Cusco: Moray, Maras Salt Mines & Chinchero Weavers Half-Day

The "Cusco: Moray, Maras Salt Mines & Chinchero Weavers Half-Day" tour promises a captivating exploration of Peru’s rich cultural heritage. Travelers will explore the ancient Inca engineering marvel of Moray, uncover the centuries-old salt harvesting traditions of Maras, and witness the vibrant weaving practices of Chinchero. With a knowledgeable guide leading the way, this half-day excursion offers an immersive glimpse into the ingenuity and artistry that have shaped the Andean region for generations. But what truly sets this tour apart is the opportunity to connect with the local community and gain a deeper understanding of the customs that continue to thrive in Cusco’s breathtaking landscape.

Key Points

• This half-day tour in Cusco explores the ancient Inca terraces of Moray, the Maras Salt Mines, and the Chinchero weaving center, providing a glimpse into the region’s rich history and culture.

• Visitors can discover the advanced agricultural practices of the Incas at Moray, study the salt extraction process at the Maras Salt Mines, and learn about traditional textile-making at the Chinchero weaving center.

• The tour offers a discounted price range, with hotel pickup and drop-off, a bilingual guide, and transportation, although entrance fees are not included.

• Feedback from previous customers highlights the knowledgeable guides, comfortable transportation, and captivating insights into the Inca legacy, though some concerns were raised about communication regarding pickup arrangements.

• The tour is not suitable for wheelchair users, and those with mobility limitations should consider alternative options, as cash is required for entrance fees upon arrival at the sites.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Tour Overview and Pricing

The tour, titled "Cusco: Moray, Maras Salt Mines & Chinchero Weavers Half-Day," offers a discounted price range from $20.00 to $16.60 per person, a savings of up to 17%.

Lasting 6 hours, the tour is available in Spanish and English. Guests can take advantage of free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and reserve now with a flexible payment option.

The tour includes hotel pickup in Cusco, a bilingual guide, transportation, and hotel drop-off in central Cusco.

However, entrance fees to Salineras Salt Mines and Moray aren’t included and must be paid in cash.

Itinerary Highlights

Exploring the ancient Inca terraces at Moray offers a glimpse into the advanced agricultural practices of the empire.

Visitors can spend 45 minutes admiring the concentric circular depressions, which are believed to have been used for experimenting with crop cultivation.

The tour then moves to the Maras Salt Mines, featuring over 3,000 salt ponds that have been in use since Inca times.

Guests can spend an hour exploring the saltworks and learning about the traditional salt-harvesting methods.

The experience concludes with a cultural demonstration at a local weaving center in Chinchero, where travelers can enjoy scenic views of the Peruvian Andes and Urubamba Valley before some free time for shopping.

Inclusions and Exclusions

This tour includes hotel pickup in Cusco, a bilingual guide, and transportation, with hotel drop-off in central Cusco.

However, the following items are excluded:

• Entrance ticket to Salineras Salt Mines (20 soles, cash only)
• Partial tourist ticket for Moray (70 soles, cash only)

The tour isn’t suitable for wheelchair users.

Guests should be prepared to pay the required entrance fees in cash upon arrival at the sites.

Plus, those with mobility limitations should consider alternative tour options that better accommodate their needs.

Meeting Point and Pickup Information

At the fountain in Plaza Regocijo (Kusipata), travelers will find the meeting point for this half-day tour.

The tour provider offers hotel pickup, so guests need to provide their hotel name and address for coordination.

After the tour, guests will be dropped off at either Plaza Regocijo or Plaza Kusipata, conveniently located in central Cusco.

The tour isn’t suitable for wheelchair users, so guests with mobility issues should consider alternative options.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Customer Reviews and Feedback

Customers have generally provided positive feedback on this Cusco half-day tour, with an overall rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars based on 422 reviews.

Reviewers praised the tour’s knowledgeable guides, who provided insightful information about the historical and cultural significance of the visited sites.

The transportation received a 4.5/5 rating, with customers noting the comfort and reliability of the vehicles.

However, some attendees expressed concerns about the communication surrounding pickup arrangements and the implementation of COVID-19 safety protocols.

• Positive experiences with knowledgeable guides and beautiful sites
• High ratings for transportation comfort and reliability
• Some concerns about pickup communication and COVID-19 safety protocols

Exploring the Ancient Inca Terraces

Amid the breathtaking Andes Mountains, the ancient Inca terraces of Moray stand as a testament to the engineering prowess of this remarkable civilization.

These concentric circular terraces, descending into the earth, were used by the Incas as an agricultural laboratory, enabling them to study the effects of different microclimates on crop cultivation.

Visitors can explore the intricate network of terraces, marveling at the precision with which they were constructed.

The terraces offer stunning views of the surrounding Urubamba Valley, providing a glimpse into the Incas’ advanced understanding of agricultural techniques and their deep connection to the land.

Uncovering the Maras Salt Mines

After exploring the ancient Inca terraces of Moray, the tour continues to another marvellous Inca-era site – the Maras Salt Mines.

Nestled in the Urubamba Valley, this extraordinary location features over 3,000 salt ponds that have been in use for centuries.

Visitors can:

• Witness the intricate system of salt extraction, where salty water from a nearby spring is channelled into the ponds and left to evaporate, leaving behind the precious mineral.
• Learn about the historical significance of the Maras Salt Mines, which played a crucial role in the Inca economy and culture.
• Capture stunning photographs of the picturesque landscape, with the snow-capped Andes mountains providing a breathtaking backdrop.

Discovering the Chinchero Weavers

The final stop on the Cusco half-day tour is the Chinchero District, where visitors can enjoy the vibrant cultural traditions of the Andean region.

At a local weaving center, guests witness a live demonstration of the intricate textile-making techniques that have been passed down through generations. They’ll learn about the significance of the colorful patterns and the natural dyes used, gaining a deeper appreciation for the artistry and skill of the Quechua weavers.

With a chance to browse and purchase unique, handcrafted souvenirs, the Chinchero experience offers a captivating glimpse into the living heritage of this remarkable region.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Combine This Tour With Other Cusco Activities?

Yes, you can combine this tour with other Cusco activities. Many travelers opt to pair it with visits to landmarks like Sacsayhuaman, the Sacred Valley, or the Inca Trail, creating a full-day or multi-day itinerary in the region.

Are There Any Discounts or Promotions Available for This Tour?

Yes, this tour offers a 17% discount, with prices ranging from $20.00 to $16.60 per person. Booking in advance also allows for flexible reservations and free cancellation up to 24 hours prior.

How Does the Tour Accommodate Dietary Restrictions or Needs?

The tour doesn’t specifically accommodate dietary restrictions. Travelers with special needs should contact the tour operator in advance to inquire about any available accommodations. The focus of the tour is on the cultural and historical sites visited.

What Should I Bring or Wear for the Best Experience?

For the best experience, wear comfortable walking shoes, bring sun protection, and dress in layers. Pack water, snacks, and cash for entrance fees. Bring an open mind to immerse in the cultural highlights.

Are There Any Health or Safety Concerns I Should Be Aware Of?

Travelers should be aware of COVID-19 safety protocols, including mask-wearing and social distancing. The tour may not be suitable for wheelchair users. Participants should wear comfortable, closed-toe shoes and bring sun protection and water.

Recap

The "Cusco: Moray, Maras Salt Mines & Chinchero Weavers Half-Day" tour offers a captivating exploration of Inca heritage, from the ancient agricultural terraces of Moray to the stunning Maras salt mines and the vibrant weaving traditions of Chinchero. With a knowledgeable guide and seamless logistics, this tour provides a memorable culture, allowing visitors to explore the rich history and enduring traditions of the Andes.

You can check if your dates are available here: