Discover the captivating landscapes of Moray and the Maras Salt Mines on an unforgettable ATV adventure. This exhilarating 6-hour tour takes you through the Sacred Valley, where you’ll uncover ancient wonders and witness the unique salt ponds harvested since pre-Incan times. With expert guides and breathtaking views, this journey promises excitement and a deeper understanding of Peru’s rich history. Are you ready to embark on an adventure like no other?

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Key Points

Set out on a 6-hour ATV adventure to explore the ancient Moray terraces and the Maras salt mines in the Sacred Valley.
Enjoy a scenic ATV ride with stunning views of the Andes mountains while traveling between the two historical sites.
Discover the pre-Incan agricultural wonder of Moray and the traditional salt harvesting techniques at the Maras salt ponds.
Benefit from hotel pickup, bilingual guide, and included entry fees to make the most of your tour.
Prepare for the adventure with essential items like passport, sunscreen, and comfortable clothing, and follow safety guidelines for ATV riding.

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Tour Overview and Pricing

The Moray and Salineras ATV tour is a 6-hour activity that allows visitors to explore the ancient Incan site of Moray and the captivating Maras Salt Mines.

Discover the ancient Incan wonders of Moray and the captivating Maras Salt Mines on this 6-hour ATV adventure.

Priced from £27.23 to £30.95 per person, the tour offers a chance to save up to 12% on the regular cost.

Cancellation is free up to 24 hours in advance, and guests can reserve their spot without upfront payment.

The tour includes hotel pickup, ATV rental, an English and Spanish-speaking guide, and all necessary entry fees, making it a convenient and cost-effective way to experience the area’s highlights.

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

Itinerary and Transportation

Although the tour begins with a pickup from Cusco, either from the hotel or a designated meeting point, you will then be transported via shared van to the starting point at Cruzpata, which takes around 50 minutes.

After a brief 10-minute free time, the group will embark on a guided tour of the ancient Incan site of Moray, lasting approximately 35 minutes.

From there, the journey continues by van to the Maras Salt Mines, a 40-minute drive. Visitors will have time to explore, take photos, and participate in a guided tour of the salt pans, all within 35 minutes.

Finally, the return to Cusco is by bus/coach, taking 70 minutes.

Highlights and Activities

As the main attraction of the tour, you will ride ATVs (all-terrain vehicles) through the scenic Sacred Valley, offering breathtaking views of the Andes Mountains.

The adventure begins with a stop at the ancient Incan agricultural site of Moray, where visitors can explore the intriguing concentric circular terraces.

Next, the tour moves on to the Maras Salt Mines, a stunning landscape of salt ponds that have been harvested since pre-Incan times.

Guests will have the opportunity to take in the picturesque scenery and learn about the traditional salt-making process during the guided tour.

Inclusions and Fees

This tour includes several key inclusions and fees for participants.

The tour provides hotel pickup in the morning, a quad bike (single or shared), and an English and Spanish-speaking guide. Plus, the community fee of 1 USD is included.

Visitors will need to pay the entry fees for Moray (70 soles) and Maras (20 soles) in cash.

The tour isn’t suitable for pregnant women, individuals with mobility impairments, or children under 18.

Participants should bring their passport/ID, sunglasses, sun hat, sunscreen, comfortable clothes, and cash, as luggage, large bags, and drones aren’t allowed.

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Important Information and Restrictions

The Moray and Salineras ATV tour isn’t suitable for pregnant women, individuals with mobility impairments, or children under 18.

Participants must bring their passport/ID, sunglasses, sun hat, sunscreen, and comfortable clothes. Cash is required for entry fees at Moray (70 soles) and Maras (20 soles).

Luggage, large bags, and drones aren’t allowed. The tour offers an exciting opportunity to explore the Sacred Valley, but it’s important to be aware of the restrictions to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.

There's plenty more to explore in Cusco

What to Expect at Moray

Visitors to Moray will be greeted by the site’s unique and intriguing terraced design, which was once an important agricultural experimentation center for the Incas.

The massive circular depressions, measuring up to 150 meters in diameter, were built to harness the region’s microclimate.

As travelers explore the site, they will:

Marvel at the complex engineering and construction methods employed by the Incas
Discover how the concentric terraces were used to grow a variety of crops at different elevations
Gain insights into the Incas’ advanced understanding of agriculture and climate adaptation

Exploring the Maras Salt Mines

After exploring the ancient agricultural wonders of Moray, visitors make their way to the nearby Maras Salt Mines, a remarkable site that has been in use for centuries. The salt mines are located in a stunning natural setting, nestled among the rugged peaks of the Andes Mountains. Visitors can wander through the terraced salt ponds, observing the traditional salt-harvesting process and taking in the breathtaking views. The Maras Salt Mines offer a unique glimpse into the region’s rich cultural heritage and the enduring importance of this natural resource.

| Feature | Description |

|———|————-|

| Origins | The Maras Salt Mines have been in operation since the Inca Empire. |

| Production | Salt is harvested from salty springs that feed into the ponds. |

| Significance | The salt is an essential commodity for the local community. |

| Sustainability | The mines are carefully managed to ensure the resource remains viable. |

| Visitor Experience | Tourists can explore the ponds, observe the salt-making process, and purchase salt souvenirs. |

Tips for an Unforgettable Experience

To make the most of this unforgettable ATV adventure, travelers should come prepared.

Wear comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing and sturdy closed-toe shoes. Bring a small backpack with essentials like:

Sunscreen and sunglasses
Water and snacks
Camera to capture stunning Andean landscapes

Lastly, be sure to listen carefully to safety instructions from the guides and follow all rules while riding the ATVs.

With the right preparation and mindset, this tour promises an exhilarating and memorable experience exploring the ancient Inca ruins and salt mines of the Sacred Valley.

Things To Know

Can I Bring My Pet on the Tour?

No, pets are not allowed on the Moray and Salineras ATV tour. The tour has restrictions in place, and pregnant women, individuals with mobility issues, and children under 18 are also not permitted to participate.

Is Photography/Videography Allowed During the Tour?

Photography and videography are allowed during the tour. The tour guide encourages guests to capture the scenic views and cultural highlights along the way. However, using drones is prohibited for safety and environmental reasons.

Are There Any Age Restrictions for the ATV Ride?

The tour is not suitable for children under 18 years old. Riders must be at least 18 years of age to participate in the ATV ride to Moray and Maras Salt Mines during this 6-hour tour.

Can I Purchase Additional Insurance for the ATV?

Yes, you can purchase additional insurance for the ATV. The tour operator offers optional insurance coverage that provides extra protection in case of accident or damage. It’s recommended to inquire about the insurance options when booking the tour.

Will There Be Any Restroom Breaks During the Tour?

Yes, there will be restroom breaks during the tour. The itinerary includes a designated break time and free time at the sites, where participants can use the available restroom facilities.

Sum Up

This thrilling ATV tour through Moray and the Maras Salt Mines promises an unforgettable adventure. Explore the stunning Sacred Valley, uncover ancient agricultural wonders, and witness the unique salt ponds – all with expert guides to deepen your understanding of Peru’s rich history. Whether you’re seeking excitement or a culture, this tour delivers an unparalleled experience you won’t soon forget.