Embark on an enriching tour from Cusco, exploring the stunning Moray agricultural terraces, the ancient Maras Salt Mines, and the vibrant Chinchero Weavers’ community. This journey offers insightful experiences into Quechua traditions, sustainable agricultural practices, and local craftsmanship. Witness the intricate salt extraction methods, capture breathtaking views of the Andes, and learn about the rich cultural heritage of the region. With free cancellation and bilingual guides, it’s a perfect adventure for every traveler seeking to discover the hidden gems of Peru.

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Key Points

A 6.5-hour tour from Cusco exploring the Chinchero District, Moray ruins, and Maras Salt Mines, showcasing Quechua weaving traditions and ancient Inca agricultural practices.
The tour is priced at $16.00 to $15.20 per person, with a 5% discount available, and includes hotel pickup and drop-off in Cusco’s historic center.
Highlights include a weaving workshop in Chinchero, observation of artisans extracting natural dyes, and opportunities for photography and shopping at various stops.
The Moray ruins feature concentric, circular terraces showcasing Inca agricultural techniques and environmental adaptation, with insights into their mastery of microclimates.
The Maras Salt Mines, with over 3,000 individual salt pools harvested since pre-Inca times, offer a chance to learn about ancient salt extraction techniques and their cultural significance.

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Tour Overview

The Moray, Maras Salt Mines & Chinchero Weavers Tour is a 6.5-hour adventure that takes visitors on an immersive exploration of Cusco’s captivating cultural landmarks.

Priced from $16.00 to $15.20 per person, the tour offers a 5% discount and free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.

Travelers can expect English and Spanish-speaking guides, plus hotel pickup and drop-off in Cusco’s historic center.

The itinerary highlights the ancient Inca agricultural terraces of Moray, the pre-Inca Maras Salt Mines, and a weaving workshop in Chinchero, where visitors learn about Quechua traditions and natural dye extraction.

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

Highlights of the Itinerary

The tour begins with a stop in the Chinchero District, where visitors can participate in a weaving workshop and learn about Quechua traditions and natural dye extraction.

Visitors can participate in a weaving workshop and learn about Quechua traditions and natural dye extraction in the Chinchero District.

After a photo stop and shopping opportunity, the tour moves on to Moray, an ancient Inca agricultural site featuring terraced circular depressions.

Guests will explore the site and take in the stunning views at an elevation of 3,450 meters.

The final stop is the Maras Salt Mines, a historic site dating back to pre-Inca times, where thousands of salt pools are spread across the landscape.

Visitors can marvel at this unique natural wonder.

Exploring Chinchero District

One stop on the tour takes visitors to the Chinchero District, located at an elevation of 3,762 meters.

This traditional Andean town offers a chance to learn about Quechua weaving traditions. Guests visit a weaving workshop, where they can observe skilled artisans extracting natural dyes and creating intricate textiles.

The tour also includes a photo stop and time for shopping, allowing visitors to browse local crafts and goods.

Throughout the experience, the guide shares insights into the area’s cultural heritage and the significance of these ancient textile practices to the Quechua people.

Discovering the Moray Ruins

After departing Chinchero, the tour makes its way to the mesmerizing Moray ruins.

This ancient Inca site features a series of concentric, circular terraces descending into the earth. Guides explain how the Incas utilized these remarkable agricultural terraces to experiment with microclimates and grow a variety of crops.

Visitors can wander through the site, snapping photos of the stunning terraces against the backdrop of the Andes. The Moray ruins offer a fascinating glimpse into the Incas’ sophisticated understanding of agriculture and environmental adaptation.

Wander through the Moray ruins, capturing the stunning terraces framed by the Andean backdrop, and glimpse the Incas’ agricultural mastery.

With its serene ambiance and historical significance, this stop is a highlight of the day’s tour.

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Visiting the Maras Salt Mines

After departing the Moray ruins, the tour group continues on to the next stop – the Maras Salt Mines.

This historic site features over 3,000 individual salt pools that have been harvested since pre-Inca times. The guide leads the group on a short walk, explaining the ancient techniques used to extract the salt.

Visitors have the opportunity to take photos of the geometric patterns of the salt pools and learn about the economic and cultural significance of this unique natural resource.

The tour then departs the Maras Salt Mines, headed to the final destination, the Chinchero Weavers.

There's plenty more to explore in Cusco

Transportation and Accessibility

The tour provides comfortable vehicles for transportation, with pickup and drop-off included from Cusco’s Centro Histórico.

Participants can choose between private or small group options for a more personalized experience.

Participants can choose between private or small group options for a more personalized tour experience.

The tour drops off at convenient locations, such as Plaza Kusipata, Plaza Regocijo, and Centro Histórico, making it easy for travelers to continue their exploration of Cusco after the tour.

The comfortable and efficient transportation, along with the varied drop-off points, ensure a seamless and accessible tour experience for all participants.

What’s Included in the Tour

The tour includes a comprehensive package of services to ensure a seamless and enjoyable experience for participants.

The tour includes:

Hotel pickup and drop-off in Cusco’s historic center
An expert bilingual guide to provide insights and context
Comfortable transportation throughout the day
Entrance fees to the archaeological sites of Moray and the Maras Salt Mines
All taxes and fees, so there are no unexpected costs.

With these inclusions, travelers can focus on seeing the rich cultural heritage of the region without having to worry about logistics.

Preparing for the Tour

To ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience, travelers should prepare for the Moray, Maras Salt Mines & Chinchero Weavers Tour.

Packing sun protection, comfortable walking shoes, and cash for souvenirs and entrance fees are essential. Bringing a camera is highly recommended to capture the stunning landscapes and cultural highlights.

Packing sun protection, comfortable walking shoes, and cash for souvenirs and entrance fees are essential. Bringing a camera is highly recommended to capture the stunning landscapes and cultural highlights.

Since the tour operates rain or shine, it’s wise to plan accordingly by checking the weather forecast and packing layers.

Travelers should also arrive at the pickup location 10 minutes early to ensure a timely departure.

With proper preparation, visitors can fully enjoy the tour’s captivating sights and experiences.

Things To Know

How Many People Are Typically in the Small Group Tours?

The small group tours typically have a maximum of 8 participants, allowing for a more personalized experience. This size allows the guide to provide more individualized attention and interaction with the group.

Can Vegetarian or Special Meal Options Be Accommodated?

The tour company can accommodate vegetarian or special meal requests, but it’s best to mention any dietary needs when booking to ensure they’re properly addressed. The guides are knowledgeable and work to cater to all guests’ needs.

Are There Any Bathroom Stops During the 6.5-Hour Tour?

Yes, the tour includes bathroom stops along the way. Guests can use the facilities at the various sites visited, providing opportunities to refresh during the 6.5-hour excursion.

Is There an Opportunity to Interact With the Local Weavers?

Yes, the tour includes a visit to a Chinchero weaving workshop where travelers can interact with local weavers. They’ll learn about Quechua weaving traditions and have the opportunity to watch demonstrations and purchase handmade textiles.

Can We Extend the Tour to Include Additional Sites?

The tour can be extended to include additional sites, providing travelers more opportunities to enjoy the region’s rich cultural heritage and natural wonders. Customized tour options allow for a personalized experience.

Sum Up

This enriching tour from Cusco immerses travelers in Quechua culture, showcasing the region’s stunning natural beauty and traditional practices. From the captivating Moray terraces to the Maras salt mines and the vibrant Chinchero weavers, this adventure offers an unforgettable glimpse into the heart of the Andes. With free cancellation, bilingual guides, and a 5% discount, it’s an opportunity not to be missed.