Set out on a captivating half-day adventure from Cusco to uncover the secrets of the Inca empire. Explore the remarkable Salt Mines of Maras and the agricultural terraces of Moray, while enjoying the rich cultural heritage of this region. This guided tour offers an opportunity to connect with Peru’s past and witness the breathtaking landscapes that have captivated travelers for centuries. Prepare to be enchanted as you explore the fascinating history and traditions that have shaped this extraordinary destination.

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Key Points

Comprehensive 6-hour tour from Cusco exploring the salt mines of Maras and agricultural terraces of Moray.
Tour includes hotel pickup, bilingual guide, entrance fees, and transportation, with a 5% discount for advance bookings.
Highlights include visiting a textile interpretation center, the Inca experimental farming site of Moray, and the historic Salineras de Maras.
Participants should be in good physical condition and avoid the tour if pregnant, with vertigo, visual impairments, recent surgeries, or motion sickness.
Tour concludes with return to Cusco around 3:00 p.m., with meals not included in the tour package.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview

This tour offers a comprehensive exploration of the captivating Salt Mines of Maras and the ancient agricultural terraces of Moray.

The 6-hour experience costs between $45.00 to $42.75 per person, with a 5% savings if booked in advance.

With free cancellation up to 24 hours prior, and the option to reserve now and pay later, it’s a flexible and convenient choice.

Travelers will be picked up from their Cusco hotel at 8:00 a.m., visit the textile center in Chinchero, and explore the unique sites before returning to Cusco around 3:00 p.m.

A bilingual guide accompanies the group throughout the tour.

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

Itinerary and Highlights

As the tour commences, you will be picked up from their hotel in Cusco at 8:00 a.m. The first stop is the textile interpretation center in Chinchero, where visitors can learn about the region’s rich weaving traditions. Next, the group will explore the agricultural terraces of Moray, an Inca site used for experimental farming. The tour then moves on to the salt mines of Salineras de Maras, where salt has been harvested since the Inca period. The tour concludes by returning to Cusco around 3:00 p.m.

| Itinerary | Location | Highlights |

| — | — | — |

| 8:00 a.m. | Cusco | Hotel pickup |

| – | Chinchero | Textile interpretation center |

| – | Moray | Agricultural terraces |

| – | Salineras de Maras | Salt mines |

| 3:00 p.m. | Cusco | Return |

Guidance and Language

A knowledgeable, bilingual tour guide accompanies participants throughout the excursion. The guide speaks both English and Spanish, ensuring effective communication for all guests.

They’ll make contact with participants 15 minutes before the scheduled pickup, allowing ample time for everyone to gather in the hotel lobby. Guests should plan to wait approximately 10 minutes for the tour to depart.

The guide will provide comprehensive commentary, sharing insights and historical context as the group explores the fascinating sites. With the guide’s expertise, travelers can look forward to a seamless and enriching cultural experience.

Inclusions and Exclusions

The tour package includes hotel pickup from the historical center of Cusco, tourist transportation, and a bilingual tour guide who can provide commentary in both English and Spanish. Entrance fees to the Maras salt mines (10.00 soles) and Moray archaeological site (General Tourist Ticket) are also covered. However, meals, such as breakfast or lunch, are not included. Plus, any services not mentioned in the program are excluded.

| Included | Excluded |

|——————————————|—————————-|

| Hotel pickup | Meals (breakfast/lunch) |

| Tourist transport | Services not mentioned |

| Bilingual tour guide | |

| Entrance fees: Maras, Moray | |

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Participant Restrictions and Recommendations

This tour isn’t suitable for certain participants. Pregnant women, those with vertigo, visual impairments, recent surgeries, or motion sickness should avoid this excursion.

However, it’s a great option for those seeking an immersive cultural experience. Participants should come prepared with comfortable shoes, sunglasses, sun hats, sunscreen, and water. Bringing a passport or ID is also recommended.

Alcohol, drugs, explosive substances, and alcoholic drinks in the vehicle are strictly prohibited. This tour is designed for adventurous travelers who can handle moderate physical activity in a safe and responsible manner.

There's plenty more to explore in Cusco

Important Information

Though entrance fees to Maras and Moray can be purchased on-site, participants should ensure they wear appropriate clothing for the planned activities. This includes a hat, sunscreen, and sunglasses to protect against the sun.

The tour doesn’t involve much walking, but comfortable shoes are still recommended. Participants shouldn’t bring alcohol, drugs, or explosive substances, and alcoholic drinks aren’t allowed in the vehicle.

Booking and Cancellation Policy

Travelers can reserve their spot on the tour without upfront payment, thanks to the "reserve now & pay later" option.

The tour also offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. This flexible policy gives travelers peace of mind when booking their tour.

Prices range from $45.00 to $42.75 per person, with a 5% discount available.

With an efficient pickup service, a knowledgeable bilingual guide, and immersive cultural experiences, this half-day tour provides an excellent value for travelers exploring the salt mines of Maras and the agricultural terraces of Moray near Cusco.

What to Expect on the Tour

The tour begins with a hotel pickup in the historical center of Cusco at 8:00 a.m., allowing participants to start their day exploring the region’s cultural treasures.

The first stop is the textile interpretation center in Chinchero, where visitors can learn about traditional weaving techniques.

Next, they’ll discover the agricultural terraces of Moray, used for experimental agriculture during the Inca Empire.

The tour then visits the salt mines of Salineras de Maras, which have been in use since the Inca period.

The tour concludes by returning to Cusco around 3:00 p.m.

Since You Asked

Can I Bring My Pet on the Tour?

No, pets are not allowed on the tour. The tour provider’s policy prohibits bringing pets due to safety and comfort concerns for both the participants and the animals.

Is There an Option to Extend the Tour Duration?

There’s no option to extend the tour duration. The tour is a fixed 6-hour program, and the itinerary is set. If you’d like a longer experience, you’ll need to book a separate, additional tour.

Do I Need to Bring My Own Snacks and Water?

The tour doesn’t include meals, so participants should bring their own snacks and water. Bringing adequate sustenance is recommended to stay hydrated and energized throughout the 6-hour tour.

Is There a Maximum Group Size for the Tour?

The tour does not specify a maximum group size. While details on group size are not provided, the tour includes hotel pickup and a bilingual guide, suggesting a manageable group size for a personalized experience.

Can I Request a Private Tour Instead of a Group Tour?

Yes, you can request a private tour instead of a group tour. Private tours are available for an additional fee and can be customized to meet your specific needs and preferences.

The Sum Up

This captivating half-day tour from Cusco provides a unique opportunity to explore the remarkable Inca sites of the Salt Mines of Maras and Moray. Travelers will enjoy immersive cultural experiences, stunning landscapes, and expert guidance in both English and Spanish. With a focus on adventure and heritage, this tour is ideal for those seeking to connect with Peru’s rich history and traditions.

You can check availability for your dates here: