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Moray & Salt Mines Tour in Cusco (Half Day Tour)
Join us for a unforgettable tour to Maras Moray in Cusco with expert locals, in just half a day!
Half Day
Moray & Salt Mines Tour in Cusco (Half Day Tour)
Join us for a unforgettable tour to Maras Moray in Cusco with expert locals, in just half a day!Half Day
Trip Length
Half Day
Likely to Sell Out
from
$ 25.00 USD p/p
Introduction
Short on time but looking for adventure? Join our Maras Moray Tour in Cusco for an exciting half-day experience, explore Moray Inca ruins, the Salt Mines, an Alpaca farm and much more. Book your tour today and enjoy the beauty of the Sacred Valley with a local guide. We give you the possibility to choose between private or group tour, allowing you to select the one that best suits your budget.
Trip Important Data
Altitude
Physical Level
1/5
Duration
Half Day
Seasson
Accomodation
Trip Style
Overview
Maras Moray Half Day Tour – Overview
Enjoy the fascinating marvels of the Maras Moray Tour from Cusco, Peru. The tour offers a half-day exploration through the most breathtaking scenery and ancient cultural sites of the region.
During our tour, you will visit the enigmatic agricultural terraces of Moray, where the Incas carried out innovative agricultural experiments.
Next, you will explore the impressive Salt Mines of Maras, a fascinating place with thousands of salt pools nestled in steep terrain. You will learn about the ancestral techniques that have been handed down from generation to generation and that allow the locals to harvest world-class salt in this breathtaking area.
If you are planning a trip to Cusco, Peru, Maras Salt Mines and Moray are one of the most popular tourist destinations from the city of Cusco. With its rich history, unmatched scenery and cultural significance, this Cusco half day trip promises an unforgettable journey that links you to both the ancient and natural wonders of Cusco. Do not to miss theses hidden gems in the Sacred Valley of the Incas and embark on an unforgettable journey into the heart of Peru.
Would you prefer to have a drop-off in Ollantaytambo?
After your visit to the ruins of Moray and the Maras Salt Mines from Cusco, you may wonder about the possibility of extending your adventure to Ollantaytambo or you’re looking to be dropped off in Ollantaytambo. If that is correct, then let me tell you yes! We can do that for you, we’ve got you covered!
Our service not only offers an unforgettable excursion to Moray and Maras but also includes a convenient drop off option in Ollantaytambo for an extra cost. (You can request it at the time of booking).
Trip Details:
Tour Type: Group tour but can also be offered in private service upon request.
Activities: Archaeology & Cultural Adventure with Scenic Views
Tour Duration: From 8am to 2 pm (Half day tour).
Pick up location: Hotels in Cusco or anywhere in the historical center
Pick up Schedule: At 7:30 am from your hotel in Cusco.
Physical Grading: ★★☆☆☆ This tour is designed for everyone (kids, teens, adults, seniors)
Need to book in Advance: You do not need to book this tour in advance. The Maras Salt Mines and Moray tour can be booked up to 1 day before the activity.
Customizable: Yes! Our Maras Salt Mines and Moray tour from Cusco can be customized according to your interests and can be offered in private service just for you and your group. Contact one of our travel specialists.
Why you will love this tour?
- You will visit 3 places on this half day tour.
- Learn about the history of the Incas from a local guide
- You can cancel the tour up to 48 hours for a full refund.
- Learn about the process of weaving and dyeing alpaca fiber with ancestral techniques in Chinchero.
Itinerary
Maras Moray & Salt Mines Tour from Cusco Itinerary
Are you ready to embark on a facinating half-day experience from Cusco? Join us on an unforgettable tour to Maras Moray, where ancient Inca ruins and beautiful landscapes await you. Our excursion begins promptly at 8 a.m
Our tour to Maras Moray begins with a scenic drive through the Peruvian mountains, wheat fields and Quechua villages. The first stop is a visit to the archaeological site of the Moray. We will explore the enigmatic circular terraces of Moray, thought to have been used as an agricultural laboratory by the Incas. The stunning terraces and the historical significance will leave you in awe.
When you are done exploring the Moray ruins, head to the nearby Maras Salt Mines, a natural wonder that has been exploited since pre-Inca times. Be witness to the stunning network of salt ponds that glisten in the Andean sun, creating a breathtaking mosaic of colors. Learn about the ancestral salt extraction techniques that are still being practiced today.
Next, you’ll immerse yourself in the world of the Andean alpacas at an authentic Chinchero farm. Get up close to these friendly animals and discover their role in Andean culture and weaving. You will even have the opportunity to interact directly with them.
Finish your adventure in Chinchero, visiting the best women weavers of ancient Peru. Watch how they skillfully craft exquisite weavings using traditional techniques.
NOTE: If you prefer to conclude the tour in Ollantaytambo, please inform us upon booking. It is important to note that this tour is run as a group service and normally concludes in Cusco. However, upon request, we can arrange an additional transfer to Ollantaytambo after the Maras Moray tour for an extra cost.
IMPORTANT: “Opting for a group tour is a cost-saving option, but it is important to keep in mind that it is not as personalized as a private tour. You will need to follow the group itinerary, which may have some limitations. Also, note that group tours involve other participants and are managed by a third-party company, so some aspects may be beyond our direct control”.
IMPORTANT INFORMATION FOR OUR GROUP TOURS
If you decide to participate in a group tour, it is important to know that these tours are limited to a maximum of 15 participants. As these are shared experiences with other people, it is not possible to customize or modify the itinerary. Please note that pick-up times may vary and that the logistics are managed entirely by a third party company.
Inclusions
Maras Salt Mines Peru Tour Inclusions and Exclusions
Our Maras Moray tour starting from Cusco includes all the essential aspects of the experience, in order to make your journey memorable. Please be aware that the entrance fees to the sites are not included in the tour price and should be purchased on-site the day of the activity.
Included
- Pick up from your hotel in Cusco
- English speaking guide
- Transportation
- 1 water bottle
No Included
- Entrance fees
- Tips
What To Bring
When preparing for our Maras Moray Half Day Tour from Cusco, it is important to pack the right items to ensure your comfort and enjoyment. Here is a list of items to consider bringing:
- A good (and small) daypack
- Comfortable shoes
- Hat and sunglasses
- Sun protection cream (factor 35 recommended)
- Rainwear or rain poncho for the rainy season (December to March)
- 1 bottle of water
- Camera with extra batteries
- Extra money for drinks and souvenirs
Considerations:
Tourist ticket: In order to visit the ruins of Moray it is necessary to acquire the tourist ticket or “boleto turistico” which will give you access to it. This ticket is valid for 2 days and covers 4 sites in the Sacred Valley area.
- The cost for the entrance ticket is 70 Peruvian soles.
To visit the Salt Mines in Maras a separate ticket must be purchased.
- The cost of the ticket is 10 Peruvian soles.
Travel Guide
Explore the mysterious wonders of Maras Moray:
Tucked in the scenic landscapes of the Sacred Valley area, near Cusco, Peru, is the the famous Salt Mines and Moray ruins, an enchanting place waiting to be explored. Learn more about the facinating sites you will explore during this half day tour from Cusco.
Maras Salt Mines
The Maras Salt Mines, also referred to as Salineras de Maras, are a historic salt mining site located in the Sacred Valley of Peru, near the town of Maras. These salt mines have been in use since pre-Inca times and are still actively maintained by local families today.
Historical Significance: These salt pans, which date back to pre-Inca times, have been used for salt extraction for centuries. The salt harvesting method has remained virtuallly unchanged since the time of the Inca Empire, making it a living heritage.
Salt Production: The salt ponds are fed by a natural salt spring that emerges from a nearby mountain. The salt water flows into individual pools arranged in terraces. When the water evaporates under the Andean sun, it leaves crystallized salt, which is carefully harvested by local families. This traditional process, handed down from generation to generation, produces one of the finest and purest salts in the world.
A visit to the Maras Salt Mines is a unique opportunity to witness a centuries-old tradition in a stunning natural setting. We believe this is a testament to the enduring cultural practices carried out by the Andean people and offers an unforgettable experience for those exploring the Sacred Valley of Peru.
Moray Ruins
The Moray ruins is located in Peru’s Sacred Valley near Cusco, the site is an extraordinary archaeological site not to be missed. This fascinating ancient site consists of a series of concentric agricultural terraces carved out of a natural depression in the ground.
Agricultural Experimentation: It is believed that Moray was an agricultural laboratory for the Incas, where they carried out experiments with crops at different altitudes and microclimates. It is believed that Moray was an agricultural laboratory for the Incas, where they carried out experiments with crops at different altitudes and microclimates. The terraces, placed in concentric circles, allow for temperature variations that mimic different ecological regions. This allowed the Incas to test and develop different varieties of crops.
Mysteries and Theories: Yet, despite its importance, many questions about Moray are still unanswered. The exact use of the site for agricultural experiments continue to intrigue archaeologists.
Prices in Group Service |
|
| $ 25.00 | Contact us |
The price for our Maras and Moray tour (Group Tour) is per person, the price does not vary if there are more participants in the group. Typically this tour must be paid in cash the day before the tour at the latest, if you have not paid then you will not be picked up on the day of the activity.
Prices in Private Service |
||
| Number of persons | Price per person | |
| 2 | $79.00 | Contact us |
| 3 | $69.00 | Contact us |
| 4 | $50.00 | Contact us |
| 6 | $50.00 | Contact us |
Unlike the group tour our private service tour can be modified according to your preferences, and the cost is per person, the more participants the price decreases. We advise you to make a partial deposit of the cost of the tour and pay the balance on the day of the activity.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does the Maras Moray tour generally last from Cusco?
The tour usually lasts 5 hours approximately, the tour starts at 8 am and culminates at 1 pm in Cusco.
Are entrance tickets to Maras Moray and Maras Salt Mines included in the tour price?
No, you must buy the entrance tickets on site on the day of the activity, for this we recommend you to bring cash in Peruvian currency.
What should I wear and bring for the Maras Moray tour?
Wear comfortable walking shoes and sun protection ( sun hat, sunscreen, sunglasses). It is also recommended to carry a rain jacket, water, snacks, a camera and other personal items.
Is there an age limit or fitness requirement for this tour?
In fact, the tour is designed for everyone, both children and seniors. You will not do a lot of walking during the tour, however we recommend wearing comfortable shoes.
Are there restroom facilities available during the tour?
Yes, there are restrooms in both Moray and The Salt Mines, when you visit Moray I recommend you to use the restrooms at the end of the explanation of the site, during your free time, since the restrooms are located on the way out.
Inquire Now
Katie L
2023-10-19
Best Peru Tour Company
Cannot say enough great things about Tour My Peru Company. Juan Carlos is fantastic, super knowledgable, tells the best stories - both historical, and mythical (or are they!?) I have toured with them a couple of times now and they never disappoint. They are able to personalize to exactly what you're looking for, offer a more "local" experience and visit the off the beaten trail places as well as deliver an amazing trip to Machu Picchu!
Iatziri V
2023-10-17
Excelente trato y explicaciones
Excelente tour, el trato muy amable y servicial, nos sentimos cuidadas en todo momento, lo recomiendo bastante ! Quedamos encantadas mis amigas y yo
greenious
2023-10-16
Carlitos is a great guide
I did the 4-day Inca Trail with my then fiancee and friends with Carlitos as our guide. He is very knowledgable with the history of the trail and gave us technical tips on how to hike better as well. Would recommend Carlitos as your guide!
EK616
2023-10-15
Sacred Valley Tour
My friends and I took the Sacred Valley Tour from Ollantaytambo and had a great time! The pacing was perfect. Half of us had altitude sickness and the other half did not but all of us were able to enjoy our day. The tour guide was knowledgeable and very attentive. I highly recommend the tour!