From Cusco || Half Day Tour to Moray and Maras Salineras

Nestled in the heart of Peru’s picturesque Sacred Valley, the half-day tour to Moray and Maras Salineras offers a captivating glimpse into the country’s rich cultural heritage. Priced at just $20 per person, this 5-hour adventure invites travelers to explore the stunning salt mines of Maras and the archaeological wonder of Moray, all while uncovering the Inca’s engineering prowess and the historical significance of these sites. With knowledgeable guides and ample time to immerse oneself, the tour promises an enriching experience that goes beyond the typical tourist itinerary.

Key Points

• Explore the archaeological site of Moray and the historic salt mines of Maras on a half-day tour from Cusco.
• Tour lasts 5 hours, including hotel pickup, transportation, and entrance fees to both sites.
• Learn about Inca engineering and the multi-purpose uses of salt at the respective locations.
• Cancellation is free up to 24 hours in advance, and a reserve now, pay later option is available.
• Tour is not suitable for pregnant women, individuals with back problems, or wheelchair users.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview and Pricing

This half-day tour offers visitors a chance to explore the picturesque village of Maras and the archaeological site of Moray.

Priced at $20 per person, the tour lasts 5 hours and includes hotel pickup, transportation, and a live guide.

Cancellation is free up to 24 hours in advance, and a reserve now, pay later option is available.

The itinerary includes one hour at each site, with return to Cusco by 2:30 pm.

Entrance fees to Moray and Maras are included.

The tour isn’t suitable for certain individuals, and specific items aren’t allowed.

Itinerary Details

The tour kicks off with hotel pickup at 8:30 a.m., whisking visitors away to the picturesque village of Maras.

For one hour, guests explore the historic salt mines, dating back to Inca times, learning about their multi-purpose uses.

Next, the tour heads to the archaeological site of Moray, an intriguing experimental agricultural center with its circular platforms at 3,500 meters altitude.

Visitors spend one hour seeing this unique wonder, awestruck by:

• The ingenious Inca engineering

• The striking visual contrast of the platforms

• The serene, contemplative atmosphere

• The breathtaking vistas of the Sacred Valley

The tour returns to Cusco by 2:30 p.m., with drop-off near the iconic Plaza de Armas.

Inclusions

The tour includes hotel pickup and return transfer to central Cusco, transportation by bus, and a Spanish-speaking guide.

It also covers the entrance fees to both Moray, the archaeological site, and Maras, the salt mines. Costing 70 soles (around $18.60) and 15 soles (about $4) respectively, these fees provide access to the historic and unique attractions.

Visitors should bring their passport or ID, snacks, personal medication, and a pen. However, pets, drones, plastic bags, and plastic bottles aren’t allowed.

The tour aims to offer a comprehensive cultural experience in the Sacred Valley.

Important Information

Although the tour provides a comprehensive cultural experience in the Sacred Valley, it may not be suitable for certain individuals.

Those who are pregnant, have back problems, or use wheelchairs are advised to refrain from this tour. Guests are encouraged to bring essential items such as their passport or ID, snacks, personal medication, and a pen.

Plus, the tour has specific restrictions, including no pets, drones, plastic bags, or plastic bottles allowed. This carefully curated tour ensures a memorable and comfortable journey for all participants.

• 🚫 Not suitable for pregnant women, individuals with back problems, or wheelchair users

• ✅ Recommended items: Passport or ID, snacks, personal medication, pen

• 🚫 Not allowed: Pets, drones, plastic bags, plastic bottles

• 🌄 Explore the Sacred Valley’s stunning landscapes and rich cultural heritage

More Great Tours Nearby

Highlights

Travelers can explore two iconic sites during this half-day tour: the salt mines of Maras and the archaeological center of Moray.

At Maras, they’ll discover the multi-purpose uses of the salt harvested from the mines, which date back to Inca times.

Then, they’ll visit the impressive Moray, an Inca-era experimental agricultural center with circular platforms at 3,500 meters altitude.

These highlights offer a chance to immerse in Peru’s rich cultural heritage and natural beauty, surrounded by stunning landscapes in the Sacred Valley.

The Picturesque Village of Maras and Its Salt Mines

After being picked up from their hotel, visitors embark on the half-day tour to explore the picturesque village of Maras and its centuries-old salt mines.

The ancient Inca salt ponds, glistening in the sun, dot the hillside, drawing visitors to learn about their rich history.

Traversing the winding paths, guests discover:

• The mesmerizing sight of the salt ponds, each one a unique shade of white, pink, and gray

• The arduous process of harvesting salt, a tradition passed down through generations

• The multi-purpose uses of the high-quality Maras salt, from culinary to medicinal

• The breathtaking vistas of the Sacred Valley that frame this captivating landscape

The Archaeological Site of Moray

Next, the tour proceeds to the archaeological site of Moray, an Inca-era experimental agricultural center perched at an altitude of 3,500 meters. The site features a series of concentric circular terraces, each with a slightly different microclimate. This allowed the Inca to test the cultivation of various crops and determine the optimal growing conditions. Visitors can explore the remarkably well-preserved terraces and gain insights into the Inca’s sophisticated understanding of agriculture and ecology.

| Moray Highlights |

| — | — |

| Circular Terraces | Microclimate Experimentation |

| Inca Agricultural Innovations | Crop Optimization |

| Impressive Altitude | Preservation of Ruins |

Exploring the Multi-Purpose Uses of Maras Salt

Although the Maras salt mines may appear unassuming at first glance, they hold a rich history and diverse uses that extend far beyond their primary purpose.

The salt extracted from these ancient mines has long been prized for its purity and unique flavor, making it a staple in Peruvian cuisine.

The salt extracted from Maras’ ancient mines is prized for its purity and unique flavor, making it a staple in Peruvian cuisine.

But Maras salt’s applications go far deeper, serving as a natural exfoliant, a therapeutic remedy, and even a building material.

Its versatility is truly remarkable, from adorning the tables of high-end restaurants to promoting relaxation and well-being.

• Culinary delight

• Natural exfoliant

• Therapeutic remedy

• Building material

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 information states that you’re allowed to bring snacks, though bottles and plastic bags are not permitted. Packing your own provisions can help fuel your exploration.

Is There a Minimum or Maximum Group Size Required?

The tour does not have a minimum or maximum group size. It’s a private tour, so you can book it for just your party. The size of the group is flexible and tailored to your preferences.

Are There Any Discounts Available for Students or Seniors?

The tour doesn’t offer any discounts for students or seniors. The price is a flat rate of $20 per person, regardless of age or student status. However, there’s a flexible reservation policy with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.

Can I Modify the Itinerary to Spend More Time at One Site?

You can modify the itinerary to spend more time at one site, but it’ll require prior coordination with the tour operator. They may be able to accommodate your request for an additional fee, subject to availability.

Are Photography and Video Allowed at the Sites?

Photography and video are generally allowed at the Maras salt mines and Moray archaeological site, but visitors should be mindful of any posted restrictions or guidelines. Checking with the tour guide is recommended to ensure a smooth experience.

Sum Up

Experience the stunning beauty and rich history of Peru’s Sacred Valley on this half-day tour to Moray and Maras Salineras. Uncover the engineering marvels of the Inca at these remarkable sites, from the ancient salt mines to the archaeological wonders of Moray. With knowledgeable guides and affordable pricing, this tour offers an unforgettable glimpse into Peru’s remarkable cultural heritage.

You can check availability for your dates here: