Excursion to Salt Mines and Moray En Atvs From Cusco.

Exploring the stunning landscapes and rich cultural heritage of Peru’s Sacred Valley is a thrilling experience not to be missed. An excursion to the salt mines of Maras and the archaeological site of Moray promises a captivating adventure for thrill-seekers and history buffs alike. Navigating the rugged terrain on all-terrain vehicles, you will uncover the ingenious agricultural practices of the Incas and witness the centuries-old tradition of salt harvesting. As the journey unfolds, the breathtaking vistas and insights into the region’s past promise to leave a lasting impression on all who embark on this extraordinary excursion.

Key Points

• This day-long excursion from Cusco takes visitors to the Maras salt mines and Moray archaeological site, exploring these sites via ATV.
• The tour package includes round-trip transportation, safety gear, access to ATVs, and entry tickets to the sites, all for $80.35 per person.
• At the Moray Inca ruins, participants can observe the site’s unique circular agricultural terraces and learn about the Incas’ advanced agronomic practices.
• The excursion culminates with a descent towards the Maras salt mines, where visitors can witness local inhabitants harvesting salt using traditional methods.
• The tour is conducted with a bilingual guide and offers the flexibility of English or Spanish options, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Tour Overview

This excursion offers a unique opportunity to explore the salt mines of Maras and the archaeological site of Moray from Cusco.

The tour is priced from $80.35 per person and lasts one day, limited to small groups of 15 or fewer.

Travelers will be picked up from their Cusco hotels and transported to Cruzpata, where they’ll receive a safety briefing before setting off on their ATV adventure.

A bilingual guide will lead the way, with the option to explore in English or Spanish.

Cancellation is free up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Itinerary Details

The excursion begins with hotel pickup in Cusco, followed by a transfer to Cruzpata, which takes approximately 45 minutes.

Upon arrival, you will receive a brief safety training before starting the ATV adventure.

The first stop is the Moray Archaeological Center, an Inca agricultural research site.

Next, the group will journey to Salineras de Maras, observing the Urubamba mountain range and snow-capped peaks along the way.

After a brief stop in Maras to see the town square and colonial church, the tour will visit and descend to the salt mines before returning to Cruzpata.

Inclusions

The excursion includes hotel pickup and drop-off, as well as round trip transportation from Cusco to Cruzpata and back. Transportation to and from the Salineras de Maras salt mines is also provided. Participants will have access to Honda brand quadricycles (Trx 420 – Trx 250) and safety equipment, including gloves, helmets, and rain ponchos with a GoPro accessory. A professional bilingual guide accompanies the tour, and a first aid box is available. Entrance tickets to the Salineras de Maras (S/10 or $3.50) and Moray (included in the Cusco Tourist Ticket) are covered.

Inclusions	Details
Transportation	Round-trip from Cusco, to/from Cruzpata and Salineras de Maras
Vehicles	Honda brand ATVs (Trx 420 – Trx 250)
Safety Gear	Gloves, helmets, rain ponchos with GoPro
Guide Services	Professional bilingual guide

Experience Highlights

Explore the natural and archaeological beauty of Cusco with exhilarating ATV excursions to Moray and the Maras salt mines.

Discover the best Andean landscapes during the tour, from the ancient agricultural terraces of Moray to the distinctive salt ponds of Maras. This unique adventure offers a chance to visit both remarkable sites in a single day, providing a comprehensive experience of the region’s natural and historical wonders.

Enjoy the rugged terrain as you navigate your ATV through the picturesque countryside, capturing stunning vistas of snow-capped peaks and verdant valleys along the way.

An unforgettable way to explore Cusco’s enchanting landscapes.

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Booking Information

Booking this excursion is simple and flexible.

Travelers can take advantage of the ‘reserve now & pay later’ option, allowing them to secure their spot without an upfront payment. This makes it easy to plan the trip and pay closer to the departure date.

Customers can check the availability of starting times and participant selection to find the best option for their group.

With the ability to cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, this tour provides a hassle-free booking experience.

Whether travelers are planning solo or with a group, the easy booking process ensures a seamless start to their ATV adventure in Cusco.

ATV Safety Training

Before embarking on the ATV excursion, participants receive a brief safety training session. This training covers the proper operation of the ATVs, including how to start, accelerate, brake, and maneuver the vehicles.

The guide provides hands-on demonstrations and ensures each participant understands the controls and safety features. Helmet, gloves, and rain ponchos are provided, and the guide emphasizes the importance of wearing this safety gear throughout the tour.

Participants also learn about trail etiquette, such as maintaining a safe distance from other riders and following the guide’s instructions.

The safety training prepares participants to navigate the rugged terrain with confidence and care, prioritizing their well-being during the adventure.

Exploring Moray Archaeological Center

The Inca ruins of Moray come into view as the group’s ATVs traverse the winding mountain roads.

This remarkable archaeological site features a series of enormous, circular terraces that were used by the Incas for agricultural experimentation. The guide explains that Moray was an advanced research center where the Incas tested different crops and microclimates.

Visitors can walk down the intricate stairways and explore the terraced depressions, which can vary in temperature by as much as 15°C from top to bottom.

The ruins offer a glimpse into the Incas’ sophisticated understanding of agronomy and their ability to adapt to the challenging Andean environment.

Descending Maras Salt Mines

Next, the group’s ATVs descend towards the Maras salt mines. At the edge of the valley, they dismount their vehicles and follow the guide down a winding path.

Vast terraces of glistening white salt pans come into view, a striking sight against the ochre mountainsides. The group gradually makes its way down, observing the locals harvesting salt the traditional way.

They pause to take in the panoramic vistas of the Urubamba mountain range before continuing their descent.

Reaching the salt pans, the travelers marvel at the intricate system of pools and canals that have been in use since Inca times.

After exploring this unique landscape, it’s time to head back up and return to Cusco.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Minimum Age Requirement for the ATV Tour?

The minimum age requirement for the ATV tour is not explicitly stated in the provided information. However, it’s common for such activities to have a minimum age limit, often around 16 years old, to ensure the safety of all participants.

Can I Bring My Own ATV or Do I Have to Use the Provided Ones?

The tour provides the ATVs, and participants are not allowed to bring their own. The provided Honda quadricycles are part of the tour package, ensuring a safe and standardized experience for all participants.

Is There an Option to Extend the Tour Duration for More Time at the Sites?

Yes, participants can extend the tour duration for more time at the sites. The tour operator offers flexible options to customize the itinerary and allow visitors to spend additional time exploring Moray and the Maras salt mines.

Are There Any Additional Fees or Costs Not Mentioned in the Inclusions?

The tour inclusions comprehensively cover the key expenses, but there may be some additional optional costs like food, drinks, or souvenirs that aren’t explicitly mentioned. Travelers should budget accordingly for their personal expenses during the excursion.

Can I Request a Private Tour Instead of a Small Group Tour?

Yes, the tour operator offers a private tour option. Travelers can request a private excursion for their group instead of the small group tour. Private tours may incur an additional fee but provide more personalized experiences.

Recap

The excursion to the Maras salt mines and Moray archaeological site from Cusco offers an exhilarating adventure. Participants will explore the unique circular terraces of Moray, learn about Inca agricultural practices, and witness the traditional salt harvesting methods at the picturesque Maras salt mines. With all the necessary inclusions and safety training provided, this tour promises an unforgettable experience amidst the stunning landscapes of the Urubamba mountain range.

You can check if your dates are available here: