Full-Day Tour of Moray Salinas De Maras and the Sacred Valley From Cusco

Exploring the ancient wonders of Peru’s Sacred Valley is a captivating experience not to be missed. This full-day tour from Cusco promises to whisk you away on a journey through Moray’s fascinating agricultural site and the impressive salt-mining complex of Salinas de Maras. With comfortable transportation and a knowledgeable guide, you’ll have the chance to learn about Incan heritage and uncover the secrets of these remarkable destinations. What awaits you on this excursion may just surprise and delight.

Key Points

• This full-day tour from Cusco takes visitors to the ancient agricultural research center of Moray, the impressive Salinas de Maras salt-mining complex, and other Inca settlements in the Sacred Valley.
• The tour includes private vehicle transportation with a professional guide, partial tourist ticket access, and entrance to Salinas de Maras, with 40 minutes allocated for exploration at each site.
• Drinks are provided, but lunch is not included, with stops for meals in Urubamba during the 7 am to 6 pm tour duration.
• The tour is not wheelchair accessible and involves moderate hiking, making it unsuitable for those with mobility challenges, with a minimum of 2 people required per booking.
• Ticket options include a partial tourist ticket (70 soles) or a full tourist ticket (130 soles), with the tour price covering transportation, the guide, and round-trip transportation.

Tour Overview

The full-day tour takes visitors from Cusco to explore the renowned Moray, Salinas de Maras, and other significant Incan settlements in the Sacred Valley.

The tour lasts from 7 am to 6 pm, with flexible timing available. Travelers are transported by private vehicle and accompanied by a professional guide.

The tour includes access to key attractions through a partial tourist ticket and entrance to the Salinas de Maras. Drinks are provided, but lunch isn’t included, with stops for meals in Urubamba.

The tour covers multiple historical sites, allowing 40 minutes for exploration at each location.

Key Attractions Explored

This tour takes visitors on an immersive journey through some of the most captivating Incan sites in the Sacred Valley.

The first stop is Moray, an ancient agricultural research center with its unique stepped terraces.

Moray, an ancient agricultural research center with its unique stepped terraces, is the first stop on this captivating journey.

Travelers then explore the Salinas de Maras, an impressive salt-mining complex dating back to Inca times.

The tour also visits various Incan settlements, offering glimpses into the region’s rich history and cultural heritage.

With ample time allocated for exploration at each site, guests can explore the significance and marvels of these archaeological wonders.

Transportation and Logistics

Private vehicle transportation is provided for the full-day tour, with hotel pickup and drop-off included.

The tour covers significant historical sites, so the private vehicle ensures a comfortable and efficient journey. Travelers are picked up from their Cusco hotels and dropped off at the end of the day.

The transportation is air-conditioned and well-maintained, providing a pleasant experience. Gratuities for the driver aren’t included in the tour price, allowing travelers to tip based on their satisfaction.

Guided Experience and Tour Sites

Guided tours at six distinct locations allow travelers to explore the rich history and cultural significance of Moray, Salinas de Maras, and other Incan settlements throughout the Sacred Valley.

The tour covers:

• Moray, the intriguing Inca agricultural terraces believed to have been an experimental agricultural station

• Salinas de Maras, the centuries-old salt ponds still in use today

• Other archeological sites, including ancient Inca ruins and settlements

With 40 minutes of exploration time at each site, the tour provides an engaging, in-depth experience while covering multiple highlights in a single day.

Accessibility and Participation

The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, but most travelers can participate.

Guests should wear comfortable clothing and walking shoes, as the tour involves moderate hiking at several sites.

Wear comfortable clothing and walking shoes for moderate hiking at several sites on the tour.

Children under 5 are allowed to join the tour at no additional charge, making it suitable for families.

Due to the nature of the historical locations, the tour may not be suitable for those with mobility challenges.

However, the tour guide is happy to provide assistance and accommodate guests’ needs to the best of their ability.

A minimum of 2 people per booking is required for the tour to proceed.

Ticket Options and Costs

The tour offers two main ticket options for accessing the sites: a partial tourist ticket priced at 70 soles per person, or a full tourist ticket costing 130 soles that’s valid for 10 days.

The partial ticket allows entry to the tour locations, while the full ticket provides access to additional Inca sites. Tickets can be purchased on the way, offering flexibility.

The tour includes:

• Transport by private vehicle

• Professional guide

• Round-trip transportation

• Entrance fee for Salinas de Maras (20 soles per person)

• Drinks, but lunch isn’t included.

Customer Feedback and Recommendations

Travelers have provided overwhelmingly positive reviews for this tour, with 97 reviews and a 100% recommendation rate.

Reviewers highlight the knowledgeable guides who bring the historical sites to life. The tour’s flexibility and personalized attention are popular, especially among those who opt for the private tour option.

Travelers appreciate the pace, which allows enough time to explore each location without feeling rushed. The unique experiences, like visiting the salt mines, are noted as particularly memorable.

What to Bring and Expect

When preparing for this full-day tour, travelers should wear comfortable clothing and walking shoes. The tour covers significant historical sites, so expect to do a lot of walking.

Be sure to bring:

• Water and snacks to keep hydrated and energized

• Sun protection, such as a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen

• Cash for optional purchases and gratuities

Travelers should also be aware that the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, but most people can participate.

The tour is not wheelchair accessible, but most people can still participate.

With an experienced guide leading the way, visitors can expect a well-paced exploration of Moray, Salinas de Maras, and other Incan settlements in the Sacred Valley.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are There Any COVID-19 Safety Protocols in Place?

The tour operator follows all COVID-19 safety protocols, including requiring masks, providing hand sanitizer, and ensuring social distancing. They prioritize the health and safety of both travelers and staff during the tour.

Can We Customize the Tour to Include Additional Sites?

Yes, the tour can be customized to include additional sites. The tour provider offers flexible timing and the ability to tailor the itinerary to meet the traveler’s preferences and interests.

Is There an Option to Book a Private Tour With Fewer People?

Yes, the tour can be booked as a private tour with just your group. This provides more flexibility and personalized attention from the guide. Private tours are recommended by past travelers for the best experience.

Do We Need to Purchase the Full Tourist Ticket in Advance?

Travelers don’t need to purchase the full tourist ticket in advance. They can buy the partial 70-soles ticket on the way, which provides access to the tour sites. The full 130-soles ticket is an optional 10-day pass.

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

Yes, you can bring your own food and snacks on the tour. The inclusions only cover transportation, guides, and partial admission fees – lunch is not provided. Bringing your own lunch and snacks is allowed and recommended to save money.

The Sum Up

This full-day tour offers a captivating exploration of Incan heritage, immersing visitors in the ancient agricultural site of Moray and the impressive salt-mining complex of Salinas de Maras. With comfortable transportation, a knowledgeable guide, and flexible meal stops, travelers can explore the rich history and stunning landscapes of the Sacred Valley. It’s an engaging and convenient way to experience these remarkable Incan wonders.