Embark on an unforgettable cycling adventure through the Sacred Valley of the Incas, exploring the mesmerizing Maras Salt Mines and the ancient Moray terraces. This full-day tour from Cusco offers a unique blend of culture and natural splendor. With the guidance of a professional bilingual guide and top-notch equipment, cyclists of all levels can indulge in the stunning scenery and uncover the ingenious Inca agricultural practices that shaped this remarkable landscape. Prepare to be captivated by the stark contrast between the dazzling white salt pools and the lush, circular terraces – a true testament to the enduring legacy of the Inca civilization.
Key Points
- This full-day small-group bike tour takes visitors from Cusco to the Sacred Valley, covering the Moray terraces and Maras Salt Mines.
- The tour is suitable for moderate-level cyclists and includes hotel pickup/drop-off, transportation, lunch, and a professional bilingual guide.
- Highlights include a scenic bike ride, exploring the Moray agricultural site, and visiting the historic Maras Salt Mines.
- Biking equipment such as SCOTT aluminum bicycles, gloves, helmets, and pads are provided, but entrance tickets are not included.
- The tour is priced from $137.60 per person and is highly rated, with free cancellation up to 24 hours before.
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Contents
Tour Overview
According to the information provided, this is a full-day small-group bike tour from Cusco that explores the Sacred Valley, including the archaeological site of Moray and the Maras Salt Mines.
The tour is suitable for moderate-level cyclists with some experience, with a small group limited to 15 participants for a personalized experience.
The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, transportation, a provided lunch, a professional bilingual guide, and the necessary biking equipment.
Entrance tickets for Moray and the Maras Salt Mines aren’t included in the tour price.
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Tour Highlights
The tour highlights an exhilarating scenic bike ride through the Sacred Valley of the Incas.
Cyclists will visit the circular terraces of Moray, an Inca agricultural research site, where they’ll learn about innovative Incan farming practices.
They’ll then discover the Maras Salt Mines, featuring terraced salt-harvesting pools that have been in use since the Inca era.
The ride continues along the Urubamba River, culminating in the traditional village of Urubamba.
Throughout the tour, you will be surrounded by the stunning natural beauty of the Andes mountains.
This small-group experience is perfect for moderate-level cyclists seeking an immersive exploration of the Sacred Valley.
Inclusions
The Maras Salt Mines and Moray Biking Tour includes several essential elements that contribute to an immersive and well-rounded experience.
Hotel pickup and drop-off, as well as transportation from Cusco to Chincheros and Urubamba to Cusco, ensure seamless logistics. A provided lunch box sustains travelers during the tour.
The expertise of a professional bilingual guide and biking specialist enhances the journey. Participants are equipped with SCOTT aluminum bicycles, gloves, helmets, and elbow/knee pads, ensuring their comfort and safety.
While entrance tickets for Moray and Maras Salt Mines aren’t included, the tour price starts from $137.60 with free cancellation up to 24 hours before the tour.
Itinerary
The tour kicks off with hotel pickup from Cusco at 8:00 am, followed by an 8:30 am departure.
The group then travels for an hour to Chinchero, the starting point for the biking portion of the tour. Participants will cycle approximately 7km (4.5 miles) on dirt roads and mountain trails, exploring the circular terraces of Moray, an Inca agricultural research site.
After a picnic lunch in Maras village, the group will continue cycling to the Maras Salt Mines in the afternoon.
The tour concludes with a return journey along the Urubamba River, arriving back in Cusco around 6:00 pm.
Maras Salt Mines
What makes the Maras Salt Mines so captivating? The Maras Salt Mines are a unique and ancient salt production site located in Peru’s Sacred Valley.
Visitors are awestruck by the striking terraced pools that dot the hillside, which have been used for salt harvesting since the time of the Incas. The process involves channeling salty spring water into the pools, allowing the water to evaporate and leaving behind the valuable mineral:
- The pools are carefully constructed in a series of terraces to maximize the evaporation process.
- Workers harvest the salt by hand, scraping it from the pools and sorting it for sale.
- The bright white salt contrasts beautifully with the surrounding green landscape, making for remarkable visual appeal.
Moray Terraces
While the Maras Salt Mines dazzle with their striking visual appeal, the Moray Terraces offer an equally captivating glimpse into the agricultural ingenuity of the Incas.
Located in the heart of the Sacred Valley, these remarkable circular terraces were likely used by the Inca Empire as an agricultural research site. The varying levels of the terraced bowls created microclimates, allowing the Incas to experiment with different crops and growing conditions.
Visitors can explore the terraces, marveling at the engineering prowess that enabled the Incas to harness the natural environment for their agricultural needs.
The Moray Terraces stand as a testament to the Inca’s innovative spirit and their deep understanding of the land they inhabited.
Cycling Experience
This tour’s cycling experience offers a thrilling and immersive way to explore the Sacred Valley. Riders will pedal along dirt roads and mountain trails, covering a distance of 7km (4.5 miles) from Chinchero to the Moray terraces.
The tour includes:
- High-quality SCOTT aluminum bicycles with suspension, providing a comfortable and responsive ride.
- Safety gear, including gloves, helmets, and elbow/knee pads, ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience.
- A professional bilingual guide who’s a biking specialist, providing expert navigation and insights throughout the journey.
The cycling portion offers a moderate-level challenge, suitable for cyclists with some experience, allowing them to fully enjoy the stunning landscapes of the Sacred Valley.
Additional Information
Travelers receive confirmation of their booking upon making a reservation for this tour.
The full-day biking tour isn’t accessible for wheelchair users, as it involves cycling on dirt roads and mountain trails. Moderate physical fitness is required, as the tour covers a total distance of about 7km (4.5 miles).
The group size is capped at 15 participants to ensure a personalized experience. The tour is operated by Machupicchu Latin America and is priced starting from $137.60 per person, with free cancellation up to 24 hours before the tour.
Based on 2 reviews, the tour is rated 5.0 out of 5 on both Viator and Tripadvisor.
Maras Salt Mines and Moray Biking Tour From Cusco
“Magnificent day on sublime sites! Thanks to our guide Luis, for his kindness and the quality of his explanations.”
Recap
This incredible Maras Salt Mines and Moray Biking Tour offers a unique blend of Inca history, stunning natural landscapes, and an exhilarating cycling experience. Exploring the ancient salt ponds and the mysterious Moray terraces, guests will gain a deeper appreciation for the ingenuity of the Inca civilization. With a knowledgeable guide, top-notch equipment, and a delicious picnic lunch, this tour is a must-do for anyone seeking an unforgettable adventure in the Sacred Valley.
