Exploring the rich cultural heritage of Peru’s Inca civilization is a captivating experience. The half-day tour from Cusco to Maras, Moray, and Chinchero offers an immersive journey through ancient ruins, traditional workshops, and vibrant markets. Explore the ingenuity of the Inca people as you uncover the fascinating Moray Ruins and the Maras Salt Mines. Along the way, discover the artistry and craftsmanship of the local community, leaving you with a deeper appreciation for Peru’s enduring cultural legacy.

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Good To Know

A half-day tour from Cusco exploring the cultural and archaeological wonders of Maras, Moray, and Chinchero, priced from $61.83 per person.
Includes a visit to a local textile workshop in Chinchero and, on Sundays, a stop at the Chinchero market to browse handmade souvenirs.
The tour covers the Maras Salt Mines, an Inca salt production site with thousands of small salt pools carved into the mountainside.
The Moray Ruins, consisting of enormous circular terraces believed to be an agricultural research center, are a highlight of the tour.
The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, a professional guide, and entrance fees, but does not include food and drinks.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview

This half-day tour explores the cultural and archaeological wonders of Maras, Moray, and Chinchero.

Priced from $61.83 per person, the 6-hour tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off in Cusco. Available in Spanish and English, the tour visits a textile workshop and Chinchero market on Sundays.

Priced from $61.83 per person, the 6-hour tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off in Cusco. Available in Spanish and English, the tour visits a textile workshop and Chinchero market on Sundays.

At the Maras salt mines, you’ll learn about ancient salt production techniques.

Next, discover the circular terraces of Moray, believed to be an Inca agricultural laboratory.

With a reasonable fitness level required, this tour offers a window into the Inca Empire’s advanced construction and agricultural practices.

Looking for more options in Cusco? We've reviewed plenty of other experiences.

Chinchero District

The tour first takes visitors to the Chinchero District, where they can explore a local textile workshop.

Here, guests learn about the traditional weaving techniques and vibrant colors used to create the region’s renowned textiles.

On Sundays, the tour also includes a stop at the Chinchero market, where visitors can browse the stalls and purchase handmade souvenirs directly from local artisans.

This immersive cultural experience allows travelers to gain a deeper understanding of the community’s rich textile heritage and its enduring importance in the daily lives of the Chinchero people.

Maras Salt Mines

Next, the tour takes visitors to the Maras Salt Mines, an incredibly well-preserved Inca salt production site.

A guide leads the group on a 1-hour tour, explaining the ancient techniques used to extract and process the salt. Visitors will see the thousands of small salt pools carved into the mountainside, where seawater is channeled and evaporated, leaving behind the valuable mineral.

This unique site offers a fascinating glimpse into the Inca’s advanced understanding of hydrology and their ability to harness natural resources for economic benefit.

Exploring the mines is a highlight of the half-day tour.

Moray Ruins

After exploring the Maras Salt Mines, the tour continues to the remarkable Moray Ruins. The ruins consist of a series of enormous circular terraces, reaching a depth of 30 meters. These intricate structures are believed to have been an Inca agricultural research center, where they experimented with microclimate and crop cultivation. During the guided tour, visitors can learn about the Inca’s advanced construction techniques and their understanding of the environment.

| Temperature | Precipitation | Humidity |

|————-|————–|———-|

| Warm | Low | Moderate |

| Varies by Terrace Level | Varies by Terrace Level | Varies by Terrace Level |

Moray’s unique design and historical significance make it a highlight of the half-day tour.

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Highlights

Visitors can look forward to a well-rounded experience on this half-day tour.

They’ll visit a local textile workshop in Chinchero, witnessing the intricate process of traditional weaving.

At the Maras salt mines, they’ll learn about the ancient salt production techniques used for centuries.

The highlight is exploring the stunning Moray ruins, with their circular terraces believed to be an Inca agricultural laboratory.

Throughout the tour, guests will deepen their understanding of the Inca Empire and marvel at the advanced construction techniques employed in these historical sites.

There's plenty more to explore in Cusco

Inclusions

The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, allowing for a seamless start and end to the day.

A professional tour guide, fluent in both English and Spanish, leads the group, providing insightful commentary throughout the journey.

Entrance fees to the touristic sites are covered, ensuring hassle-free access.

However, food, drinks, and gratuities aren’t included, giving travelers the flexibility to customize their experience.

With reasonable fitness required, this half-day tour offers a well-rounded exploration of Maras, Moray, and Chinchero, without the burden of logistical arrangements.

Important Information

Travelers should bring their passport, sunglasses, sunscreen, cash, a hat, warm clothing, and comfortable shoes for this tour.

A reasonable level of fitness is required, as the tour involves walking and exploring sites. The tour isn’t suitable for wheelchair users.

Children under 2 can join the tour for free if seated on a parent’s lap. Participants should be aware that food and drinks aren’t included, and gratuities are at their own discretion.

Following these tips will ensure a comfortable and enjoyable experience during the Maras Moray Chinchero Half Day Tour.

The key things to note are:

Appropriate attire and essentials
Fitness level required
Accessibility constraints

Customer Reviews

According to a single verified booking, this Maras Moray Chinchero Half Day Tour receives a remarkable 5/5 overall rating.

Customers rave about the fascinating insights they gain into Inca agricultural techniques at the Moray ruins. They also highlight the stunning beauty of the Maras salt mines and the chance to visit a local textile workshop in Chinchero.

Many find the tour to be a highlight of their Cusco visit, praising the knowledgeable guide who skillfully brings the history and culture to life.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Dress Code for the Tour?

The tour recommends wearing comfortable, casual clothing and appropriate footwear for walking. Layering is suggested due to changing weather conditions. Travelers should also bring sun protection and warm layers.

Can I Take Photographs During the Tour?

Yes, visitors can take photographs during the tour. The tour itinerary encourages participants to capture the scenic landscapes, ancient ruins, and cultural experiences they encounter throughout the day. Photography is generally permitted, though visitors should be mindful of any restrictions at specific sites.

Are There Any Restroom Facilities Available Along the Way?

Yes, there are restroom facilities available during the tour. Participants can use the restrooms at the textile workshop in Chinchero and the visitor centers at the Maras salt mines and Moray ruins.

Do I Need to Bring Snacks or Water for the Tour?

Though food and drinks are not included in the tour, it’s recommended to bring snacks and water to stay hydrated during the 6-hour excursion. Restroom facilities may be available at the various sites visited.

Is There an Option to Extend the Tour Duration?

The tour duration cannot be extended, as it’s a fixed 6-hour itinerary. However, customers can explore the sites at their own pace during the scheduled time. Extending the tour would require booking a separate, longer excursion.

The Sum Up

This half-day tour from Cusco provides an immersive experience into Peru’s rich cultural and archaeological heritage. Visitors will explore the traditional Chinchero market, marvel at the Maras Salt Mines, and discover the fascinating Moray Ruins. With a professional bilingual guide, hotel pickup and drop-off, and an affordable price, this tour offers a comprehensive introduction to the Inca civilization’s ingenuity and local artisan craftsmanship.