Maras Moray - Cusco
Overview
We begin the tour by picking up passengers at their hotel between 08:30 and 09:00 hours, and head towards Moray, a site considered to be a center of agricultural research of the Incas. Moray is a unique place, where each ring of terraces provides different micro-climatic conditions, which allowed the Incas to observe and improve various crops that were produced at different altitudes.
Next, we continue our tour to the ancient salt mines of Maras, where the salt water that descends from the mountain fills thousands of wells, which evaporate, resulting in a salt of high culinary quality. This place offers a unique visual landscape in the world, ideal for capturing beautiful photographs. Finally, we return to Cusco around 3:00 pm, approximately.
8:30 – 9:00 hrs | Pickup from your hotel (Cusco Historic Center)
Our tour begins with pickup from your hotel in Cusco's historic center. We'll head northwest of the Sacred Valley in tourist transportation, enjoying Andean landscapes and small traditional villages along the way.
10:00 hrs | Visit to the Moray archaeological complex
We arrive at Moray, an impressive Inca agricultural laboratory composed of concentric circular terraces. This site was key to the agricultural development of the Tahuantinsuyu, allowing for experimentation with microclimates and cultivation at different altitudes. Here, our specialized guide will explain its operation and significance.
11:30 hrs | Exploration of the Maras Salt Mines
We continue to Maras, where we will visit the amazing Inca salt mines: more than 3,000 active salt wells formed by the runoff of saltwater from a natural spring. The ancient extraction technique and the impressive panoramic views make this site an ideal place for photography.
1:00 PM | Return to Cusco
We begin the return trip enjoying the Andean landscape.
3:00 PM | Arrival in Cusco
Approximate arrival in the historic center of Cusco, culminating a morning full of history, nature, and living culture.
- Round-trip tourist transportation from Cusco: Modern, comfortable tourist vehicles fully licensed by the Ministry of Transportation. We have clean, safe vehicles with trained drivers.
- Pickup from your centrally located hotel in Cusco: Door-to-door service from accommodations located within the Historic Center. For locations outside the area, an accessible meeting point can be arranged.
- Professional and certified tour guide (Spanish/English): Accompaniment throughout the tour by a certified guide with extensive experience in history, archaeology, and Andean culture. They will provide detailed explanations at each point of interest.
- Guided tour of the Moray archaeological complex: Walking tour of the agricultural terrace rings with expert information about their agricultural function, microclimates, and Inca technology.
- Visit to the Maras Salt Mines: Guided exploration of the traditional salt production system, one of the oldest on the continent and still in operation.
- Personalized assistance during the tour: Our staff is trained to address any logistical needs or minor medical situations that may arise during the tour.
- First aid kit on board: Equipped with basic supplies to treat cuts, stomach upset, headaches, or mild symptoms of altitude sickness.
- Coordination and support via WhatsApp before and during the tour: We provide direct assistance to resolve any questions or changes prior to the start of the tour.
- Strategic stops for panoramic photographs: Brief stops where you can capture images of spectacular landscapes and the Andean environment of Cusco.
Not Included
- Partial Tourist Ticket for Moray – S/. 70.00 per person: This pass allows entry to several archaeological sites in the Sacred Valley, including Moray. It is
- personal and non-transferable.
- Admission to the Maras Salt Mines – S/. 20.00 per person: Access to this site is not included in the Tourist Ticket. It is paid directly at the entrance.
- Meals during the tour: Breakfast, lunch, and snacks are not included. It is recommended to bring light snacks or water.
- Tips for the guide and driver (optional): Not mandatory, but if you are satisfied with the service, you can leave a voluntary tip.
- Personal expenses or purchases along the way: Such as handicrafts, local products, or snacks.
- Other services not specified in the itinerary: Any modifications, additional transportation, or activities outside the program.
- Acclimatize the day before the tour if you've just arrived in Cusco.
- Bring only the essentials in a small backpack for comfort.
- Wear sunglasses with UV protection and sunscreen, even on cloudy days.
- Follow the guide's instructions at the archaeological sites.
- Do not enter salt pools or walk along narrow edges.
- Be ready 10 minutes before pickup at your hotel.
- If you have any medical conditions, please notify the guide before the tour begins.
To ensure a safe, comfortable, and enriching experience, please keep the following recommendations in mind:
- Acclimatize properly before the tour: This tour operates between 3,300 and 3,500 meters above sea level. If you have just arrived in Cusco, it is best to rest on the first day, hydrate, and avoid heavy meals to prevent altitude sickness.
- Dress in layers and wear appropriate clothing: The weather in the region can vary from cold in the morning to intense sun at midday. Bring a light jacket, breathable shirts, comfortable pants, and non-slip shoes for walking on trails and uneven surfaces.
- Protect your skin and eyes: Apply high-factor sunscreen, wear sunglasses with UV filter, and wear a hat or cap to avoid sunburn, especially when visiting the Salt Mines.
- Bring cash in soles: Many tourist sites and local businesses do not accept cards. It is recommended to carry small bills for entrance fees, purchases, or tips.
- Wear a light backpack: Only carry the essentials: water, camera, sunglasses, sunscreen, personal documents, and money. Avoid carrying large or heavy bags that might hinder the tour.
- Do not enter the terraces or salt pools: For conservation reasons, walking on archaeological structures or inside the pools is prohibited. Respect the designated areas and always follow the guide's instructions.
- Be punctual: Pickup is between 8:30 and 9:00 a.m. We recommend being ready at your hotel reception at least 10 minutes beforehand.
- Avoid consuming alcohol the night before: Excessive consumption can increase the risk of discomfort during physical activity at altitude.
- Notify any medical conditions: If you have any chronic illnesses, allergies, or are taking medication, please inform your guide or our team before starting the tour.
- Enjoy responsibly: Take photos, ask questions, and connect with the landscape and history, but always with respect for the local culture and nature.
The tour lasts approximately 6 hours (from 8:30 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.).
The service includes pickup from centrally located hotels in Cusco. If you are outside the permitted radius, we will coordinate a meeting point.
Yes, both tickets (partial tourist ticket and entrance to the Salineras) can be purchased at the entrance to the sites.
The tour operates normally during the rainy season. It is recommended to wear waterproof clothing and non-slip footwear.
The service is limited in rural areas, so it is recommended to inform your contacts in advance that you will be out of service for a few hours.
Yes, taking personal photos is permitted. For professional recordings or commercial use, special permission may be required.
Price from$ 30.00 USDper person
Maras Moray Travel Details
Tour Type: | Small Group Tour | |
Duration: | Half Day | |
Activities: | Classic Tour | |
Group Size: | Up to 16 | |
Difficulty: | Easy | |
Accommodation: | No include | |
Language: | English, Spanish | |
Altitude Tour: | 1,500 mt / 4,920 ft |
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