Group/Private

Tour Maras, Moray & Salt Mines Half-Day

The Maras, Moray & Salt Mines Tour invites you to discover the cultural and agricultural richness of the Sacred Valley of the Incas on a fascinating journey through ancient agricultural labs, colonial towns, and one of the region’s most surprising salt mines. This tour offers a unique experience surrounded by majestic snow-capped mountains and Andean landscapes.

We begin the day with pickup from your hotel in Cusco, where your Peruvian Great Journeys guide will give you an introduction to the sites you’ll visit. The tour starts at the Quechua House of Chinchero, where you’ll learn about traditional weaving techniques and the living culture of the local people. Then, you’ll explore the archaeological complex of Moray, known as the Incas’ “agricultural laboratory,” and continue to the picturesque colonial town of Maras, ending at the legendary Salt Mines of Maras.

The tour ends around 2:30 p.m., when we return near Cusco’s Main Square. Throughout the journey, you’ll learn about ancient agriculture, colonial history, and traditions that remain alive in the Andean communities today.

Itinerary

Day 1: Maras, Moray & Salt Mines

The adventure begins with pickup at 7:30 a.m. from your hotel in Cusco, followed by a ride in a comfortable, air-conditioned tourist vehicle. Along the way, enjoy panoramic views of the Sacred Valley and Andean wildlife.

Our first stop is the Moray Archaeological Center, located 38 km from Cusco, where you’ll see the famous circular terraces used by the Incas to create microclimates for growing crops at different altitudes. Moray, a true agricultural lab, had up to 20 different microclimates.

Next, we head to the Salt Mines of Maras, a complex of over 3,000 salt ponds producing 50 to 80 kilograms of salt per cycle. These ponds are fed by an underground salty spring, and the evaporation process takes about two months.

After this enriching experience, we return to Cusco around 2:00 p.m., the perfect ending to this fascinating tour.

Places You’ll Visit

Moray: An Inca agricultural center with circular amphitheater-like terraces. Believed to have been an agricultural lab for adapting crops to various microclimates.
Maras: A picturesque colonial town known for its carved stone doorways and proximity to the salt mines. Ideal for exploring traditional Andean life.
Salt Mines of Maras: Over 3,000 salt ponds on a mountain slope, used since pre-Inca times. A unique landscape where salt is still harvested by hand today.

Includes

Included

Hotel pickup and drop-off in Cusco.
Transportation in a comfortable, air-conditioned tourist vehicle.
Entrance ticket to the Salt Mines of Maras.
Professional bilingual guide (Spanish / English).

Not Included

Cusco Tourist Ticket (Peruvians PEN 40 | Foreigners PEN 70).
Travel insurance.
Meals and beverages not specified.
Personal expenses, optional activities, and tips.

Recommendations

Wear comfortable and sturdy shoes for walking on uneven terrain.
Protect yourself from the sun with a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen.
Dress in layers as mornings are cool and midday can be hot.
Stay hydrated—bring at least 1 liter of water per person.
Don’t forget your camera or phone with enough battery to capture the views.
Carry cash in soles for local artisan purchases.
Follow your guide’s instructions and respect the local communities.
If you suffer from altitude sickness, consider using coca leaves or altitude pills.
Ask your guide if you need recommendations on using local products like Maras salt.
Wear light and comfortable clothes for the visits, especially at the salt mines.
Keep in mind that high altitudes may cause altitude sickness—consider acclimating before the tour.

FAQs

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the altitude of Moray and Maras?

Moray is located at approximately 3,500 m.a.s.l., and the Salt Mines of Maras are at around 3,380 m.a.s.l., so it’s important to acclimate beforehand in Cusco.

How long does the tour last?

The tour lasts about 6 hours, starting early in the morning and returning to Cusco in the mid-afternoon.

Can I bring children or elderly people?

Yes, the tour is suitable for all ages. However, elderly individuals or those with walking difficulties or altitude sensitivity should take extra precautions.