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Maras, Moray, Machu picchu
Experience an unparalleled adventure discovering the secrets of the Sacred Valley and the imposing citadel of Machu Picchu on a 2-day, 1-night trip. This tour blends archaeology, culture, and spectacular Andean views, guiding you through some of Peru's most iconic sites.
Our journey begins with a visit to Maras and Moray, two exquisite gems of the Sacred Valley. In Moray, you'll find the enigmatic circular terraces that the Incas used as an agricultural laboratory, while at the Salt Mines of Maras, you'll marvel at thousands of salt pools that have been exploited since pre-Hispanic times. Afterward, we'll continue to Ollantaytambo, where we'll board the panoramic train to Aguas Calientes, the gateway town to Machu Picchu.
The second day is the most anticipated moment: the visit to Machu Picchu, the World's Greatest Jewel. Explore its temples, terraces, and enigmatic stone structures with our expert guide, who will reveal the secrets of this famous Inca city.
This tour is perfect for those who want to combine history, culture, and nature in a memorable experience. Book now and discover the magic of Machu Picchu and the Sacred Valley in just 2 days.
Day 1: Cusco - Chinchero - Moray - Salineras - Ollantaytambo - Aguas Calientes.
Our exciting adventure begins early at 6:00 a.m. We will drive for 40 minutes to Chinchero (12,343 ft), where you’ll witness traditional textile production and have the chance to support local artisans by purchasing their crafts.
Next, we will visit Moray, located at an altitude of 11,318 ft. Here, you’ll see four impressive Inca ruins featuring beautiful circular terraces, once used as agricultural laboratories by the Incas.
Our journey continues to Maras, where you’ll discover over 3,000 salt pools. The locals of Maras have been harvesting salt from these pools for centuries, even before the Inca period.
We’ll then stop in Urubamba to enjoy a delicious buffet lunch featuring traditional Peruvian dishes. A wide variety of options will be available.
After lunch, we’ll head to Ollantaytambo, known as the "last living Inca city." We’ll explore its unique and expansive archaeological site, which includes water fountains, high terraces, temples, and more. Surrounded by towering mountains, the site offers stunning views of a distant glacier, showcasing the impressive architectural skills of the Incas.
After the visit, you will board a train to Aguas Calientes. The journey takes approximately an hour and a half. Upon arrival, a representative will meet you to escort you to your hotel.
In the afternoon, you can explore Aguas Calientes at your own pace. This charming town nestled in a beautiful valley features hot springs, a perfect way to relax. Your guide will contact you to coordinate details for the next day’s tour.
Day 2: Machu Picchu - Ollantaytambo - Cusco.
This is the day you’ve been waiting for! Depending on your Machu Picchu entrance time, we’ll take a bus for about 30 minutes to the Historic Sanctuary. Upon arrival, you’ll begin a guided tour of the citadel, exploring its sectors based on the selected circuit. The tour lasts approximately 2.5 hours, during which you’ll learn about the history and culture of the Inca Empire.
If you purchase tickets in advance, you can hike Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain, both offering incredible panoramic views of the entire citadel.
After the tour, we’ll return to Aguas Calientes, where you’ll have free time to enjoy lunch.
You’ll then head to the train station for your return journey from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo (remember to arrive at least 30 minutes before departure). Upon arrival in Ollantaytambo, you’ll board a bus back to Cusco, where a driver will be waiting to transfer you to your hotel.
Note: The Inca site of Machu Picchu is different from Machu Picchu Mountain. When most people refer to Machu Picchu, they mean the archaeological site. Machu Picchu Mountain requires a separate permit for climbing. Let us know if you're interested, and we can reserve it for you. It must be done in advance and is part of your site entry.
2-Day Tour to Maras, Moray, and Machu Picchu Includes:
2-Day Tour to Maras, Moray, and Machu Picchu Does Not Include:
When taking the Maras Moray and Machu Picchu tour, it's essential to bring the following items:
Comfortable clothing: Dress in layers with t-shirts, a sweater, comfortable pants, and a waterproof jacket or poncho for variable weather conditions. Comfortable footwear like shoes or sneakers is recommended.
