Full-Day Private Sacred Valley Tour | Cusco – Chinchero – Moray – Maras – Urubamba – Ollantaytambo – Pisac
Tour Overview
Discover the extraordinary landscapes, fascinating Inca history, and vibrant Andean traditions of Peru on our Sacred Valley VIP Private Tour from Cusco, with optional drop-off in Ollantaytambo.
This full-day journey combines some of the Sacred Valley’s most remarkable attractions, including Chinchero, the agricultural terraces of Moray, the spectacular Maras Salt Mines, Urubamba, the magnificent Ollantaytambo archaeological complex, and Pisac.
Designed for travelers seeking comfort, convenience, and personalized exploration, this experience is offered as 100% private service, featuring an exclusive tourist vehicle, a professional private tour guide, and a flexible itinerary adapted to your travel plans.
One of the tour’s greatest advantages is the opportunity to choose where your journey ends. You can return to Cusco after exploring the Sacred Valley or finish in Ollantaytambo, an especially convenient option for travelers taking a train to Machu Picchu or staying overnight in the town.
Unlike conventional shared excursions, our private tour allows you to explore the Sacred Valley with only your traveling companions.
Why Is This Tour Called “From Cusco” with Optional Ollantaytambo Drop-Off?
The expression “from Cusco” indicates that the tour begins in Cusco, where your private guide and driver collect you from your hotel or another agreed location.
The phrase “optional Ollantaytambo drop-off” means you can choose to finish your tour in Ollantaytambo instead of returning to Cusco.
This creates two travel options:
Cusco to Cusco: A complete Sacred Valley excursion departing from and returning to Cusco, including Pisac.
Cusco to Ollantaytambo: A private sightseeing experience that finishes in Ollantaytambo, allowing travelers to continue toward Machu Picchu or stay overnight.
The second option is particularly useful because Ollantaytambo is one of the main railway departure points for Machu Picchu.
Important: The itinerary changes according to your selected drop-off location. Travelers finishing in Ollantaytambo normally do not visit Pisac afterward, unless they request a specially modified route.
Tour Information
| Tour Details | Description |
|---|---|
| Tour Name | Sacred Valley VIP Private Tour from Cusco |
| Service Type | 100% Private Service |
| Duration | Approximately 9–12 hours, depending on drop-off |
| Starting Point | Cusco |
| Ending Point | Cusco or Ollantaytambo |
| Pickup | Hotel or agreed location in Cusco |
| Recommended Departure | 6:30–7:00 AM |
| Main Destinations | Chinchero, Moray, Maras, Urubamba, Ollantaytambo |
| Additional Destination | Pisac, when returning to Cusco |
| Difficulty | Easy to moderate |
| Transportation | Exclusive private tourist vehicle |
| Tour Guide | Professional private English-speaking guide |
| Meals | Buffet lunch in Urubamba |
| Availability | Daily, subject to confirmation |
| Recommended For | Couples, families, friends, and private groups |
Sacred Valley VIP Private Tour Highlights
Chinchero: Discover the traditional Andean weaving techniques, archaeological heritage, and impressive landscapes of this historic town.
Moray: Explore mysterious circular agricultural terraces that demonstrate sophisticated Inca engineering and agricultural experimentation.
Maras Salt Mines: Admire thousands of salt evaporation pools that have been maintained by local families for generations.
Urubamba: Enjoy a buffet lunch surrounded by beautiful Sacred Valley scenery.
Ollantaytambo: Visit a remarkable Inca archaeological complex featuring monumental terraces, ceremonial structures, and magnificent mountain views.
Pisac: Discover impressive agricultural terraces and archaeological structures overlooking the Sacred Valley when choosing the Cusco return route.
Flexible Drop-Off: Continue your journey to Machu Picchu from Ollantaytambo or return comfortably to your hotel in Cusco.
Sacred Valley VIP Private Tour Itinerary
Cusco – Private Hotel Pickup
6:30–7:00 AM | Suggested departure
Your adventure begins with pickup from your hotel in Cusco. Meet your professional private guide and driver before traveling into the beautiful Andean countryside.
During the journey, enjoy panoramic views of agricultural landscapes, traditional villages, and surrounding mountains.
Chinchero – Inca Heritage and Traditional Weaving
Approximately 8:00 AM
Explore Chinchero, a fascinating Andean town renowned for its traditional textile production and cultural heritage.
Visit a local weaving center to learn how artisans use ancestral techniques, natural dyes, and traditional Andean designs.
Depending on the itinerary, you can also explore the archaeological sector and historic colonial church area.
Moray – The Inca Agricultural Terraces
Approximately 9:30 AM
Continue to Moray, one of the most fascinating archaeological sites in the Sacred Valley.
Its remarkable circular terraces descend into the landscape in concentric levels, demonstrating the Incas’ advanced understanding of agriculture and environmental adaptation.
