Exploring the ancient Inca ruins of Moray and the captivating Maras salt mines is a must-do experience for visitors to Cusco. This half-day tour takes travelers on a journey through the breathtaking Peruvian Andes, showcasing the ingenuity and resilience of the Inca civilization. From the unique agricultural terraces to the centuries-old salt production, this tour promises to captivate the senses and leave a lasting impression. What secrets lie hidden within these remarkable sites? Let’s uncover them together.

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Key Points

This half-day tour from Cusco takes visitors to the Inca agricultural terraces of Moray and the colonial salt mines of Maras.
The tour lasts approximately 6 hours, includes hotel pickup, and provides bilingual live commentary.
Admission fees for Moray (130 soles for foreigners) and Maras (20 soles) are not included in the tour price.
The tour is not suitable for individuals with mobility impairments due to uneven terrain and steps.
Guests are advised to bring comfortable walking shoes, water, and a camera to capture the stunning views.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview and Pricing

The half-day tour from Cusco to Maras and Moray costs $31.00 per person and lasts approximately 6 hours.

Cancellation is free up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Guests can also choose the reserve now & pay later option.

The tour includes pickup from the Centro Histórico at 8:30 a.m. and concludes at the Plaza de Armas. A bilingual live guide provides commentary in Spanish and English throughout the excursion.

Transfers are included, with pickup available from hotels, but the tour isn’t suitable for those with mobility impairments.

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Itinerary and Highlights

After pickup from the Centro Histórico at 8:30 a.m., the tour takes visitors to explore the remarkable Inca agricultural terraces of Moray, which are believed to have been used as an experimental agricultural laboratory.

Next, the tour visits the colonial salt mines of Maras, featuring over 3,000 individual salt pools. At both locations, guests have the opportunity to capture stunning photographs.

The tour concludes at the Plaza de Armas, where the bilingual live guide provides informative commentary throughout the experience in both Spanish and English.

Transportation and Accessibility

The tour includes transfers, with pickup provided from the customer’s hotel. Guests will be transported to the tour’s first stop at Moray and then to the salt mines of Maras.

The transportation is comfortable and climate-controlled. However, the tour isn’t suitable for people with mobility impairments, as the sites involve uneven terrain and steps. Customers should consider their physical capabilities before booking.

The tour concludes at Plaza de Armas, where guests can explore the historic center of Cusco on their own. The transportation provides a seamless experience for the half-day excursion.

Admission Fees

Two separate admission fees apply for this tour.

The tourist ticket, which covers entry to Moray, costs 70 soles for Peruvians and 130 soles for foreigners. Plus, there’s a 20 soles fee to enter the salt mines of Maras.

Both of these fees aren’t included in the tour price and must be paid separately. Visitors should be prepared to have the appropriate amount of Peruvian soles on hand to cover these admission costs.

Understanding these fees upfront ensures a smooth and enjoyable experience during the Cusco: Half Day Tour Maras + Moray.

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What to Bring

Visitors on the Cusco: Half Day Tour Maras + Moray should bring their passport or ID card. This is required for entry to the sites. Beyond that, it’s recommended to pack light and wear comfortable walking shoes, as the tour involves some hiking.

| What to Bring | Why |

| — | — |

| Passport/ID | For site entry |

| Comfortable shoes | For hiking |

| Water | To stay hydrated |

| Sunscreen | To protect from the sun |

| Camera | To capture the views |

The tour is not suitable for those with mobility issues, so it’s essential to consider your physical capabilities before booking.

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Exploring Moray: Inca Agricultural Terraces

Although the Inca agricultural terraces of Moray were once thought to be an experimental agricultural laboratory, modern scholars now believe they served a more practical purpose.

The terraces, arranged in a series of concentric circular depressions, were likely used to grow a variety of crops and test different growing conditions.

Key features of the Moray site include:

Precise engineering to create microclimates for crop cultivation.
Alignment with the Inca’s advanced understanding of astronomy and agricultural practices.
Evidence of diverse crops like maize, potatoes, and quinoa grown across the terraces.

Visiting Moray offers a fascinating glimpse into the agricultural genius of the Inca civilization.

Uncovering the Maras Salt Mines

Nestled in the Sacred Valley of the Incas, the Maras salt mines are a testament to the ingenious engineering and enduring traditions of Peru’s indigenous cultures.

These pre-Inca salt evaporation ponds have been in use for centuries, with local families maintaining the intricate system of over 3,000 individual salt pools.

Visitors can witness the painstaking process of harvesting salt by hand, a practice that has remained largely unchanged for generations.

The stunning visual of the white salt ponds contrasted against the rugged Andean landscape makes the Maras salt mines a captivating and unique destination.

Concluding the Half-Day Adventure

After exploring the captivating Maras salt mines and the Inca agricultural terraces of Moray, the half-day tour concludes with a return to the historic center of Cusco.

Travelers are dropped off at the iconic Plaza de Armas, where they can:

Admire the stunning Spanish colonial architecture surrounding the plaza.
Visit the 16th-century Cusco Cathedral and the Qorikancha temple ruins.
Immerse themselves in the vibrant local culture and try traditional Peruvian cuisine.

The tour wraps up around 2:30 p.m., leaving ample time for guests to further discover the wonders of Cusco at their own pace.

Things To Know

What Is the Dress Code for the Tour?

The tour has no specific dress code. Comfortable, casual clothing and walking shoes are recommended, as the tour involves walking on uneven terrain. Participants should dress for the weather conditions and bring sun protection if needed.

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks?

Participants are welcome to bring their own food and drinks for the tour. However, no meals or refreshments are provided as part of the tour package. It’s recommended to bring snacks and water to stay hydrated during the day.

Are There Any Discounts for Students or Seniors?

The tour does not offer any specific discounts for students or seniors. However, the standard tour pricing of $31 per person applies to all participants, regardless of age or student status.

Can I Extend the Tour Duration for an Additional Fee?

Yes, travelers can extend the tour duration for an additional fee. The tour operator offers the flexibility to customize the tour length to meet individual needs and preferences, subject to availability and any applicable surcharges.

Is the Tour Suitable for Young Children?

The tour is not recommended for young children, as it may not be suitable for their mobility and safety. The terrain and activities involved may pose challenges for younger participants.

Sum Up

The "Cusco: Half Day Tour Maras + Moray" offers a remarkable opportunity to discover the ancient wonders of the Peruvian Andes. Guests will be captivated by the breathtaking Inca agricultural terraces of Moray and the stunning colonial salt mines of Maras, all while enjoying informative commentary and ample photo opportunities. This unforgettable adventure is a must-do for anyone exploring the rich cultural heritage of the region.