Maras and Moray Tour
Maras and Moray are two of the most fascinating destinations in the Sacred Valley of the Incas. Maras is known for its impressive salt mines, which have been used since pre-Inca times to extract salt, while Moray is famous for its circular terraces, a center of agricultural experimentation used by the Incas.
This tour offers a perfect blend of history, culture, and natural landscapes. During the tour, travelers will explore these archaeological sites, learn about the agricultural traditions of the Incas, and enjoy spectacular views of the Andes. Additionally, there will be an opportunity to experience local life in the nearby villages.
Itinerary
Tour Itinerary (Half-Day):
8:00 am – Departure from Cusco:
The tour begins with a pick-up from your hotel in Cusco at 8:00 am. Travelers will board a comfortable vehicle for the journey towards the Sacred Valley. The first destination will be Maras, located about 45 minutes from Cusco.
9:00 am – Visit to Maras Salt Mines:
The first stop will be in Maras, a small village known for its salt mines, consisting of thousands of salt evaporation ponds arranged in terraces along a hillside. These salt mines have been exploited since pre-Inca times, and they continue to be used today with traditional methods. Travelers will be able to admire the stunning views of the salt mines and learn about the process of salt extraction, a technique that has remained virtually unchanged for centuries.
10:00 am – Departure to Moray:
After visiting Maras, the tour will continue to Moray, an archaeological site located about 30 minutes from Maras. Along the way, travelers will enjoy panoramic views of the Sacred Valley and the surrounding mountains.
10:30 am – Visit to Moray:
At Moray, travelers will explore the famous circular terraces built by the Incas, which are believed to have been used for experimenting with different altitudes and growing conditions. The terraces are arranged in concentric circles, adapting impressively to the landscape, allowing the Incas to cultivate a variety of agricultural products in a single location. During the visit, you’ll learn how the Incas used this site to improve agricultural production by observing the various microclimates at each level.
12:00 pm – Optional Lunch:
After the visit to Moray, travelers will have the option to enjoy a traditional lunch at a local restaurant in the Sacred Valley, where they can taste typical regional dishes such as cuy chactado, roast chicken, or Andean soups.
1:30 pm – Return to Cusco:
After lunch or visiting Moray, the group will return to Cusco, with an estimated arrival time between 3:00 pm and 4:00 pm. During the return journey, travelers can enjoy the panoramic views of the Sacred Valley and the Andes Mountains.
