY 1: SACRED VALLEY OF THE INCAS (Pisac + Moray + Maras + Salt mines + Ollantaytambo) 

Our relaxed tour through the Sacred Valley begins at 7:30am. We will pick-up up from your hotel lobby, we recommend having breakfast beforehand, our next meal is only later in the day. We begin our scenic drive through the Sacred Valley of the Incas, stopping along the way at a camelid farm just outside of Cusco . This amazing farm keeps about 7 different species of the camelid family. The four main species of Peru include the Llama, Alpaca, Guanacos and the Vicuna which is the National Animal of Peru.

Inside the farm, you get to pet, feed and take pictures with these weird and wonderful animals.  Going through the center, you can watch the ladies in their traditional garments weaving different garments, using the wool from the camelids. You also get to experience the natural way in which they dye the wool, using roots and indigenous plants. At the exit, there is a museum with a souvenir shop where you can purchase authentic alpaca garments and if your budget allows, the more luxurious and protected Vicuna creations.  The Vicuna has super soft material and feels lush and luxurious. Because Vicunas are protected animals, all garments made from their wool have to be sold with a certification of trade and authentication.

Mirador of Toray and Pisac Archeological site

Our first stop in the valley is the stunning Mirador of Taray, where we get to enjoy magnificent panoramic views of the valley. Pisac is regarded as the gateway to the valley and the view from this outlook is a glimpse into what you have to look forward to for the rest of the day. As you look down you can see every inch of the valley carpeted with modern farming terraces. The peaceful Urubamba River flows below, majestic snow-capped mountain peaks like the Ausangate mountain (6 384m/20 945ft) make their presence felt and straight ahead is the Pisac Archeological site in full view.

Next, we drive to the top entrance of the archeological site, that sits perched at the top of the mountain side. The view from the top accents the Urubamba Valley and the surrounding mountain ranges. The Sacred Valley was agriculturally important to the Incas and still plays a major role in the sustenance of the Cusco region. You can find evidence to support the theory of agricultural practices at the top of the hill, which is laden with many food warehouses that were used by the Incas to store food at top where the temperature is much cooler compared to the bottom of the valley. You also come across the biggest Inca cemetery with over 2000 tombs decorating the mountain side. It is said that if you visit these tombs, you can still find human skeletal remains.

Town of Coya, Calca and Urubamba

We drive through the small indigenous towns of Coya and Calca before stopping at the foot of Urubamba for a delectable buffet lunch. The restaurant has an impressive spread of different foods and is vegan and vegetarian friendly. There is a variety of fresh vegetables, salads, protein dishes, desserts, a selection of teas and coffee. (Lunch is not included)

Maras and Moray Salt Mines

After lunch, we continue our journey to the colonial town of Maras, walking downhill to the Pre-Inca Salt Mines. The locals use over a thousand salt pans to collect water from the salt stream at the top of the hill. They extract the salt by allowing the water to evaporate naturally until only salt remains in the pool and is than collected for distribution. This technique stems back Pre Inca, the Incas also used the same technique and the locals now maintain this ancient technique. This is Peru´s main salt supply, supplying over 90% of the country with the salt. 

This a rich custom and tradition and the saltpans have been passed down from one generation to the next. This is the community´s main source of income and they have exclusive rights to these mines. Salineras is one of the very few salt mines left in the world to have not switched to more modern salt extraction techniques. The communal company of Maras (cooperative) packages and distributes the salt and splits the profits with the families according to the number of saltpans they own.

Later, we visit Moray, which was an experimental farming site built in the form of an amphitheater with different temperature at each level which grows different types of crops. These levels of terraces were carved before the Incas took control of the Sacred Valley. Then the Incas used it for their experimental farming, to research optimal growing conditions for their crops. The Incas brought in different soil samples from other regions, in order to optimize their research. The locals were still using it for growing their crops, until the Peruvian government decided to preserve and protect it for tourism in the 1970s .

Archeological site in Ollantaytambo

Finally, we drive to Ollantaytambo to explore this quaint Inca village and the amazing Inca Ruins on the hilltop hovering above the town. These ruins are where the Incas fought their last battle with the Spanish conquerors, before they had to retreat and flee into the dense jungle. Most of the structures were unfortunately incomplete or destroyed by the intense battle. There is a section with a number of boulders that were carved, but didn’t make it to their destination. We stop here to learn the fascinating history of the final days of the Inca Empire. Also, settle down and watch the sun set over the valley.

To end the day, we drive back in our private van to Cusco, arriving at your hotel at around 6:30pm.