Sun protection: Bring sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat to protect yourself from the intense sun due to the high altitude.
Camera: Don't forget to bring a camera or smartphone to capture the stunning landscapes and memories of the trip.
Cash: Have cash on hand for purchasing souvenirs, snacks, and for additional expenses.
Water bottle: Stay hydrated during the tour by carrying a reusable water bottle.
Toiletries: Include toilet paper, toothbrush, toothpaste, travel-sized soap, wet wipes, and insect repellent.
Snacks: Pack energy bars, nuts, and some light snacks.
Basic medications: Carry a small box with basic medications.
Swimsuit: It may be necessary to enjoy the famous hot springs of Aguas Calientes.
Passport: Carry a passport, as the latter is necessary to access Machu Picchu.
Remember, the clothing and necessary items may vary depending on the duration and specific type of tour you plan to undertake. If you have any further questions, feel free to contact travel experts for more information and to book your unforgettable trip to Peru.
Travel to Cusco.
Currently, Cusco airport only operates domestic flights. All international passengers arriving by air must disembark in Lima and go through customs. It's important to note that due to Cusco's high altitude, flights may experience delays or cancellations. Additionally, any weather changes can halt air traffic. If you prefer a land alternative, buses are a viable option. Although the journey can be lengthy, especially from Lima, buses from Lima can take approximately 20 hours to arrive.
Customer Pickup.
Ausangate Adventure can pick you up from your hotel, provided it's located in Cusco's Historic Center. During the briefing, your guide will coordinate the meeting time, but please allow for a 30 to 45-minute wait due to local traffic. Cusco has narrow, cobbled streets that can make access to some hotels and Airbnbs difficult. Some locations may be in areas without vehicle access or on steep inclines, complicating luggage transfer. It's advisable to book accommodation with easy access to facilitate transportation.
Luggage.
If you have large suitcases, you can safely leave them at your hotel. Most hotels have lockers for luggage storage. Large suitcases are not allowed on trains unless you pay an additional fee. For the tour, it is recommended to bring a small backpack to carry daily essentials, such as waterproof clothing, money, documents, water, and warm clothing. This backpack should be lightweight and comfortable.
Altitude.
As soon as people book their trip to Peru, especially to Cusco, they start to worry about altitude sickness. At higher altitudes, the air contains less oxygen than at sea level, requiring your body to work harder to get the oxygen it needs. After several days at altitude, your body adjusts to the lower oxygen levels in the air.
Altitude sickness can make you feel like you have the flu or a hangover. Symptoms can include headache, fatigue, loss of appetite, nausea, vomiting, dizziness, difficulty sleeping, and problems breathing during exertion. If these symptoms worsen, contact our office, and we'll help you get in touch with a doctor.
Most of the time, these symptoms will be mild. We always recommend easing into physical activity slowly, allowing your body to acclimatize. Drink plenty of fluids, such as water or coca tea. Coca tea has been used since ancient times to help prevent altitude sickness. Coca leaves contain alkaloids that help transport oxygen in the blood, aiding your body in mitigating the effects of altitude sickness. Avoid consuming large amounts of alcohol and coffee, as they increase urination frequency and can dehydrate you. Avoid smoking, as it hinders oxygen absorption, and avoid sleeping pills because they can cause shallow breathing overnight, making it harder for your body to absorb oxygen while you sleep.
Your doctor may prescribe medications like acetazolamide and dexamethasone to help prevent altitude sickness. Start taking the medication two days before reaching high altitudes and continue taking it while you're at altitude.
Weather.
The weather can be very unpredictable. Generally, the dry season in Cusco runs from April to October, but that doesn't mean it can't rain in June or be sunny in December. Just be prepared. No matter what month you hike, make sure to bring rain gear, including a waterproof jacket, waterproof pants, poncho, and waterproof gloves.
Also, be prepared for all four seasons. Many hikes through the Andes traverse various microclimates, so you'll need to be ready for any type of weather. Dressing in layers is essential, as it allows you to easily adapt to different temperatures. Nights will always be cold, so make sure to bring a warm winter jacket.
