Explore the captivating Incan sites of Maras and Moray on a private tour from Urubamba. Led by a knowledgeable bilingual guide, this engaging experience promises to uncover the centuries-old salt harvesting traditions of Maras and the intriguing circular terraces of Moray, believed to be an agricultural experiment site. With convenient transportation and hotel pickup included, this tour offers an immersive journey through the Sacred Valley for those with a strong fitness level and a passion for history. Prepare to be captivated by the breathtaking landscapes and the fascinating insights into the Inca’s ingenuity.
Key Points
- A private tour that takes you to explore the unique Incan sites of Maras and Moray near Urubamba, led by a professional bilingual guide.
- Includes transportation, admission to Maras, and a visit to the stunning salt ponds and the circular ruins of Moray.
- Tour starts at 9:00 AM, with pickup from Urubamba hotels and return to the same at the end of the tour.
- Requires a strong fitness level due to moderate physical activity, uphill walking, and uneven terrain.
- Maras is closed from December to March due to the rainy season, while Moray is accessible year-round.
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Contents
- Key Points
- Tour Highlights
- Pickup and Transportation
- Accessibility and Fitness
- Maras: Seasonal Closure
- Moray: Year-Round Access
- Booking Considerations
- Traveler Reviews
- Preparing for the Tour
- Frequently Asked Questions
- What Are the Tour’s COVID-19 Safety Measures?
- Are Tour Guides Required to Be Vaccinated?
- Can the Tour Be Customized for Specific Interests?
- Are There Any Discounts Available for Children or Seniors?
- What Should I Bring With Me on the Tour?
- Recap
- Our Top Picks in Cusco
- More Tours in Cusco
- More Tour Reviews in Cusco
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Tour Highlights
The private tour offers visitors a unique opportunity to explore the remarkable Incan sites of Maras and Moray.
Led by a professional bilingual guide, the tour includes transportation and admission to Maras. Travelers will discover the stunning salt ponds of Maras, where salt has been harvested for centuries.
They’ll also visit the circular Inca ruins of Moray, believed to have been an agricultural experimentation site. The tour is private, ensuring a personalized experience tailored to the group’s interests.
With pickup from Urubamba hotels and the flexibility to start at 9 AM, this tour provides an immersive glimpse into Peru’s rich cultural heritage.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Cusco.
Pickup and Transportation
This private tour includes pickup from hotels in Urubamba. Specify your hotel name when booking to ensure smooth coordination.
The tour starts at 9:00 AM, providing ample time to explore the fascinating sites of Maras and Moray. The tour includes touristic transportation, ensuring a comfortable and hassle-free experience.
Here are 4 key advantages of this transportation arrangement:
- Stress-free travel with a designated pickup point.
- No need to worry about navigating unfamiliar roads.
- Flexibility to focus on the sights, not the logistics.
- Convenient return to your Urubamba hotel at the end of the tour.
Accessibility and Fitness
While the transportation arrangements ensure a hassle-free experience, it’s important to consider the accessibility and physical fitness requirements for this private tour.
This tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, and infants must sit on laps. It’s not recommended for travelers with back problems, pregnancy, or serious medical conditions.
A strong fitness level is required, as the tour involves moderate physical activity. Visitors should be prepared for some uphill walking and uneven terrain. Comfortable clothing and shoes are a must.
Those with concerns about their ability to participate fully should consult the tour operator prior to booking to ensure this tour meets their needs.
Maras: Seasonal Closure
Maras, the iconic salt-producing town in Peru’s Sacred Valley, is closed from December to March due to the rainy season. During this period, the salt ponds become flooded, rendering the area inaccessible to visitors.
However, the nearby archaeological site of Moray remains open year-round, allowing travelers to explore this unique Inca site. Fortunately, the closure of Maras is a seasonal occurrence, and the town typically reopens in April, ready to welcome visitors once again.
The off-season closure is a necessary measure to protect the delicate salt-producing ecosystem and ensure the safety of travelers.