Your private guide will explain the theories surrounding Moray’s agricultural functions and its significance within Inca civilization.
Maras Salt Mines – A Spectacular Andean Landscape
Approximately 10:45 AM
Travel to the spectacular Maras Salt Mines, where thousands of small salt evaporation pools create a breathtaking mosaic along the mountainside.
Learn about traditional salt-harvesting techniques, the mineral-rich water that feeds the pools, and the important role salt production continues to play in the local economy.
Enjoy photography opportunities from authorized viewpoints.
Urubamba – Buffet Lunch
Approximately 12:15 PM
Continue to Urubamba, located in the heart of the Sacred Valley.
Enjoy a buffet lunch featuring Peruvian and Andean dishes in a local tourist restaurant. Vegetarian options may be available upon request.
This relaxing stop provides an opportunity to appreciate the natural beauty of the Sacred Valley before continuing your journey.
Ollantaytambo – Explore an Impressive Inca Fortress
Approximately 2:00 PM
Visit the magnificent archaeological complex of Ollantaytambo, one of the most remarkable surviving examples of Inca architecture and urban planning.
Explore its impressive agricultural terraces, ceremonial structures, and monumental stonework while learning about its strategic and historical importance.
Ollantaytambo also preserves an extraordinary living Inca town layout, with traditional streets and water channels that remain part of daily life.
Choose Your Private Tour Ending
Option A – Finish in Ollantaytambo
End your tour in Ollantaytambo at approximately 3:30–4:00 PM. Your private driver can leave you at your hotel or the railway station, as agreed in advance. This option does not normally include Pisac.
Option B – Continue to Pisac and Return to Cusco
Continue through the Sacred Valley to Pisac, where you can explore archaeological remains, remarkable agricultural terraces, or local markets depending on the available time. Return to Cusco at approximately 6:30–7:30 PM.
All schedules are illustrative. Because the experience is a private service, stops and timing can be adjusted, subject to attraction opening hours and practical driving distances.
Private Tour Prices – Estimated Rates
The reference Viator experience advertises prices starting at approximately US$29 per person, but it is a shared group tour with a maximum of 17 travelers, not a private tour. Its inclusions include tourist transportation, a guide, and buffet lunch.
The following rates are suggested selling prices for an exclusively private version of the experience in 2026–2027. They are estimates, not confirmed operator quotations.
| Travelers | Price per Person | Total Private Tour |
|---|---|---|
| 1 traveler | US$220 | US$220 |
| 2 travelers | US$125 | US$250 |
| 3 travelers | US$95 | US$285 |
| 4 travelers | US$85 | US$340 |
| 5 travelers | US$75 | US$375 |
| 6 travelers | US$70 | US$420 |
| 7 travelers | US$65 | US$455 |
| 8 travelers | US$60 | US$480 |
These suggested prices include private transportation, a dedicated guide, and a buffet lunch. Archaeological entrance tickets are additional.
Additional Entrance Fees
| Entrance Ticket | Reference Price |
|---|---|
| Partial Cusco Tourist Ticket – Circuit III (Moray, Chinchero, Ollantaytambo, Pisac) | S/70 per person |
| Maras Salt Mines Entrance | S/20 per person |
| Combined estimated entrance cost | S/90 per person |
These are reference admission rates appearing in the source listing for foreign visitors. Ticket eligibility, fees, and accepted payment methods should be verified before travel, particularly for 2027.
What’s Included
Exclusive private tourist transportation.
Professional English-speaking private tour guide.
Pickup from your hotel in Cusco.
Private guided sightseeing at the scheduled attractions.
Buffet lunch in Urubamba.
Flexible sightseeing and photography stops.
Optional drop-off at your hotel or train station in Ollantaytambo.
Hotel drop-off in Cusco when selecting the full return route.
Personalized assistance throughout the experience.
What’s Not Included
Cusco Tourist Ticket for archaeological sites.
Maras Salt Mines entrance fee.
Additional food and beverages outside the included lunch.
Train tickets to Machu Picchu.
Machu Picchu entrance tickets.
Personal purchases and optional gratuities.
Additional transportation outside the agreed itinerary.
Travel Guide
Best Time to Visit the Sacred Valley
The Sacred Valley is an excellent destination throughout the year.
The dry season, approximately May through September, generally provides favorable conditions for archaeological exploration and mountain photography. This period also receives high tourist demand, particularly in June, July, and August.
The rainy season, generally November through March, creates beautiful green landscapes but can bring slippery paths, rain showers, and occasional travel delays.
April and October offer attractive transitional conditions and are often excellent months for sightseeing.
Altitude Information
| Destination | Approximate Altitude |
|---|---|
| Cusco | 3,399 m / 11,152 ft |
| Chinchero | 3,762 m / 12,343 ft |
| Moray | 3,500 m / 11,483 ft |
| Maras Salt Mines | 3,000 m / 9,843 ft |
| Urubamba | 2,871 m / 9,419 ft |
| Ollantaytambo | 2,792 m / 9,160 ft |
| Pisac Town | 2,972 m / 9,751 ft |
Although this is primarily a sightseeing tour, visitors should prepare for significant changes in altitude and walking on uneven archaeological paths.
