On this Moray and Maras Salt Mines tour, you’ll discover the history and ingenuity of the ancient Incas by visiting two of the most fascinating sites in the Sacred Valley. This experience will take you through breathtaking Andean landscapes, living culture, and archaeological remains that reveal the ancestral knowledge of this great civilization.
The adventure begins with a visit to Moray, a unique Incan agricultural center made up of concentric terraces that created different microclimates. Here, you’ll learn how the Incas experimented with crops at varying altitudes and temperatures, showcasing their advanced understanding of agriculture.
We’ll then continue to the terraced salt mines, which have been used since pre-Inca times. Over 3,000 salt pools create a dazzling white landscape cascading down the mountainside. You’ll witness the traditional artisanal process of salt harvesting, a practice still kept alive by local families.
This tour is perfect for those who want to connect with the living history of the Andes, enjoy panoramic views, and capture truly unique photos. Come and explore one of Cusco’s most surprising and authentic gems!
Itinerary
The Moray and Maras Salt Mines Tour is an unmissable experience, featuring Andean landscapes and ancestral knowledge of agriculture and salt production. From Cusco, we will travel by tourist transport to these two incredible destinations, accompanied by a specialized guide.
Hotel Pickup in Cusco
Starting at 7:30 a.m., our transport will pick you up from your accommodation to begin the adventure. The exact time will be confirmed one day before the tour.
Moray Archaeological Site
We will visit the Inca agricultural laboratory formed by circular terraces that recreated up to 20 microclimates. Moray is located 38 km from Cusco and features structures up to 80 meters deep.
Maras Salt Mines
We will visit more than 3,000 active salt pools naturally formed by underground saltwater. You will learn about the ancestral production process and be able to purchase products such as medicinal pink salt.
Return to Cusco
After exploring these impressive sites, we will return to the city of Cusco. The tour ends around 2:00 p.m.
Important Notes
- Recommended clothing: light clothes, cap or hat, sunscreen, and comfortable footwear
- Bring water, a camera, and some cash for souvenirs
- Approximate tour duration: 6 to 7 hours
- Average altitude: between 3,300 and 3,500 meters above sea level
What's included
- Entrance fees to Maras, Moray, and the Salt Mines.
- Round-trip transportation.
- Professional bilingual guide (English – Spanish).
Exclusions
- Hotel night in Cusco.
- Meals not specified in the itinerary.
- Other services not explicitly mentioned.
Remember these tips to better enjoy your trip, always carry with you:
- Bring an ID or passport (required for entry).
- Have the Tourist Ticket (Partial or General), required for entering Moray.
- Bring cash (Peruvian soles) for personal purchases or additional entrance fees.
- Use sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses to protect yourself from the Andean sun.
- Bring a camera or a fully charged smartphone to capture the beautiful landscape.
- Bring a bottle of water to stay hydrated during the tour.
- Wear comfortable shoes, preferably for walking or trekking.
- Bring a small backpack with essentials for the tour.
- Bring a light jacket or windbreaker, as the weather can change suddenly.
Frequently Asked Questions
What time does the tour to Maras and Moray start?
Passenger pickup is between 7:30 a.m. and 8:00 a.m. from hotels located in Cusco's historic center. The exact time will be confirmed the night before the tour.
What places are visited on this tour?
Visit the archaeological center of Moray, known for its amphitheater-shaped agricultural terraces, and the Maras Salt Mines, a complex of more than 3,000 salt pools that have been in operation since pre-Inca times.
Is admission to tourist sites included?
Admission to Moray is included if the traveler has a Partial or General Tourist Ticket. Admission to the Maras Salt Mines is paid separately (approximately S/ 10.00 per person).
How long is the tour?
The total duration of the tour is approximately 5 hours, returning to Cusco around 1:30 p.m.
Is it necessary to be in good physical condition for the tour?
It is not a physically demanding tour, but it is advisable to be acclimatized to the altitude of Cusco, since Moray is located at more than 3,000 meters above sea level.
What should I bring on the tour?
It is recommended to bring: ID, sunscreen, a hat or cap, water, a camera, cash, and a light backpack.
Can children and seniors participate?
Yes, the tour is suitable for all ages. Caution is recommended in areas with uneven paths, especially around the salt mines.
Does it include a tour guide?
Yes, the tour includes a professional bilingual guide (Spanish – English) who will provide cultural and historical information at each stop.
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