Moray Terraces and Maras Salt Pools Half-Day Tour From Cusco

Exploring the ancient Inca sites of Moray and Maras is a must-do activity for visitors to Cusco. This half-day tour provides a convenient and affordable way to experience these remarkable archaeological wonders. Travelers will marvel at the unique terraced agricultural fields of Moray and have the chance to wander through the stunning salt pools of Maras, all while learning about the region’s rich history from a knowledgeable guide. With stunning mountain vistas and the opportunity to take in Inca cultural heritage, this tour promises an unforgettable adventure.

About Your Stay

• This half-day tour explores the Moray Terraces and Maras Salt Pools, providing insights into Inca agricultural practices and salt production.
• The tour lasts 6 hours, with pickup from Cusco accommodations and includes transportation, entrance fees, and professional guide services.
• Visitors can explore the Moray Terraces, a unique Inca agricultural site with three amphitheater-style bowls used for testing crop success.
• The tour also includes a visit to Maras, where over 3,000 salt pools dating back to pre-Incan times are used for local salt production.
• The tour is not wheelchair accessible and involves walking across uneven terrain, making it unsuitable for those with back problems or serious medical conditions.

Tour Overview

The Moray Terraces and Maras Salt Pools Half-Day Tour is a popular excursion that allows visitors to explore two remarkable Inca-era sites near Cusco, Peru.

The 6-hour tour, priced from $23 per person, takes travelers to the stunning Moray terraces and the ancient Maras salt pools. Guests are picked up in the morning and transported to the sites, where they’ll learn from a professional guide about the Inca’s advanced agricultural practices and the local salt production that continues today.

The tour includes all transportation, entrance fees, and gratuities, making it an excellent value for travelers.

Itinerary and Highlights

After morning pickup from Cusco accommodations or the tour operator’s office on Heladeros Street, the tour takes travelers on a 1.5-hour journey to the Moray site. Here, participants explore the terraced farm fields with three amphitheater-style bowls, used by the Incas to test crop success under varying conditions. The next stop is Maras, where visitors witness over 3,000 salt pools dating back to pre-Incan times and learn about the local salt production that continues to support families today.

| Site | Travel Time | Highlights |

| — | — | — |

| Moray | 1.5 hours | Terraced farm fields, amphitheater-style bowls for crop testing |

| Maras | – | Over 3,000 salt pools, local salt production |

Included Amenities and Fees

The tour includes several amenities, such as hotel pickup, transportation to the sites, and a professional guide to provide commentary throughout the experience.

This tour provides a seamless experience with hotel pickup, transportation, and a knowledgeable guide to enhance the visit.

A Touristic Ticket is also included, which provides access to multiple attractions in the Sacred Valley for one day.

Entrance fees are additional, with Moray costing 70 soles (approximately $22 USD) and Maras costing 10 soles (around $3.50 USD).

Gratuities for the guide and driver are covered in the tour price.

Snacks are available for purchase, but no meals are provided during the tour.

Accessibility and Recommendations

Though not wheelchair accessible, the Moray Terraces and Maras Salt Pools tour isn’t recommended for travelers with back problems, pregnant individuals, or those with serious medical conditions.

Infants must sit on laps during transportation. No meals are served, but snacks are available for purchase.

This half-day tour involves walking across uneven terrain and climbing stairs at the archaeological sites. Visitors should dress comfortably, wear sturdy shoes, and bring sun protection.

Despite the physical requirements, the tour provides an exceptional opportunity to explore Inca engineering and local salt-making traditions set against the breathtaking Andean landscape.

Traveler Feedback

Travelers have overwhelmingly praised the Moray Terraces and Maras Salt Pools tour, with an impressive 5.0 rating from 8 reviews.

Guides are commended for their extensive knowledge and ability to provide additional stops along the way. The tour is considered excellent value, showcasing ancient Inca engineering and local culture.

Visitors consistently highlight the scenic views of the Andes and local villages, as well as the insightful exploration of Incan agricultural practices and salt mining traditions.

Exploring the Moray Terraces

According to the tour overview, Moray is the first stop on the itinerary, where visitors can explore the remarkable terraced farm fields.

These three amphitheater-style bowls were used by the Incas for agricultural experimentation, testing crop success under varying microclimates.

Travelers marvel at the Inca’s advanced understanding of soil, temperature, and hydrology, as they walk through the concentric terraces.

The unique design and engineering of this agricultural laboratory provide insight into the Inca’s sophisticated farming practices and their ability to thrive in the challenging Andean environment.

Discovering the Maras Salt Pools

After exploring the remarkable Moray Terraces, the tour proceeds to the iconic Maras Salt Pools. Nestled in the Andes Mountains, this ancient salt-making site has been in use since pre-Incan times. Visitors can witness the intricate process of salt extraction, as local families continue the tradition.

| Fact | Detail |

| —- | —— |

| History | The salt pools date back to the Inca Empire and even earlier. |

| Production | Salt is collected by evaporating salty water from underground springs. |

| Culture | The salt trade has sustained local communities for generations. |

| Sustainability | Modern techniques maintain the delicate balance of the salt-making ecosystem. |

| Experience | Guests can observe the salt-harvesting process and purchase local salt products.

Questions About Your Stay

Is There an Opportunity to Purchase Local Handicrafts?

The tour doesn’t mention any opportunities to purchase local handicrafts. However, visitors may find vendors selling traditional crafts near the sites or in nearby towns, though this isn’t a guaranteed part of the tour itinerary.

What Is the Dress Code for This Tour?

The tour has no specific dress code, though it’s recommended to wear comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing. Sturdy walking shoes are advised as the sites involve some uneven terrain. Bringing layers is also sensible given the changing Andean climate.

Can Travelers Take a Guided Tour at Their Own Pace?

Travelers can generally take the guided tour at their own pace. The tour allows flexibility, with the guide providing commentary and directing the group through the sites. Participants can explore the areas at a comfortable speed to fully appreciate the experience.

Are There Any Restroom Facilities Available During the Tour?

The tour does not provide dedicated restroom facilities. However, there are usually opportunities to use public restrooms at the various stops along the way. Travelers are advised to plan accordingly and bring any necessary personal care items.

Can the Itinerary Be Customized to Meet Individual Preferences?

The tour operator generally doesn’t offer customizable itineraries, as the tour covers set sites. However, travelers can discuss any special needs or requests with the guide, who may be able to accommodate them within the tour’s framework.

Final Verdict On This Stay

The Moray Terraces and Maras Salt Pools half-day tour from Cusco offers a captivating glimpse into ancient Inca agricultural and salt production practices. Travelers will be enchanted by the unique terraced landscapes and stunning salt pools, all set against the backdrop of the breathtaking Andes. With convenient transportation, a knowledgeable guide, and an affordable price, this tour is a must-do for anyone visiting the Cusco region.