Exploring the ancient Inca ruins of Moray and the salt mines of Maras by bike promises an exhilarating journey. This full-day tour from Cusco showcases the region’s stunning landscapes and rich cultural heritage. Cyclists will traverse dirt roads and mountain trails, seeing the Sacred Valley’s captivating sights and local experiences. With professional equipment, knowledgeable guides, and delectable cuisine, the Maras and Moray Biking Tour offers an unforgettable adventure for those seeking an active exploration of Peru’s remarkable wonders.

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Key Points

Full-day cycling tour exploring ancient Inca sites of Moray and Maras Salt Mines in the Sacred Valley near Cusco.
Tour covers 7km of dirt roads and mountain trails, suitable for those with some biking experience.
Includes lunch, hotel pickup, and professional bike equipment, as well as entrance tickets to the sites.
Not recommended for those with physical limitations, but offers stunning views and cultural insights.
Tour has an overall rating of 4.6 out of 7 reviews, praised for the biking experience and knowledgeable guides.

Tour Overview and Highlights

The Maras and Moray Biking Tour offers a full-day adventure, allowing visitors to explore ancient Inca sites and scenic landscapes in the Sacred Valley.

Cyclists can experience the circular terraces of Moray, the iconic Maras Salt Mines, and local villages along the Urubamba River. The tour is suitable for those with some biking experience, covering 7km of dirt roads and mountain trails.

Highlights include stunning views, cultural insights, and an engaging cycling experience. The tour includes lunch, hotel pickup, and professional bike equipment, making it an ideal way to discover the Sacred Valley by bike.

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Tour Details and Itinerary

The tour begins with pickup from Cusco hotels at 8:30 am.

Travelers receive a briefing the evening before the tour.

The cycling route covers 7km (4.5 miles) on dirt roads and mountain trails. Participants explore the circular terraces of the ancient site of Moray, a remarkable Inca agricultural research center.

Lunch is served in the village of Maras, followed by an afternoon visit to the nearby Maras Salt Mines.

The tour concludes at the Urubamba River, with drop-off transportation provided back to Cusco.

Inclusions and Costs

The tour package includes professional bikes, gloves, and helmets for all participants.

A qualified English/Spanish guide accompanies the group throughout the journey.

Private transportation from Cusco to Chinchero and back is provided.

Entrance tickets to Moray (70 soles), Maras (15 soles), and Chinchero are included in the price.

A boxed lunch is also provided during the tour.

Prices for the Maras and Moray Biking Tour start from $160.00 per person, with a maximum of 12 travelers per tour.

Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the tour starts.

Physical Requirements and Recommendations

Although the Maras and Moray Biking Tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, it’s suitable for travelers with a moderate level of physical fitness.

The tour isn’t recommended for those with back problems, pregnant travelers, or serious medical conditions.

This tour is not suitable for those with back problems, pregnant travelers, or those with serious medical conditions.

To ensure a comfortable experience, it’s recommended to bring:

Sport clothing
Sunblock and sunglasses
A small backpack
Extra cash

A valid passport is also required on the travel day.

With these preparations, cyclists can enjoy the breathtaking views and engaging biking experience through the Sacred Valley.

Reviews and Experiences

Reviewers have generally praised the Maras and Moray Biking Tour, with an overall rating of 4.6 out of 7 reviews.

Guests highlight the breathtaking views, knowledgeable guides, and engaging biking experience. However, some initial communication issues before the tour were noted.

The tour’s cultural insights and biking through stunning landscapes are consistent highlights. While most regard the tour as recommended, it’s advised for those with mountain biking experience, as some sections can be challenging.

There's plenty more to explore in Cusco

Exploring the Ancient Inca Sites

As cyclists embark on the Maras and Moray Biking Tour, they’ve the opportunity to explore two remarkable ancient Inca sites – the circular terraces of Moray and the Maras Salt Mines.

These unique destinations offer a glimpse into the advanced agricultural practices and innovative engineering of the Inca civilization:

The mysterious Moray terraces were used for agricultural experimentation, with each level exhibiting different microclimates.
The Maras Salt Mines feature thousands of small salt ponds, where salt has been harvested for centuries using traditional methods.
Exploring these sites provides a captivating cultural experience and insights into the ingenuity of the Inca people.
The bike tour allows travelers to enjoy the stunning landscapes and rich history of the Sacred Valley.

Cycling Through the Sacred Valley

The Maras and Moray Biking Tour offers cyclists a unique opportunity to explore the breathtaking landscapes and rich history of the Sacred Valley.

Participants cycle along dirt roads and mountain trails, visiting ancient Inca sites like the circular terraces of Moray and the striking Maras Salt Mines.

The tour provides an engaging, hands-on way to experience the region’s cultural heritage while enjoying stunning views of the Urubamba River.

With a knowledgeable guide leading the way, cyclists get to enjoy the local villages and gain insights into Inca agricultural practices.

This biking adventure is a must for those seeking an active and rewarding exploration of the Sacred Valley.

Taking in Local Culture and Cuisine

Beyond the thrilling cycling experience, the Maras and Moray Biking Tour also immerses participants in the local culture and cuisine of the Sacred Valley.

Immersing participants in the local culture and cuisine of the Sacred Valley beyond the thrilling cycling experience.

Cyclists will:

Enjoy a traditional Peruvian lunch in the village of Maras, savoring regional dishes made with fresh, locally-sourced ingredients.
Visit a Chichero family home, learning about their daily life and customs.
Observe the mesmerizing salt evaporation ponds of the Maras Salt Mines, a centuries-old community-operated enterprise.
Interact with local artisans, gaining insights into their craft and the significance of their work within the Andean heritage.

This culture enriches the overall cycling adventure through the stunning Inca ruins and landscapes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Bring My Own Bike on the Tour?

No, you can’t bring your own bike on this tour. The tour provides professional bikes, gloves, and helmets for all participants. Using the tour’s equipment is included in the price and ensures a safe, well-maintained biking experience.

What Is the Cancellation Policy if I Need to Reschedule?

The tour operator offers free cancellation up to 24 hours before the start of the tour. This provides flexibility if you need to reschedule your trip. Just be sure to cancel within the policy window to avoid any fees.

Is There a Minimum Group Size Requirement for the Tour?

The tour has a maximum group size of 12 travelers, but there’s no minimum group size requirement. Travelers can enjoy the tour even if they’re the only ones booked for that departure.

Will There Be Any Opportunities to Purchase Local Handicrafts?

The tour includes a stop in the local village of Maras, where travelers will have the opportunity to browse and purchase handmade local handicrafts and souvenirs. However, there are no specific scheduled visits to local artisan markets.

Can I Opt-Out of Any Activities During the Tour?

Yes, travelers can opt-out of any activities during the tour. The guide will work with participants to adjust the itinerary as needed based on their interests and physical abilities. Flexibility is key to ensuring an enjoyable experience.

The Sum Up

The Maras and Moray Biking Tour offers an exhilarating adventure for cycling enthusiasts. Participants explore the ancient Inca sites, cycle through the Sacred Valley, and enjoy local culture and cuisine. With breathtaking landscapes, professional equipment, and knowledgeable guides, this tour provides a memorable experience for those with moderate biking skills.