Cusco, the ancient Inca capital, offers a captivating journey to uncover the wonders of Maras, Moray, and Chinchero. Visitors can explore Moray’s unique terraced ruins, where the Incas conducted agricultural experiments, and marvel at the Salineras de Maras, an impressive network of salt pools showcasing traditional extraction methods. Explore Chinchero’s cultural heritage, featuring ancient ruins and a vibrant artisan market. This guided tour promises to immerse travelers in the rich history and traditions of the region. Uncover the secrets that await in this captivating Andean landscape.

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Good To Know

The guided tour covers the Inca archaeological sites of Moray and Chinchero, as well as the traditional salt pools of Maras, highlighting the region’s history and cultural heritage.
Moray features unique circular terraces used by the Incas for agricultural experiments to study microclimates and optimize crop productivity across their empire.
Salineras de Maras showcases the traditional salt extraction methods that have been preserved for generations, demonstrating the Incas’ engineering and community resilience.
Chinchero offers a glimpse into the town’s rich cultural heritage, with Inca ruins, a colonial church, and a vibrant artisan market featuring traditional textiles, pottery, and handicrafts.
The 5-hour tour includes round-trip transportation and the option for easy booking with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Overview and Pricing

This guided tour offers visitors the opportunity to explore the captivating sites of Maras, Moray, and Chinchero.

Priced at $75 per person, the tour lasts 5 hours and includes round-trip transportation.

Travelers can take advantage of free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

The tour also allows for easy booking, as you can reserve your spot and pay later.

Whether you’re interested in the region’s history, agriculture, or artisanal crafts, this comprehensive tour provides a well-rounded experience in the Sacred Valley.

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

Itinerary and Highlights

The tour begins with pickup from the agreed location in Cusco, whether your hotel, the train station, or the airport.

The first stop is Moray, an Inca archaeological site with unique circular terraces used for agricultural experiments. The journey takes about an hour from Cusco.

Next, visit the Salineras de Maras, salt pools where locals have traditionally extracted salt, offering spectacular views. The drive from Moray to Chinchero takes around 30 minutes.

In Chinchero, explore ancient Inca ruins, agricultural terraces, and a colonial church built on an Inca base, plus a local handicraft market.

Moray: Agricultural Experiments of the Incas

Moray is an Inca archaeological site featuring unique circular terraces that the Incas used for agricultural experiments.

The terraces, arranged in a vast amphitheater, allowed the Incas to study the effects of different microclimates on crops. Each level has a slightly different temperature, humidity, and solar exposure, mimicking diverse growing conditions found across the Andes.

By testing different crops and cultivation techniques in this controlled environment, the Incas gained valuable insights that helped optimize agricultural productivity throughout their empire.

Today, visitors can explore this remarkable agricultural laboratory and learn about the Incas’ advanced farming practices.

Salineras De Maras: Traditional Salt Extraction

Nestled in the Sacred Valley of the Incas, the Salineras de Maras, or Maras Salt Mines, showcase a remarkable display of traditional salt extraction methods that have endured for centuries.

Visitors can explore the vast network of over 5,000 salt pools, or "salinas," carved into the mountainside. Salt water springs up from the earth, filling the salinas which are then left to evaporate, leaving behind the precious mineral.

Locals have harvested salt from these ancient ponds for generations, a testament to the Incas’ ingenious engineering and the resilience of this community’s traditions.

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Chinchero: Inca Ruins and Artisan Market

After exploring the remarkable Salineras de Maras, visitors often make their way to the charming town of Chinchero, known for its Inca ruins and vibrant artisan market.

Chinchero was an important Inca city, and the ancient ruins showcase agricultural terraces and the foundations of an Inca palace. Nearby, a colonial church was built atop Inca masonry.

At the bustling local market, artisans sell traditional textiles, pottery, and other handicrafts. Visitors can enjoy the town’s rich cultural heritage and browse the vibrant stalls, making Chinchero a highlight of the Cusco experience.

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Cultural and Historical Significance

Although the Moray archaeological site is renowned for its unique Inca agricultural terraces, the cultural and historical significance of the Maras salt mines and the town of Chinchero can’t be overstated.

At Moray, visitors can learn about the Incas’ advanced agricultural practices through the site’s panoramic terraced landscape.

The Salineras de Maras offer a glimpse into ancestral salt extraction processes, showcased in a surreal natural setting.

In Chinchero, travelers can explore ancient Inca ruins, agricultural terraces, and a colonial church built upon Inca foundations, while browsing the local artisan market.

Transportation and Accessibility

The tour features private and comfortable round-trip transportation from the agreed pick-up location in Cusco, whether it’s a hotel, train station, or airport.

The English and Spanish-speaking driver ensures a smooth journey to Moray, Salineras, and Chinchero.

The tour is wheelchair accessible, allowing everyone to explore these remarkable Inca sites with ease.

Guests can focus on seeing the cultural and historical significance of the destinations, without worrying about the logistics of transportation.

The tour’s accessibility caters to the needs of all visitors, ensuring a memorable and inclusive experience.

What’s Included and Excluded

The tour’s inclusions cover the essentials for a comprehensive Cusco experience. This includes:

Pickup and return to your hotel
A professional, English and Spanish-speaking guide
Entrance tickets to the archaeological sites of Moray, Salineras, and Chinchero

However, the tour excludes meals and tips for the staff.

This allows you to explore the region at your own pace and enjoy the local cuisine on your own.

With transportation and admission fees taken care of, you can focus on enjoying the cultural and historical significance of these remarkable sites.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Best Time of Year to Visit These Sites?

The best time to visit Maras, Moray, and Chinchero is during the dry season from May to October. This offers clear skies, comfortable temperatures, and fewer crowds for an optimal experience exploring these remarkable Inca archaeological sites.

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Tour?

Yes, visitors can bring their own food and drinks on the tour. The tour doesn’t include meals, so you’re welcome to pack a picnic or snacks to enjoy during the excursion.

Is This Tour Suitable for Families With Young Children?

Yes, this tour is suitable for families with young children. The private transportation is wheelchair accessible, and the itinerary includes educational and visually interesting sites that can engage children while exploring Inca history and culture.

Are There Any Restrictions on Photography at the Sites?

Visitors can generally take photos at the Maras, Moray, and Chinchero sites, but they should check with the tour guide for any restrictions. Photography is usually allowed, though visitors should be respectful and avoid disrupting the experience for others.

Can I Customize or Personalize the Tour Itinerary?

Yes, the tour can be customized or personalized. Customers can discuss their interests and preferences with the tour provider to create a tailored itinerary that suits their needs and ensures they get the most out of the experience.

The Sum Up

This guided tour from Cusco offers a captivating glimpse into the rich cultural and historical legacy of the Inca civilization. Visitors will explore Moray’s unique agricultural terraces, marvel at the Salineras de Maras’ ancient salt extraction methods, and enjoy Chinchero’s vibrant artisan community. It’s an opportunity to discover the enduring traditions and ingenuity of the Andean region.

You can check availability for your dates here: