Discover the captivating cultural and historical wonders that lie beyond Cusco’s city limits. This excursion takes you on a journey through the stunning landscapes of Chinchero, Moray, and the Salt Mines of Maras, each offering a unique glimpse into Peru’s remarkable heritage. From the intricate artistry of handwoven textiles to the ancient agricultural practices preserved within the mystical ruins, this tour promises an enriching experience that will leave you eager to uncover more.

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Key Points

Explore the Inca heritage and traditional weaving in Chinchero, followed by visits to the unique circular terraces of Moray and the ancient salt mines of Maras.
This 6.5-hour excursion from Cusco includes a bilingual guide, transportation, and the option for private groups, starting from Kč 415 per person.
Visitors can learn about Inca agricultural practices and witness the salt production process at the Salt Mines of Maras.
The tour offers flexibility with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, allowing guests to reserve spots and pay later.
Entrance fees to Moray and the Salt Mines are additional, and tips for the guide are not included in the package price.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview

This excursion takes participants from Cusco to the historic sites of Chinchero, Moray, and the Salt Mines of Maras, covering a total duration of 6.5 hours.

The tour is available in both Spanish and English, and private group options are offered. Prices start from Kč 415 per person.

This tour offers both Spanish and English options, as well as private group availability, starting at Kč 415 per person.

Check availability for starting times. The tour includes a bilingual guide and transportation with hotel pick-up and return service.

Entrance fees to Moray and the Salt Mines are additional costs to be paid on-site. No upfront payment is required, and free cancellation is offered up to 24 hours in advance.

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

Exploring Chinchero

As the excursion begins, visitors are introduced to the important Inca village of Chinchero. Known for its handmade textiles, Chinchero offers a glimpse into traditional weaving processes.

Travelers have the opportunity to interact with local families and witness the intricate techniques used to create these vibrant fabrics.

The village’s historical significance is palpable, with remnants of Inca architecture and a stunning colonial church.

Exploring Chinchero provides a rich cultural experience, allowing visitors to enjoy the enduring traditions that have been passed down through generations of skilled artisans.

Unraveling the Secrets of Moray

After departing Chinchero, the excursion proceeds to the remarkable site of Moray.

This ancient Inca agricultural laboratory features unique circular terraces, providing a glimpse into the advanced irrigation techniques used by the Incas.

Visitors can:

Explore the intricate system of terraces and channels that maintained precise temperature and moisture levels.
Learn how the Incas leveraged the site’s microclimate to experiment with different crops and boost agricultural productivity.
Admire the stunning vistas of the Andes mountains that surround this remarkable archaeological wonder.

Moray’s ingenious design continues to captivate and inspire all who visit this extraordinary Inca legacy.

Discovering the Salt Mines of Maras

The final stop on the excursion is the Salt Mines of Maras, a captivating pre-Inca site where salt has been harvested for centuries.

Visitors can explore the terraced salt ponds, where water from a nearby spring evaporates, leaving behind piles of pure white salt. The process is remarkably simple yet effective, showcasing the Incas’ sophisticated understanding of natural systems.

Travelers can purchase salt directly from the local producers, supporting the community and taking home a unique souvenir.

The dramatic Andean landscape provides a stunning backdrop, making the Salt Mines of Maras a truly memorable and authentic experience.

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Inclusions and Booking Details

The tour package includes a bilingual guide to accompany visitors throughout the excursion.

The tour also includes:

Hotel pick-up and return service for the private group option
Entrance fees to Moray (70 soles) and the Salt Mines (20 soles)
Flexible booking with no upfront payment required and free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.

Guests can reserve their spot and pay later.

Cancellations are hassle-free, with a full refund available if canceled within 24 hours of the tour.

Tips aren’t included in the package price.

There's plenty more to explore in Cusco

Cancellation Policy

Guests can cancel their reservation free of charge up to 24 hours prior to the tour’s start time, entitling them to a full refund.

This flexible cancellation policy ensures travellers can book with confidence, knowing they can adjust their plans if needed.

However, cancellations made within 24 hours of the tour’s start time aren’t eligible for a refund.

This policy allows the tour operator to effectively manage tour logistics and capacity.

Guests are advised to review the cancellation terms carefully when making their reservation to avoid any unexpected charges in the event of a last-minute change of plans.

Meeting Point and Transportation

To begin the tour, guests will be picked up from their hotel or a designated meeting point in Cusco, as per the tour option selected.

For the private tour, a private vehicle will transport guests from their hotel, ensuring a seamless start to the day. The public tour, on the other hand, departs from a central meeting point in Cusco.

Guests can expect:

Comfortable transportation, convenient hotel pickup for private tours, and a seamless start to the immersive Cusco experience.

Comfortable transportation throughout the excursion.
Convenient hotel pickup for private tour participants.
Arrival at the first stop, Chinchero, to begin the immersive experience.

The transportation services provided ensure a smooth and efficient journey, allowing guests to fully focus on the captivating sights and activities ahead.

Panoramic Views and Additional Information

As guests embark on this excursion, they’ll be treated to panoramic views of the snow-capped mountains Chicón and Pitusiry.

The tour includes a bilingual guide and transportation with hotel pick-up and return service. While entrance fees to Moray and the Salt Mines are included, tips for the guide aren’t part of the package.

The meeting point details are available on Google Maps. Visitors can expect an immersive experience, learning about Inca agriculture, traditional weaving, and the pre-Inca salt production process.

With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, this tour offers flexibility for travelers.

Things To Know

Is There an Option to Book a Private Tour?

Yes, a private group option is available for this tour. The private option includes hotel pick-up and return service, allowing for a more personalized and flexible excursion.

Can the Tour Be Customized to Our Preferences?

The tour can be customized to your preferences. The private group option allows you to personalize the itinerary and schedule. You can discuss your interests with the tour operator to create a tailored experience.

What Is the Minimum Group Size for the Tour?

The tour can be booked as a private group, with no minimum group size. This allows customers to customize the experience to their preferences. The standard tour operates with a group size, but the private option offers more flexibility.

Are Food and Drinks Included in the Tour Package?

No, food and drinks are not included in the tour package. The package covers the bilingual guide, transportation, and entrance fees to Moray and the Salt Mines. Guests will need to bring their own food and beverages for the 6.5-hour excursion.

Can We Take Photos During the Tour Activities?

Visitors are welcome to take photos during the tour activities. Photography is generally permitted, though visitors should respect any restrictions or requests made by the local guides or communities. Travelers are encouraged to capture their experiences respectfully.

Sum Up

This enriching 6.5-hour excursion from Cusco offers a captivating exploration of Peru’s cultural and historical treasures. Discover the artistry of handmade textiles in Chinchero, explore ancient agricultural techniques at Moray, and witness traditional salt harvesting at the picturesque salt ponds of Maras. With a bilingual guide and convenient hotel pick-up, this tour promises an insightful journey through Peru’s remarkable heritage.