Four things to know about the seasonal closure of Maras:
- Closed from December to March due to heavy rains
- Salt ponds become flooded during this period
- Moray archaeological site remains open year-round
- Maras typically reopens in April after the rainy season
Moray: Year-Round Access
The Inca archaeological site of Moray remains accessible year-round, offering visitors the opportunity to explore its unique terraced formations. Unlike the seasonal closure of Maras, Moray can be visited throughout the year, providing a glimpse into the ingenuity of the Inca civilization. The site features a series of concentric circular terraces, each at a different elevation, which were likely used for agricultural experimentation. Visitors can marvel at the precision of the Inca engineering and the striking visual contrast of the terraces against the surrounding landscape.
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Location | In the Sacred Valley of the Incas, near Cusco |
| Purpose | Believed to have been used for agricultural experimentation |
| Terrain | Circular terraces at varying elevations |
| Accessibility | Open year-round, unlike the seasonal closure of Maras |
Booking Considerations
When booking this private tour, travelers should note that the rates don’t apply to Peruvian citizens or foreigners staying over 60 days, due to sales tax considerations.
Comfortable clothing and shoes are recommended for the tour.
The private nature of the experience means only your group will participate, and free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the start.
The price varies by group size, with a lowest price guarantee, and a reserve now, pay later option is available.
Key booking considerations:
- Rates exclude Peruvians and long-term visitors.
- Comfortable attire and footwear advised.
- Private tour with free cancellation policy.
- Flexible pricing and payment options.
Traveler Reviews
Travelers have offered overwhelmingly positive feedback on this private tour to Maras and Moray. According to the sole review, the tour received a 5.0 out of 5 rating.
Reviewers praised the knowledgeable and committed guide, who provided an excellent experience. The tour is recommended for groups, as it allows for a personalized and intimate exploration of the Maras salt mines and the Inca archaeological site of Moray.
With the guide’s expertise and the convenience of private transportation, this tour offers an informative and engaging way to discover these unique destinations near Urubamba.
Preparing for the Tour
To prepare for this private tour to Maras and Moray, travelers should consider a few key factors.
First, the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, so those with mobility issues should take note. Infants must sit on laps during the transportation. Plus, the tour isn’t recommended for those with back problems, pregnancy, or serious medical conditions, as a strong physical fitness level is required.
Comfortable clothing and shoes are a must, as the tour involves walking and exploring the sites.
Lastly, it’s important to bring the Cusco Tourist Ticket (BTC) for the Moray visit, as this is required for admission.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Are the Tour’s COVID-19 Safety Measures?
The tour follows COVID-19 safety protocols, but specific details aren’t provided. Travelers should check with the tour operator for the latest requirements, such as mask-wearing and social distancing. Safety precautions may vary based on local guidelines.
Are Tour Guides Required to Be Vaccinated?
The tour’s COVID-19 safety measures aren’t specified, so it’s unclear if guides are required to be vaccinated. Travelers should check with the tour operator for the latest updates on health protocols.
Can the Tour Be Customized for Specific Interests?
Yes, the tour can likely be customized for specific interests. The tour company offers private tours, allowing flexibility to tailor the experience to the group’s preferences and requirements within the tour’s scope.
Are There Any Discounts Available for Children or Seniors?
The tour doesn’t offer any discounts for children or seniors. The price is the same for all participants, as it’s a private tour where only your group takes part.
What Should I Bring With Me on the Tour?
The tour operator recommends bringing comfortable clothing and shoes, as the tour involves moderate physical activity. Plus, travelers should bring their Cusco Tourist Ticket for the Moray visit and any personal items they may need during the day.
From Urubamba: Private Tour to Maras and Moray
“We were amazed by the beauty of Moray and Maras! Our tour guide, Rosalio, made the experience so much more enjoyable by sharing all of his knowledg…”
Recap
The private tour from Urubamba to Maras and Moray offers a captivating adventure through the Sacred Valley. Visitors can discover the centuries-old salt ponds of Maras and the unique circular terraces of Moray, with convenient transportation and a knowledgeable guide. While Maras may be seasonally closed, Moray is accessible year-round, making this tour an ideal choice for those with a strong fitness level and a passion for Incan history.
