Cusco: Half Day Private Service, Moray and Maras Salt Mines

Exploring the ancient Inca sites of Moray and Maras Salt Mines is a must-do experience for any visitor to Cusco. This half-day private tour offers an in-depth look at the region’s rich cultural heritage, immersing travelers in the stunning landscapes and vibrant traditions that have captivated visitors for centuries. From the remarkable agricultural terraces at Moray to the iconic salt ponds of Maras, this excursion promises to unveil the fascinating history and enduring significance of these iconic landmarks.

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Good To Know

A 6-hour private tour exploring the Moray and Maras Salt Mines, priced from $69 per person, with pickup from Cusco hotels.
Visit the circular Andean terraces of Moray, an ancient Inca agricultural laboratory, and the over 3,500 salt ponds of Maras.
Tour available in English and Spanish, concluding with a stop in Chinchero to observe traditional Andean weaving.
Gain insights into the rich cultural heritage and engineering feats of the Inca civilization at the Moray and Maras sites.
Comprehensive half-day private experience showcasing the natural wonders and cultural significance of the Cusco region.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview

This tour offers a half-day private service to explore the ancient Incan sites of Moray and Maras Salt Mines in the Sacred Valley.

Priced from $69 per person, the 6-hour tour is available in English and Spanish. Guests will be picked up from their Cusco hotel and transported to the sites.

Priced from $69 per person, the 6-hour tour is available in English and Spanish. Guests will be picked up from their Cusco hotel and transported to the sites.

At Moray, they’ll see the remarkable circular Andean terraces, an ancient agricultural laboratory.

Next, they’ll visit the Maras Salt Mines, with over 3,500 salt ponds carved into the mountainside.

Finally, the tour stops in Chinchero, known for preserving traditional Andean weaving.

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Itinerary Details

After being picked up from their hotel in Cusco, guests are transported to the Sacred Valley to explore the ancient Incan sites of Moray and Maras Salt Mines.

The first stop is Moray, an ancient agricultural laboratory featuring circular Andean terraces.

Next, they visit the Maras Salt Mines, showcasing over 3,500 salt ponds carved into the mountainside.

The tour then proceeds to Chinchero, known for its traditional Andean weaving.

Guests are scheduled to arrive back in Cusco by 2:00 p.m., concluding this comprehensive half-day private experience.

Historical and Cultural Significance of Maras Salt Mines

The Maras Salt Mines have long held historical and cultural significance in the region.

Situated at an impressive elevation of 3,000 meters above sea level, these salt ponds have been a source of salt extraction for centuries. The indigenous people of the area have used this natural resource to sustain their communities, trading the salt for other goods.

The unique design of the salt ponds, carved into the mountainside, showcases the ingenuity and adaptation of the Andean people to their environment.

The ingeniously designed salt ponds, carved into the mountainside, reflect the Andean people’s adaptive resilience to their environment.

Today, visitors can witness this centuries-old practice and gain insight into the rich cultural heritage of the region.

Historical and Cultural Significance of Moray

Though lesser known than the Maras Salt Mines, the Moray archaeological site holds immense historical and cultural significance.

This ancient Inca agricultural terraced complex was used as an experimental crop laboratory. The concentric circular terraces were designed to adapt crops to different micro-climates, showcasing the Inca’s advanced understanding of agriculture.

Archaeologists believe Moray was a testing ground where the Inca experimented with new crops and growing techniques. The site’s unique architecture and advanced agricultural practices demonstrate the Inca’s impressive mastery of the land and their innovative spirit.

Visiting Moray provides a glimpse into the Inca’s agricultural ingenuity.

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Historical and Cultural Significance of Chinchero

Chinchero, a village known for its traditional Andean weaving, holds cultural significance as a site where the Inca Empire’s influence is still strongly felt.

The town’s colonial-era church features stunning Inca and Spanish architectural elements.

Locals continue the centuries-old practice of weaving vibrant textiles using natural dyes and traditional techniques. Visitors can watch weavers at work and browse stalls showcasing their handcrafted products.

Locals continue centuries-old weaving of vibrant textiles using natural dyes and traditional techniques. Visitors can watch weavers at work and browse their handcrafted products.

Chinchero’s markets offer a glimpse into the living cultural heritage of the Andes, where age-old traditions endure.

The town’s history, art, and people make it a must-see stop on any exploration of the Sacred Valley.

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Inclusions

The tour package includes hotel pick-up from locations near or within Cusco’s historic center, providing convenient transportation to the sites. Travelers will also receive professional bilingual tour guides, who can provide insights in both English and Spanish. Plus, all entrance fees are covered, including access to the remarkable Moray site ($20.00) and the iconic Maras Salt Mines ($5.00).

| Inclusions | Details |

| — | — |

| Hotel Pick-up | Near or within historic center |

| Transportation | Tourist transportation provided |

| Tour Guide | Professional bilingual guide |

| Entrance Fees | Moray ($20.00), Salineras ($5.00) |

Booking Information

Travelers can take advantage of the tour’s flexible booking options, which include free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Customers can also opt for the "Reserve Now & Pay Later" feature, offering greater flexibility in planning their trip.

To secure a spot, visitors simply need to check availability for their preferred starting times.

This private, half-day service covers the highlights of Moray and the Maras Salt Mines, along with transportation, a professional bilingual guide, and all necessary entrance fees – making it a convenient and comprehensive Cusco experience.

Getting There

Getting to the Moray and Maras Salt Mines starts with a pickup from your hotel in Cusco. Your private transportation will take you on a scenic drive through the Sacred Valley, passing by Andean landscapes and rural communities.

The journey takes around an hour, allowing you to admire the stunning mountain vistas along the way. Upon arrival at Moray, you’ll explore the ancient agricultural terraces before continuing to the Maras Salt Mines, where over 3,500 salt ponds dot the mountainside.

After visiting these historic sites, you’ll return to Cusco, arriving around 2:00 PM.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Minimum Group Size for the Private Tour?

The minimum group size for the private tour is 1 person. This is a private service, allowing for a customized experience with a dedicated guide and transportation.

Can I Customize the Itinerary to Visit Additional Sites?

Yes, the tour can be customized to include additional sites. The private nature of the experience allows for flexibility in the itinerary to accommodate the traveler’s interests, pending availability and logistics.

Are There Any Covid-19 Safety Protocols in Place for the Tour?

The tour operator has implemented COVID-19 safety protocols, including requiring masks, providing hand sanitizer, and limiting group sizes. Guests can expect a safe and enjoyable experience while exploring the historical and cultural sites.

What Type of Transportation Is Used for the Tour?

The tour uses private tourist transportation, which is included in the price. The transportation is designed to comfortably accommodate the small private group and provide a seamless experience throughout the half-day excursion.

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

Participants can bring their own food and drinks on the tour. However, the tour operator does not provide or recommend any specific food or drinks, as the focus is on the sightseeing experience.

The Sum Up

This private tour from Cusco offers a unique opportunity to explore the Andes’ rich cultural heritage. Visitors can enjoy the ancient Inca agricultural terraces of Moray, the iconic salt ponds of Maras, and the vibrant traditions of Chinchero. With hotel pickup and a 6-hour excursion, this tour provides an in-depth, guided experience priced at $69 per person, making it an accessible and comprehensive way to discover the region’s stunning landscapes and historical significance.

You can check availability for your dates here: