From Cusco: Chinchero, Moray, Ollantaytambo and Pisac Tour in Cusco, Peru

Traveling to Cusco should be high on everyone’s bucket list. Once the capital of the Inca Empire, this city has an unparalleled history and plenty of unique attractions to delight any traveler. Chief among the options for sightseeing is the From Cusco: Chinchero, Moray, Ollantaytambo, and Pisac Tour in Cusco. Over the course of a single day, you’ll cover three nearby archeological sites, each with its own interesting artifacts and visits. Keep reading to discover what’s available on this guided tour so you can plan your perfect excursion.

Chinchero: A Living Link to the Inca

Chinchero is a small town near Cusco that has managed to hold onto many of its traditional Incan customs and beliefs over the years. Because of this, it’s often referred to as the “Living Inca City.” The Church of Our Lady of Bethlehem was erected on top of the ruins of an old Inca palace in the main square. Before that, visitors can also see an open air market filled with local vendors selling textiles and handicrafts.

The archaeological site that surrounds Chinchero has great significance for its ongoing links to Incan archeology and culture. Here, you’ll see several structures including a palace and temple structures from the late 15th century. In the surrounding area, there are terraced fields constructed during the same period. All three places were dismantled and reconstructed after a major earthquake in the 1650s. Overall, Chinchero offers a different kind of sightseeing opportunity than you’ll find elsewhere in Cusco as it offers an up-close look at an ancient civilization that’s still living today.

Moray: The Mysterious Craters of Peru

The magical Moray craters are among the most renowned Inca sites in Peru, and they are one of the main attractions during this tour. They appear to have been carved out of the earth and appears to be an amphitheater made up of four concentric circles from inside out. Theories abound as to what their function precisely was though archeologists most often agree that it was likely used for agricultural purposes as well as for religious ceremonies. Beyond this, however, their true purpose remains a mystery that adds to the unique draw Moray carries.

The views from the top of this archaeological wonder are unmatched. You’ll be able to catch a glimpse of Lake Salinas and the snow-capped peaks of La Verónica in their full glory. Its several terraces are among Peru’s most unique sites and should be visited if possible.

Ollantaytambo and its Relics

Ollantaytambo also serves as a major destination during the From Cusco Tour. This fascinating site was likely used by the Inca as a religious and military center while they remained in power within the region. This theory is reinforced by seeing that this large location is comprised of a variety of terraces, walls, and agricultural experiments along with a massive temple complex on a hill overlooking it all.

Despite its age, it remained useful to modern people during the Spanish conquest when it became an administrative, military and industrial center until the middle of the 17th century. Additionally, you can witness beautiful alleys, religious temples, as well as artesian wells which serve as another interesting draw into this fascinating location.

Pisac: Ancient Ruins In an Idyllic Location

The first Spanish settlement in Cusco was located in Pisac where it was built upon Inca foundations as evidenced by the remains which stand there today. This small fort provides a great jumping-off point for exploring Pisac further and admiring some of its most impressive structures.

Pisac is a beautiful location on its own thanks to its proximity to the Urubamba River which flows through the Sacred Valley and provides some great views for visitors. You’ll also be able to visit an 18th-century church which is still standing at this spot as well as ancient ruins which were first constructed in 1450s . This includes scarecrow-style towers which harken back to another age as well as an arrangement that connects two complexes together. All in all, Pisac is sure to provide inspiration for your trip to Cusco with its many charms and attractions.

Conclusion

Travelers visiting Cusco should absolutely consider booking a From Cusco: Chinchero, Moray, Ollantaytambo, and Pisac Tour when they are in town. This comprehensive day tour takes visitors around three incredible archaeological sites nearby while providing detailed information on their significance both to Peru’s past and to its people today. Plus, you can enjoy some stunning views throughout your travels and mingle with some locals who are still connected to Inca customs and beliefs in Chinchero. To make sure you get the best out of your visit to Cusco, book your From Cusco: Chinchero, Moray, Ollantaytambo, and Pisac Tour now.