From Cusco: Maras and Moray

Nestled in the heart of Peru’s Sacred Valley, the Maras and Moray tour offers visitors a chance to explore the region’s remarkable Inca legacy. Departing from the vibrant city of Cusco, this six-hour journey takes travelers on a captivating exploration of the Maras salt mines and the awe-inspiring Moray archaeological site, providing a glimpse into the ingenious agricultural practices and enduring cultural traditions that once thrived in this ancient land. With a knowledgeable guide by their side, participants can expect a truly immersive experience that promises to leave a lasting impression.

Key Points

• This tour departs from Cusco and visits the Maras salt mines and Moray archaeological site in the Sacred Valley.
• The tour provides an opportunity to observe Inca agricultural practices and the salt extraction process.
• The Moray site features terraced structures with a 150-meter depth variation, showcasing Inca engineering accomplishments.
• The tour duration is approximately 6 hours, including transportation, and is guided by a bilingual expert.
• The tour is not suitable for certain groups, and additional fees for entrance and the partial tourist ticket may apply.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview

The tour begins with pickup from your accommodation in the urban area of Cusco, after which you’ll board a shared vehicle and embark on the journey.

The tour begins with pickup from your accommodation in the urban area of Cusco, after which you’ll board a shared vehicle and embark on the journey.

First, you’ll pass through the Chinchero craftwork community, where you’ll observe the llama treatment process.

The main destinations are the Maras salt mines and the Moray archaeological site. At Maras, you’ll get a guided explanation of the salt extraction process and have time for photography.

Then, you’ll proceed to Moray to explore the terraces with a 150-meter depth variation, learning about the Incas’ agricultural practices.

The tour lasts approximately 6 hours before returning to Cusco.

Tour Highlights

This tour offers the opportunity to discover the cultural treasures of the Sacred Valley of the Incas.

Visitors will explore the archaeological site of Moray, learning about the Inca’s innovative agricultural practices. The tour also includes a visit to the Salineras salt mine, where travelers can observe the salt extraction process.

Highlights include seeing the terraced Moray site, with its depth variation of 150 meters, and gaining insights into the salt harvesting methods used for centuries.

This immersive experience provides a glimpse into the ancient Inca civilization and its remarkable engineering feats.

Itinerary

After gathering at the meeting point, participants board the vehicle and pass through the Chinchero craftwork community, where they observe the llama treatment process.

The first destination is the Maras salt mines, where a guided explanation of the salt extraction process is provided, and visitors have time for photography.

Next, the group proceeds to Moray, where they explore the terraces with a 150-meter depth variation.

Following the 6-hour tour, the participants are dropped off in Cusco’s downtown area.

Meeting Point and Transportation

Participants gather at a designated meeting point to begin the Maras and Moray tour. From there, they board a shared vehicle for the journey.

The transportation includes:

1. Pickup from accommodation in Cusco’s urban area.

2. Shared transport to the tour sites and back to Cusco’s downtown.

3. Drop-off at the end of the tour in Cusco’s city center.

The bilingual guide accompanies the group throughout the tour, providing commentary in both Spanish and English.

With the provided transportation, travelers can sit back and enjoy the scenic drive to explore the cultural treasures of the Sacred Valley.

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Maras Salt Mines

The Maras salt mines, a testament to the ingenuity of the Incas, are the first stop on the tour.

The Maras salt mines, a testament to the ingenuity of the Incas, are the first stop on the tour.

Visitors will be guided through the intricate system of salt-producing terraces, where saline water from a natural spring is channeled into thousands of small pools. As the water evaporates, the salt crystallizes, creating a mesmerizing patchwork of white, pink, and yellow hues.

Guests can observe the traditional salt-harvesting techniques and take in the breathtaking vistas of the surrounding Andes mountains.

It’s a glimpse into the rich cultural heritage and sustainable practices of the region.

Moray Archeological Site

Departing from the Maras salt mines, the tour continues to the archaeological site of Moray, a fascinating example of Inca agricultural experimentation.

Nestled in a natural depression, the site features a series of concentric terraces descending over 150 meters. The Incas used this unique layout to study the effects of microclimate on crop cultivation.

The site offers:

1. Breathtaking views of the Sacred Valley’s rugged terrain.

2. Insights into the Incas’ advanced understanding of agriculture and climate.

3. Opportunities for photography, as the terraces create a mesmerizing visual display.

After exploring Moray, the tour returns to Cusco.

Inclusions and Exclusions

The tour includes pickup from the participant’s accommodation within the urban area, shared transportation, and a bilingual guide who can provide commentary in both Spanish and English.

Pickup from your accommodation, shared transport, and a bilingual guide offering commentary in Spanish and English.

However, the entrance fee to the Maras salt mines (S/ 20 per person, payable in cash on-site) and the partial tourist ticket (S/ 70 per person, payable in cash) aren’t included in the tour price.

The tour isn’t suitable for pregnant women, wheelchair users, visually impaired individuals, or people over 95 years old.

Participants should bring sunglasses, a sun hat, a camera, sunscreen, and cash for the additional fees.

Important Considerations

Although the tour isn’t recommended for certain individuals, participants should consider the necessary preparations and precautions.

The tour involves walking on uneven terrain, which may pose challenges for pregnant women, wheelchair users, and those with visual impairments or limited mobility.

Participants are advised to bring:

1. Sturdy, comfortable walking shoes

2. Sun protection, such as sunglasses, sun hat, and sunscreen

3. Cash for the salt mines entrance fee and partial tourist ticket

Lastly, it’s essential to provide a correct phone number, preferably with a WhatsApp account, for any last-minute communication with the tour provider.

Things To Know

Do I Need Any Special Permits or Licenses to Visit These Sites?

No, visitors don’t need any special permits or licenses to visit the Maras salt mines and Moray archaeological site. However, they’ll need to purchase a partial tourist ticket (S/ 70 per person) to access these sites.

What Safety Precautions Are Taken During the Tour?

The tour takes safety precautions like avoiding sites unsafe for pregnant women or those with disabilities. Travelers are advised to bring sun protection and cash for entrance fees. Guides ensure responsible behavior and no littering.

Can I Purchase Any Local Crafts or Souvenirs During the Tour?

Yes, visitors can purchase local crafts and souvenirs during the tour. The itinerary includes a stop at the Chinchero craftwork community, where you can observe the llama treatment process and browse handmade artisanal goods for sale.

Is There an Option to Customize the Tour Itinerary?

The tour itinerary isn’t customizable. However, you’ll have free time to explore the salt mines and Moray on your own and potentially purchase local crafts and souvenirs during the stops. The tour follows a set schedule.

How Do I Communicate With the Guide if I Don’t Speak Spanish?

The tour includes a bilingual guide who speaks both Spanish and English, so you can communicate easily with them even if you don’t speak Spanish. They’ll be able to provide all the necessary information and assist you throughout the tour.

Sum Up

The Maras and Moray tour offers a captivating exploration of the Sacred Valley’s rich cultural heritage. Visitors can witness the traditional salt extraction process at the Maras salt mines and marvel at the impressive terraced agricultural practices at the Moray archaeological site. With a knowledgeable guide, this six-hour journey promises an immersive experience in Inca history, leaving participants with lasting memories.

You can check availability for your dates here: