Reference Words:Day Hikes, Treks Peru, Hiking Biking, Day Hikes, DAY HIKES, TREKS PERU, HIKING BIKING, day hikes, Day Hikes, Treks Peru, Hiking Biking, Day Hikes, DAY HIKES, TREKS PERU, HIKING BIKING, day hikes
This incredibly scenic 1-day downhill hike in the Sacred Valley of the Incas is a perfect way to get out of Cusco for the day and enjoy the splendor of the outlying region. We depart Cusco in the morning and go by private transport to the archaeological site of Moray, passing through the typical Andean farming village of Chincheros on the way. At Moray, we can observe the extensive circular terraces where the Incas once experimented with adapting plants to new climates and temperatures. Leaving Moray, we follow a dirt path for approximately 1.5 to 2 hours to the colonial/Andean village of Maras, where we have a delicious picnic lunch. From here, we begin our descent to the Saltpans, which have been harvested for hundreds of years. Surrounded by the incredible views of the fertile valley below and the snow-capped peaks of the Cordillera Urubamba, we continue hiking to the Urubamba River, where our transport will be waiting to take us back to Cusco or to another point in the Sacred Valley for those who wish to spend the night.
Pumamarca / Ollantaytambo
This day hike combines authentic encounters with native Andean communities and their ancient weaving methods with important archaeological sites such as Pumamarca and Ollantaytambo. Leaving from Cusco early in the morning, we drive through the scenic Sacred Valley to the village of Ollantaytambo. Our first stop is the CATCCO Museum and Cultural Center of Ollantaytambo, which promotes traditional culture and technology within the district of Ollantaytambo and has a Museum Shop with textile and ceramic products from the surrounding communities we will visit.
From here, we continue by vehicle to the farming communities of Marcacocha, Huilloc, and Patacancha. In Marcacocha, locals demonstrate weaving methods dating back hundreds of years used to create unique pieces of the highest quality. In this and the other communities, we can appreciate the traditional lifestyle and work of the indigenous people whose maternal tongue continues to be Quechua, the language of the Incas.
Our hike begins near Huilloc, from where we descend to the small archaeological complex at Pumamarca. The origin and purpose of this site remains a mystery, but was thought to be a control point for water distribution and for the population. Continuing along the original Inca path, we observe agricultural terraces and views of the valley below. After walking approximately 2 hours we reach the town of Ollantaytambo, where it is optional to visit the impressive ruins and intriguing town before returning to Cusco or spending the night.
Highland Paths
2 Days / 1 Night
This excellent trip includes two splendid days of hiking in the Sacred Valley, with one night stay in a comfortable Hostal in Ollantaytambo. The first day of hiking begins at the circular terraces of Moray, once used as an agricultural laboratory by the Incas. Surrounded by spectacular views of the Cordillera Urubamba and the tranquility of the Andean farming communities, we hike along a dirt path for approximately 1.5 to 2 hours to the town of Maras. After appreciating this unique village and enjoying a picnic lunch, we begin our downhill descent to the Salt Mines, which have been harvested for hundreds of years. Continuing down a short distance, we reach the Urubamba River where our car will be waiting to take us to Ollantaytambo for the night.
On the second day, our first visit is the CATCCO Museum and Cultural Center of Ollantaytambo, which promotes traditional culture and technology within the district of Ollantaytambo and has a Museum Shop with textile and ceramic products from the surrounding communities we will visit.
Our hike on the second day begins near Huilloc, from where we descend to the small archaeological complex at Pumamarca. Continuing along the original Inca path, we observe agricultural terraces and views of the valley below. After walking approximately 2 hours we reach the town of Ollantaytambo, where it is optional to visit the impressive ruins and intriguing town before returning to Cusco or spending the night.
Andina Travel Peru
Plazoleta Santa Catalina Nº 219 Cusco - Peru
Tel/Fax: +51 84 251892 / andinatravel@terra.com.pe
From here, we continue by vehicle to the farming communities of Marcacocha, Huilloc, and Patacancha. In Marcacocha, locals demonstrate weaving methods dating back hundreds of years used to create unique pieces of the highest quality. In this and the other communities, we can appreciate the traditional lifestyle and work of the indigenous people whose maternal tongue continues to be Quechua, the language of the Incas. 
