MORAY & MARAS’ SALT MINE
Duration
Half day
Difficulty
Easy
Group
from 2 to 8 people
Recommended Age
All ages
The Moray and Maras Salt Mines Tour is one of Cusco’s most fascinating excursions, combining Inca agricultural innovation with traditional salt production that has endured for centuries. Located in the Sacred Valley of the Incas, this journey offers stunning landscapes, cultural history, and unique experiences.
Moray is an impressive archaeological site consisting of concentric circular terraces, believed to have been an agricultural laboratory where the Incas experimented with different microclimates to adapt crops. It reflects the ingenuity and advanced knowledge of Inca civilization.
Maras Salt Mines (Salineras), on the other hand, consist of thousands of salt evaporation ponds carved into the mountainside. Families from the town of Maras still harvest salt here using ancestral techniques, producing one of the finest Andean salts. With breathtaking views of the Sacred Valley and the Andes, this tour is perfect for travelers seeking culture, history, and natural beauty in just half a day.
Itinerary
What you will do and explore with us
- 8:30 a.m. – Pick-up from Hotel in Cusco
Your adventure begins with a comfortable pick-up from your hotel. As we drive through the Sacred Valley, enjoy breathtaking views of snow-capped peaks, lush valleys, and picturesque Andean villages along the route. - 9:30 a.m. – Arrival in Maras Village
We make a brief stop in the village of Maras, a colonial-era town that still preserves its Andean charm. Walking through its narrow streets, you’ll see traditional adobe houses, carved wooden balconies, and a small but beautiful colonial church that reflects the region’s history and cultural fusion. - 10:00 a.m. – Visit Moray
Next, explore the fascinating Inca site of Moray, a masterpiece of agricultural innovation. The impressive circular terraces create different microclimates, believed to have been used as an open-air laboratory for agricultural experimentation. Your guide will explain the scientific importance of this site, where the Incas possibly tested crops at varying altitudes and conditions. - 11:30 a.m. – Visit Maras Salt Mines
Continue to the world-famous Maras Salt Mines, a dazzling network of thousands of salt evaporation ponds cascading down the mountainside. For centuries, local families have extracted salt using traditional methods that remain unchanged to this day. The stunning contrast of the white salt pools against the green Andean landscape makes this one of the most photogenic sites in the region. - 1:00 p.m. – Return to Cusco
After immersing yourself in history, culture, and spectacular scenery, we begin our return journey. Enjoy the scenic drive back through the Sacred Valley before arriving in Cusco at approximately 2:30 p.m.
Includes
- Professional bilingual guide (English/Spanish).
- Private transportation (round trip).
- Entrance fees to Moray and Maras Salt Mines.
- Pick-up and drop-off from hotel in Cusco.
Not Included
- Meals (breakfast and lunch not included).
- Personal expenses and tips.
- Drinks and snacks.
- Travel insurance.
Recommendations
- Bring the Cusco Tourist Ticket (BTG) for Moray and the entrance fee for Maras Salt Mines.
- Wear comfortable shoes suitable for walking.
- Carry a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen.
- Bring water and light snacks.
- A good camera is highly recommended for capturing the stunning landscapes.
- Light jacket or sweater for the changing weather in the Andes.
Why travel with GreaTours Perú?
18 Years of Experience
With 18 years of experience as a local guide, Alex knows Peru, its destinations, trails, culture and people firsthand.
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MORAY & MARAS’ SALT MINE
Half day