What to Bring
Comfortable walking shoes with good traction.
Lightweight clothing and warm layers.
Sun hat and sunglasses.
High-SPF sunscreen.
Rain jacket or compact poncho.
Refillable water bottle.
Camera or smartphone.
Personal medication.
Cash in Peruvian soles for entrance tickets and expenses.
Passport or identification document.
Train tickets and travel documents if continuing to Machu Picchu.
Travel Tips for a Better Experience
Choose your drop-off location before booking. Travelers planning to visit Machu Picchu should request Ollantaytambo drop-off and confirm the railway station transfer in advance.
Allow sufficient time before your train departure. Avoid booking a train immediately after the estimated end of the tour. Traffic, sightseeing delays, or weather conditions may affect arrival times.
Book the private service in advance. Reserving approximately one to two weeks ahead is advisable, particularly during the high season. Larger private groups should consider booking earlier.
Prepare for a full day of sightseeing. The complete Cusco round-trip itinerary involves several archaeological visits and substantial driving time.
Bring your luggage if continuing to Machu Picchu. Private transportation can generally accommodate luggage when capacity is confirmed in advance. Remember that train operators may impose luggage restrictions.
Take advantage of your private guide. Ask questions, request photography stops, and focus on the destinations that interest you most.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Sacred Valley VIP Tour from Cusco a private tour?
Yes. The version described here is offered exclusively as a private service, with a dedicated English-speaking guide and private transportation. You will not travel with unrelated passengers.
What does optional Ollantaytambo drop-off mean?
It means you can choose to end your tour in Ollantaytambo rather than returning to Cusco. This option is especially convenient for travelers continuing to Machu Picchu by train or staying overnight in Ollantaytambo.
Does the private tour visit all six Sacred Valley destinations?
The complete Cusco round-trip itinerary is designed to include Chinchero, Moray, Maras, Urubamba, Ollantaytambo, and Pisac. Travelers ending in Ollantaytambo generally follow a shorter route without Pisac.
Can I take the train to Machu Picchu after the tour?
Yes. Ollantaytambo is a major departure point for trains to Aguas Calientes, the town below Machu Picchu. You should book a suitable train departure and leave sufficient time between sightseeing and boarding.
Is the tour suitable for families with children?
Yes. Private transportation, personalized attention, and adjustable sightseeing stops make this tour attractive for families. However, archaeological sites have uneven paths and stairs, so the itinerary should be adapted to the family’s abilities.
Are entrance tickets included in the private tour price?
No. The suggested private rates exclude the Cusco Tourist Ticket and Maras Salt Mines entrance fee. These can be added to an all-inclusive quotation upon request.
Is buffet lunch included?
Yes. A buffet lunch in Urubamba is included in the suggested private tour package. Drinks and specific dietary requests should be confirmed before booking.
Can I bring luggage if I finish in Ollantaytambo?
Yes, provided the private vehicle has sufficient luggage capacity. Inform the operator of the number and size of suitcases during the reservation process.
Is the private tour physically demanding?
The overall difficulty is easy to moderate. Some archaeological sites involve climbing steps, walking along uneven terrain, and exploring areas at relatively high altitudes.
Can the itinerary be customized?
Yes. As a private service, sightseeing stops and the schedule may be adjusted according to your interests, within the limits of available time, access conditions, and driving distances.
Can solo travelers book this tour?
Yes. Solo travelers can reserve an exclusive vehicle and private guide, although the overall price per person will be higher than for groups sharing the service.
How far in advance should I reserve?
Booking one to two weeks in advance is generally recommended. During peak travel periods or when requesting customized arrangements, earlier booking is advisable.
What happens if I want to return to Cusco instead of staying in Ollantaytambo?
You can select the complete route returning to Cusco. This itinerary normally continues toward Pisac after visiting Ollantaytambo, before finishing at your hotel in Cusco.
Why Choose This Sacred Valley VIP Private Tour?
The Sacred Valley VIP Private Tour from Cusco with Optional Ollantaytambo Drop-Off offers an excellent combination of cultural exploration, scenic landscapes, personalized service, and practical travel planning.
From the fascinating terraces of Moray and the spectacular Maras Salt Mines to the historic streets of Ollantaytambo and the impressive archaeological heritage of Pisac, this journey introduces travelers to the remarkable achievements of the Inca civilization.
With 100% private transportation, an exclusive professional guide, a buffet lunch, and flexible drop-off options, travelers can enjoy the Sacred Valley at their own pace.
Whether returning to Cusco or continuing toward Machu Picchu, this private experience provides a comfortable and convenient way to discover the cultural treasures of the Peruvian Andes.
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