One day in the Sacred Valley
Ready for a dreamy loop of Andean scenery, living Inca history, and a dash of adrenaline—on two wheels? Here’s a friendly, one-day circuit that hits Urubamba, the Salt Mines of Maras, Moray, the climbing area of Pachar, and the Ollantaytambo sanctuary. It’s perfect with a Scoolter motorbike: nimble in traffic, easy to park at viewpoints, and pure fun on those sweeping valley roads.
Quick plan (times are relaxed—but doable)
Total saddle time: ~2.5–3.5 hrs riding
Best start: 7:30–8:00 AM
Stops & suggested time on site:
Urubamba – 45–60 min (coffee/market)
Salt Mines of Maras – 45–60 min
Moray – 45–60 min
Pachar climbing area (via ferrata/zipline lookouts or snack stop) – Up to you! But at least plan for two hours!
Ollantaytambo ruins – 1.5–2 hrs
Early Morning in Urubamba – the Valley’s Local Charm
7:00 – 8:00 AM
Start your day in the Plaza de Armas of Urubamba, shaded by giant pisonay trees and surrounded by colonial charm. The square is a calm place to sip your first coffee, people-watch, and take in the morning atmosphere.
Just a couple of blocks away is the Urubamba Market, which comes alive from the early hours. Here, locals shop for everything from fresh fruits and vegetables to Andean grains, cheeses, and medicinal herbs. It’s the perfect place to try a natural juice, grab an empanada for the road, or stock up on snacks for your ride. If you visit on a Wednesday, Friday, or Sunday, the market is even bigger and more colorful with extra farmers bringing their organic produce.
Scoolter Tip: The market is also great for photos—bursting with colors, textures, and everyday life. Take your time here, because it’s the most authentic way to start the day in the Sacred Valley.
Maras salt flats
8:30 AM – Ride out of Urubamba toward Maras. In less than an hour, you’ll reach one of the valley’s most surreal sights: thousands of terraced salt pools clinging to a mountainside, used since Inca times. The sunlight reflects beautifully on the pools, making it a dream spot for photography. You’ll walk along viewing paths, learn about the traditional harvesting process, and maybe even taste the famous pink Maras salt.
Ride time: ~30–40 min from Urubamba.
Moray archaeological site, the agricultural lab
10:00 AM – Continue across the Andean highlands to Moray, an archaeological site unlike any other. Here, the Incas built giant circular terraces that descend into the earth like green amphitheaters. Each level has a slightly different temperature, allowing them to simulate microclimates and experiment with crops. Wander the viewpoints along the rim and feel the scale of this ancient innovation.
Ride time: ~20–30 min from Maras.
Pachar – Cliffs and Adventure
11:30 AM – Ride back down to the valley and head west to Pachar, a small village between Urubamba and Ollantaytambo. Look up and you’ll see the cliffs lined with via ferrata routes and ziplines that lead to the famous Skylodge capsules bolted high above the valley. Even if you’re not climbing, stop to admire the scenery or grab a quick snack by the roadside. If you do want the adventure, the via ferrata and zipline tours take about 3–4 hours. Otherwise you can admire the beautiful street art of the town of Pachar.
Ride time: ~30–40 min from Moray.
Ollantaytambo, fortress of the Incas
12:30 PM – Finish your day at Ollantaytambo, one of the most impressive archaeological sites in the Sacred Valley. Climb the agricultural terraces to reach the Temple of the Sun, explore the storehouses on the mountainside, and enjoy sweeping views over the still-lived-in Inca town below. By late afternoon, the golden sunlight makes the stones glow—a magical way to end the day.
Ride time: ~10–15 min from Pachar.
Highlights of the Day
Urubamba Plaza & Market – Morning authenticity, colorful stalls, local breakfast.
Salineras de Maras – 3,000+ salt pools cascading down the mountainside.
Moray – Circular terraces and ancient Inca agricultural science.
Pachar – Cliffs, via ferrata, ziplines, and unique valley views.
Ollantaytambo – A mix of fortress, temple, and a town still laid out on Inca foundations.
Why Ride with Scoolter?
Start directly from Urubamba: skip crowded tours, enjoy your own rhythm.
Freedom & flexibility: stop at viewpoints, markets, and hidden corners.
Well-equipped bikes: dual helmets, phone mount for offline maps, luggage rack.
Local expertise: our team helps you plan the best routes and timing.
👉 Imagine it: the sunrise at Urubamba’s plaza, the white salt terraces of Maras, the green circles of Moray, the cliffs of Pachar, and the golden glow of Ollantaytambo—all in one perfect day, riding free.
Book your motorbike with Scoolter today and let the Sacred Valley unfold at your own pace.