Sacred valley tour From Ollantaytambo

Highlights

Our tour of the Sacred Valley, departing from Ollantaytambo, features visits to notable locations including the Maras Salt Mines, the Ollantaytambo Inca ruins, the Pisac market, and the Moray Inca site. The itinerary also includes demonstrations on wool dyeing and weaving, an introduction to chicha brewing, exploration of local markets, and stops at viewpoints offering stunning panoramic vistas of the Andes Mountains.

Why You Should Take Your Sacred Valley Tour From Ollantaytambo With Us?

• We will arrange for you to be picked up and dropped off at your hotel.
• Our scheduled pick-up time is at 8 AM, and we make every effort to avoid the crowds.
• Our tour differs from the typical bus tours to the Sacred Valley. Unlike the standard tours, we do not waste your time by taking you to commission-based stores. Instead, we focus on providing an authentic experience, allowing you to spend more time exploring the archaeological sites of the Sacred Valley.
• Our Sacred Valley tour departing from Ollantaytambo is conducted in a small group setting, allowing for a more personalized experience. This format ensures that you can explore at your own pace, engage directly with your guide, ask questions, and actively participate throughout the journey.
• AB Expeditions is a travel company that is entirely locally owned and is a fully licensed operator in the Sacred Valley.
• Small groups consisting of 2 to 8 people at most distinguish us from other travel companies that accommodate larger groups.
• We are a travel company known for our practicality, punctuality, and reliability, catering to both individuals and groups. Feel free to review our feedback on TripAdvisor.
• Our tour guides take great pride in their commitment to staying current with the latest knowledge and participate in an extensive program of ongoing professional development. We are passionate about showcasing the captivating and remarkable aspects of the Sacred Valley.

Our Itinerary For Our Sacred Valley Tour From Ollantaytambo

Day 1: Sacred Valley Tour From Ollantaytambo

The Sacred Valley, a region rich with tourist attractions, can be explored in a single day; however, this schedule would only allow for brief visits to each site, potentially diminishing your experience. To ensure a more thorough and enjoyable visit, we offer 3 options. Each option begins at 8:00 am from your hotel and concludes between 6:00 and 7:00 pm in Cusco. Please review the options below and let us know your preference.

Opton A:  Ollantaytambo, Moray, Maras Salt Mines, And Chinchero Tour

After breakfast, our guide and driver will collect you from your hotel’s reception at 8:00 am to start a remarkable Sacred Valley tour from Ollantaytambo. Your journey begins with an exploration of the Ollantaytambo Inca site, a prime example of Incan architecture with its impressive terraces, temples, platforms, and panoramic views of the surrounding area. Following this visit, we will drive through the picturesque Urubamba Valley, with stops at the Chicha Brewery (optional) and the ancient salt mines, where locals continue traditional salt harvesting methods. We will then proceed to the circular Inca Terraces of Moray, an impressive agricultural laboratory used by the Incas. The tour will continue with a drive to Chinchero, where you’ll enjoy breathtaking views of the Andes and Chicon peak, and explore the town’s weaver community and Inca ruins. We will conclude the day by returning to Cusco and dropping you off at your hotel around 6:00 pm.

Option B: Ollantaytambo Ruins, Pisac (Ruins & Market), & Llama/Alpaca Farm

To embark on a classic day trip to the Sacred Valley of the Incas from Ollantaytambo, we will pick you up from your hotel reception at 8:00 am. Our tour begins with a breathtaking view of the Andean mountains surrounding Ollantaytambo, known as the “Last Living Inca City,” where traditional Inca streets are still in use. We will first visit the remarkable archaeological site of Ollantaytambo, exploring its royal bath, high terraces, and the Temple of the Sun, all set against a stunning backdrop of mountain peaks and a distant glacier.

Next, we will visit local farms and a Chicheria (Inca bar), where you will learn about and taste chicha, a traditional corn-based drink from Inca times. Following this, we’ll enjoy a scenic drive to Urubamba for lunch (at your own expense) before continuing to the Pisaq ruins. Here, our guide will highlight the site’s significant religious, military, and agricultural structures. We will also visit the charming village of Pisaq, known for its vibrant market where local artisans and farmers sell their goods.

Our tour concludes with a drive to Cusco, with a stop at Awanacancha to observe llamas, vicuñas, and alpacas, offering insights into these Andean animals. This marks the end of our enriching day exploring the Sacred Valley.

Option C: Moray Ruins, Maras Salt Mines, and Pisac Ruins and Market

We will collect you from Ollantaytambo at 8 AM and drive to the Moray Inca site. Here, our guide will introduce you to the three terraced amphitheaters, which served as an ancient agricultural laboratory where crops such as potatoes, corn, and quinoa were cultivated and adapted. This site provides a remarkable glimpse into the ingenuity of the Inca Empire. Following Moray, we will visit the Maras salt ponds, a historic center for salt production that continues to serve local communities today. After lunch in Urubamba Town, we will head to the Pisac Inca ruins, known for their extensive agricultural terraces and sophisticated irrigation systems. Pisac’s archaeological park is renowned for its well-preserved Inca architecture. After exploring the ruins and enjoying the surrounding views, you may choose to visit the Pisac Market, which offers local crafts and souvenirs. The day will conclude with a visit to an alpaca farm before returning to your hotel in Cusco.

Note: If you choose the option c, you need to upgrade $10 per person.

INCLUSIONS                                                         Included

• Tourist Van: We have a new van for your Sacred Valley tour, ensuring you travel comfortably between all the sights.
• First Aid Kit: Both our guide and van will have first aid kits for any medical issues, like altitude sickness, diarrhea, cuts, or scrapes.
• Oxygen Tank: We have oxygen tanks in both the van and with our guide. Even though the Sacred Valley is lower than Cusco, some spots like Chinchero are at higher elevations (about 3,700 meters or 12,139 feet). If you feel unwell, we can provide you with oxygen.
• English-Speaking Guide: An English-speaking guide who knows a lot about the Sacred Valley will be with you. They will provide interesting information about each place you visit to make your experience better.

