Maras is a captivating destination that offers a unique blend of ancient heritage and modern rejuvenation. This full-day excursion promises an unforgettable experience, taking you on a journey through the iconic salt mines, immersing you in the vibrant community of Misminay, and unveiling the engineering marvels of the Moray archaeological site. But the real highlight? The chance to indulge in a reinvigorating salt massage, leaving you refreshed and inspired. Intrigued? Let’s dive deeper into the details of this extraordinary adventure.
Good To Know
- A full-day adventure tour that includes visiting the ancient salt mines of Maras, experiencing local customs in Misminay, and exploring the Moray archaeological center.
- Highlights include a guided tour, a rejuvenating salt massage, and the opportunity to learn about the unique properties and traditional production methods of Maras salt.
- The tour is priced at $85 per person and includes hotel pickup, transportation, a guide, and lunch.
- Visitors can enjoy the local lifestyle and customs of the Misminay community, including a traditional snack and lunch.
- The Moray archaeological center features terraced circular depressions used by the Incas for agricultural research and experimentation with crops and microclimates.
Tour Overview
This excursion offers a comprehensive exploration of the Sacred Valley‘s captivating attractions, including the centuries-old salt mines of Maras, the enigmatic circular terraces of Moray, and the traditional community of Misminay.
It’s a full-day adventure lasting 10 hours, priced at $85 per person. Cancellation is free up to 24 hours in advance, and you can reserve now and pay later.
Highlights include a guided tour of Moray, a salt massage, and experiencing local customs in Misminay.
Hotel pickup and return, transportation, an English/Spanish guide, and lunch are all included.
Looking for more options in Cusco? We've reviewed plenty of other experiences.
Itinerary Breakdown
The excursion begins with a hotel pickup in Cusco between 8:00 and 8:30 AM.
First, you’ll visit the ancient salt mines of Maras, dating back to Inca times. Here, you’ll learn about the unique properties of Maras salt.
Next, you’ll explore the community of Misminay, experiencing local customs and traditions. Enjoy a welcome snack and lunch, including a starter, main dish, and drink.
Then, you’ll hike to the Moray viewpoint and take a guided tour of the archaeological center.
The highlight is a rejuvenating salt massage, including a medicinal foot bath, using the Maras salt.
Discovering the Salt Mines of Maras
After visiting Cusco and getting an early start to the day, the tour heads to the ancient salt mines of Maras. Nestled in the Sacred Valley, these salt mines have been in use since Inca times. Guests learn about the unique properties of Maras salt and its medicinal benefits.
| Maras Salt Properties |
| — | — | — |
| Mineral-rich | Anti-inflammatory | Skin Rejuvenation |
| Low in sodium | Detoxifying | Joint Pain Relief |
| High in magnesium | Immune Boosting | Circulatory Benefits |
The tour provides an opportunity to experience the local lifestyle and witness the salt extraction process, which has remained largely unchanged for centuries.
Taking in the Community of Misminay
From Maras, the tour continues to the community of Misminay, where guests enjoy the local lifestyle and customs.
They’ll experience a warm welcome from the community, learning about their traditional practices and cultural heritage.
Visitors enjoy a traditional snack and lunch, savoring the flavors of Misminay’s cuisine.
The highlight is interacting with the locals, gaining insight into their daily lives and celebrations.
It’s a chance to step into an authentic Andean village, forging connections and appreciating the richness of this vibrant community.
The Misminay experience rounds out the sacred valley adventure.
More Great Tours NearbyExploring the Moray Archaeological Center
After exploring the salt mines of Maras, the tour continues up the winding mountain road to the Moray archaeological center.
This Inca ruin features a series of terraced circular depressions, believed to have been an advanced agricultural research site. As visitors climb to the viewpoint, the guide explains the purpose and construction of this unique site.
The concentric rings served as a sort of natural greenhouse, allowing the Incas to experiment with different crops and microclimates.
Exploring the ruins, travelers gain insights into Inca agricultural innovation and engineering marvels at over 11,000 feet above sea level.
The Salt Massage Experience
As visitors make their way back down the mountain from the Moray archaeological site, they’re treated to a rejuvenating salt massage using the naturally-occurring salt from the nearby Maras salt ponds. The experience begins with a soothing foot bath, followed by a full-body massage using the mineral-rich salt. This ancient ritual not only relaxes the muscles but also aims to draw out toxins and promote overall well-being. The massage leaves skin feeling soft and nourished, a perfect way to cap off the day’s exploration of the Sacred Valley’s natural wonders.
| Maras Salt Massage | |
|———————|———————|
| Soothing Foot Bath | Mineral-Rich Salt |
| Full-Body Massage | Toxin Release |
| Muscle Relaxation | Soft, Nourished Skin |
| Ancient Ritual | Sacred Valley Exploration |
Inclusions and Exclusions
The tour package includes a comprehensive array of services to ensure a seamless and enriching experience.
Pickup and return transfers to your hotel in Cusco, transportation by minibus, and an expert English and Spanish-speaking guide are all provided.
You’ll enjoy a welcome aperitif, a delicious lunch with a starter, main dish, and drink, as well as live music.
Entrance fees to the Moray archaeological site and the salt massage treatment are also included.
The only exclusion is travel insurance, which you’ll need to arrange separately.
Simply check availability and reserve your spot for an unforgettable day.
Booking and Availability
Booking this excursion is straightforward, as you can check availability directly on the tour provider’s website or with their customer service team.
They offer a convenient "Reserve now & pay later" option, which allows you to secure your spot without an upfront payment.
Plus, the tour has a flexible cancellation policy – you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
This makes planning your Cusco adventure hassle-free.
With the option to check dates and group sizes, you can easily find the perfect time to embark on this unforgettable tour of Maras, Moray, and Misminay.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is the Group Size for This Excursion?
The group size for this excursion is not specified in the details provided. However, it’s common for these types of tours to accommodate small to medium-sized groups, usually ranging from 6 to 20 participants, to ensure a personalized experience.
Can I Customize the Itinerary to My Preferences?
Travelers can customize the itinerary to their preferences, within reason. The tour operator is flexible and can accommodate special requests, such as adding or removing activities, adjusting the schedule, or accommodating dietary needs. Just let them know your preferences in advance.
Are Vegetarian or Dietary Options Available for Lunch?
Yes, vegetarian and dietary options are available for the included lunch. The tour operator can accommodate various dietary needs with advance notice. Just let them know your preferences when booking the excursion.
Can I Purchase Additional Souvenirs During the Tour?
Yes, you can purchase additional souvenirs during the tour. The itinerary includes stops at local communities where you’ll have the opportunity to explore artisan shops and pick up handmade crafts or other unique items.
Is There an Age Limit or Minimum Requirement for This Activity?
The tour doesn’t have an age limit or minimum requirement. It’s suitable for all ages, but children must be accompanied by an adult. Participants should be able to hike short distances and withstand high altitudes.
The Sum Up
This immersive full-day excursion offers an unbeatable value. Explore the ancient salt mines, experience a rejuvenating salt massage, dive into the vibrant community of Misminay, and marvel at the impressive Moray archaeological site – all for just $85 per person. It’s the perfect way to discover the cultural and natural wonders of Peru’s Sacred Valley.
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