The Moray and Maras Half Day Tour offers travelers a chance to explore Peru’s rich history and stunning landscapes. For just $15 per person, this 5-hour guided experience takes visitors to the remarkable Moray agricultural terraces and the fascinating Maras Salt Mines. With hotel pickup included and tours available in both Spanish and English, it’s a convenient and informative option. But what makes this tour truly special is the opportunity to witness the ancient Inca agricultural techniques and salt production methods that have endured for centuries. Intrigued? Let’s dive deeper into the wonders of this captivating excursion.

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Key Points

The tour is a 5-hour excursion that explores the Moray agricultural terraces and Maras Salt Mines near Cusco, Peru.
Highlights include guided visits to the Moray archaeological complex and the unique Maras salt ponds.
The tour includes hotel pickup, a stop at a textile store, and is available in Spanish and English.
Pricing starts at $15 per person, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
Reviewers praise the stunning landscapes and knowledgeable guides, though value for money is rated slightly lower.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview

The Moray and Maras Half Day Tour offers a unique opportunity to explore two remarkable archaeological sites in the Sacred Valley of Peru.

Priced from $15 per person, the 5-hour tour is available in Spanish and English with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance. Travelers can reserve their spot without upfront payment.

The tour includes hotel pickup, a visit to a textile store, and guided exploration of the Moray agricultural terraces and the Maras Salt Mines.

Stunning Andean landscapes and an informative bilingual guide make this tour a highlight for many visitors.

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

Itinerary

The tour begins with a pick-up at 8:45 am from Cusco’s main square. First, guests visit a textile store in Chinchero for 40 minutes. Then, they transfer to the Moray archaeological complex, spending 40 minutes exploring its agricultural terraces used by the Incas for climate experiments. Next, they head to the Maras Salt Mines, spending 40 minutes admiring its natural beauty and salt extraction process. Finally, the tour ends around 2:40 pm near the main square.

| Time | Location | Duration |

| —- | ——– | ——– |

| 9:00 am | Chinchero textile store | 40 minutes |

| 11:00 am | Moray archaeological complex | 40 minutes |

| 1:00 pm | Maras Salt Mines | 40 minutes |

| 2:40 pm | End near main square | – |

Exploring Moray

After transferring to the archaeological site, visitors explore Moray’s impressive agricultural terraces.

These concentric terraces were used by the Incas for climate experimentation, taking advantage of microclimates created by the unique design.

Descending down the terraces, visitors marvel at the sheer scale and engineering prowess required to construct this ancient site.

The different levels exhibit varying temperatures, allowing the Incas to grow a diverse array of crops.

Knowledgeable guides explain the site’s historical significance and innovative agricultural practices.

Exploring Moray provides a captivating glimpse into the Inca’s advanced understanding of their environment.

Discovering Maras Salt Mines

Following the Moray exploration, visitors make their way to the captivating Maras Salt Mines.

These ancient salt ponds, carved into the hillside, have been used for salt production since Inca times. Guests witness the intricate system of evaporation ponds where saltwater is channeled and allowed to evaporate, leaving behind the coveted salt.

The ponds’ unique layout and the surrounding Andean landscapes create a stunning visual experience. Visitors can explore the mines, observe the salt harvesting process, and even purchase locally produced salt as a memento of their journey through this remarkable site.

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Scenic Andean Landscapes

Stunning Andean landscapes unfold as the tour progresses, treating visitors to breathtaking vistas of the region’s natural beauty.

Rugged mountains, capped with snow, rise majestically in the distance. Lush, verdant valleys stretch out below, dotted with traditional farming terraces.

Rugged snow-capped mountains rise majestically, while lush verdant valleys stretch below, dotted with traditional farming terraces.

Winding roads offer panoramic views, allowing travelers to soak in the grandeur of the surroundings. Wispy clouds drift across the sky, casting ever-changing shadows on the earth below.

Llamas and alpacas graze peacefully, adding to the serene ambiance. This sensory experience leaves a lasting impression, a true highlight of the Moray and Maras tour.

There's plenty more to explore in Cusco

Inclusions and Exclusions

The Moray and Maras Half Day Tour includes several key services to enhance the experience.

Transportation to and from the main square in Cusco is provided, along with a professional bilingual guide who’ll share insights throughout the tour.

Entrance tickets to the Moray archaeological complex and the Maras Salt Mines are also included. However, travelers should bring 80 soles in cash to cover these fees, unless they’ve a Sacred Valley tourist ticket.

The tour doesn’t include meals or personal expenses.

Customer Feedback

Customers have provided overall positive feedback about the Moray and Maras Half Day Tour. The tour has earned an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars based on 14 reviews.

Travelers have praised the tour’s:

Stunning Andean landscapes
Fascinating insights into Inca agricultural experiments at Moray
Captivating salt extraction process at the Maras Salt Mines
Knowledgeable and bilingual guide
Reliable transportation

While the value for money received a slightly lower rating of 3.7, reviewers from the United States and Panama have expressed satisfaction with the overall tour experience and its inclusion of must-see sites in the Sacred Valley.

Booking and Cancellation Policy

Travelers can book the Moray and Maras Half Day Tour online without any upfront payment. This flexible booking option allows them to reserve their spot and pay later.

The tour also offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, providing a full refund for those who need to change their plans. With these convenient policies, customers can easily secure their spot on the tour and have the freedom to cancel if necessary, making the booking process hassle-free.

The tour’s reserve now, pay later option and generous cancellation policy cater to the needs of modern travelers.

Things To Know

Are Photography Permits Required at Moray and Maras?

Photography is generally allowed at both Moray and Maras without the need for special permits. However, visitors should be mindful of any on-site restrictions and avoid disrupting the experience for others.

Can We Purchase Additional Snacks/Drinks During the Tour?

Yes, travelers can purchase additional snacks and drinks during the tour. The tour includes transportation and entrance tickets, but doesn’t provide meals or refreshments. Travelers should bring cash to buy any desired snacks or drinks along the way.

Is There an Option to Extend the Tour Duration?

The tour company doesn’t offer an option to extend the duration. However, travelers can inquire about adding extra activities or stops to the itinerary for an additional fee. The standard tour lasts around 5 hours.

Are There Any Age Restrictions or Requirements for the Tour?

There are no age restrictions or requirements for the tour. Travelers of all ages can participate. Children under a certain height may require an adult companion for safety reasons, but there are no strict age limits.

What Is the Policy for Travelers With Mobility Issues?

The tour doesn’t have explicit mobility requirements, but travelers with mobility issues should consult the company beforehand. They’ll work to accommodate guests’ needs where possible to ensure everyone can fully enjoy the experience.

Sum Up

The Moray and Maras Half Day Tour offers an engaging and informative exploration of Peru’s rich history and stunning landscapes. Priced at just $15 per person, the tour provides a convenient and comprehensive experience, with guided visits to the Moray agricultural terraces and the Maras Salt Mines. With hotel pickup and availability in both Spanish and English, this tour is an excellent choice for travelers seeking an immersive and memorable day in the Peruvian Andes.