Not Included

• Tourist Ticket: To visit all the Inca sites, you need to buy a tourist ticket that costs 70 Peruvian Soles.
• Salt Ponds Ticket: The salt mines are run by local farmers, and you need to pay 20 Peruvian Soles to enter.
• Awanacancha: This alpaca farm has various animals, such as llamas, vicuñas, and different types of alpacas.
• Lunch: There are many restaurants with varying prices. Our guide will suggest options, and you can pick one that fits your budget.
• Tips for the Staff: Tipping is optional but becoming more common in Peru.

WHAT TO BRING

• Clothing: Pack layers to accommodate the rapidly changing weather in the Sacred Valley. Include t-shirts and add warmth with long-sleeve shirts and a fleece jacket. Lightweight hiking pants are also recommended.
• Footwear: Opt for comfortable hiking shoes or athletic sneakers with good traction to navigate the Incan archaeological sites effectively.
• Sun Protection: Don’t forget to bring a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen to protect yourself from the sun.
• Rain Gear: If traveling during the wet season, bring a waterproof jacket or a compact umbrella or plastic poncho.
• Bottled Water: To avoid the risk of drinking unclean tap water, bring bottled water to stay hydrated and help prevent altitude sickness.
• Money: Carry small bills and coins for ease of transactions, as market vendors and small shops in the Sacred Valley may not be able to provide change for larger bills.
• Daypack: A daypack is essential for trips outside Cusco. Ensure it has enough space for extra clothing, water, and snacks.
• Snacks: Pack energy bars, candies, and cookies. Fresh fruits can also be purchased at local village markets.
• Insect Repellent: Bring repellent to guard against mosquitoes in the Sacred Valley.
• Portable Chargers: To keep your devices powered, carry a portable charger as phone batteries tend to deplete quickly.
• Toilet Paper: Some restrooms may lack toilet paper, so it’s wise to bring your own.
• Antibacterial Hand Gel: Use this to maintain hand hygiene.
• Plastic Bags: Carry small plastic bags for disposing of trash and other waste.

FREQUENT ASK QUESTION

How Can I Book a Sacred Valley Tour From Ollantaytambo With AB Expeditions?

To book your Sacred Valley tour from Ollantaytambo, follow these steps:

1. Click “Book Now” to access our booking form.
2. Select your departure date.
3. Fill in your personal information.
4. For payment, use a credit or debit card. You can either pay the full amount or just a deposit. If you choose to pay a deposit, you can settle the remaining balance at our Cusco office 2 days before your tour, using cash or a credit card. Note that paying by credit card will incur an extra 2.9% fee.

Which Option Should I Choose: A or B?

We recommend Option B because it allows you to visit more places.

Where Can I Buy Tickets for Inca Sites?

You don’t need to buy tickets in advance. You can purchase them at the first Inca site you visit. Remember to bring cash in soles, as credit cards are not accepted. Our guide will help you to buy them.

How Many People Are Allowed on the Sacred Valley Tour?

We accommodate a maximum of eight people per tour to ensure personalized service.

Can I Combine Itinerary Options?

Yes, you can combine options, but the service will be private, which means the price will be higher.

Which Restaurant Do You Use for Meals?

We don’t have a set restaurant. On the day of your tour, our guide will offer various options then you can choose based on your budget.

How Long Do We Spend at Each Inca Site?

We usually spend about 45 minutes to 1 hour at each site.

Can I Book a Flight for the Same Day as the Tour?

Yes, you can book a flight for the same day. We suggest a flight around 10:00 p.m. since the tour ends at 6:00 p.m., giving you plenty of time.

Can You Drop Me Off at the Airport After the Sacred Valley Tour?

Yes, we can drop you off at the airport after the tour for an additional fee of $10.

What If We Have More Than Eight People?

We can organize a tour exclusively for your group of more than eight people.

Can I Store My Luggage at Your Office?

Yes, you can leave your luggage at our office.

Important Information

Cusco Tourist Ticket

To visit the Sacred Valley, you need to buy the Boleto Turístico. There are two types of tickets:

• General Cusco Tourist Ticket

This ticket, also known as BTG or the Complete Cusco Tourist Ticket, allows you to visit 16 attractions in the Cusco area, including the Sacred Valley. It is recommended if you plan to explore Cusco, the Sacred Valley, Maras, Moray, and the Southern Valley.

1. Price: 130.00 Soles
2. Student Price: 70.00 Soles
3. Validity: 10 days

• Partial Cusco Tourist Ticket

This ticket is valid for one day and only covers Inca sites in the Sacred Valley. It is not available for students or minors. If you are only visiting the Sacred Valley, this is the ticket for you.

1. Price: 70.00 Soles

Lost Objects

Please check that you have all your belongings when leaving the van or restaurant. You are responsible for your own items.

Group Tours

Groups may include people of various ages and fitness levels. When joining a group, be aware that some members may walk faster or slower than you. Everyone will move at their own pace.

Strikes and Demonstrations

Strikes and protests are common in Peru and may block roads. If this happens during your trip, we will inform you and cancel your plans. You will either receive a refund or we will help you reschedule.

Cancellations and Refunds

• Full Refund: Cancel up to 24 hours before the tour starts to get a full refund.
• Partial Refund: Cancel within 24 hours of the tour, but before 7 PM the day before, to get half your money back.
• No Refund: Cancel after 7 PM the day before the tour and no refund will be given.