Explore the ancient wonders of the Inca civilization on a captivating half-day tour from Cusco. Venture to the remarkable sites of Moray and Maras Salineras, uncovering the cultural significance and engineering feats of these remarkable locations. With a knowledgeable guide, uncover the secrets of the past and gain a deeper appreciation for the ingenuity of the Inca people. This immersive experience promises to transport you back in time and leave you with a newfound understanding of this remarkable region.

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Key Points

This half-day tour from Cusco explores the Inca ruins of Moray and the salt mines of Maras, highlighting the Inca’s ingenious agricultural and salt-making techniques.
The tour lasts 5 hours and includes hotel pickup, bus transportation, a Spanish-speaking guide, and entrance fees to both Moray and Maras.
At Maras, visitors can witness the traditional salt-making process and learn about the cultural significance of the salt mines.
The tour features a stunning viewpoint of the Moray terraces, which were used by the Incas for experimental crop cultivation.
The tour is not suitable for pregnant women, wheelchair users, or visually impaired individuals, and physical requirements should be considered for enjoyment.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview

This half-day tour offers visitors the opportunity to explore two renowned Inca sites near Cusco – Maras and Moray.

The tour lasts 5 hours and costs $22 per person, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance. It’s available in English and Spanish, and guests can reserve their spot without upfront payment.

This half-day tour costs $22 per person, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, and is available in English and Spanish.

The itinerary includes hotel pickup, transportation by bus, and a Spanish-speaking guide. Visitors will spend an hour each at Maras and Moray, learning about the salt mines and agricultural terraces.

The tour returns to Cusco around 2:30 p.m., with drop-off near the Plaza de Armas.

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

Itinerary

The tour begins with pickup at 8:30 a.m. from Cusco. The first stop is Maras, known for its picturesque landscapes and salt mines dating back to Inca times. Visitors spend 1 hour here, including a visit to a viewpoint to learn about the salt quarries.

| Stop | Location | Duration |

|——|———-|———-|

| 1 | Maras | 1 hour |

| 2 | Moray | 1 hour |

Next, the tour heads to Moray, located at 3,500 meters above sea level, featuring circular agricultural terraces. Here, guests explore the archaeological site for 1 hour. The tour returns to Cusco around 2:30 p.m., with drop-off near Plaza de Armas.

Inclusions

The tour includes hotel pickup and transportation by bus, as well as a Spanish-speaking guide.

Entrance fees to both Moray (70 S/ or $18.60) and Maras (15 S/ or $4) are covered.

Visitors will explore the archaeological site of Moray, known for its circular agricultural terraces, and the picturesque salt mines of Maras, dating back to Inca times.

The tour provides a chance to experience the stunning landscapes and cultural significance of these Inca sites.

However, it’s not suitable for pregnant women, wheelchair users, or visually impaired individuals.

Important Information

Although the tour isn’t suitable for pregnant women, wheelchair users, or visually impaired individuals, visitors should ensure they provide the correct contact number with the country code and have WhatsApp for communication.

This is crucial for last-minute reservations, as travelers must confirm availability with the supplier via email. The tour operator emphasizes the importance of this information to ensure smooth coordination and communication throughout the experience.

Plus, visitors should be aware of the physical requirements and make necessary arrangements to fully enjoy the highlights of the Moray and Maras Salineras tour.

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Highlights

Visitors can expect to witness the stunning landscapes and cultural significance of the Inca sites during this tour.

The highlights include:

Exploring the salt mines of Maras, where salt has been harvested since Inca times, and learning about the intricate process.
Marveling at the captivating circular agricultural terraces of Moray, which were once used for experimental crop cultivation.
Taking in the rich history and architectural wonders of these well-preserved Inca ruins, providing a glimpse into the ingenuity and resourcefulness of the ancient civilization.

There's plenty more to explore in Cusco

Maras Salt Mines

Nestled in the Andes mountains, the Maras salt mines have been a vital source of salt for the Inca civilization and continue to be an iconic landmark in Peru.

Visitors can explore the terraced salt ponds, where salt is harvested from the salty spring water. The stunning visual of the bright white ponds contrasted against the rugged, earthy landscape creates a captivating scene.

Guests have the opportunity to learn about the historical significance and traditional salt-making techniques still used today. The Maras salt mines offer a unique glimpse into Peru’s rich cultural heritage and natural wonders.

Moray Archaeological Site

Situated at an impressive elevation of 3,500 meters above sea level, the Moray archaeological site is a testament to the Inca’s ingenuity and agricultural prowess.

The site features a series of concentric circular terraces that were used as an experimental agricultural laboratory. Visitors can explore the site and marvel at the:

Concentric circular terraces that served as an experimental agricultural laboratory for the Inca people.

Intricate terraced design that simulated different microclimates.
Evidence of the Inca’s advanced understanding of crop cultivation and environmental adaptation.
Stunning vistas that overlook the surrounding Andean landscape.

The Moray site offers a unique glimpse into the Inca’s innovative agricultural practices and their profound connection to the land.

Getting to Cusco

Cusco, the ancient Inca capital, can be reached through various transportation options. The city is well-connected by air, land, and rail. Travelers can fly into Alejandro Velasco Astete International Airport, which receives domestic and international flights. By land, buses and private transfers are available from other major cities. The Cusco train station offers routes to destinations like Aguas Calientes, the town near Machu Picchu. Regardless of the mode, getting to Cusco is a convenient and efficient process for visitors exploring the region’s rich history and stunning landscapes.

| Transportation | Duration | Cost |

| — | — | — |

| Airplane | 1-2 hours | $50-$150 |

| Bus | 8-10 hours | $20-$40 |

| Train | 3-4 hours | $50-$100 |

Things To Know

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

The tour does not mention anything about bringing your own food and drinks. However, you can likely bring snacks and water to enjoy during the tour, as long as you don’t disrupt the group experience.

Is There an Option for a Private Tour Instead of a Group Tour?

Yes, the tour offers a private option. Travelers can choose a private tour instead of a group tour for an additional fee. The private tour provides a more personalized experience with a dedicated guide.

Can I Customize the Itinerary to Visit Additional Sites?

Yes, you can customize the itinerary to visit additional sites. The tour provider offers private tours where you can tailor the itinerary to your preferences and explore more Inca sites around Cusco.

Are There Any Age Restrictions or Fitness Requirements for the Tour?

The tour isn’t suitable for pregnant women, wheelchair users, or those with visual impairments. There aren’t any age restrictions, but participants should be physically able to walk over uneven terrain for extended periods.

Can I Pay in a Different Currency Besides Peruvian Soles?

Participants can pay in U.S. dollars or other major currencies, as the tour provider accepts multiple currencies for the entrance fees and any additional expenses. The exact exchange rate will be provided at the time of payment.

Sum Up

This captivating half-day tour from Cusco offers a chance to explore the remarkable sites of Moray and Maras Salineras. Visitors will uncover the cultural significance and ingenuity of the Inca civilization, with a knowledgeable guide providing insights. At just $22 per person, this tour is an affordable way to discover the stunning natural and historical wonders of the region, with flexible cancellation options.