Cusco: Maras Salt Mines & Inca Moray Half Day Trip

Cusco’s Maras Salt Mines and Inca Moray have long captivated visitors with their unique histories and breathtaking landscapes. This half-day tour promises an immersive experience, transporting travelers through the Andes to uncover the ancient agricultural techniques and salt-harvesting methods that have endured for centuries. Whether it’s marveling at the dramatic salt ponds or exploring the enigmatic Inca terraces, this adventure offers a glimpse into the region’s remarkable cultural heritage. With a small group size and knowledgeable guide, it’s an opportunity to discover the hidden gems that few get to witness firsthand.

Key Points

• A half-day tour to explore the ancient Inca sites of Moray and Maras Salt Mines near Cusco, Peru, priced from $30 per person.
• The 6-hour excursion includes transportation, a knowledgeable guide, and all entrance fees, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
• Participants can learn about ancient agricultural techniques at Moray and witness the traditional salt harvesting process at Maras Salt Mines.
• The tour accommodates small groups of up to 10 people and provides pickup from downtown Cusco hotels or a central meeting point.
• With an overall rating of 4/5 based on customer reviews, the tour is suitable for various travelers, but not recommended for those with mobility issues.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview and Pricing

The Maras Salt Mines & Inca Moray Half Day Trip is a popular tour option for visitors to Cusco, priced from $30.00 per person.

The 6-hour excursion offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and a reserve now, pay later policy.

Highlights include exploring the Inca architecture of Moray terraces and the nearly 3,000 salt wells at Maras. Guests can learn ancient mining techniques from locals and enjoy a scenic 40-minute ride through the Andes.

The small-group tour, limited to 10 participants, departs from downtown Cusco hotels or a central meeting point in the morning.

Itinerary and Highlights

Visitors embark on a captivating journey through the ancient Inca sites of Moray and the captivating Maras Salt Mines. At Moray, they’ll explore the Inca’s impressive architectural terraces, believed to have been an agricultural experiment station.

Next, they’ll discover the Maras Salt Mines, a network of nearly 3,000 salt evaporation ponds. Locals demonstrate ancient mining techniques, and visitors can try harvesting salt themselves.

The scenic 40-minute drive through the Andes mountains offers breathtaking views, completing this immersive half-day excursion into Peru’s rich cultural heritage.

Pickup and Meeting Information

Pickup for the Maras Salt Mines & Inca Moray Half Day Trip is provided from hotels in downtown Cusco or a central meeting point at the Water Fountain of Plaza Kusipata (Plaza Regocijo).

The guide will call participants by name at the meeting point. This convenient pickup service ensures a seamless start to the tour. Guests should arrive at the meeting spot on time as the group will depart promptly.

The scenic 40-minute ride to the first site, the Inca Moray terraces, offers a preview of the stunning Andean landscape that awaits.

Included Services

The Maras Salt Mines & Inca Moray Half Day Trip includes a range of services to ensure a seamless and enriching experience.

Transportation to and from the sites is provided, and a knowledgeable Spanish and English-speaking guide accompanies the group throughout the tour.

Entrance fees to the Moray and Maras Salt Mines are also covered, allowing visitors hassle-free access.

The tour even includes gratuities, so there’s no need to worry about tipping.

With gratuities included, travelers can enjoy the tour without the hassle of tipping.

With these inclusive services, travelers can focus on seeing the fascinating history and natural wonders of these Inca sites.

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Participant Information and Reviews

Although the Maras Salt Mines & Inca Moray Half Day Trip accommodates small groups of up to 10 participants, it caters to a range of travelers, including couples, friends, solo adventurers, and families.

According to the reviews, the tour has an overall rating of 4/5 based on 5 customer reviews.

Key considerations for participants include:

1. Comfortable shoes and clothing are essential for the scenic 40-minute ride through the Andes and the hands-on salt mining experience.

2. Bringing cash is recommended for any additional purchases or gratuities.

3. The tour operates in the mornings only.

4. It’s important to note that the tour isn’t recommended for individuals with mobility issues.

The Inca Moray Terraces

Though the Inca Moray terraces appear remarkably well-preserved, they were once part of an advanced agricultural experimentation site created by the Inca Empire.

The concentric circular terraces descend into a natural sinkhole, creating a unique microclimate. Researchers believe the Incas used these terraces to study the effects of altitude on crops, experimenting with different growing conditions.

Visitors can wander through the eerie, sunken ruins, marveling at the Inca’s engineering prowess. The site offers stunning vistas of the Andes and provides a glimpse into the Incas’ sophisticated understanding of agriculture and climate.

The Maras Salt Mines

Situated a short drive from the Inca Moray terraces, the Maras Salt Mines are a remarkable feat of Incan engineering.

This ancient salt-harvesting site features nearly 3,000 small pools chiseled into the mountainside. Locals have utilized these salt wells for centuries, employing traditional methods to collect the valuable mineral.

Visitors can:

1. Observe the intricate network of pools filled with saline spring water.

2. Learn about the ancient mining techniques from knowledgeable local guides.

3. Participate in hands-on salt harvesting demonstrations.

4. Soak in the stunning Andean vistas surrounding the mines.

What to Expect on the Tour

The Maras Salt Mines and Inca Moray tour provides a captivating glimpse into Peru’s ancient heritage.

Visitors will explore the nearly 3,000 salt evaporation ponds of the Maras Salt Mines, learning about the centuries-old salt-harvesting techniques from local experts.

At Inca Moray, the remarkable Inca agricultural terraces offer a chance to marvel at the engineering ingenuity of the empire.

The scenic 40-minute ride through the Andes offers breathtaking views.

The scenic 40-minute ride through the Andes offers breathtaking views, a highlight of this captivating tour.

Small groups ensure personalized attention from the English and Spanish-speaking guides, who share insights into the cultural and historical significance of these remarkable sites.

Things To Know

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

Visitors can bring their own snacks and drinks on the tour, but the tour doesn’t include a dedicated meal or food stop. Participants are encouraged to bring any necessary refreshments to enjoy during the excursion.

Is the Tour Suitable for People With Mobility Issues?

The tour may not be suitable for those with mobility issues. While the tour includes transportation, the sites involve walking on uneven terrain and steps, which could pose challenges for some participants. It’s best to consult the tour provider for specific accessibility details.

What Is the Cancellation and Refund Policy?

The tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Customers can also reserve their spot without any upfront payment, taking advantage of the "book now, pay later" option.

Is There an Option to Extend or Customize the Tour?

There doesn’t appear to be an option to extend or customize the tour. The tour package has a fixed 6-hour itinerary, though customers can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Can I Take Photographs During the Tour?

Absolutely! Guests are encouraged to take photographs throughout the tour. The breathtaking landscapes and cultural sights provide ample opportunities to capture memorable moments during the visit to the Maras Salt Mines and Inca Moray.

Sum Up

The Maras Salt Mines and Inca Moray excursion offers a captivating glimpse into Peru’s ancient history and remarkable engineering feats. Explore the impressive agricultural terraces and the stunning salt evaporation ponds, all while marveling at the breathtaking Andean scenery. This small-group tour provides personalized attention and insightful commentary, making it an unforgettable experience for anyone seeking to enjoy the rich cultural heritage of Cusco.

You can check availability for your dates here: