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Sacred Valley Half Day Tour | Cusco Half Day Experience

Sacred Valley Half Day Tour | Cusco Half Day Experience

Discover the history, remarkable archaeological sites, and traditions that make the Sacred Valley a worthwhile addition to your Cusco itinerary.

Explore this tour
Duration

Half Day

Max. altitude

12,500 ft

Starting point

Cusco

Difficulty

Easy

Sacred Valley Half Day Tour | Cusco Half Day Experience

If you have limited time in Cusco, spending an entire day on a tour may not fit your travel plans. But skipping the Sacred Valley of the Incas altogether means missing one of the most important areas surrounding Cusco. A Sacred Valley Half Day Tour offers a practical way to experience this remarkable region without having to dedicate your entire day to sightseeing.

Our “Half-Day Sacred Valley Tour” is designed for travelers looking to explore the Sacred Valley in a more flexible and personalized way. The tour begins at 8:00 a.m. in Cusco and concludes around 2:00 p.m., allowing you to freely plan the rest of your afternoon.

Because this is a private tour, the experience is more flexible than a standard group excursion. You travel with your own guide and transportation, allowing you to enjoy the visit at a comfortable pace.

We also understand that travelers have different preferences. Some visitors enjoy stopping at local shops, while others prefer to focus their time on the main attractions. There are no mandatory shopping stops with us, any optional stops can be discussed with your guide according to your preferences.

The experience includes some of the Sacred Valley’s most interesting sites, including the Chinchero Archaeological Site, the Moray terraces, and the historic Maras Salt Mines. Together, these places offer a varied look at the region’s Inca history, agricultural knowledge, and traditional practices.

Why Take a Sacred Valley Half Day Tour?

  • Visit Key Sacred Valley
  • Enjoy Your Private Tour
  • Skip Unwanted Stops
  • Save Valuable Travel Time
Book Online

Quick Itinerary

Your Half-Day Experience

A quick overview of the key places included in your half-day tour, with a brief introduction to each destination.

  • STOP 1

    Maras Salt Flats:

    See the thousands of salt ponds along the mountainside, where local families continue producing salt from natural spring water using a centuries-old tradition.

  • STOP 2

    Moray Ruins:

    Visit the impressive circular terraces of Moray, one of the most unusual Inca sites in the Sacred Valley, and learn how they were used for agriculture.

  • STOP 3

    Chinchero Ruins:

    Explore the remains of this important Inca settlement, with its terraces, stone walls, and beautiful views and traditional Chinchero community.

  • STOP 4

    Alpaca Farm (Optional):

    Stop at a local alpaca farm to see alpacas and llamas up close and learn about their wool, traditional textiles, and role in Andean life.

Half Day Sacred Valley Tour: Why It's a Must

Make the most of your time in Cusco with a private tour tailored to your schedule and interests.

View Full Itinerary

Discover each place

Here, you can find information and photos of the main stops included in our Sacred Valley Half Day Tour. Take a closer look at each destination, learn what makes each place special, and get a better idea of what you’ll see during this private tour from Cusco. This overview will help you understand the places included in your itinerary before your visit.

Maras Salt Mines

Maras Salt Mines

Your first stop takes you to the remarkable Salt Falts of Maras, spread across a mountainside overlooking the Urubamba Valley. As you approach, you’ll see hundreds of small ponds arranged like a mosaic, each one holding salty spring water that gradually evaporates under the sun. Local families have maintained this traditional method of salt production for generations. Take your time at the viewpoints, notice the different shades of the ponds, and watch how water, sunlight, and careful work come together to produce this natural mineral.

Time at site 45–60 min
Altitude 10,499 ft
Best time to visit April–October
Activity Sightseeing
Travel tip Have your daypack ready with layers, sunscreen, and water in the lobby 5 minutes before your scheduled pickup time.
Moray

Moray

After visiting Maras, we’ll continue on to Moray, where you will visit an extraordinary Inca archaeological site. Standing at the edge of the main terraces and looking down, you’ll see a massive circular basin formed by concentric stone terraces. As you stroll through the site, your guide will explain how the Incas transformed this land for agricultural production. Because the temperature and environmental conditions vary across each tier of the terraces, Moray is a key site for studying Inca agricultural techniques.

 

Time at site 45–60 min
Altitude 11,106 ft
Best time to visit April–October
Activity Archaeology
Travel tip Bring small cash (soles) to purchase authentic alpaca scarves and enjoy feeding fresh grass to the friendly baby alpacas.
Chinchero Ruins

Chinchero Ruins

Our journey continues to Chinchero, a traditional Andean town where Inca history and everyday life come together. As you walk through the archaeological site, you’ll see impressive stone walls, agricultural terraces, and the remains of structures built during the Inca period. Your guide will explain how this settlement was organized and why Chinchero was an important agricultural and administrative center. You’ll also notice how some Inca foundations were incorporated into later colonial buildings, creating a visible connection between two periods of Peruvian history.

Time at site 45–60 min
Altitude 12,303 ft
Best time to visit Allyear round
Activity Archaeology
Travel tip Walk along the outer rim trail for dramatic wide-angle perspectives showing the sheer depth and symmetry of the concentric circular terraces.
Alpaca Farm (Optional)

Alpaca Farm (Optional)

If you’d like to add another stop to your journey, we can visit a local alpaca farm, where you’ll get to see alpacas and llamas up close. Your guide will help you understand the differences between these Andean animals, including their appearance, wool, and role in traditional life in the Peruvian highlands. As you meet the animals, you’ll learn why alpaca fiber is so valued for its softness and warmth.

Time at site 30m
Altitude 11,090 ft)
Best time to visit May to October (Peak evaporation dry season)
Activity Experience
Travel tip Purchase artisanal pink gourmet salt (Sal de Maras) or salt-infused dark chocolate directly from local cooperative vendors at the entrance.
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Itinerary

Detailed Half-Day Sacred Valley Tour Itinerary from Cusco

Prepare for a breathtaking adventure as we take you on a half-day tour through the Sacred Valley. Our carefully designed itinerary prommises an incredible and seamless experience, ensuring you make the most of every moment.

Exploring the Salt Mines from Ollantaytambo
Exploring the Salt Mines from Ollantaytambo

Our adventure begins with a convenient pick-up from your accommodation in Cusco, where you will be warmly greeted by our local guide. As we make our way to the Sacred Valley you will be captivated by the picturesque beauty of the Andean landscapes of the Peruvian Andes, with facinating snow capped mountains setting the stage for an incredible day.

We first visit the impressive Salt Mines in Maras town. Prepare to be amazed by the breathtaking sight of thousands of salt pools cascading down the mountainside, creating an extraordinary landscape. You will learn about the traditional methods of salt extraction that have been practiced for centuries, allowing you to understand the importance of this magical place.

We will then visit a Chicha house where you will enjoy a delicious chicha, you will savor this traditional Peruvian drink made from fermented corn. Your guide will explain the importance of chicha in the local culture and its historical significance, making this a delightfully enriching experience.

Continuing our tour, we will head to the enigmatic ruins of Moray. Here, you will marvel at the intricate circular terraced structures that were once used as an ancient agricultural laboratory. Discover how the Incas ingeniously adapted different crops at different elevations, demonstrating their advanced knowledge of agriculture.

Finally, we will visit a charming alpaca farm in Chinchero town, here you will feed the Alpaca and Llamas and take many pictures with them, also here you will witness skilled artisans demonstrating how they transform soft alpaca fleece into exquisite textiles, providing a fascinating insight into this important aspect of Peruvian culture.

After a day full of exploration and discovery, we will return to Cusco around 1:00PM.

Meals Snacks & Traditional Chicha Tasting included
Walking Distance 2.5 km - 3.5 km / 1.5 - 2.2 miles (Archaeological walk)
Difficulty Easy / Beginner
Trip Duration Half Day (approx. 5 - 6 hours)
Minimum Elevation 3,380 m (11,090 ft)
Highest Elevation 3,762 m (12,342 ft)

Inclusions

Here, you can review what’s included in our Sacred Valley Half Day Tour and what isn’t covered in the price. This overview will help you understand the tour arrangements, plan your budget, and know what to expect before you book this tour.

Included

  • Private trasnportation
  • English speaking guide
  • Local taxes

Not included

  • Entrance ticket (90 Soles p/)
  • Meals
  • Tips

Watch the Tour Experience

Watch our Sacred Valley Half Day Tour video to get a closer look at the places you’ll visit along the way. Through the video, you can enjoy the scenery, archaeological sites, and various stops on this journey.

Watch the Tour Experience
5.0

165+ verified reviews on Tripadvisor

Tripadvisor

Great value and great service

The tour was great and the organisation was immaculate. The driver and guide were very polite, punctual and informative, the process was easy and the tour operator had a briefing call with us to give us all the timings. They also printed out all tickets for us which made every step go smoothly.

Liyana S

Verified Traveler

Amazing experience and great staff!

I can not say enough positive things to encapsulate how amazing this company is. They were so communicative and helpful for our trip. We started out in Cusco and they did a private pickup to/from the train station. Coordinated our entry tickets and a private guide for Machu Picchu. Carlos was our planner and walked us through every step and answered every question.

Whitney H

Verified Traveler

Amazing, well planned trip to Machu Picchu

Our group of 5 did a one day trip to Machu Picchu with pickup from Sacred Valley and drop off in Cusco. Carlos helped us tremendously in organizing the schedule and all needed tickets, and he checked up on us throughout the day to ensure we didn't have any problems. Carlos was extremely responsive and quick to answer any questions, and made us feel comfortable that the trip would go as planned. Our driver Alex and Machu Picchu tour guide Anibal were also excellent.

Jenn W

Verified Traveler

Excellent experience, highly recommend!

Had a great experience with this trip! Everything was set up perfectly from start to finish. The team that helped us was very communicative and very clear on what we needed to bring and what was going to happen throughout the day. They were always available to answer questions. The tour itself was incredible our guide was super knowledgeable and very friendly. Would highly recommend using them for any tour!

Angelo A

Verified Traveler

Cusco!

Incredible, everything super organized and very friendly staff!

Nini

Verified Traveler

A 10: friendly, effective, and professional

Very happy from all points of view. Super well organized, a support at all times for any necessary organizational detail (we were a large group coming from many countries, which made it not easy), the explanations and the tour itself were very complete, and the guides were extremely friendly. I would definitely recommend them.

Gloria S

Verified Traveler

Well organized tour & very friendly staff!

Everything went according to plan; it was well organized and the staff was friendly. I highly recommend it.

Sascha H

Verified Traveler

Machu Picchu with Family

Very good communication for coordinating the tour, competitive price, the guides were very good and fun.

Grace

Verified Traveler

Amazing experience – Highly recommended!

Julio from Come See Peru helped us organize an incredible and truly unforgettable trip. I am German and got married in Peru, so I wanted to bring my friends and family to discover how wonderful this country is. Thanks to Julio and his team, everything was perfectly organized from beginning to end. They took care of every detail and made sure everyone felt welcome, comfortable, and well looked after. Even today, my family and friends still talk about the amazing memories they made during this trip. Visiting Machu Picchu is always a unique and magical experience, but being welcomed with such warmth and genuine care made it even more special. The team was always attentive, making sure everyone was happy and felt at home. Thank you, Julio and the entire Come See Peru team, for making this journey so memorable. I highly recommend them to anyone looking for a professional, reliable, and caring travel agency in Peru.

Thomas H

Verified Traveler

Excellent service!

The guide was punctual, very attentive, friendly, and provided us with all the information.

alisson saenz

Verified Traveler

Private tour prices

Sacred Valley Half Hay tour Price

The price of our Sacred Valley half-day tour reflects the excellent service we offer, ensuring that you get the most out of your adventure.

The price is per person, based on the size of the group, the more participants the lower the price.

2 Travelers

From
US$ 100 .00
per person
Book Now

Verified traveler experiences

Customer Reviews

Read recent feedback from travelers who joined our Sacred Valley private tours.

5.0 based on 169 reviews
5 Stars 165
4 Stars 0
3 Stars 0
2 Stars 0
1 Star 0
Liyana S Tripadvisor
5.0 | Excellent

Great value and great service

The tour was great and the organisation was immaculate. The driver and guide were very polite, punctual and informative, the process was easy and the tour operator had a briefing call with us to give us all the timings. They also printed out all tickets for us which made every step go smoothly.

Whitney H Tripadvisor
5.0 | Excellent

Amazing experience and great staff!

I can not say enough positive things to encapsulate how amazing this company is. They were so communicative and helpful for our trip. We started out in Cusco and they did a private pickup to/from the train station. Coordinated our entry tickets and a private guide for Machu Picchu. Carlos was our planner and walked us through every step and answered every question.

Jenn W Tripadvisor
5.0 | Excellent

Amazing, well planned trip to Machu Picchu

Our group of 5 did a one day trip to Machu Picchu with pickup from Sacred Valley and drop off in Cusco. Carlos helped us tremendously in organizing the schedule and all needed tickets, and he checked up on us throughout the day to ensure we didn't have any problems. Carlos was extremely responsive and quick to answer any questions, and made us feel comfortable that the trip would go as planned. Our driver Alex and Machu Picchu tour guide Anibal were also excellent.

Read all 169 reviews

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Terms and Conditions – Cancellation Policy

  • Come See Peru
  • Local operator based in Cusco, Peru.
  • Email: info@comeseeperutours.com
  • Phone: +51-969760991 / +51-992372063
  • Legal name: COMESEEPERUTOURS E.I.R.L | RUC: 20608161156

Day Tours:

All day tours may be cancelled up to 72 hours prior to departure. Cancellations made within this period will incur a 60% fee, in recognition of the time and resources our team has reserved for your visit.

Terms and Conditions – Machu Picchu Tours

By booking with us, you agree to our terms, conditions, and policies.

Machu Picchu Entrance Tickets
All tickets are strictly non-refundable, non-modifiable, and non-transferable once purchased. This policy is regulated by the Ministry of Culture and applies without exception.

Train Tickets
Train tickets may be changed or canceled up to 48 hours prior to departure. After this period, no changes or cancellations are allowed.

Please note that last-minute cancellations are not permitted, including those due to health or personal reasons.

Travel Insurance Recommendation:

To protect your travel investment, we strongly recommend securing travel insurance. This coverage can help in case of unforeseen events such as flight delays, medical emergencies, or other unexpected situations during your trip.

12 Fascinating Facts About the Sacred Valley in Perú

The Sacred Valley in Perú is a breathtaking region that is steeped in history and culture. From the ancient ruins of Machu Picchu to the stunning landscapes that surround it, there is no shortage of wonders to discover in this part of the world. Here are 12 fascinating facts about the Sacred Valley that will inspire you to plan your next adventure.

The price for the Sacred Valley tour varies depending on the service offered. Prices range from $40 for a small group tour to $99 for a private service.

It generally takes between 1 and 2 hours to go from Cusco to the Sacred Valley, depending on the type of transportation and the destination within the Sacred Valley. However if you’re taking a day tour, your transportation will include stops which will make the journey longer.

Of course, you can visit the Sacred Valley on your own by public transportation. However, note that the trip could be longer which would reduce the time you spend in the Sacred Valley.

The amount of time in the Sacred Valley depends on your interests and what you want to see and do while you stay in the Sacred Valley.

Yes, the Sacred Valley is definitely worth visiting. It is a beautiful and historically rich region of Perú, full of beautiful landscapes and cultural attractions. The Sacred Valley is home to a big number of Incan ruins, including Pisac, Chinchero, Moray and Ollantaytambo.

The best time to visit the Sacred Valley is during the dry season, which runs from May to October. During this time, you can expect sunny weather with a low chance of rainfall

Cusco and the Sacred Valley are relatively close, depending on which part of the valley you are traveling to.

Yes, the Sacred Valley is generally warmer than Cusco due to its lower altitude and temperate climate.
The Sacred Valley’s climate is generally mild, with temperatures ranging from around 15 to 25°C (59 to 77°F) during the day.

The train ride from the Sacred Valley to Machu Picchu Pueblo takes about 1.5 to 2.5 hours, depending on the departure station.

The Pisac Market is one of the most famous and well known in the Sacred Valley. It is held every Sunday and offers a wide range of traditional craftwork.

Here are some general tips for what to wear in the Sacred Valley:

Layers: The weather in the Sacred Valley can be unpredictable, so it’s a good idea to dress in layers. Bring a light jacket or sweater, as well as a raincoat or poncho, especially if you’re visiting during the rainy season.

Comfortable walking shoes: There is a lot of walking and hiking to be done in the Sacred Valley, so be sure to bring comfortable and sturdy walking shoes.

Sun protection: The sun can be strong in the Sacred Valley, so it’s important to bring sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses to protect your skin and eyes.

The Sacred Valley is famous for its stunning natural scenery and rich cultural heritage. It was considered a sacred place to the Incas and was an important center of agriculture. The valley is located along the Urubamba River, and its fertile land allowed the Incas to develop advanced agricultural techniques.

Half-Day Sacred Valley Tour Travel Guide

The half-day Sacred Valley tour offers a unique opportunity to explore some of Peru’s most impressive landscapes and historical sites. This tour includes visits to the Maras Salt Mines, a chicha tasting, the ruins of Moray and an alpaca farm, you wanto know more about these facinanting hidden gems in the Sacred Valley? keep read on for more.

Elevation

Cusco: Approximately 3,400 meters (11,200 feet)
Maras: Approximately 3,300 meters (10,827 feet)
Moray: Approximately 3,500 meters (11,480 feet)

Climate

The Sacred Valley has a temperate climate, with dry seasons from May to October and wet seasons from November to April. Daytime temperatures can be warm, but in the evenings temperatures can be chilly.

What to See:

Pisac: From Cusco you can visit Pisac famous for its ruins and lively market, where local artisans sell handicrafts and products.
Ollantaytambo: The Sacred Valley Calsico tour offers you a visit to the ancient Inca fortress and village that exhibits impressive terraced architecture.
Moray: The ruins of Moray are known for their circular terraces, which were used for agricultural experimentation.
Salinas de Maras: This site features a series of salt evaporation ponds that have been in use since Inca times.
Chinchero: The town of Chinchero offers a visit to the alpaca farm, its enicmatic ruins and the town is also known for its textile production.

Here you have a list of what to pack for: The Sacred Valley Half Day Tour

If you are planning to take our half day Sacred Valley tour, it’s important to pack essential items to ensure that you have an enjoyable experience.

  • Clothing in layers
  • Sun protection
  • Water bottle
  • Camera
  • Local currency
  • Snacks
  • Rain Jacket or Poncho
  • Insect Repellent
  • Portable Phone Charger
  • Daypack

Recommendations for Your Sacred Valley Half Day Tour:

Weather and Clothing

Weather in the Sacred Valley can change quickly, with cool mornings, strong sunshine, and occasional rain according to the season. Wear comfortable walking shoes and dress in layers. Bring a light jacket and a waterproof layer, especially during the rainy season from November to March.

Tourist Ticket

Moray and Chinchero are included in the Cusco Tourist Ticket (Boleto Turístico del Cusco). The partial ticket for the Sacred Valley circuit costs S/ 70 for foreign visitors and covers four archaeological sites.

Check the current ticket options before your visit. The Maras Salt Mines require a separate entrance ticket. https://cosituccusco.pe/boletos/extranjero-circuito-iii/

Bring Cash

Carry some Peruvian soles for entrance tickets not included in your tour, small purchases, snacks, or souvenirs. Small vendors may not accept credit cards, so having cash will make your stops easier.

Sun Protection

At high altitude, the sun can be strong even when the air feels cool. Bring sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat to stay comfortable throughout the tour.

Stay Hydrated

Drink water regularly, especially while walking around the archaeological sites. The route reaches high elevations, so take your time and let your guide know if you feel unwell.

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Why travelers choose us

Come See Peru Tours is a 100% Peruvian, locally owned company. We work carefully so every traveler feels supported throughout the journey, while keeping our commitment to the guides, porters, communities and families who make these experiences possible. Responsible and sustainable tourism should give as much to our community as it gives to our travelers.

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