Exploring the Sacred Valley and Moray Salt Mines from Cusco, Peru

If you’re visiting the city of Cusco in Peru, then you must consider a day trip to the Sacred Valley and Moray Salt Mines. This area is spectacular and filled with incredible natural beauty, and the mines bring a unique look into the ancient history of Peru and its people.

Why the Sacred Valley and Moray Salt Mines Should Be on Your Cusco Itinerary

The Sacred Valley was originally created by the Incan Empire and is a long stretch of land located between Ollantaytambo and Machu Picchu. It is filled with archaeological sites, terraces, orchards, fields, and stunning natural beauty. It was important to the Incas because of its geographic location and because it was surrounded by many of their sacred sites. The Sacred Valley is still home to many local communities, particularly in the larger cities of Pisac and Cusco.

The Moray Salt Mines are located in Ollantaytambo, which is about an hour’s drive away from Cusco. The salt mines were once used by the Incas for trading, tax collection, and storing salt from the nearby ocean. The salt mines are now a huge attraction for tourists visiting the Sacred Valley, as they give a unique look into Peru’s ancient civilization.

Exploring the Sacred Valley

There are plenty of things to do in the Sacred Valley and any trip here should be done with a tour guide who is familiar with the area and can give some context to what you’re viewing. Here are some of the top sites you should visit:

Ollantaytambo

Ollantaytambo is home to one of the most impressive archaeological sites in the Sacred Valley, as it is an Incan fortress built upon a mountain cliff. The site offers incredible views of the surrounding landscape, including a chilled-out mountain river. While here, be sure to explore the terraces, which were built by the Incas as a way of constructing new land for farming and to add extra water storage during times of drought.

The Moray Salt Mines

The Moray Salt Mines were once used as a trading center for salt produced from nearby seas. Today, visitors can explore the salt mines and take in its stunning location. The place has several large pyramids built into the side of the mountain and offer a unique look into the history of Peru. Be sure to bring an umbrella or sun hat as some parts can be very hot since this is an outdoor attraction.

Pisac

Pisac is another popular spot in the Sacred Valley thanks to its Incan ruins. Here, visitors can explore a large fort, terraces, and even aqueducts that still remain intact today. Plus, the city also has a large market that’s definitely worth exploring.

Conclusion

The Sacred Valley and Moray Salt Mines are two incredible sites that should definitely be on your itinerary when visiting Cusco, Peru. Explore Incan ruins, soak up some stunning views, and learn more about Peru’s rich history. If you’d like to book a tour to explore this area and make sure you get the most out of your trip, you can do so here.

An Insider’s Guide to Cusco, Peru

Cusco, also known as Cuzco, is a city in southeastern Peru. It was once the historic capital of the Inca Empire and is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site that attracts thousands of tourists every year. Known for its stunning colonial architecture, rich history, and vibrant culture, Cusco is a must-visit destination. Here is an insider’s guide to some of the best things to see and do in Cusco.

Local Attractions You Shouldn’t Miss

There are plenty of local attractions in Cusco that are worth visiting. One of the most popular attractions is the Plaza de Armas, a beautiful square in the heart of the city that is surrounded by stunning buildings and is the perfect place to people-watch and soak up the local culture. Another must-visit attraction is the Incan ruins of Sacsayhuaman, which is located just a short drive from the city and offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside.

Other attractions that are worth a visit include the Qorikancha, an ancient Inca temple that was once covered in gold; the San Pedro Market, which is the perfect place to shop for souvenirs and try local foods; and the Cusco Cathedral, a beautiful church that dates back to the 16th century.

The Best Dining Spots

Cusco is known for its delicious cuisine, and there are plenty of great dining spots throughout the city. One of the best is Chicha, which is run by renowned chef Gastón Acurio and serves up delicious traditional Peruvian dishes with a modern twist. Another must-visit restaurant is Cicciolina, which has a cozy atmosphere and serves up innovative dishes made from fresh, local ingredients.

Other great dining spots include Limo, which offers a fusion of Peruvian and Asian cuisine; Green Point, a vegetarian restaurant that serves up delicious dishes made from local ingredients; and Jack’s Cafe, a popular spot for breakfast and brunch that serves up delicious pancakes, waffles, and omelets.

Cultural Experiences You Can’t Miss

Cusco is a city rich in history and culture, and there are plenty of cultural experiences that you can’t miss. One of the best is visiting the Centro de Textiles Tradicionales del Cusco, where you can learn about traditional weaving techniques and purchase handmade textiles from local artisans. Another must-visit attraction is the Museo Inka, which features an extensive collection of Incan artifacts and exhibits.

Other cultural experiences that are worth checking out include attending a traditional Andean music and dance performance at the Centro Qosqo de Arte Nativo; visiting the ChocoMuseo, where you can learn about the history of chocolate and even make your own chocolate bar; and taking a cooking class to learn how to make traditional Peruvian dishes.

Local History and Off-the-Beaten-Path Suggestions

Cusco is a city with a rich history, and there are plenty of historic sites that you can visit. One of the most interesting is the Temple of the Sun, which is part of the Qorikancha complex and was once covered in gold leaf. Another must-visit historic site is the Convento de Santo Domingo, a stunning colonial building that was built on top of an Incan temple.

If you’re looking for off-the-beaten-path suggestions, consider visiting the Maras Salt Mines, which are located just a short drive from Cusco and offer stunning views of the surrounding countryside. Another great off-the-beaten-path suggestion is the Huchuy Qosqo, an Incan archaeological site that is only accessible by hiking and offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains.

In conclusion, Cusco is a city with plenty to offer tourists. From local attractions to dining spots to cultural experiences, there is something for everyone in this vibrant and historic city. Whether you’re interested in learning about the history of the Inca Empire or trying out some delicious Peruvian cuisine, Cusco has it all!