Enjoy the captivating Andean landscapes beyond Cusco. This half-day tour takes you to the stunning salt mines of Maras and the unique concentric terraces of Moray. Uncover the Inca’s remarkable agricultural practices as you explore these remarkable sites with an expert guide. With convenient transportation and admission fees included, you’ll have the chance to marvel at the terraced landscapes and gain insight into the region’s rich history. Get ready to be enchanted by the wonders that await.

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Key Points

A half-day tour from Cusco to the salt mines of Maras and the Inca agricultural laboratory of Moray, with pickup, transportation, guided tours, and admission fees included.
Highlights include the unique sight of terraced salt ponds and the concentric circular terraces of Moray, which created microclimates for crop cultivation experimentation.
The tour duration is approximately 4 hours, with 15 minutes of free time at Moray and 1-hour guided tours at both Moray and Maras.
Comfortable attire, sun protection, and sturdy shoes are recommended for the tour, which is not suitable for wheelchair users or unaccompanied minors.
Cancellations are allowed up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, and the tour is priced at Kč 969 per person.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview and Details

This half-day tour takes visitors from Cusco to explore the remarkable Inca-era sites of Maras and Moray. Priced at Kč 969 per person, the 6-hour excursion includes pickup from Cusco hotels, transportation, guided tours, and admission fees.

Highlights include the salt mines of Maras and the unique concentric terraces of Moray. The itinerary can be subject to change, and the visit to Maras may be altered during the rainy season. Comfortable attire and sun protection are recommended.

Cancellations are allowed up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Travelers have praised the tour’s organization and knowledgeable guides.

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Itinerary

The half-day tour begins with pickup from hotels in Cusco’s historic center. Guests then embark on a 1.5-hour van ride to Moray, where they’ll enjoy 15 minutes of free time to explore the site’s unique concentric circular terraces. A 1-hour guided tour follows, providing insights into the believed agricultural laboratory function of Moray. Next, the tour travels 25 minutes to the Maras Salt Mines for a 1-hour guided tour, learning about the Inca-era salt extraction processes. Finally, the group returns to Cusco over an 80-minute journey.

| Location | Duration |

|———-|———-|

| Pickup from Cusco | – |

| Drive to Moray | 1.5 hours |

| Moray free time | 15 minutes |

| Moray guided tour | 1 hour |

| Drive to Maras | 25 minutes |

| Maras guided tour | 1 hour |

| Return to Cusco | 80 minutes |

Highlights

Two of the tour’s highlight destinations are Maras and Moray.

Maras is an Inca-era salt extraction center, where large salt deposits were used for trade within the empire. Visitors can admire the unique sight of salt ponds covering the terrain.

Moray, on the other hand, features concentric circular terraces, believed to be an agricultural laboratory. The terraces created unique microclimates, allowing the Incas to experiment with crop cultivation.

Exploring these two sites offers a fascinating glimpse into the Inca’s advanced agricultural practices and their resourceful use of the natural landscape.

Inclusions and Exclusions

The half-day tour to Maras and Moray includes pickup and drop-off, admission to Maras, and a professional tour guide who can provide commentary in English, Spanish, and Portuguese.

A half-day tour to Maras and Moray includes pickup, entry to Maras, and an English/Spanish/Portuguese-speaking guide.

The Cusco Tourist Ticket (BTC) is also included. However, the tour excludes personal expenses and gratuities.

It’s not suitable for wheelchair users, and pets and unaccompanied minors aren’t allowed.

Visitors should bring comfortable shoes, a sun hat, sunscreen, and comfortable clothing.

The visit to Maras may change from December to March due to weather, and the rates don’t apply for Peruvians or foreign passengers staying over 60 days in Peru.

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Important Information

Visitors should bring comfortable shoes, a sun hat, sunscreen, and comfortable clothing to ensure their comfort during the tour.

This half-day tour isn’t suitable for wheelchair users. Pets and unaccompanied minors aren’t allowed. Visitors should also be aware that the visit to Maras may change from December to March due to weather conditions.

Additionally:

Rates don’t apply for Peruvians or foreign passengers staying over 60 days in Peru.
The itinerary is subject to change.
Gratuities and personal expenses aren’t included in the tour price.

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Customer Reviews

A total of 2 reviews have been left for this half-day tour to Maras and Moray, earning it an overall rating of 5/5.

Customers praised the organization and professionalism of the tour guides, who led the groups in English, Spanish, and Portuguese.

However, some criticized the transportation, noting discomfort and air conditioning issues during the trip.

The tour includes pickup and drop-off, admission to Maras, and a Cusco Tourist Ticket, among other inclusions.

Exploring Maras: An Inca-Era Salt Extraction Center

One of the highlights of this half-day tour is the opportunity to explore the historic Maras salt extraction site.

This Inca-era salt production center features large salt deposits that were used for trade within the empire.

Visitors can:

Admire the terraced salt ponds, which utilize the natural salt springs to produce salt through evaporation.
Learn about the centuries-old salt harvesting techniques still in use today.
Witness the vibrant colors of the salt ponds, ranging from white to pink and red, creating a visually stunning landscape.

The Maras salt mines offer a unique glimpse into the Inca’s ingenious use of natural resources.

Uncovering the Mysteries of Moray’s Concentric Terraces

Although the Maras salt mines offer a fascinating glimpse into the Inca’s resourcefulness, the tour’s other highlight is the enigmatic Moray.

These concentric circular terraces were likely an agricultural laboratory, where the Inca experimented with microclimates to optimize crop growth. Visitors wander the stepped depressions, marveling at the precise engineering that created temperature variations of up to 15°C between the top and bottom.

Theories abound as to Moray’s purpose, from sacred rituals to sophisticated crop cultivation. Regardless, the site’s unique architecture and setting make it a captivating stop on the Maras and Moray tour.

Since You Asked

Can We Stop for Lunch During the Tour?

The tour itinerary doesn’t specifically include a lunch stop. Travelers can bring their own food and snacks, or they may have the option to purchase meals at their own expense during the free time at the sites.

Is the Tour Suitable for Young Children?

The tour may not be suitable for young children. It doesn’t include a lunch stop, and the long van rides and time spent exploring the sites could be challenging for smaller kids. Parents should consider their children’s abilities and interests before booking.

Are We Allowed to Take Photographs at the Sites?

Yes, photography is generally allowed at the Maras and Moray sites. Visitors can take photos to capture the unique landscapes and historical features during the tour. However, it’s recommended to check with the guide for any restrictions.

Can We Extend the Duration of the Tour?

The tour duration can’t be extended, as it’s a half-day tour with a fixed itinerary and timeline. However, visitors can request a full-day tour option if they’d like to spend more time exploring the sites.

What Is the Best Time of Year to Visit Maras and Moray?

The best time to visit Maras and Moray is typically from April to November when the weather is dry and mild. However, visits to Maras may change from December to March due to weather conditions.

The Sum Up

This half-day tour from Cusco provides a unique opportunity to explore the remarkable Inca engineering feats of Maras and Moray. Visitors can witness the centuries-old salt extraction process at Maras and marvel at the intriguing concentric terraces of Moray, which offer insights into Inca agricultural practices. With convenient transportation and knowledgeable guides, this tour promises an engaging and enlightening experience for those interested in Inca history and architecture.