Day Trip to the Sacred Valley: Chinchero, Maras, Moray and Ollantaytambo

On this day trip from Cusco, travel to Peru’s historic Urubamba Valley. Located between Cusco and Machu Picchu, Urubamba Valley is known for its lush scenery, picturesque colonial towns and a magnificent Inca fortress.

After pickup from your hotel, your first stop is in the Andean village of Chinchero. Here, you'll take in mountain views, visit the main square and see an ancient church with unique floral and religious interior designs. Next, head off the beaten path to the small town of Maras. This village is known as a former salt-producing center that dates back all the way to colonial times.

From there, you'll head to the fascinating display of terraces in Moray, located only about 2 miles (4 km) from Maras. Moray boasts three amphitheater-like terraces made by the Incas. These terraces, which are carved deep into the earth in a bowl shape, were thought to be used to determine the optimal conditions for growing crops. After visiting Moray, take a lunch break at a restaurant in the area. You'll have the option of selecting one of two restaurants, Tunupa or Alhambra. After filling up on delicious food, you'll be ready for the next part of the day trip.

Following lunch, continue on your tour to Ollantaytambo, home to a magnificent Inca fortress that you can explore. This historic fortress was where Spanish conquistadors lost a major battle against the Inca Empire. After you visit the fortress, you'll have time to walk around the cobblestone streets of Ollantaytambo before heading back to Cusco.