From Cusco: Moray, Maras Salt Mines & Chinchero Weavers

Embark on an unforgettable journey to explore the stunning Urubamba Valley just outside Cusco. This half-day tour showcases the ancient agricultural terraces of Moray, the historic Maras Salt Mines, and the vibrant weaving traditions of Chinchero. With expert guides and breathtaking landscapes, you’ll explore the rich cultural heritage of this remarkable region. At just $14.00 per person, it’s an opportunity you won’t want to miss.

Key Points

• Half-day guided tour from Cusco to explore Moray, Maras Salt Mines, and Chinchero weaving center, with pickup and drop-off in Cusco.
• Tour includes transportation and professional guides, with additional entrance fees payable on-site.
• Highlights include circular terraces of Moray, salt production at Maras, and cultural demonstration of textile traditions at Chinchero.
• Tour not suitable for wheelchair users due to uneven terrain and steps, and visitors should bring cash for entrance fees.
• Recommended to wear comfortable walking shoes and bring sun protection, as drones are prohibited at all locations.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview and Pricing

This half-day tour from Cusco takes visitors to the intriguing sites of the Urubamba Valley, including Moray, the Maras Salt Mines, and Chinchero.

Priced from $14.00 per person, the tour lasts 12 hours with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance. Pickup is available from Cusco hotels or a central meeting point.

The itinerary includes visits to Chinchero, Moray, and the Maras Salt Mines, with guided tours and transportation provided. Entrance fees to Moray and the Salt Mines are additional, payable in cash on-site.

The tour isn’t suitable for wheelchair users, and bringing comfortable shoes and cash is recommended.

Itinerary and Transportation

The tour begins with pickup either from your hotel in Cusco’s city center or a central meeting point for those staying at bed and breakfasts.

The tour begins with pickup either from your hotel in Cusco’s city center or a central meeting point for those staying at bed and breakfasts.

After the 1-hour drive to Chinchero, you’ll spend 30 minutes exploring the local weaving center.

Next, it’s a 45-minute drive to Moray, where you’ll embark on a 45-minute guided tour of the Inca’s agricultural terraces.

From Moray, it’s a 30-minute drive to the iconic Maras Salt Mines, where you’ll enjoy a 45-minute guided tour.

Finally, you’ll return to Plaza Regocijo in Cusco after a 1-hour drive.

Highlights and Experiences

Visitors embark on a captivating journey through the Urubamba Valley, where they’ll enjoy the natural beauty and ancient landscapes of Moray and Maras.

At Moray, they’ll marvel at the Inca’s ingenious circular terraces, learning about their advanced agricultural techniques. The cultural demonstration at the local weaving center offers a glimpse into Chinchero’s vibrant textile traditions.

Highlights include:

1. Exploring the otherworldly Moray site and its Inca engineering

2. Discovering the history of salt production at the Maras Salt Mines

3. Witnessing traditional weaving practices at a community-run center

4. Appreciating the region’s rich cultural heritage and natural splendor.

Inclusions and Costs

Although transportation is included, visitors must pay the tourist entrance fees for Moray (70 soles, cash only) and the Salt Mines (20 soles, cash only) separately. The tour also includes professional guides who can provide commentary in both English and Spanish. Visitors should be prepared to pay these fees on-site, as they are not covered in the tour price. To summarize the key inclusions and costs:

| Included | Cost |

| — | — |

| Transportation | Included |

| Professional Guides | Included |

| Moray Entrance | 70 soles |

| Salt Mines Entrance | 20 soles |

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Important Information and Recommendations

One key consideration is that this tour isn’t suitable for wheelchair users due to the uneven terrain and steps encountered at the sites.

To ensure a comfortable experience, visitors are recommended to wear:

• Comfortable walking shoes

• Weather-appropriate clothing

• Cash for entrance fees (no cards accepted)

• Sun protection like hats and sunscreen

Drones are also not permitted at any of the locations.

Exploring Moray’s Captivating Inca Terraces

What’s it about Moray’s intriguing circular terraces that captivates visitors? Nestled in the Andes, this Inca archaeological site features a complex system of depressions, each one larger than the last, descending into the earth.

Researchers believe these terraces were used as an agricultural research lab, allowing the Inca to experiment with microclimate conditions and crop cultivation. Visitors can walk along the paths and marvel at the ingenious engineering and design.

The terraces’ varied elevations and orientations created distinct microclimates, demonstrating the Inca’s advanced understanding of agriculture and environmental adaptations.

Discovering the Maras Salt Mines

Nestled in the Andes, just a short drive from the Moray ruins, lies the Maras Salt Mines – an impressive network of thousands of salt-harvesting ponds that have been in use since Inca times.

Visitors can explore this captivating site and learn about its rich history and production process.

Visitors can explore this captivating site and learn about its rich history and production process.

The highlights include:

1. Witnessing the manual extraction of salt from the naturally occurring brine.

2. Observing the traditional techniques used to evaporate the water and collect the salt.

3. Exploring the vast expanse of the mines, with their distinctive terraced ponds.

4. Purchasing locally-sourced salt products as unique souvenirs.

Taking in Chinchero’s Weaving Traditions

After marveling at the Maras Salt Mines, the tour moves on to the charming town of Chinchero, where visitors can enjoy the rich weaving traditions of the local people.

At a weaving center, skilled artisans demonstrate the intricate process of creating vibrant textiles using ancient techniques. Guests can watch as they dye wool with natural pigments and skillfully weave colorful patterns on traditional looms.

This cultural experience provides a glimpse into the enduring legacy of Chinchero’s weavers, whose creations reflect the region’s Inca heritage and the ingenuity of Andean textile production.

Things To Know

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

Yes, you can bring your own food and drinks on the tour. The tour does not provide any meals or beverages, so you’re welcome to pack your own snacks and refreshments to enjoy throughout the day.

Are There Any Age Restrictions for the Tour Participants?

The tour does not have any age restrictions. Participants of all ages are welcome to join the tour, provided they are able to comfortably handle the walking and activities involved.

Are There Any Discounts Available for Students or Seniors?

The tour does not mention any student or senior discounts. However, it’s best to contact the tour provider directly to inquire about any available discounts for these groups.

Can I Customize the Itinerary to Suit My Preferences?

Yes, the tour can be customized to suit your preferences. The provider offers flexibility in the itinerary, allowing you to focus on the sites that interest you most within the tour’s duration and scope.

What Is the Best Time of Year to Visit These Sites?

The best time to visit is during the dry season from May to September, when weather conditions are most favorable for exploring the outdoor sites. Crowds are smaller, and you’ll enjoy ideal lighting for photography.

Sum Up

This captivating half-day tour from Cusco promises an unforgettable exploration of the Urubamba Valley’s rich cultural heritage. Discover the ancient Inca terraces of Moray, the historic Maras Salt Mines, and the vibrant weaving traditions of Chinchero, all for the incredible price of just $14 per person. It’s an enchanting journey through Peru’s remarkable natural and cultural wonders.

You can check availability for your dates here: