Service:
Premium
Type of Activity:
Type of walk:
Private Tour & Semi-Private Tour
Level:
The Maras and Moray Half-Day Tour is an unforgettable experience from Cusco that combines history, nature, and living culture. It begins with a visit to the Moray archaeological complex, an ancient Inca agricultural laboratory with circular terraces. Then, you’ll tour the picturesque colonial town of Maras before arriving at the famous Maras Salt Mines, where more than 3,000 salt pools have been handcrafted since pre-Inca times.
This scenic tour is ideal for those short on time but want to explore the Sacred Valley. It includes tour transportation, a professional guide, and spectacular views of the Andes. It can be easily combined with other activities in Cusco on the same day.
ITINERARY
🕗 Detailed Itinerary of the Maras and Moray Half-Day Tour:
1. Pickup from your hotel in Cusco
Our tour transportation will pick you up from your hotel in the historic center of Cusco to begin the experience. We head north of the Sacred Valley along the road to Chinchero.
2. Visit to the Moray Archaeological Complex
We arrive at Moray, an impressive Inca agricultural experimentation center composed of circular terraces that descend like a crater. Here you will learn how the Incas used this space to acclimatize their crops and develop agricultural varieties adapted to different microclimates.
3. Visit to the Village of Maras
We continue to the picturesque village of Maras, known for its colonial architecture and stone-carved doorways. Here you will have a brief stop to observe its church and traditional houses, and learn more about the colonial history of the site.
4. Tour of the Maras Salt Mines
We continue to the Salt Mines, an incredible collection of more than 3,000 salt pools exploited by hand since pre-Inca times. With a unique view of the valley and surrounding mountains, this site offers an unparalleled visual and cultural spectacle. You’ll have time to take photos and, if you wish, purchase excellent-quality natural salt directly from local producers.
5. Return to Cusco
We begin the return trip to Cusco, enjoying the Andean scenery along the way.
6. Arrival in Cusco and end of the tour
We’ll drop you off in the historic center or near your hotel, concluding a short and enriching experience, ideal for complementing other activities of the day.
INCLUDES
✅ What’s included in this tour?
- Pickup from your hotel in Cusco
- Round-trip transportation
- Professional bilingual guide (Spanish and English)
- Free time for photography and local shopping
DOES NOT INCLUDE
❌ What’s not included?
- Partial or General Tourist Ticket (required to enter Moray)
- Entrance ticket to the Maras Salt Mines (approx. S/10.00)
- Food
- Tips
RECOMMENDATIONS
📌 Recommendations:
- Bring a hat or cap, sunglasses, and sunscreen
- Comfortable and warm clothing, as the weather can vary
- A fully charged camera or cell phone
- Water and light snacks
- Cash for entrance fees or local purchases
FAQs
❓ Frequently Asked Questions:
Is a Tourist Ticket required for this tour?
Yes, a Partial or General Tourist Ticket is required to enter Moray. The Salt Mines have a separate additional cost.
Are there any challenging hikes during the tour?
No. The tour is mostly scenic, and the hikes are short and easy.
Is it suitable for children and seniors?
Yes, it’s a relaxing excursion suitable for all ages.
Can it be combined with another activity on the same day?
Yes. As this is a half-day tour, it’s possible to combine it with a city tour of Cusco or a visit to the San Pedro market in the afternoon.