  • Please Note: Its possible to end the tour in Ollantaytambo and the price will be the same.

WHAT WE INCLUDE IN THE SACRED VALLEY TOUR 1 DAY?

  • Private group
  • Professional English-speaking guide
  • Private comfortable transportation
  • Taxes

WHAT WE DO NOT INCLUDE IN THE SACRED VALLEY TOUR?

  • Entrance tickets to archeological sites:  70 soles (1 day only) or approximately $20 USD per person which can only be purchased in soles only at the first archeological site. (See the Boleto Turistico here)
  • Meals
  • Maras salt mines entrance (10 soles)

The Sacred Valley Tour is available on any date as long as we have a minimum of 2 people to book.

No. OF PEOPLEPRICE
2 people$ 65  USD per person
3 people$ 55  USD per person
4 people$ 50  USD per person
+5 people$ 45  USD per person

Price for a private Sacred Valley tour 1 day: US$187 in total for a group up to 4 people. 

EXTRA FEES

  • Entrance tickets to archeological sites:  70 soles or approximately $20 USD per person which can only be purchased in soles at the first archeological site. ((See the Boleto Turistico here)
  • Salt Mine entrance of (10 soles)

The Boleto Turistico (tourist ticket) for the Sacred Valley Tour 1 day

You have the option to purchase a 1 Day or a 10 Day Boleto Turistico. 

The partial ticket, or 1-Day ticket costs 70 soles (about US $20) and is valid for 1 day. You can visit as many sites as you like in one day with no further charge. There are no discounts with this ticket.

Both tourist tickets, 1-day or 10-day, allows the access to different archeological sites in and around Cusco, the Sacred Valley, various museums in Cusco, the Main Cathedral, the Qoricancha and more.  This is the best way to visit all the archeological sites of the region and the Sacred Valley. Most of the main archeological sites are not accessible for free.

The general ticket, or 10-Day Ticket is 130 soles (about US $35) and is valid for 10 days. This is the cheapest and most convenient way to plan to see different sites in a few days.

Here is a list of sites where you can use your Boleto Touristico:

  • Sacsayhuaman
  • Q’enqo
  • Puca Pucara
  • Tambomachay
  • Pisac
  • Ollantaytambo
  • Chinchero
  • Moray
  • Tipon
  • Piquillaqta
  • Pachacutec Monument
  • Cusco’s Native Art Center
  • Museum of Popular Art
  • Museum of Contemporary Art
  • Museum of Regional History

Note : 

The entrance ticket to the main archeological sites such as Sacsayhuaman, Pisac, Ollantaytambo, Chinchero, Tipón and Moray cannot be sold individually. You must buy the Boleto turístico to visit them. Tickets are available in Avenida el Sol near our office or at the entrance of the first archeological site. YOU MUST PAY IN SOLES, NO CREDIT CARDS OR US DOLLARS ARE ACCEPTED. 

ImportantThese entrances are not included in the Boleto Touristico.  

  • The entrance to Koricancha or Santo Domingo Convent (15 soles)
  • The entrance to the Cathedral (40 soles)
  • Maras Salt Mines (10 soles)

*** Find the best information about Boleto turistico here!

WHAT TO BRING FOR THE SACRED VALLEY TOUR 1 DAY?

  • Warm jacket
  • Hat
  • Water
  • Sun protection
  • Some money for souvenirs and tips
  • Money in soles to purchase boleto turistico and ticket for the Maras salt mine
  • Original passport

Sacred Valley Tour with Moray and Salt Mines Included!
From: $45
Traveller reviews

Join thousands of satisfied customers around the world


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Christian B

10/10 Amazing experience

If you’re thinking about which agency to use, look no further- Ray and Jimmy went well above and beyond and made this a memorable, safe, fun, and professional experience.

Ray is the most knowledgeable guide I’ve ever had in any country for any excursion - during both the Short Inka Trail and the actual tour of Machu Picchu, Ray’s expertise shined through in his ability to give us a detailed background on every aspect of the history, climate, nature, flora, animals.. anything!

Likewise, Ray and Jimmy were truly the friendliest, kindest hosts that I could have imagined our group having.

Thank you both so much and I will definitely book with you again if (when) I come back!

Jan 2023 • Friends
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Matt A

Awesome experience!!

Did the 2 day Inca trail with Ray and Jimmy they were great and knowledgeable. Ray not only guided us along trail to Machu Picchu but also was an excellent photographer and taught us the history. It was a group of 10 and we had a great time. Even everything going on in Peru, we always felt in good hands.