Chinchero (Land of skilled weavers).
Located just a 45-minute drive from Cusco, known for its local market, colonial church, and agricultural terraces. The inhabitants are mainly descendants of Quechua indigenous people primarily dedicated to agriculture and weaving. Chinchero produces the finest textiles in the region, woven with Andean designs, natural colors, and ancient traditional tools.
Moray (Center of agricultural experimentation).
Located at 3,500 m (11,500 feet), this impressive archaeological site consists of four enormous circular terraces in the shape of a Roman amphitheater, each with its own irrigation system. Although the exact purpose of these terraces is unknown, they are believed to have been used as "agricultural experimentation centers," allowing for the adaptation of different crops due to microclimate variations between each terrace.
Maras Salt Mines (Salt mines).
The Salineras have been in this location since pre-Inca times on an incredibly steep mountainside; Maras residents collect salt in over 3,000 ponds using the same technology their ancestors used. The process takes about a month to fill the pools with saltwater every day, which is then left to evaporate to about 10 cm in height before being collected and sent to local markets.
Ollantaytambo (The last living Inca fortress).
Located 94 km from Cusco, Ollantaytambo is the gateway to Machu Picchu, surrounded by imposing mountains, narrow cobbled streets, and a magnificent Inca site. It is the only city that has been continuously inhabited since Inca times (14th century), which is why it is known as the last living Inca fortress. During the Spanish conquest, it served as a bastion during the Battle of Ollantaytambo.
Machu Picchu (Lost Inca City).
Machu Picchu, an ancient Inca citadel, was built in the mid-15th century under Inca Emperor Pachacuti. Located 2,430 meters above sea level, it overlooks the Urubamba River Valley. Its name, meaning "Old Mountain" in Quechua, encompasses over 200 buildings, including temples, houses, and agricultural terraces. The citadel features impressive engineering and construction, as well as dry stone walls.
Rediscovered in 1911 by Hiram Bingham, it is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a major tourist attraction. Emblematic of the brilliance of the Inca civilization, Peru restricts the number of visitors and mandates specific exploration routes to protect it from environmental and structural damage.
Tour in shared service.
This group service means that you will take the tour with other people, this standard service is done with a group between 12 to 18 people, we have confirmed departures for every day, so if it is only one or two people, don't worry, they can join to one of our groups.
From: $398.
Tour in private service.
This service is an exclusive way to make this trip where the service is much more personalized, prices vary according to the number of people in your group. Please consult info@ausangateadventure.com WhatsApp +51 914201334
What is the 2-day Maras Moray and Machu Picchu tour?
This tour takes you to explore two of Peru's most popular tourist destinations: the Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu. In the Sacred Valley, you will visit the Maras Salt Mines, the agricultural terraces of Moray, and the village of Chinchero. In Machu Picchu, you will tour the Inca citadel and enjoy its breathtaking views.
Do I need a visa to travel to Peru?
Most US citizens do not need a visa to enter Peru for stays of up to 90 days. However, it's important to check visa requirements with the Peruvian embassy or consulate in your country before traveling.
What should I bring for the tour?
You should bring comfortable and warm clothing for all weather conditions, as the weather in Cusco can be variable. It's also important to bring a hat, sunscreen, insect repellent, and comfortable walking shoes.
Do I need travel insurance?
It is highly recommended to purchase travel insurance that covers medical expenses, evacuation.
Is the tour safe?
Generally, the tour is safe if you follow the instructions of the tour guide and take basic safety precautions. However, it's important to be aware of potential risks such as altitude sickness.
What can I expect to see and do on the tour?
In the Sacred Valley, you will visit the Maras Salt Mines, the agricultural terraces of Moray, and the village of Chinchero. You'll also have the opportunity to enjoy stunning landscapes, learn about Inca culture, and purchase local handicrafts.
In Machu Picchu, you will explore the Inca citadel and learn about its history and architecture. You'll also have time to enjoy panoramic views of the Sacred Valley.
Any additional tips for the tour?
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