Half Day Tour: Maras Salt Mines and Moray Terraces

Explore the captivating landscapes of the Sacred Valley on a half-day tour to the Maras Salt Mines and Moray Terraces. Discover the ancient salt evaporation pools of Salineras de Maras, where traditional harvesting techniques have persisted since Inca times, offering stunning views of the geometric terraces. Then, explore the rich history and advanced agricultural practices of the Inca civilization at the circular terraces of Moray. With expert guides and breathtaking scenery, this tour promises an immersive experience that’ll leave you eager to uncover more.

Key Points

• This half-day tour explores the ancient Inca sites of Salineras de Maras and Moray, showcasing their unique salt mining and agricultural practices.
• Visitors can witness the traditional salt harvesting techniques at the Salineras de Maras, admiring the geometric salt-covered terraces against the Andes backdrop.
• The Moray site features circular agricultural terraces believed to be an Inca laboratory for experimenting with crop cultivation and irrigation systems.
• Expert guides provide insights into the Inca’s advanced agricultural and engineering achievements, as well as their rich cultural history.
• The tour includes hotel pickup, shared transportation, a bilingual guide, and admission to the BTC Tourist Ticket for Moray and Chinchero access, with the Maras Salt Mines entrance fee as an additional cost.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Highlights

The tour highlights the stunning Salineras de Maras, or Maras Salt Flats, with their thousands of salt evaporation pools dating back to Inca times.

Thousands of salt evaporation pools dating back to Inca times make up the stunning Salineras de Maras, or Maras Salt Flats.

Visitors explore the unique circular agricultural terraces of Moray, believed to be an Inca laboratory for experimenting with microclimates.

Expert guides share insights into Inca history and culture, enhancing participants’ understanding of the sites.

Travelers enjoy free time for photography and to soak in the natural beauty of the Sacred Valley.

Throughout the half-day adventure, guests experience the highlights of these two remarkable Inca archaeological sites.

Exploring Salineras De Maras (Maras Salt Flats)

Nestled in the heart of the Sacred Valley, Salineras de Maras, or the Maras Salt Flats, captivate visitors with their ancient and unique salt-making process.

Thousands of salt evaporation pools dot the landscape, each fed by a natural spring that bubbles up salty water. For centuries, the Incas and later the Spanish have harvested salt from these pools, using the same techniques passed down through generations.

Visitors can explore the salt pans, observe the locals at work, and marvel at the otherworldly sight of the vast, geometric salt-covered terraces against the backdrop of the rugged Andes mountains.

Visiting Moray Agricultural Terraces

After exploring the ancient salt-making process at Salineras de Maras, the tour moves on to another fascinating site – the Moray Agricultural Terraces.

These unique, circular terraces are believed to have been an Inca agricultural laboratory, used for experimenting with different microclimates.

Visitors can walk along the terraces, marveling at the intricate engineering and the stunning natural setting. The expert guide shares insights into the Inca’s sophisticated understanding of agriculture, enhancing the experience.

With free time to wander and take photos, visitors can enjoy the serene beauty of this ancient wonder.

Inca History and Culture

As the expert guide leads the group through the ancient sites, they seamlessly weave in the rich Inca history and culture, captivating visitors with their depth of knowledge. Guests learn about the Inca’s advanced agricultural techniques, their sophisticated understanding of astronomy, and their intricate social structures. The guide highlights how the Moray terraces were an Inca agricultural laboratory, and how the Maras salt mines have been in use since Inca times. The guide’s engaging storytelling brings the sites to life, fostering a deeper appreciation for the Inca legacy.

| Inca Achievements | Inca Astronomy | Inca Society |

| — | — | — |

| Advanced Agriculture | Sophisticated Understanding | Intricate Social Structures |

| Irrigation Systems | Astronomical Observations | Hierarchical Organization |

| Crop Experimentation | Calendar Development | Specialized Roles |

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Photography and Natural Beauty

The tour also allows ample time for visitors to capture the natural beauty surrounding the ancient sites.

Photographers can snap stunning photos of the Maras Salt Flats, with their thousands of salt evaporation pools glistening in the sun.

The undulating Moray Terraces provide a breathtaking backdrop, the circular depressions carved into the hillside creating a mesmerizing visual.

The circular depressions carved into the hillside create a mesmerizing visual backdrop, as the undulating Moray Terraces unfold.

Travelers can wander the sites, soaking in the peaceful atmosphere and serene landscapes.

The tour grants the freedom to explore at one’s own pace, enabling memorable photos that preserve the magic of these Inca wonders.

Inclusions and Exclusions

The tour includes several key inclusions that provide a comprehensive experience for participants. These include hotel pickup from the historic center of Cusco, shared round-trip transportation, and a bilingual professional guide. Plus, the BTC Tourist Ticket for access to Moray and Chinchero is included, though the entrance fee for the Maras Salt Mines must be purchased separately.

| Inclusions | Exclusions |

| — | — |

| Hotel pickup | Maras Salt Mines entrance fee |

| Shared round-trip transportation | – |

| Bilingual professional guide | – |

| BTC Tourist Ticket for Moray and Chinchero | – |

| – | – |

Booking and Cancellation Policy

Travelers can easily book the half-day tour through the tour operator’s website or by contacting them directly.

The tour is subject to availability, so early booking is recommended, especially during peak seasons.

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

Plus, the BTC Tourist Ticket required for accessing the sites is included in the tour price, except for the Maras Salt Mines entrance fee, which must be purchased separately.

Customer Reviews

Over 3 reviews, the tour received an impressive overall rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from various travelers, including couples, friends, solo travelers, and families.

Customers praised the enjoyable experience, highlighting the knowledgeable guides who enhanced understanding of the Inca history and culture.

Visitors appreciated the opportunity to explore the unique Maras Salt Flats and Moray Agricultural Terraces, while also enjoying the natural beauty of the Sacred Valley.

The small group size and convenient hotel pickup were also noted as positive aspects of the tour.

Things To Know

Are There Restroom Facilities Available During the Tour?

The tour provides restroom facilities at both the Maras Salt Mines and Moray Terraces sites. Travelers can use the on-site restrooms during the tour to ensure their comfort and convenience throughout the excursion.

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

Guests are welcome to bring their own food and drinks on the tour. However, there are no designated picnic areas, so they’ll need to be mindful of where they consume their provisions during breaks or free time.

What Should I Wear to Be Comfortable During the Tour?

Wear comfortable, breathable clothing and sturdy walking shoes. Layers are recommended as the temperature can vary. Bring sun protection like a hat and sunscreen, and carry water to stay hydrated throughout the tour.

Is the Tour Wheelchair Accessible?

The tour is not fully wheelchair accessible. While the Moray Agricultural Terraces can be explored with assistance, the Maras Salt Mines have uneven terrain and steps that may pose challenges for wheelchair users. Advance coordination with the tour operator is recommended.

Can I Leave the Group to Explore the Sites on My Own?

Guests can explore the sites on their own, but it’s recommended to stay with the group. The guide provides insightful commentary and ensures a smooth experience. Departing from the group may lead to missing key information or getting lost.

Sum Up

Set out on a captivating half-day tour to uncover the ancient wonders of the Maras Salt Mines and Moray Terraces. Witness the timeless harvesting techniques at the Salineras de Maras, and explore the intricate agricultural terraces of Moray, learning about the Inca’s advanced farming practices. With stunning vistas and rich cultural insights, this tour offers a unique glimpse into Peru’s remarkable history and natural beauty.

You can check availability for your dates here: