The Maras and Moray Tour will be a fascinating day trip through the Sacred Valley. We will explore landscapes that rise over 3,000 meters above sea level. The region will surprise us with culture, history, and extraordinary Inca achievements. This day tour will connect us with both ancient wisdom and living traditions.
At the Moray Archaeological Site, we will discover impressive circular terraces that reveal the secrets of crop growth. Each terrace level will demonstrate how the Incas mastered agriculture with precision. The Moray terraces will allow us to imagine the scientific knowledge of Inca times. This place will show us a unique blend of nature and innovation.
In contrast, the Maras Salt Mines will present thousands of shining pools that continue producing maras salt today. The white surfaces will create an unforgettable view across the valley. This part of Maras and Moray Peru will show us how ancestral practices still shape daily life. We will feel the harmony between history, culture, and Andean landscapes.
With Tikariy Machu Picchu, we will experience the Moray and Maras Salt Mines in a meaningful way. This Maras and Moray Tour will combine knowledge, beauty, and culture in a single day tour. Choosing our agency will ensure that every detail of the journey will be authentic and memorable.
Itinerary
The Maras and Moray Tour is the perfect day trip from Cusco to discover the Sacred Valley. Visit the Inca agricultural laboratory of Moray and the impressive Maras Salt Mines, while enjoying breathtaking Andean landscapes and ancestral knowledge of agriculture and salt production.
Hotel Pickup in Cusco
At 07:30 a.m., our transport will pick you up from your hotel in Cusco. The exact schedule will be confirmed one day before the journey. Get ready for a scenic drive through the Sacred Valley with views of Andean villages and farmlands.
Moray Archaeological Site
We arrive at Moray, an Inca agricultural laboratory located 38 km from Cusco. The circular terraces descend up to 80 meters deep, each recreating a different microclimate. Here, the Incas experimented with crops like potatoes, maize, and quinoa.
Maras Salt Mines
Next, we continue to the famous Maras Salt Mines, with more than 3,000 salt pools spread across the mountain slope. Fed by underground saltwater, the pools shine white under the sun. Local families still harvest pink salt with ancestral techniques.
Return to Cusco
In the afternoon, we return to Cusco. The tour ends around 2:00 p.m., with unforgettable memories of the Sacred Valley’s history, agriculture, and culture.
Important Notes
- Distance traveled: 65 km (round trip)
- Highest altitude: 3,500 meters above sea level
- Lowest altitude: 3,300 meters above sea level
- Route: Cusco – Moray – Maras Salt Mines – Cusco
- Difficulty: Easy
- Recommended clothing: light clothes, hat or cap, sunscreen, and comfortable footwear
- Bring water, a camera, and some cash for souvenirs
- Approximate tour duration: 6 to 7 hours
What's included
- Hotel pick-up in Cusco (07:30 a.m. approx.)
- Tourist transportation (round trip Cusco – Moray – Maras – Cusco)
- Professional bilingual tour guide (English/Spanish)
- Entrance ticket to the Moray Archaeological Site
- Entrance ticket to the Maras Salt Mines
- Guided visit to the Moray circular terraces
- Guided visit to the Maras Salt Mines (salt pools)
- Detailed explanation of Inca agriculture and salt production
- Free time to explore and take photographs at each site
Exclusions
- Meals and drinks during the tour
- Personal expenses and shopping at local markets
- Tips for guide and driver (optional)
- Travel insurance (recommended)
- Additional activities or visits not mentioned in the itinerary
- Hotel drop-off outside the historic center of Cusco
- Extra snacks or water (should be brought personally)
Remember these tips to better enjoy your trip, always carry with you:
- Light clothing suitable for daytime temperatures
- Warm jacket for the early morning and afternoon
- Comfortable walking shoes or sneakers
- Hat or cap to protect from the sun
- Sunglasses with UV protection
- Sunscreen with high SPF
- Refillable water bottle
- Small backpack for personal items
- Camera or smartphone for photos
- Extra cash in Peruvian soles for souvenirs or snacks
- Personal medications if needed
- Rain jacket or poncho during the rainy season (November to March)
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does the Maras and Moray Tour last?
The tour lasts about 6 to 7 hours, including transport, guided visits, and free time.
What altitude will we reach on this day tour?
We will visit sites between 3,300 meters and 3,500 meters above sea level.
Is the Maras and Moray Tour difficult?
The tour is easy. We will walk short distances on gentle terrain, suitable for all fitness levels.
What is included in the Maras and Moray Tour?
The tour includes transport, bilingual guide, and entrance tickets to Moray and Maras Salt Mines.
Do we need to bring extra money?
Yes, we should carry some soles for snacks, souvenirs, or salt-based products at Maras.
What should we wear on the Maras and Moray Tour?
We should wear light clothes, comfortable shoes, a hat, and bring sunscreen and a water bottle.
Can we buy products at the Maras Salt Mines?
Yes, local families sell pink salt, chocolate, and other unique products at the site.
At what time will we return to Cusco, Peru?
We will arrive back in Cusco around 2:00 p.m., depending on traffic and group pace.
Reviews
Highly recommended tour with Tikariy Machu Picchu.
This tour combined history, culture, and beautiful views of the Sacred Valley. We enjoyed every moment, from the Moray archaeological site to the salt pools of Maras. Tikariy Machu Picchu arranged everything perfectly. We would definitely book with them again
