Cusco: Half-Day Tour to Chinchero, Moray & Maras Salt Mines

The Cusco half-day tour offers a captivating glimpse into Peru’s rich heritage. Travelers can explore the Incan fortress in Chinchero, wander through Moray’s ancient agricultural terraces, and witness the impressive salt extraction methods at the Maras Salt Mines. With comfortable transportation and an English-speaking guide, this private tour provides an immersive experience, allowing visitors to explore the region’s fascinating history and stunning landscapes. Whether you’re a history enthusiast or simply seeking an adventure, this tour promises to unveil the wonders of the Cusco region.

Good To Know

• A half-day private tour exploring the Incan ruins of Chinchero, the ancient agricultural terraces of Moray, and the Maras Salt Mines in the Cusco region.
• The tour is priced from $69.73 per person and includes private transportation, an English-speaking guide, and entrance fees to the sites.
• Highlights include experiencing Andean weaving art, learning about traditional salt extraction methods, and gaining insights into Incan history and agriculture.
• The tour involves soft hiking and is not wheelchair accessible, with availability for starting times potentially limited.
• A comprehensive culture into Peru’s rich heritage, making it a must-see for those interested in the country’s history and landscapes.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview

This half-day tour offers visitors a chance to explore three of Peru’s iconic sites – Chinchero, Moray, and the Maras Salt Mines.

Priced from $69.73 per person, the 8-hour private tour is available in English, Spanish, and Portuguese.

With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, travelers can reserve now and pay later.

The tour includes private transportation, an English-speaking guide, and entrance fees to the archaeological sites.

Visitors can expect to engage in soft hiking, learn about Incan history and agriculture, and enjoy unique cultural experiences.

Itinerary Highlights

As part of the tour, visitors will have the opportunity to explore several captivating sites.

In Chinchero, they’ll visit an Incan fortress, well-preserved Inca walls, altars, and a colonial church with unique artwork. They’ll also experience an Andean weaving art exposition.

Next, they’ll explore the ancient agricultural terraces of Moray, designed for research to showcase micro-climates for different crops.

Explore the ancient agricultural terraces of Moray, designed to showcase micro-climates for different crops.

The final stop is the Maras Salt Mines, where they’ll discover over 3,000 salt pools carved into the mountainside and learn traditional salt extraction methods.

Included Features

The tour includes private transportation and an English-speaking guide to accompany visitors throughout the journey.

Admission to the Iglesia Colonial de Chinchero, Moray, and Salinas de Maras is covered. Travelers will also receive a tourist ticket for the archaeological sites, valued at S/. 70 soles or $25 USD per person.

Full support from a Travel Concierge is provided, ensuring a seamless experience.

Whether it’s exploring the Incan fortress in Chinchero, marveling at the agricultural terraces in Moray, or discovering the salt pools in Maras, this tour offers a comprehensive culture into Peru’s rich heritage.

Activity Experience

Soft hiking through stunning Peruvian landscapes allows travelers to enjoy the region’s natural beauty.

This half-day tour offers a unique cultural experience, providing insights into Incan history and agriculture.

The activity experience includes:

1. Exploring ancient agricultural terraces in Moray, designed for research and showcasing micro-climates for different crops.

2. Discovering over 3,000 salt pools carved into the mountainside at the Maras Salt Mines, and learning traditional salt extraction methods.

3. Experiencing an Andean weaving art exposition in the village of Chinchero.

4. Visiting the well-preserved Inka walls, altars, and colonial church with unique artwork in Chinchero.

More Great Tours Nearby

Important Information

Comfortable shoes are recommended for this tour, as walking is involved. The tour is not wheelchair accessible, so mobility-impaired individuals may have difficulty navigating the sites. It’s essential to check availability for starting times, as the tour may have limited slots.

| Considerations | Details |

| — | — |

| Walking Requirement | Soft hiking through stunning Peruvian landscapes |

| Accessibility | Not wheelchair accessible |

| Availability | Check for starting times |

The tour offers unique cultural experiences and insights into Incan history and agriculture, making it a must-see for those interested in Peru’s rich heritage.

Exploring Chinchero

One of the first stops on this captivating tour is the charming town of Chinchero. Visitors will be enchanted by the Incan fortress, well-preserved walls, altars, and a colonial church boasting unique artwork.

The highlight is an Andean weaving art exposition, where guests can:

1. Observe skilled artisans demonstrating traditional textile techniques.

2. Learn about the significance of vibrant colors and intricate patterns in Andean culture.

3. Browse an array of handcrafted weavings, ponchos, and other souvenirs.

4. Gain insights into the community’s rich heritage and enduring artistic traditions.

This immersive cultural experience sets the stage for the day’s adventure.

Discovering Moray

After exploring the captivating Incan remnants in Chinchero, the tour continues to the remarkable site of Moray.

This ancient agricultural site features intricately designed terraced depressions, each with its own microclimate. Researchers believe the Incas used Moray to experiment with crop cultivation, taking advantage of the varied temperatures and growing conditions.

Visitors can wander the concentric circular terraces, marveling at the engineering feat and the stunning natural landscape. The site offers a unique glimpse into the Incas’ advanced understanding of agriculture and their commitment to innovation and sustainability.

Visiting Maras Salt Mines

The tour then takes visitors to the captivating Maras Salt Mines, a remarkable site where over 3,000 salt pools have been carved into the mountainside.

Guests discover the traditional salt extraction methods used for centuries.

The highlights include:

1. Witnessing the intricate network of salt pools, each filled with naturally occurring brine.

2. Observing the local workers harvesting salt by scooping the brine into smaller pools for evaporation.

3. Learning about the cultural significance of salt production in the Andes.

4. Exploring the breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and valley.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are Meals and Drinks Included in the Tour Price?

No, meals and drinks are not included in the tour price. The tour covers private transportation, an English-speaking guide, admission fees, and cultural experiences, but does not provide food or beverages during the excursion.

Can I Bring My Own Snacks and Water?

Bringing your own snacks and water is generally allowed on this tour. Though meals and drinks are not included in the price, you can bring your own provisions to enjoy during the tour.

What Is the Group Size for the Private Tour?

The private tour allows only your group to participate, so the group size depends on the number of people in your party. The tour is not shared with other travelers.

Can I Extend the Tour Duration if Needed?

The tour duration can be extended if needed, though it may incur additional costs. Travelers should check with the tour provider about the availability and pricing for extending the tour duration beyond the standard 8 hours.

Is There a Discount for Children or Seniors?

The tour does not offer a specific discount for children or seniors. However, the tour operator may be able to provide a discounted rate for minors or seniors upon request, subject to availability and their policies.

The Sum Up

This Cusco half-day tour offers a captivating exploration of Peru’s rich heritage. Visiting the Incan fortress in Chinchero, exploring Moray’s ancient agricultural terraces, and witnessing the impressive salt extraction methods at the Maras Salt Mines, it’s a must-see for history and culture enthusiasts. The private tour with comfortable transportation and an English-speaking guide ensures an immersive experience through stunning landscapes.

You can check availability for your dates here: