Exploring the Inca Empire’s agricultural heritage is a captivating experience. Excursions to Maras and Moray Salt Mines offer a unique opportunity to uncover the innovative techniques used by the Incas. From the circular terraces of Moray designed for crop experimentation to the stunning Maras Salt Mines reflecting centuries-old production, this immersive 6-hour tour provides insights into the rich culture and history of the region. With expert guides leading the way, visitors can expect an educational and visually captivating journey.

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Key Points

Guided excursions to Moray and Maras Salt Mines provide immersive experiences into the unique salt-making heritage and advanced agricultural practices of the Inca Empire.
The 6-hour tour includes hotel pickup, professional guide, and tourist transportation, with a 1.5-hour van ride to Moray and 1-hour tours at each site.
Moray’s circular terraces were used by the Inca as an agricultural research center, while Maras is renowned for its ancient salt mines and over 3,000 salt ponds.
The tour offers insights into the Inca’s understanding of microclimates and sustainable agriculture, as well as the beauty of the Maras Salt Mines.
Advance booking is recommended, with a tourist ticket required and a reserve now, pay later option available, though the tour is not suitable for wheelchair users.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Excursion Overview

The excursion to Maras and Moray Salt Mines offers a 6-hour tour, priced from $20.00 per person.

Guests can enjoy free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. A reserve now & pay later option is also available.

The tour includes hotel pickup, a professional guide, and tourist transportation. Visitors will explore the ancient Inca sites of Moray and Maras, learning about their historical significance.

The itinerary is subject to change, but generally includes guided tours at both locations with a break in between.

This excursion provides an immersive experience into the unique salt-making heritage of the region.

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Itinerary Details

The excursion begins with pickup from the Centro Histórico, followed by a 1.5-hour van ride to Moray. At Moray, guests embark on a guided tour spanning 1 hour to explore the Inca’s circular terraces. After a 30-minute break, the group travels 30 minutes to Maras, where they tour the salt mines for 1 hour.

| Destination | Duration |

| — | — |

| Moray | 1 hour |

| Break | 30 minutes |

| Maras | 1 hour |

The excursion finishes at Plaza San Francisco, although the itinerary is subject to change.

Historical Significance of Moray and Maras

Moray possibly served as an agricultural research center of the Inca Empire, with its circular terraces designed to create microclimates for crop experimentation.

The Maras region is known for its Salineras, over 3,000 salt ponds on mountain slopes. Legend has it that the origin of salt in the region can be traced back to Ayar Cachi, an Inca figure.

These ancient salt mines provided a crucial resource for the Inca civilization.

Exploring the historical significance of these sites offers insights into the Inca’s advanced agricultural and engineering practices, as well as their cultural traditions.

Highlights of the Tour

While exploring the circular platforms of Moray, visitors can marvel at the Inca’s advanced engineering and understand how they used these unique structures for agricultural experimentation.

The tour also highlights the beauty and ancestral production of the Maras Salt Mines, where over 3,000 salt ponds dot the mountain slopes.

Expert guides provide insightful commentary on Inca history and culture, bringing these remarkable sites to life.

Expert guides provide insightful commentary on Inca history and culture, bringing these remarkable sites to life.

The key highlights of the tour include:

Discovering the innovative circular terraces of Moray and their role in Inca crop experimentation.
Experiencing the centuries-old tradition of salt production at the Maras Salt Mines.
Learning about the Inca’s sophisticated understanding of microclimates and sustainable agriculture.

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Inclusions and Restrictions

As part of the excursion, the tour includes hotel pickup, a professional tour guide, transportation via tourist bus, and permanent company support.

However, visitors must purchase a tourist ticket, which costs 130 soles for foreigners and 70 soles for Peruvians. This ticket can’t be canceled once purchased.

The tour isn’t suitable for wheelchair users, and the use of alcohol or drugs is prohibited in the vehicle.

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Pickup and Drop-off Locations

The tour begins with hotel pickup from the Centro Histórico, the historic center of the city.

The tour begins with hotel pickup from the Centro Histórico, the historic center of the city.

From there, the group travels by van for approximately 1.5 hours to the stunning Inca ruins of Moray.

The key pickup and drop-off locations are:

Pickup: Centro Histórico
Drop-off: Plaza San Francisco

The tour finishes at the Plaza San Francisco, allowing easy access to other attractions in the area.

This convenient transportation ensures a seamless experience, allowing guests to fully enjoy the rich history and natural beauty of Moray and Maras.

Transportation and Duration

The tour begins with a 1.5-hour van ride from the Centro Histórico to the stunning Inca ruins of Moray.

After a guided tour of the circular terraces, there’s a 30-minute break.

Then, it’s a 30-minute drive to the Maras Salt Mines. Guests will explore the ancient saltpans on a guided tour for an hour.

The total duration of the excursion is 6 hours, with transportation accounting for 2 hours of that time.

The tour concludes at the Plaza San Francisco, though the itinerary is subject to change.

Comfortable shoes and sun protection are recommended for this immersive journey through Inca history.

Pricing and Cancellation Policy

The excursion to Maras and Moray Salt Mines is priced from $20.00 per person.

Travelers can take advantage of a few key benefits:

Free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
A "reserve now & pay later" option is available.
The price includes hotel pickup, a professional tour guide, tourist bus, and permanent company support.

However, visitors should note that the tourist ticket isn’t included in the excursion price and costs 130 soles for foreigners or 70 soles for Peruvians.

Plus, the tour isn’t suitable for wheelchair users, and the use of alcohol or drugs is prohibited in the vehicle.

Things To Know

Can I Book the Tour on the Same Day?

Yes, you can book the tour on the same day. The tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, and a reserve now & pay later option is available.

Is Photography Allowed at the Sites?

Yes, photography is allowed at both Moray and Maras Salt Mines. Visitors can take photos to capture the stunning landscapes and cultural heritage, though they should be mindful of any restrictions or guidelines provided by the tour guides.

What Is the Dress Code for the Tour?

The tour has a casual dress code. Comfortable walking shoes and sun protection are recommended, as visitors will be exploring outdoor archaeological sites. Layers may be helpful due to potential changes in weather and temperature.

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks?

Yes, you can bring your own food and drinks for the tour. However, the tour itinerary includes a break time, so you may want to plan accordingly. Consuming alcohol or drugs on the vehicle is not permitted.

Is the Tour Available in Other Languages Besides English?

The tour is available in multiple languages, including English, Spanish, and other options. Visitors should inquire about language availability when booking to ensure they can participate in their preferred language.

Sum Up

Exploring the ancient Inca sites of Moray and Maras offers a captivating window into Peru’s rich agricultural heritage. Visitors can enjoy the innovative farming techniques and centuries-old salt production methods that shaped this region. With knowledgeable guides and stunning scenery, this immersive tour provides an educational and visually striking experience.