Nestled in the Peruvian Andes, the ancient Maras salt mines and the mystifying Moray archaeological site beckon adventurous travelers. This full-day excursion offers a unique opportunity to take in the region’s rich cultural heritage and breathtaking natural beauty. From exploring the intricate network of salt ponds to discovering the secrets of the Inca’s advanced agricultural practices, this tour promises an unforgettable experience. But the highlight? A rejuvenating salt massage using the therapeutic properties of the Maras salt, which has been prized for its health benefits for centuries. Prepare to embark on a journey that will leave you captivated and craving more.
Key Points
- Full-day tour featuring visits to Maras salt mines, Moray archaeological site, and an immersive cultural experience in the Misminay community.
- Includes hotel pickup, transportation, guided tours in English and Spanish, and a relaxing salt massage.
- Maras salt is known for its high mineral content and therapeutic properties, providing health benefits.
- Opportunity to engage with the Misminay community’s agricultural and textile traditions, fostering a deeper appreciation for regional cultural diversity.
- Comprehensive services, including flexible cancellation policy and pay-later option, ensure a seamless and customer-friendly experience.
Excursion Overview
This excursion offers visitors a chance to explore the stunning Andean landscapes and rich cultural heritage of the region.
Priced from $85 per person, the full-day tour includes hotel pickup in Cusco, visits to the historic Maras salt mines and the archaeological site of Moray, as well as an immersive cultural experience in the Misminay community.
Travelers can expect guided tours in Spanish and English, a welcome snack, and a traditional Peruvian lunch.
The highlight of the day is a relaxing salt massage using the renowned Maras salt, known for its therapeutic properties.
This comprehensive itinerary provides an engaging blend of natural wonders, cultural insights, and wellness experiences.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Cusco.
Itinerary Highlights
The excursion begins with a morning pickup between 8:00 and 8:30 a.m. from the traveler’s hotel in Cusco. The first stop is the colonial town of Maras and its salt mines, dating back to Inca times. Next, the group visits the Misminay community to experience the local agricultural and textile lifestyle, and enjoy a welcome snack from the neighbors. Lunch is then provided, including a starter, main course, and a drink. After lunch, the group hikes to the viewpoint of the Moray archaeological center, featuring circular terraces at 3,500 meters above sea level. The excursion concludes with a medicinal foot bath using Maras salt and herbs.
Morning | Misminay Community | Lunch | Moray Visit |
---|---|---|---|
Pickup, Maras visit | Local experience, welcome snack | Starter, main, drink | Hike to viewpoint |
Maras Salt Benefits
After experiencing the rich cultural aspects of the Maras salt mines, travelers will have the opportunity to learn about the health benefits of this unique mineral.
Maras salt is known for its high mineral content, including trace elements like iron, zinc, and magnesium. During the excursion, the guide will explain how these minerals can help support overall health and well-being.
The salt’s anti-inflammatory properties may also provide relief for sore muscles, making the concluding salt massage a rejuvenating experience.
Cultural Experience
As part of the excursion, visitors are invited to enjoy the cultural richness of the local Misminay community.
This unique opportunity allows them to experience the community’s agricultural and textile traditions firsthand. Guests are welcomed with a traditional snack and have the chance to engage with the locals, learning about their way of life.
The visit provides a genuine cultural exchange, offering insights into the community’s heritage and customs. Through this interactive experience, travelers gain a deeper appreciation for the region’s cultural diversity and the vibrant traditions that have been passed down through generations.
More Great Thing To Do NearbyIncluded Services
The excursion package includes a comprehensive set of services to ensure a seamless and enriching experience for visitors.
Pickup and return transfers to the hotel in Cusco are provided, along with transportation by minibus throughout the day. An English and Spanish-speaking guide will accompany the group, offering insights and facilitating cultural interactions.
A welcome snack and a full lunch with a starter, main course, and drink are included. The experience also features live music and a rejuvenating massage using the renowned Maras salt.
Entrance fees to the Maras salt mines and the Moray archaeological site are covered, allowing participants to fully enjoy the cultural and natural wonders of the region.
Entrance Fees
The entrance fees for the excursion are an important consideration.
Visitors will need to pay 10 Soles (approximately $2.70) per person to enter the Maras salt mines. Plus, the entrance fee for the Moray archaeological site is 70 Soles (around $20) per person.
These fees aren’t included in the overall price of the excursion and must be paid separately at the respective sites. Knowing these entrance costs upfront allows travelers to budget accordingly and ensure they’ve the necessary funds to fully enjoy the cultural and historical highlights of the tour.
Cancellation Policy
According to the booking information, the excursion provider offers a flexible cancellation policy. Customers can cancel their reservation up to 24 hours in advance and receive a full refund.
This allows for last-minute changes in plans or unexpected circumstances. The no-fee cancellation policy ensures that travelers don’t have to worry about losing their money if they need to modify their trip.
This policy adds peace of mind and flexibility, making it easier for guests to book this excursion with confidence. The provider’s cancellation terms demonstrate their commitment to providing a stress-free and customer-friendly experience.
Reservation Details
To book the excursion, customers can reserve their spot without an upfront payment.
The tour operator allows checking availability for different starting times. This flexibility enables travelers to pick a timeslot that best fits their schedule.
Once a reservation is made, customers won’t need to pay until the day of the tour. This pay-later option provides convenience and peace of mind when planning the excursion in advance.
The company’s free cancellation policy up to 24 hours prior to the start time further ensures customers can adjust their plans as needed without penalty, making the booking process hassle-free.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Customize the Excursion to Suit My Interests?
Yes, customers can customize the excursion to suit their interests. The tour operator is flexible and can adjust the itinerary or activities based on the customer’s preferences, within reasonable limits.
What Should I Bring for the Cultural Experience?
For the cultural experience, it’s recommended to bring an open mind, comfortable walking shoes, and a camera to capture the local community’s traditions and daily life. Bringing small gifts like pens or candy can also be appreciated.
Is the Massage Included in the Tour Price?
Yes, the massage using Maras salt and herbs is included in the tour price. The tour package covers the cost of this relaxing foot bath experience at the end of the excursion.
Is There a Minimum Group Size Requirement?
No minimum group size is mentioned. The excursion includes a massage with Maras salt as part of the tour price. Pickup and transportation are provided, and the excursion can be booked without upfront payment.
Can I Extend the Duration of the Tour?
You can extend the duration of the tour, but this would incur additional costs. The tour operator is flexible and can accommodate requests to modify the itinerary, subject to availability and any associated fees.
Recap
This all-encompassing excursion allows visitors to enjoy the stunning natural landscapes and ancient cultural heritage of Peru’s Sacred Valley. Travelers can experience the mesmerizing Maras salt mines, explore the enigmatic Moray archaeological site, and engage with the vibrant Misminay community, all while enjoying a rejuvenating salt massage and a delicious local lunch. It’s an unforgettable way to discover the heart and soul of this remarkable region.
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