Jan 2023 • Friends
Rius

Short Inca Trial (2-Day)

This tour was the perfect experience for our (group of 10) short trip to Peru. The trail was sometimes challenging, but the views and history made it all worth it. Ray and Jimmy were our guides and imparted sooo much knowledge about the history of Peru, Inca, and beyond. I would definitely recommend!

Jan 2023 • Friends
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Daniela Rabito

It was perfect! On the first day we had a great time exploring the Sacred Valley and see the main attractions and learn about the history of this beautiful place.

I would definitely recommend the short Inka trail, I think it was the best way to get to know Machu Picchu and the surrounding area. We arrived at Machu Picchu when most of the crowd was gone and it felt really special.

Abril 2023
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Brittany Skulkety

You won’t regret booking with this tour company, especially if Liz Montesinos is your guide. My boyfriend and I did the 4 day Sacred Valley, Machu Picchu and Rainbow Mountain (private) tour. The tour covered everything; from transportation, hotels, meals, tickets and entrance fees, to stops at local places we would’ve never known to go or check out. We did a private tour because for us we felt this would help us get the most out of our time and experience in Peru

Dic 2022
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M B

Best mix of adventure, history and nature: Sacred Valley & Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu

4-day trekking option seemed too intense for us, but we still wanted to experience the entrance to Machu Picchu through the ancient Inka trail, so we opted for Orange Nation’s combination of Sacred Valley & Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu. I couldn’t be more happy about our decision.

Dic 2022
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Sakeb

We booked and paid the deposit to Orange Nation / Sam travel for the 4 day Inca Trail and Machu Pichu trip back in 2019. But we couldn't travel in 2020 and 2021 - but the company honoured our agreement and so we came back in 2022.

Dic 2022
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Brittany Nicole
icono recomment - Orange Nation recommends Orange Nation Peru

You won’t regret booking with this tour company, especially if Liz Montesinos is your guide. My boyfriend and I did the 4 day Sacred Valley, Machu Picchu and Rainbow Mountain (private) tour. The tour covered everything; from transportation, hotels, meals, tickets and entrance fees, to stops at local places we would’ve never known to go or check out. We did a private tour because for us we felt this would help us get the most out of our time and experience in Peru. This tour had so many incredible things and places packed into 4 days.

September 16, 2022
avatar reviews - Orange Nation
Ray Besos
icono recomment - Orange Nation recommends Orange Nation Peru

My girl and i did the Machu Pichu trek tour with Orange Nation. It was seriously the most amazing experience that we'll never forget. Gorgeous views! The long trek was worth the amazing view. The tour guide was friendly and very knowledgeable. We considered other tours but chose Orange Nation because we liked the idea of smaller groups and this was definitely worth it. I will be using Orange Nation again next year when I come back to Peru!

November 29, 2018
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Juliet Julz
icono recomment - Orange Nation recommends Orange Nation Peru

Wow, what a wonderful trekking experience! My trip to Peru was amazing thanks to this awesome tour that i took with Orange Nation. I did multiple tours with this company. I'm a solo traveler and everyone in my group was always still friendly and did not make me feel left out. I loved going off the beaten track with this company. It's much better to pay extra to go off the path for the quality experience of this amazing guided tour They definitely helped guide us and gave us a quality experience with a small group and paid special attention to each one of us. I highly recommend using Orange Nation for your next tour in Peru!

November 29, 2018

WHY BOOK A TRIP WITH US?

Our own # 1 rated hotel in Ollantaytambo

A scenic 10 m drive from Ollantaytambo, follow the river and the train tracks to the Veronica View Hotel. Along the way, watch across the river for the original terraces from Incan times! Arriving at the hotel, you will be greeted amid gardens of native flowers and orchids. Take in the stunning sight of the Veronica Mountain, covered with glaciers year-round. After you settle into your room, walk through the gardens to the pool and restaurant area. There is a steam sauna, dry sauna, spa, heated swimming pool and restaurant at your feet.

Triple Accommodation Room

Three comfortable single beds, ideal for groups of friends or family, enjoy the same spectacular view of the Veronica Mountain as the other rooms in the main building. Each room has a private bathroom with beautiful marbled counter tops.

King Size Room

Enjoy the luxury of a King size bed, along with all of the other indulgent services offered by the Veronica View Hotel. Each room is carefully situated to give you the best view of the Veronica Mountain. King rooms are in the main building on either the first or second floor. All King Rooms include jacuzzi

Double Accommodation Room

Double rooms are located in the main building, a beautiful room with an expansive view of the snow covered Veronica Mountain and the Urubamba Valley. Double rooms have one double bed, one twin bed and a private bathroom. These rooms are located on the first and second floor

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