The Maras Moray Salineras tour in Cusco offers a captivating exploration of the region’s centuries-old Inca legacy. Visitors can enjoy the stunning salt terraces of Maras and the unique circular agricultural terraces of Moray, all while enjoying the convenience of private transportation and expert guidance. Whether you’re a history buff or simply seeking an immersive cultural experience, this half-day adventure promises to leave a lasting impression.

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Key Points

A half-day small-group tour from Cusco explores the salt terraces of Maras and the circular terraces of Moray in the Urubamba Valley.
The tour includes entrance fees and guided visits to both Maras and Moray sites, with a maximum of 15 travelers per group.
The Maras salt terraces feature over 5,000 small pools where salt is harvested through an evaporation process that takes 30-60 days.
The Moray site showcases the Incas’ innovative circular terraces used for agricultural experimentation, taking advantage of microclimate variations.
The tour is not wheelchair accessible, and participants must not have serious medical conditions that could restrict their participation.

Tour Overview

This half-day small-group tour from Cusco takes visitors to explore the picturesque salt terraces in the Urubamba Valley and the circular terraces of Moray, which were used by the Inca for agricultural experimentation.

Private transportation and hotel pickup are included. The tour has a maximum of 15 travelers and runs in the morning, leaving the afternoon free.

Entrance fees and guided tours for both historic sites are covered. However, the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, and participants mustn’t have any serious medical conditions.

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Itinerary and Inclusions

The morning tour starts at 8:30 am, leaving the afternoon free for travelers.

The morning tour starts at 8:30 am, leaving the afternoon free for travelers.

Entrance fees and guided tours for both the historic salt terraces of Maras and the circular Inca terraces of Moray are included. A maximum of 15 travelers are permitted per tour, with infant seats available for those traveling with young children.

However, the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible and isn’t suitable for those with serious medical conditions. Snacks are recommended as there’s no lunch stop during the half-day excursion.

The tour is provided by Dream Adventure Life.

Exploring the Maras Salt Terraces

As visitors descend into the picturesque Urubamba Valley, they’ll be greeted by the mesmerizing sight of the Maras salt terraces. This ancient salt-harvesting site consists of over 5,000 small pools carved into the mountainside, where salt water from a nearby spring evaporates, leaving behind a crust of salt crystals. Visitors can explore the site and witness the traditional salt-harvesting methods used by the local community for centuries.

| Salt Harvesting Process | Duration |

|————————–|———–|

| Filling the salt pools | 1-2 hours |

| Evaporation | 30-60 days |

| Harvesting the salt | 1-2 hours |

The entrance fee to the Maras salt mines is 10 soles, providing visitors with an opportunity to enjoy this captivating Inca-era legacy.

Discovering the Inca Ruins of Moray

After exploring the salt terraces of Maras, visitors can discover the captivating Inca ruins of Moray.

These mysterious circular terraces were used by the Inca for agricultural experimentation, taking advantage of microclimate variations to grow a variety of crops.

Descending down the serene site, travelers can marvel at the ingenious design and imagine the Inca scientists at work.

The tour guide provides insightful commentary, bringing the site’s history to life.

The tour guide’s insightful commentary brings the site’s captivating Inca history to life for visitors.

With the afternoon free, travelers can enjoy the ancient Inca legacy, a highlight of any Cusco visit.

Highlights of the Tour

Visitors embarking on this tour enjoy a captivating journey through Maras’ picturesque salt terraces and the enigmatic Inca ruins of Moray.

The highlights include:

Exploring the unique circular agricultural terraces of Moray, which were used by the Incas for experimental crop cultivation.
Marveling at the striking white salt ponds of Maras, created through the evaporation of salty spring water over centuries.
Experiencing knowledgeable local guides who provide fascinating insights into the history and significance of these remarkable sites.

The tour’s efficient half-day duration ensures visitors can make the most of their time in the Cusco region.

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Important Considerations

Travelers should be aware of the tour’s limitations, as it isn’t wheelchair accessible and those with serious medical conditions may not be permitted to participate.

The tour group is capped at 15 travelers, so booking early is recommended. Infants are allowed but must sit on laps. Snacks are suggested as there’s no lunch stop.

Confirmation is provided at booking, and the lowest price is guaranteed. The entrance fee to the salt mines is 10 soles.

Pricing and Booking Information

The tour is priced at a competitive rate, with the lowest price guaranteed. The entrance fee to the Maras salt mines is just 10 soles, making it an affordable experience.

Booking the tour is straightforward:

Confirmation is received upon booking.
Travelers should bring snacks, as there’s no lunch stop during the tour.
The tour is provided by Dream Adventure Life, a reputable operator in the region.

With the key details covered, visitors can confidently plan their Maras and Moray adventure and enjoy the stunning Inca sites at a reasonable cost.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Take Photos During the Tour?

Yes, you can take photos during the tour. The tour overview indicates that it’s a guided tour, so you’ll have ample opportunities to capture the picturesque salt terraces and Inca ruins at Maras and Moray.

Are There Any Restroom Facilities at the Sites?

Yes, there are restrooms available at both the Maras salt mines and the Moray archaeological site. Visitors can use these facilities during the tour to ensure a comfortable experience.

How Much Time Is Spent at Each Location?

The tour typically spends around 1-2 hours at each location, allowing ample time to explore the salt terraces and Inca ruins. The exact time allocation varies depending on the group’s pace and interest in each site.

Can I Purchase Handicrafts or Souvenirs on the Tour?

The tour doesn’t include time for purchasing handicrafts or souvenirs. However, there may be opportunities to browse local artisanal goods at stops like Chinchero, where the tour includes a weaving demonstration.

Is There an Option to Extend the Tour or Add Additional Activities?

According to the tour overview, there doesn’t appear to be an option to extend the tour or add additional activities. The half-day tour seems to have a fixed itinerary focused on visiting the Maras salt terraces and Moray ruins.

The Sum Up

The Maras Moray tour offers an enriching half-day experience, showcasing the stunning Inca sites of Maras and Moray. With a small group size and guided commentary, visitors can explore the ancient salt terraces and circular agricultural terraces, gaining insights into the region’s fascinating history. Snacks are recommended, as no lunch stop is provided, but the tour’s inclusions and pricing make it a practical and memorable day trip from Cusco.