Excursion to Moray & Maras – Salt Mines || Group Tour ||

Explore the historical wonders of Peru’s Moray and Maras on an exciting group tour. This excursion offers a chance to discover ancient Inca terraces and witness the traditional salt-harvesting process at the stunning Maras salt mines. With comfortable transportation, a knowledgeable guide, and a personalized experience, this tour promises an unforgettable adventure. But what secrets do these remarkable sites hold, and how can travelers make the most of this unique opportunity?

Key Points

• This group tour offers an excursion to the historical sites of Moray and Maras in Cusco, Peru, with prices starting at $15.50 per person.
• The tour includes an air-conditioned vehicle, knowledgeable guide, transportation, hotel pickup, entrance fees, and meals.
• Moray features ancient Inca agricultural terraces and circular depressions used as an experimental agricultural station.
• Maras salt mines consist of over 5,000 individual salt ponds, where traditional salt-harvesting processes are still practiced.
• The tour is not suitable for wheelchair users, travelers with back problems, or pregnant individuals, and has a maximum group size of 15.

Tour Overview

As the title suggests, this excursion takes travelers to the historical sites of Moray and Maras in the Cusco region of Peru.

It’s a group tour that departs from Cusco, with prices starting at $15.50 per person, depending on group size.

The tour includes an air-conditioned vehicle, a guide, transportation, hotel pickup, entrance fees, and meals.

An air-conditioned vehicle, a knowledgeable guide, transportation, hotel pickup, entrance fees, and meals are all included in this tour.

The maximum number of travelers is 15, and the tour departs at 8:00 AM.

Confirmation is provided at the time of booking, and the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible or recommended for those with back problems or pregnant travelers.

Inclusions

The tour includes an air-conditioned vehicle to transport travelers, as well as a knowledgeable tour guide.

Included in the price is transportation to and from the city center hotels. Visitors don’t need to worry about entrance fees – they’re covered. Meals are also provided as part of the tour experience.

Pickup Information

The tour provides pickup from selected hotels located in the city center, with a start time of 8:00 AM. This ensures a convenient and seamless start to the excursion.

Key pickup details include:

• Pickup from your hotel in the city center

• Start time is 8:00 AM, allowing ample time to explore the sites

• Confirmation of pickup is provided upon booking

• The tour isn’t suitable for wheelchair users or travelers with back problems

• Most travelers are able to participate in this activity.

Additional Information

Confirmation of booking is received upon completing the reservation.

The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, and it’s not recommended for travelers with back problems or pregnant individuals. However, most travelers can participate in the Moray and Maras salt mines excursion.

The group size is limited to a maximum of 15 people, ensuring a personalized experience.

Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the tour starts, allowing for flexibility.

The 9 reviews for this tour have an overall rating of 4.0, providing a good indication of the experience.

Travelers should consider these details when booking this group tour.

Cancellation Policy & Reviews

Regarding the cancellation policy, travelers can receive a full refund if they cancel their booking up to 24 hours before the experience starts, providing flexibility.

The reviews for this tour are generally positive, with an overall rating of 4.0 out of 5 based on 9 total reviews.

Some key points about the reviews:

• Reviews are verified by reputable travel platforms like Viator and Tripadvisor, ensuring credibility.

• There are no 5-star reviews, suggesting there may be room for improvement in certain areas.

• Feedback focuses on the knowledgeable guide, well-organized logistics, and unique cultural experiences.

• Some reviewers note the tour’s pace can feel rushed at times.

Exploring Moray: Ancient Inca Ruins

Although Moray is best known for its ancient Inca agricultural terraces, the site also features remarkable circular depressions that offer a glimpse into the advanced agricultural practices of the Inca civilization.

Believed to have been an experimental agricultural station, the depressions, which descend up to 150 feet, were used to study microclimates and crop cultivation.

The depressions, descending up to 150 feet, were an Inca experimental agricultural station to study microclimates and crop cultivation.

The terraces’ varying depths and steepness created distinct temperature zones, allowing the Inca to test different crops and growing conditions.

This innovative approach demonstrates the Inca’s sophisticated understanding of agriculture and their ability to adapt to challenging environments.

Visiting Maras: The Spectacular Salt Mines

After exploring the ancient Inca ruins of Moray, the tour continues to the captivating Maras salt mines.

The Maras salt mines are a series of terraced salt ponds that have been in use since the Inca Empire. Visitors can witness the traditional salt-harvesting process, where workers collect the salt by hand from the evaporation ponds.

The striking contrast of the white salt against the red earth creates a unique and picturesque landscape.

Key features of the Maras salt mines include:

• Over 5,000 individual salt ponds

• Salt collection process dating back centuries

• Vibrant ochre-colored mountainous backdrop

• Opportunity to purchase artisanal salt products

• Inclusion of the site in the Sacred Valley tour route

Highlights of the Group Tour Experience

The group tour offers a well-coordinated experience, taking visitors on a captivating journey through the ancient Inca ruins of Moray and the mesmerizing Maras salt mines.

An air-conditioned vehicle ensures a comfortable ride, while the knowledgeable tour guide provides insights into the region’s rich history and cultural significance.

The tour includes hotel pickup, entrance fees, and transportation, making it a hassle-free and convenient option.

The tour includes hotel pickup, entrance fees, and transportation, making it a hassle-free and convenient option.

Participants will have the opportunity to explore the unique terraced Moray ruins and the visually striking salt ponds of Maras, creating lasting memories of this remarkable excursion.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Photography Permitted at the Salt Mines?

Yes, photography is permitted at the salt mines. Visitors are generally allowed to take photos during the tour, though they may be advised to avoid certain areas or activities for safety or preservation reasons.

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Tour?

Travelers can bring their own food and drinks on the tour. The tour includes transportation and entrance fees, but doesn’t provide meals. Bringing snacks and water is recommended to stay refreshed during the excursion.

Is There an Option for a Private Tour Instead of a Group Tour?

Yes, there is an option for a private tour instead of a group tour. The tour provider offers both group and private tours, so travelers can choose the option that best suits their needs and preferences.

Do I Need to Bring Any Special Equipment or Clothing?

The tour doesn’t require any specialized equipment or clothing. Comfortable walking shoes and sun protection are recommended, as the site can get hot and sunny. Participants should dress for the weather and be prepared for moderate hiking.

Can I Extend the Tour to Visit Additional Sites?

Yes, you can extend the tour to visit additional sites, though this may incur an extra fee. It’s best to check with the tour operator about customization options and associated costs prior to booking.

The Sum Up

This exciting group tour offers a unique opportunity to explore the historical wonders of Moray and the captivating Maras salt mines in Cusco, Peru. With comfortable transportation, a knowledgeable guide, and inclusive meals, you’ll enjoy a personalized experience in a small group setting. Don’t miss the chance to discover the ancient Inca agricultural terraces and witness the traditional salt-harvesting process at this stunning destination.