Maras / Moray / Saltpans
This incredibly scenic 1-day downhill hike in the Sacred Valley of the Incas is a perfect way to get out of Cusco for the day and enjoy the splendor of the outlying region. We depart Cusco in the morning and go by private transport to the archaeological site of Moray, passing through the typical Andean farming village of Chincheros on the way. At Moray, we can observe the extensive circular terraces where the Incas once experimented with adapting plants to new climates and temperatures. Leaving Moray, we follow a dirt path for approximately 1.5 to 2 hours to the colonial/Andean village of Maras, where we have a delicious picnic lunch. From here, we begin our descent to the Saltpans, which have been harvested for hundreds of years. Surrounded by the incredible views of the fertile valley below and the snow-capped peaks of the Cordillera Urubamba, we continue hiking to the Urubamba River, where our transport will be waiting to take us back to Cusco or to another point in the Sacred Valley for those who wish to spend the night.
Dificulty:
Easy to moderate walking
Duration:
Full day (9am – 5pm approximately)
Highlights
- Great acclimatization hike
- Dramatic scenery
- Andean farming communities
- Historic sites and colonial village
- Salt mines in operation for 500 years
Price:
Group service starts at USD 91 per person
Included:
- Transport to and from Cusco in private van
- Professional guide
- Delicious picnic lunch (vegetarian option available)
- First aid kit.
Not Included:
Entrances (total 80 Soles per an adult)
Pumamarca / Ollantaytambo
This day hike combines authentic encounters with native Andean communities and their ancient weaving methods with important archaeological sites such as Pumamarca and Ollantaytambo. Leaving from Cusco early in the morning, we drive through the scenic Sacred Valley to the village of Ollantaytambo. Our first stop is the CATCCO Museum and Cultural Center of Ollantaytambo, which promotes traditional culture and technology within the district of Ollantaytambo and has a Museum Shop with textile and ceramic products from the surrounding communities we will visit.From here, we continue by vehicle to the farming communities of Marcacocha, Huilloc, and Patacancha. In Marcacocha, locals demonstrate weaving methods dating back hundreds of years used to create unique pieces of the highest quality. In this and the other communities, we can appreciate the traditional lifestyle and work of the indigenous people whose maternal tongue continues to be Quechua, the language of the Incas.
Our hike begins near Huilloc, from where we descend to the small archaeological complex at Pumamarca. The origin and purpose of this site remains a mystery, but was thought to be a control point for water distribution and for the population. Continuing along the original Inca path, we observe agricultural terraces and views of the valley below. After walking approximately 2 hours we reach the town of Ollantaytambo, where it is optional to visit the impressive ruins and intriguing town before returning to Cusco or spending the night.
Dificulty:
Easy to moderate walking
Duration:
Full day (9am – 5pm approximately)
Highlights
- Up-close look at Andean farming communities and their weaving methods dating back to Incas
- Inca archaeological remains and terraces
- Great cultural experience
- Excellent day trip from Cusco or Ollantaytambo
Price:
Group service starts at USD 88 per person.
Included:
- Transport to and from Cusco in private van
- Professional guide
- Box lunch, snacks, and water
- Entrance to CATCCO Museum
NOTE: We can also arrange this trip to begin and end in Ollantaytambo. Please contact us for more information.
Not Included:
Entrances