The Half Day Maras and Moray Tour offers an unforgettable journey through the heart of the Sacred Valley, combining stunning landscapes with rich Inca history. This tour provides a perfect glimpse into the agricultural ingenuity and cultural heritage of the Inca civilization while keeping the experience accessible and relaxing.
Our adventure begins in the early morning as we depart from the historic city of Cusco. As we ascend into the highlands of the Sacred Valley, you’ll be treated to panoramic views of lush valleys and snow-capped mountains. Along the way, we’ll pass vibrant local communities that continue to maintain their traditional ways of life, offering a glimpse into the living culture of the Andes.
Our first stop is the incredible Moray archaeological site, where you’ll explore a series of circular terraces that demonstrate the Inca’s advanced agricultural techniques. These terraces were used as a kind of laboratory for experimenting with different crops and climates. Positioned at an altitude of 3,500 meters (11,482 feet), the site offers not only fascinating history but also breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains.
Next, we’ll descend to the Maras Salt Mines, located at an altitude of 3,000 meters (9,842 feet). This striking site consists of thousands of white salt pans that have been in use since Inca times. Even today, the local community continues to harvest salt using traditional methods passed down through generations. The sunlight reflecting off the crystalline salt pools creates an otherworldly visual spectacle that you won’t want to miss.
The Half Day Maras Moray Tour is an easy and accessible journey, covering a distance of approximately 40 kilometers (24.9 miles) round trip. The gentle terrain and breathtaking views make this an ideal tour for travelers of all fitness levels. Whether you’re fascinated by history or simply looking for a peaceful exploration of Peru’s natural beauty, this tour offers the perfect balance.
As we return to Cusco, you’ll carry with you the awe-inspiring memories of Maras and Moray—a testament to the creativity and innovation of the Inca civilization. This half-day tour offers a perfect blend of culture, history, and nature, giving you a deeper appreciation of Peru’s majestic past and its enduring traditions.
The Half Day Maras Moray Tour offers a fascinating glimpse into the agricultural mastery of the Inca civilization and the natural beauty of the Sacred Valley. Whether you’re a history enthusiast or a nature lover, this tour provides a perfect combination of cultural exploration and scenic adventure in just a few hours.
Here’s a quick overview of the Half Day Maras and Moray Tour, highlighting key stops and important stats for your journey.
Departure from Cusco:
Visit Moray:
Visit Maras Salt Mines:
Tour Stats:
Visiting Maras and Moray is easy and can be done on a half-day tour from Cusco. Many travel agencies offer guided tours, which include transportation and a knowledgeable guide to explain the history and significance of these sites. Alternatively, you can hire a private taxi from Cusco or rent bicycles for a more adventurous trip through the rural paths of the Sacred Valley. Once there, you can explore the circular terraces of Moray and the Maras Salt Mines at your own pace.
Moray is an archaeological site known for its impressive circular terraces, which the Incas used as an agricultural laboratory. These terraces were designed to create different microclimates, allowing the Incas to experiment with various crops at different altitudes and temperatures. This unique design enabled them to grow plants that would not have thrived in other areas of the Andes, showcasing their advanced knowledge of agriculture and land management.
The entrance fee to the Maras Salt Mines is approximately 10 soles (around $3 USD). Keep in mind that this price is only for the salt mines. The entrance to Moray is included in the Cusco Tourist Ticket, which costs 70 soles (about $20 USD) for the partial ticket (covering several archaeological sites) or 130 soles ($40 USD) for the general ticket, which includes access to multiple tourist sites in the region.
The best time to visit Maras and Moray is during the dry season, which runs from May to September. During these months, the weather is more stable, with fewer chances of rain, making it ideal for exploring the sites and hiking. The rainy season (November to March) offers lush, green landscapes but can make access to some rural roads more challenging.
Xplor Machu Picchu provided an exceptional experience during our Maras Moray Tour. The tour was expertly organized, and our guide was both informative and passionate about the history and culture of the region. Exploring the unique Maras salt mines and fascinating Moray terraces was a highlight of our trip. I highly recommend Xplor Machu Picchu for their excellent service and memorable tours!
