Exploring the Salineras de Maras and Terraces of Moray is a captivating journey through Peru’s rich cultural heritage. Visitors can marvel at the striking salt ponds, ponder the engineering feats of the Inca, and savor a delightful lunch – all while immersed in the breathtaking landscapes of the Sacred Valley. With convenient transportation and an expert guide, this 5-hour tour offers an unparalleled opportunity to uncover the secrets of this remarkable region. What enchanting discoveries await those who embark on this unforgettable adventure?

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Key Points

Tour explores the ancient Salineras de Maras salt ponds and the Terraces of Moray, offering insights into Inca engineering and agricultural practices.
Transportation is provided via air-conditioned vehicle with a professional bilingual guide, and includes entrance tickets, first aid kit, and bottled water.
Tour duration is approximately 5 hours, with pickup available from hotels in the historic center or Plaza Regocijo, accommodating up to 18 participants.
Salineras de Maras features vibrant-colored salt ponds constructed to collect and evaporate salty spring water, showcasing the region’s rich cultural heritage.
Terraces of Moray are ancient Inca agricultural terraces situated in a natural depression, with concentric circular terraces descending over 150 feet, each with distinct microclimates.

Overview of the Tour

The tour takes visitors on an exploration of two remarkable ancient sites in the Cusco region of Peru – the Salineras de Maras, or Maras Salt Ponds, and the Terrazas de Moray, a complex of Inca agricultural terraces.

Travelers will be transported by air-conditioned vehicle and accompanied by a professional bilingual guide. The tour includes entrance tickets, a first aid kit, and bottled water.

Pickup is available at hotels in the historic center, or the group can meet at Plaza Regocijo. The tour lasts approximately 5 hours and can accommodate up to 18 participants.

Looking for more options in Cusco? We've reviewed plenty of other experiences.

Highlights of the Salineras De Maras

Nestled in the Sacred Valley of the Incas, the Salineras de Maras boast a captivating landscape of thousands of evenly terraced salt ponds that have been in use for centuries.

Nestled in the Sacred Valley, the Salineras de Maras boast a captivating landscape of thousands of evenly terraced salt ponds, centuries-old.

This ancient salt-harvesting site offers visitors a unique glimpse into the region’s rich cultural heritage.

Some of the highlights of the Salineras de Maras include:

Intricate Salt Ponds: The salt ponds are meticulously constructed, with each one designed to collect and evaporate the salty spring water that flows through the site.
Vibrant Colors: The ponds come alive with a spectrum of colors, ranging from bright white to shimmering shades of pink and orange.
Timeless Tradition: The salt-harvesting process at the Salineras de Maras has been passed down through generations, showcasing the enduring resilience of the local community.

Exploring the Terraces of Moray

After marveling at the salt ponds of the Salineras de Maras, the tour now ventures to the captivating Terraces of Moray.

These ancient Inca agricultural terraces are situated in a massive natural depression. The concentric circular terraces descend over 150 feet, with each level having a distinct microclimate.

Experts believe the Incas used the terraces to experiment with different crops and growing conditions. Visitors can explore the site, marveling at the ingenuity of the Inca engineering and the stunning natural setting.

The unique terraces offer insight into the advanced agricultural practices of the Inca civilization.

What to Expect on the Tour

Although the tour begins at a leisurely 8:30 am, participants can expect a full day of exploration and discovery.

The first stop is the Salineras de Maras, where visitors will marvel at the hundreds of salt ponds carved into the hillside.

Next, the tour heads to the Terraces of Moray, an Inca archaeological site featuring concentric circular depressions believed to have been used for agricultural experimentation.

The day culminates with a delicious included lunch, allowing travelers to refuel before the return journey.

Explore the Salineras de Maras, a stunning salt production site.
Visit the Terraces of Moray, an Inca engineering wonder.
Enjoy a satisfying lunch to complete the day’s activities.

Practical Information for the Tour

The tour begins with a convenient pickup from hotels in Cusco’s historic center or an alternative meeting point at Plaza Regocijo.

A convenient pickup from your Cusco hotel or Plaza Regocijo kicks off this immersive tour experience.

The air-conditioned vehicle transports you to the stunning Salineras de Maras and Terrazas de Moray sites. A professional bilingual guide accompanies you, providing insights and historical context.

Entrance tickets, a provided first aid kit, and bottled water ensure a seamless experience. The tour concludes just one block from Cusco’s main square.

With a maximum of 18 travelers, this small-group experience offers personalized attention. Priced from $24 per person, the tour provides exceptional value with a lowest price guarantee and flexible cancellation policy.

There's plenty more to explore in Cusco

Reasons to Book the Tour

Travelers seeking an immersive cultural experience will find the tour to the Salineras de Maras and Terrazas de Moray particularly captivating.

The tour offers:

A unique opportunity to explore ancient Inca salt ponds and agricultural terraces, providing a glimpse into Peru’s rich cultural heritage.
Stunning natural scenery, with the Salineras de Maras’ striking white salt ponds and the Terrazas de Moray’s captivating circular terraces set against the backdrop of the Andes.
An educational and informative experience led by a professional bilingual guide, allowing visitors to deepen their understanding of these remarkable sites.

Additional Recommendations

Along With the highlights of the tour, visitors may want to consider several other activities to further enjoy the region’s cultural richness.

For instance, they could explore the charming streets of historic Cusco, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and visit the iconic Inca ruins of Sacsayhuaman.

Foodies might enjoy a cooking class to learn the secrets of Peruvian cuisine.

For foodies, a Peruvian cooking class uncovers the secrets of the region’s vibrant and flavorful cuisine.

Those seeking a more active adventure could hike the Inca Trail or mountain bike through the Sacred Valley.

These additional experiences offer a well-rounded appreciation of Cusco’s diverse cultural and natural wonders.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

Yes, you can bring your own food and snacks on the tour. The tour includes bottled water, but additional snacks or meals are not provided, so bringing your own is allowed and recommended if desired.

Do the Entrance Fees Cover Photography or Video Recording?

The entrance fees cover access to the sites, but they don’t explicitly include permission for photography or video recording. Travelers should check with the tour guide or site staff about any restrictions on cameras and filming.

Is There an Option to Customize the Tour Itinerary?

The tour itinerary can’t be customized, but visitors have the flexibility to explore the sites at their own pace during the scheduled stops. Photography and video recording are permitted within the entrance fees.

Can I Leave the Tour Group at Any Point During the Day?

The tour group is intended to be kept together throughout the day. Participants can’t leave the group at any point during the tour unless they coordinate with the guide. Doing so may result in missing included activities or transportation.

Is There a Discount Available for Students or Seniors?

The tour doesn’t offer any discounts for students or seniors. The price is a flat rate of $24 per person, with no special pricing based on age or student status. Participants must stay with the group for the full tour duration.

The Sum Up

This breathtaking tour to the Salineras de Maras and Terraces of Moray offers a unique opportunity to explore the Sacred Valley’s remarkable cultural heritage. Visitors will marvel at the vibrant salt ponds, learn about Inca engineering, and enjoy a delicious lunch, all while immersed in the region’s stunning natural beauty. With convenient transportation and a knowledgeable guide, this tour is a must-do for anyone seeking to uncover the secrets of the Andes.