English
Español
Português
+7 photos
Maras Salt Mines, Moray and the Andean Community
- Duration6 Hours
- DifficultyEasy
- Group sizeMax. 15
Overview
✨ Three gems of the Sacred Valley of the Incas! 💎 🌸 Maras Salt Mines – Thousands of salt pits that have been in use for over a thousand years, creating a unique landscape. 🤍 🌿 Moray – The amazing Inca agricultural laboratory, where ancient farming techniques come to life. 🌞 🧶 Andean Community – Loc…
✨ Three gems of the Sacred Valley of the Incas! 💎
🌸 Maras Salt Mines – Thousands of salt pits that have been in use for over a thousand years, creating a unique landscape. 🤍
🌿 Moray – The amazing Inca agricultural laboratory, where ancient farming techniques come to life. 🌞
🧶 Andean Community – Local women proudly preserve and share their ancestral textile traditions. 💜
👉 An authentic and magical experience in the Andes! ✨
General conditions
-
Pickup & Return Location: Pickup is included for hotels located within Cusco’s historic center. The tour concludes with a drop-off near the Plaza de Armas in Cusco.
-
Entrance Fees & Site Permits: Tour prices cover professional bilingual guide services and private or group transportation. Entrance to Moray requires the Boleto Turístico del Cusco (BTG), while entry to the Maras Salt Mines is governed by the local Maras community and requires a separate ticket paid on-site in Peruvian Soles (cash only).
-
Site Regulations & Preservation: To maintain hygienic standards and preserve the ancient salt structures, visitors are prohibited from walking directly inside the active salt pools. All viewing and photography must take place from designated platforms and trails.
-
Community Interaction & Cultural Respect: Visiting the local Andean community involves direct engagement with indigenous artisans. Photos should be taken with permission, and purchasing handcrafted textiles directly supports the local economy.
-
Cancellation & Rescheduling: Full refunds are issued for cancellations submitted at least 24 hours prior to departure. Cancellations made within 24 hours of departure or no-shows are subject to a 100% charge.
Itinerary
Day 1Maras Salt Mines
A natural and cultural wonder dating back to the time of the Inca Empire.
These salt mines consist of hundreds of small, terraced salt pits that were meticulously built into the mountainsides.
It is believed that salt mining in Maras began more than 1,000 years ago and continues to this day, using traditional production methods.
The naturally flowing saltwater is channeled through an intricate system of canals to the terraces, where it evaporates, leaving behind the prized salt.
This site not only offers a unique glimpse into the Incas’ ingenuity in utilizing natural resources but also provides a breathtaking view of the Sacred Valley of the Incas.
The Maras Salt Mines are a living testament to the rich cultural heritage and technical skill of the Incas!
Day 2Moray Archaeological Complex
One of the country’s most intriguing archaeological wonders.
Composed of a series of concentric circular agricultural terraces, Moray is considered an advanced agricultural laboratory of the Incas.
Each terrace has its own microclimate, created by the temperature variation between the top and bottom of the terraces, as well as by sun exposure.
This ingenious structure allowed the Incas to experiment with and cultivate a wide variety of crops under controlled conditions, testing planting techniques and adapting them to the region’s different altitudes and climates.
It is believed that Moray was used not only for farming but also as an agricultural research center and a ritual site.
The precision and ingenuity of this complex’s construction demonstrate the Incas’ profound knowledge of agriculture and hydraulic engineering.
In addition to its historical and scientific significance, Moray offers visitors a unique experience, surrounded by the breathtaking landscapes of the Peruvian Andes.
Day 3Andean Women's Community
On the way back to Cusco, we make a delightful stop in the picturesque village of Chinchero, where we are welcomed by skilled Andean weavers.
Here, we immerse ourselves in the entire artisanal process of wool production, from washing and dyeing to spinning and weaving fabrics adorned with geometric designs that reflect the Andean worldview and harmony with nature.
In Chinchero, we have the opportunity to travel back in time and connect deeply with the vibrant Andean culture.
This town is home to a market featuring traditional handicrafts, where each piece tells a unique story.
Discover a world of colors, textures, and traditions as we immerse ourselves in the cultural richness and ancient art of this enchanting place.
Return to Cusco; we’ll arrive around 3:00 p.m. Our van will drop you off near the Plaza de Armas so you can continue exploring this historic and charming city.
What's included
Included
- Transportation from your hotel to the tour, for guests staying near the Plaza de Armas
- Professional guide
- Tour bus / Comfortable van
- Constant assistance from our team
Not included
- Partial tourist ticket (admission to the resorts) – USD 25.00
- Meals
What to bring
- Bring personal documents: ID card or passport
- Sunscreen
- Leggings
- Hat or cap
- Comfortable sneakers
- Raincoat during the rainy season
- Clothing suitable for cold weather
- At the end of the tour, check everything carefully before getting off the van
Frequently asked questions
Are the entrance tickets for Moray and the Maras Salt Mines included?
Standard tour rates include transportation and your guide. Moray requires the Boleto Turístico del Cusco (Cusco Tourist Ticket), and the Maras Salt Mines require an individual entry ticket purchased at the gate. We advise carrying local cash (Peruvian Soles) to pay for site admissions directly.
Can we walk right up to the salt ponds in Maras?
To protect the health quality of the edible salt and prevent damage to the historic terraces, walking directly between the active salt pools is restricted. You will enjoy complete, uninterrupted access to scenic boardwalks and elevated viewpoints that overlook the entire canyon.
How long is the tour and how much walking is involved?
This is a half-day tour lasting approximately 5 to 6 hours. The physical difficulty is light to moderate, involving short walks along gravel paths, earth terraces, and gentle stone staircases at both sites.
Can I buy authentic local products during the trip?
Yes! You will have the opportunity to buy famous Maras pink salt (culinary and bath salts), salt-flavored chocolates, and traditional hand-woven textiles directly from local Quechua artisans and community members. Please bring local cash (Soles) as card payment options are limited.
Reviews
Be the first to review this tour after your trip.
Read our reviews on Tripadvisor
