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Maras & Moray Tour

Half a Day Tour

USA +1 757 744 4430

Peru +51 971 569 997

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ACTIVITIES

Sightseeing Tour

}

lENGTH

Half Day

!

MAX. ALTITUDE

3,762 mts

LOCATION

Sacred Valley, Cusco

Difficulty Level

Very Easy

}

LENGTH

Half Day

ActiviTIES

Sightseeing Tour

!

Max. HEIGHT

3,762 mts

LOCATION

Sacred Valley, Cusco

Overview

The experience at the Maras Salt Mines and Moray is unique and perfect for enjoying the grandeur of two very important places: the impressive circular terraces of Moray and the fascinating natural salt mines of Maras. Both places played an important role during the time of the Incas, with Moray serving the function of seed acclimatization for distribution across different altitudinal levels, while the salt from Maras was crucial for trade.

This experience is designed for people of all ages; whether you’re traveling solo, with a partner, friends, or family. Get to know new people and share unforgettable emotions. Get inspired for your next vacation with traveler’s testimonials like you!

Why book this tour?

  • Connect with the nature of the Sacred Valley.
  • Be amazed by the circular terraces of Moray.
  • Explore the Maras Salt Mines.
  • Discover the various uses of Maras Salt.
  • Contribute to sustainable tourism development with us.

AT A GLANCE

Maras & Moray – Half a Day Tour

  • 08:00 – 08:30 Pick up from your hotel and transfer in tourist transportation.
  • 08:30-10:00 Visit the textile interpretation center in Chinchero.
  • 11:00-12:00 Visit the circular terraces of Moray.
  • 12:00-13:00 Visit the natural salt mines of Maras.
  • 01:30- 02:30 Return trip to Cusco.
  • The final point in Cusco is at Plaza San Francisco at approximately 2:30 pm.

DESCRIPTIVE OF PLACES TO VISIT

Maras and Moray were two very important places during the time of the Incas due to their respective uses. Nowadays, these magical places showcase their best versions through experimental practices and trade. This experience allows us to discover:

    • Maras: The town was founded by the Spanish in 1556 and played a vital role during the viceroyalty as the main supplier of salt in the Andes. Currently, the Maras salt mines consist of approximately 4,500 salt pools arranged in terraced steps. The salt production process in Maras remains strictly communal, with no external involvement. It involves filling clean pools with saltwater from a spring, guided by a system of channels. This liquid is left to evaporate for three days, repeating this practice for a month. During this period, a layer of crystallized salt with a thickness of 7 to 10 centimeters is achieved. The salt is extracted in layers, resulting in different commercial grades: the first, is for domestic use. The second, of lower quality, is known as “first-grade salt”. Finally, the third, called “industrial salt”, is used for industrial, agricultural, and livestock purposes.
    • Moray: An archaeological complex located at 3,500 meters above sea level, famous for its platforms arranged in concentric rings that create a visually stunning spectacle, where the symmetry of its forms blends astonishingly with the vibrant greenery of the surrounding vegetation. This panoramic view is a breathtaking experience and pays tribute to the exceptional skill of the ancient Inca builders. According to research, this place served the function of adapting seeds of various products to the different altitudinal levels in the Sacred Valley. This allowed for a wide variety of products in each location and also gave rise to new varieties. The use of spectral thermometers determined that each circular terrace has a different temperature, enabling more efficient adaptation as the climate in the entire region is always changing.
    • Chinchero: Textile activity was another key foundation within the Inca civilization, and that’s why the town of Chinchero stands out. Its tradition of working with Alpaca wool, from obtaining it, washing, dyeing, and spinning, has been passed down from generation to generation. This town also has its history over the years. Initially, the tenth Inca, Tupac Yupanqui, designated his palace to live in this place. With the passage of time and the arrival of the Spanish, the Temple to the Virgin of Monserrat was built on this site. During the colonial period, this was also the residence of Mateo Pumacahua. Today, this picturesque town has much to show the world with its beautiful temple featuring paintings by famous Cusco artists like Diego Quispe Tito and Francisco Chihuantito. You’ll also find numerous terraces and a large esplanade that finely adorn its surroundings.

    What’s included?

    IncluDED

    • Professional English speaking Tour Guide.
    • Tourist transportation to explore the towns of Chinchero, Maras, and Moray.
    • Entrance tickets: Partial Tourist Ticket (Moray) and entrance ticket to Maras.

    NoT IncluDeD

    • Meals not mentioned in the package.

    • Tips or extra expenses.

    FAQS

    Do I need to hire a travel agency?

    It is not mandatory; you can access the archaeological sites by presenting your Partial Tourist Ticket (PTT) or General Tourist Ticket (GTT). However, it is recommended to have the support of a reliable and formal travel agency like TOUR IN PERU, which will guide you during the experience and ensure a hassle-free visit.

    Is the experience physically demanding?

    Not at all! Most of the time, we travel by vehicle to the access points. The walk in the archaeological center of Moray is short and calm, just like in the salt mines of Maras, it does not require much effort.

    What is the best travel season?

    Cusco offers a variety of captivating climates throughout the year. Two seasons stand out:

    • Dry season (April – October): Sunny and pleasant days with infrequent rain, ideal for enjoying the landscape and a favorite choice for many travelers.
    • Rainy season (November – March): Although rain is more common, the nature of the sanctuary and its surroundings take on a more vivid tone. Additionally, being less crowded, spaces are more available for us.

    These tips and key details will help you plan your travel experience in an informed manner and make the most of your visit in each season.

    What to bring?

    Clothes

    Rain poncho, waterproof jacket, T-shirts, sun hat, Gloves, scarf, trekking shoes, and Light clothing for the day.

    Health and Care

    Sunscreen, sunglasses, sun hat, Bottled water, Personal medication.

    Useful Items

    Passport, Cash in soles, Camera, Extra batteries.

    Tour Map

    Book this Tour

    Experiences that transcend​!

    Personalized travel with purpose.

    Awarded and recognized tour operator.

    Promoters of responsible travel.

    Greater experience for the client.

    Expertise in the sector since 2009.

    Professional specialized guides.

     

     

    Testimonials for your inspiration

    Travel confidently with TOUR IN PERU

    Travel confidently with TOUR IN PERU

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    These are not all our acknowledgments

    but they add to the GUARANTEE OF OUR STANDARDS


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