From Cusco || Half Day Tour to Moray and Maras Salineras

Set out on a captivating adventure from the historic city of Cusco to uncover the stunning Andes. This half-day tour takes visitors on a journey to explore the ancient agricultural terraces of Moray and the mesmerizing Maras salt mines. With a knowledgeable guide by your side, explore the rich history and breathtaking landscapes of this remarkable region. Priced at just $20 per person, this 5-hour excursion promises an unforgettable experience, blending ancient practices with natural wonders. Discover the geometric patterns of the salt ponds and witness the ingenuity of the Inca civilization – a glimpse into a world that continues to captivate and inspire.

Key Points

• A half-day tour from Cusco that visits the Maras salt mines and the Moray archaeological site, priced from $20 per person.
• The tour lasts 5 hours, including hotel pickup and entrance fees, and concludes by 2:30 pm near Cusco’s Plaza de Armas.
• Participants will observe the geometric salt ponds in Maras and explore the circular agricultural terraces of Moray at an altitude of 3,500 meters.
• The tour is led by a knowledgeable Spanish-speaking guide and includes transportation by bus.
• The tour is not suitable for pregnant women, individuals with back issues, or wheelchair users.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Tour Overview

This half-day tour from Cusco takes visitors to explore the remarkable ancient sites of Moray and Maras Salineras.

Priced from $20 per person, the 5-hour experience includes hotel pickup, a live English and Spanish-speaking guide, and entrance fees.

Travelers will visit the salt mines of Maras, learning about their history from a viewpoint, and explore the unique circular agricultural terraces of Moray.

The tour wraps up by 2:30 pm near Cusco’s Plaza de Armas.

Guests should note this experience isn’t suitable for pregnant women, those with back issues, or wheelchair users, and they’ll need to bring essentials like a passport and any personal medication.

Itinerary Highlights

The tour begins with a visit to Maras, renowned for its picturesque salt mines. Here, visitors can observe the quarries and learn about their fascinating history. After exploring Maras, the group will move on to the archaeological site of Moray, an experimental agricultural center situated at an impressive altitude of 3,500 meters. Visitors will have the opportunity to spend an hour exploring the circular platforms that make up this unique site.

Visual Experience	Educational Insights
Panoramic views of the salt mines	Learning the history and significance of the salt production
Intricate, geometric patterns of the salt ponds	Understanding the ancient agricultural practices at Moray
Vast, open landscapes surrounded by mountains	Appreciating the engineering and design of these historical sites

Inclusions

For this half-day tour, convenience and value are included. Pickup from your hotel and transportation by bus make getting to the sites a breeze.

The tour also includes:

• A knowledgeable Spanish-speaking guide to provide insights and history along the way
• Entrance fees to both the Moray archaeological site and the Maras salt mines, ensuring seamless access
• Return to Cusco by 2:30 p.m., allowing you to make the most of your afternoon in the city.

With these thoughtful inclusions, you can focus on exploring the breathtaking landscapes and learning about the rich cultural heritage of Moray and Maras Salineras.

Important Information

A few important points to note about this half-day tour.

The tour isn’t suitable for pregnant women, individuals with back problems, or wheelchair users. Participants should remember to bring their passport or ID card, snacks, personal medication, and a pen.

Certain items aren’t allowed on the tour, including pets, drones, plastic bags, and plastic bottles. This ensures the safety and enjoyment of all guests.

Travelers should arrive in the hotel lobby 10 minutes before the scheduled departure time to ensure a punctual start.

With these considerations in mind, guests can look forward to a memorable exploration of Moray and Maras Salineras.

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Booking Details

To maintain flexibility in their travel plans, travelers have the option to reserve this tour and pay later. This can be especially convenient for those who want to lock in their spot but may need to finalize their schedule closer to the travel date.

The tour also provides a range of starting times and allows for participant selection to cater to individual preferences. Key booking details include:

• Reserve now and pay later to secure your spot.
• Check availability for desired start times.
• Select the number of participants in your group.

This tour offers a hassle-free booking experience, empowering travelers to plan their Cusco adventure with ease.

Exploring Maras Salt Mines

The picturesque Maras salt mines are the first stop on this half-day tour.

Nestled in the Andes Mountains, the salt mines consist of thousands of pools carved into the mountainside, giving the landscape a unique and mesmerizing appearance.

Visitors will have the chance to observe the traditional salt-harvesting process, which has been practiced by the local community for centuries.

The guide will share the rich history and cultural significance of the Maras salt mines, which have long been an important economic resource for the region.

After exploring the viewpoint, travelers will have the opportunity to wander through the salt pools, taking in the stunning vistas and learning about this remarkable natural wonder.

Discovering Moray Ruins

After exploring the Maras salt mines, the tour continues on to the archaeological site of Moray.

This ancient Incan site is known for its remarkable circular terraces, which were used as an experimental agricultural center. Situated at an altitude of 3,500 meters, Moray offers a captivating glimpse into the Incas’ advanced farming techniques.

Visitors can:

• Marvel at the intricate design of the tiered platforms
• Learn how the Incas utilized the site’s microclimate to cultivate a variety of crops
• Enjoy stunning views of the surrounding Andes mountains

With its unique architecture and historical significance, Moray provides a fascinating complement to the salt pans of Maras, offering a deeper understanding of the Incan Empire’s ingenuity and achievements.

Transportation and Guide

Convenient hotel pickup is included for the half-day tour, with participants waiting in the lobby 10 minutes before the scheduled departure time.

A comfortable bus transports the group to the first stop, Maras, where they’ll explore the picturesque salt mines and learn about their history.

At the archaeological site of Moray, a knowledgeable Spanish-speaking guide leads the tour, explaining the circular platforms and their use as an experimental agricultural center.

The tour concludes by 2:30 pm near the Plaza de Armas in Cusco.

Entrance fees to both Moray and Maras are included, ensuring a seamless and informative experience for all participants.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can the Tour Accommodate Dietary Restrictions?

The tour doesn’t explicitly mention accommodating dietary restrictions. Guests should inform the tour provider of any special needs in advance to determine if they can be accommodated. Bringing snacks or personal meals is generally allowed.

Is the Tour Available on Public Holidays?

The tour is available on public holidays. However, it’s recommended to check the schedule and availability, as some attractions may have reduced hours or be closed on certain holidays.

Is There an Option to Extend the Tour Duration?

The tour provider does not offer an option to extend the duration beyond the standard 5-hour half-day experience. The itinerary and inclusions are fixed, though guests can customize their visit within the set timeframe.

Can I Bring My Own Water and Snacks?

Yes, travelers can bring their own water and snacks on the tour. The information states that items to bring include "snacks, personal medication," indicating participants are allowed to bring their own refreshments to enjoy during the tour.

Do You Offer Discounts for Group Bookings?

Yes, the tour operator offers discounts for group bookings. Customers can save money by booking the tour in a group, though the specific discount amount may vary depending on the group size. Additional details can be provided upon request.

Recap

This captivating half-day tour from Cusco offers an immersive exploration of the Andes’ rich history and stunning landscapes. Visitors will marvel at the intricate Moray agricultural terraces, then witness the mesmerizing geometric patterns of the Maras salt mines. With convenient transportation, knowledgeable guides, and affordable pricing, this 5-hour adventure provides an unforgettable opportunity to discover the unique cultural and natural wonders of the region.

You can check if your dates are available here: