Maras Moray

Maras Moray is a captivating destination in the Andes, renowned for its ancient salt mines and unique agricultural terraces. The salt mines, dating back to pre-Inca times, showcase traditional salt-harvesting techniques through a sunlight evaporation process, creating a striking contrast with the surrounding mountainous scenery. Meanwhile, the concentric terraces of Moray, believed to be used by the Inca for agricultural experiments, offer insights into their innovative agronomy. Together, they provide a rich cultural and scenic experience that’s sure to leave you intrigued and eager to explore further.

Key Points

• Maras Moray is an archaeological site featuring concentric circular terraces believed to have been used by the Inca Empire for agricultural experimentation.
• The Moray terraces exhibit changes in microclimate and soil composition, offering insights into Inca agronomy and adaptation to the Andean environment.
• The Maras salt mines, dating back to pre-Inca times, showcase ancient salt-harvesting techniques involving sunlight evaporation, creating a striking contrast with the surrounding mountain scenery.
• The Maras Moray region is characterized by an elevation of over 3,000 meters above sea level, with a cool climate and lush vegetation.
• Visitors can explore the artisanal textile production and natural dyeing techniques of Chinchero, a nearby town known for its vibrant woven goods and cultural heritage.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview

The Maras Moray tour is an engaging 6-hour activity that allows visitors to explore the unique agricultural terraces of Moray and the captivating salt mines of Maras.

Priced from $18.00 per person, the tour includes pickup from the hotel, tourist transport, a professional guide, and all necessary entrance fees.

Cancellation is free up to 24 hours in advance, and travelers can reserve their spot and pay later.

The tour’s highlights include visiting the artisanal textile hub of Chinchero and enjoying the scenic beauty of the Andes mountains and snow-capped peaks.

Exploring Chinchero

Chinchero, a small town nestled in the Andes, is known for its rich heritage of artisanal textile production and natural dyeing techniques.

Visitors can witness skilled weavers using traditional methods to create intricate textiles. The town is home to a lively market where local artisans showcase their vibrant woven goods, from colorful ponchos to intricately patterned blankets.

Tourists can interact with the weavers, learn about the dyeing process using natural pigments, and even try their hand at weaving.

Chinchero’s deep-rooted textile tradition offers a unique cultural experience for those exploring the region.

Discovering Moray

After exploring the vibrant textile traditions of Chinchero, visitors venture to the captivating site of Moray. This unique archaeological site features a series of concentric circular terraces, believed to have been used for agricultural experimentation by the Inca Empire. The terraces, nestled in a natural depression, create a mesmerizing visual effect, with each level exhibiting subtle changes in microclimate and soil composition. Exploring Moray offers a window into the Inca’s advanced understanding of agronomy and their ability to adapt to the challenges of the Andean environment.

| Terrace Level | Depth | Temperature Variation |

|—————|——-|————————|

| Outermost | 3 m | 15°C |

| Middle | 12 m | 20°C |

| Innermost | 30 m | 25°C |

Visiting Maras

Leaving the fascinating agricultural terraces of Moray behind, visitors now set their sights on the captivating salt mines of Maras. At over 3,000 meters above sea level, these salt mines date back to pre-Inca times and offer a unique glimpse into ancient salt-harvesting techniques.

Nestled high in the Andes, the historic salt mines of Maras offer a captivating look into ancient salt-harvesting practices.

1. Visitors explore the gradual steps where sunlight evaporates the saline water, leaving behind salt deposits.

2. They marvel at the striking contrast between the white salt and the surrounding mountain scenery.

3. The experience offers a chance to purchase locally-harvested salt and support the indigenous community.

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Scenic Landscapes

The breathtaking scenery surrounding the Maras salt mines captivates visitors, with snow-capped peaks towering in the distance. Jagged mountains rise sharply, their rugged slopes blanketed in vibrant greenery. Winding paths lead through the valley, offering panoramic vistas that take one’s breath away. The dramatic landscape is a testament to the power and beauty of nature.

| Feature | Description |

| — | — |

| Elevation | Over 3,000 meters above sea level |

| Terrain | Steep, rocky slopes and lush vegetation |

| Climate | Cool, with occasional snowfall |

Visitors are left in awe of the stunning natural setting, which provides a serene and picturesque backdrop to the ancient salt mines of Maras.

Inclusions and Exclusions

The tour includes pickup from the hotel, tourist transport, a professional guide (available in English and Spanish), and all necessary entrance fees, such as the Tourist ticket ($20.00) and the Maras entrance fee ($7.00).

Food and tips are also covered. However, the tour excludes:

1. Personal expenses

2. Accommodations

3. Not suitable for people with mobility impairments

Travelers should come prepared with a camera, sports shoes, cash, sunscreen, personal medication, and a valid passport or ID card.

Be sure to pack a camera, comfortable shoes, cash, sun protection, any needed medications, and a valid ID for the tour.

The tour requires no high physical effort and is available daily.

Preparation and Recommendations

Travelers should come prepared for the Maras Moray tour. Bring a camera to capture the stunning scenery and ancient ruins.

Wear comfortable, sturdy shoes suitable for walking on uneven terrain. Carry some cash for any personal expenses or souvenirs.

Don’t forget sunscreen and any necessary personal medications. Your passport or ID card is required.

The tour involves moderate physical activity, but no extreme effort is needed. With the right preparation, you’ll be able to fully learn about the cultural and historical wonders of Moray and Maras.

Daily tours are available, so book your spot today.

Customer Feedback

Based on 2 reviews, travelers have given the Maras Moray tour an impressive overall rating of 5 out of 5 stars.

Positive feedback highlights several aspects of the experience:

1. The tour’s exceptional value, with one reviewer noting, "The tour was well worth the price and exceeded our expectations."

2. The knowledgeable and engaging guide, who "provided fascinating insights into the history and significance of the Moray ruins and Maras salt mines."

3. The breathtaking scenery, with a traveler describing the "stunning views of the snow-capped peaks and the unique agricultural terraces of Moray."

Things To Know

Can I Book the Tour for a Private Group?

Yes, the tour can be booked for a private group. The tour operator offers private tours at an additional cost, allowing you to customize the experience to your group’s preferences and schedule.

Is There a Discount for Children or Seniors?

The tour doesn’t offer any discounts for children or seniors. The price per person is fixed at $18.00, regardless of age. However, the tour is suitable for all travelers as long as they don’t have mobility impairments.

How Much Time Is Spent at Each Site During the Tour?

The tour spends approximately 2 hours at Chinchero, 1 hour at Moray, and 1 hour at Maras. Travelers will have ample time to explore each unique site and learn about its history and significance from the professional guide.

Are There Any Restrictions or Dress Code for the Tour?

The tour has no specific dress code, but travelers should wear comfortable, closed-toe shoes and bring sun protection. There are no restrictions, but the tour may not be suitable for those with mobility issues.

Can I Customize the Itinerary or Add Additional Stops?

Unfortunately, the tour has a fixed itinerary and doesn’t allow customization or additional stops. The tour operator provides a comprehensive experience focusing on the key highlights of Chinchero, Moray, and Maras. Travelers must follow the set schedule and can’t modify the itinerary.

Sum Up

Maras Moray is a captivating destination that offers a unique blend of ancient salt mines and innovative agricultural terraces. Visitors can explore the traditional salt-harvesting techniques, uncover the Inca’s agronomic innovations, and enjoy the stunning Andean landscapes. This rich cultural and scenic experience makes Maras Moray a must-visit destination for those seeking to explore Peru’s fascinating heritage.

You can check availability for your dates here: