The Moray Terraces and Maras Salt Pools offer a captivating glimpse into the ingenuity of the Inca civilization. Explore Moray’s remarkable agricultural laboratory, where innovative terraces created distinct microclimates for crop cultivation. Then, discover the ancient salt pools of Maras, still in use today, their striking white and pink hues a testament to enduring Andean traditions. This half-day tour from Cusco promises breathtaking scenery and a deeper understanding of the region’s rich history. Whether you’re a history buff or simply seeking an enriching adventure, this tour holds the potential to uncover fascinating insights.
Key Points
- A 6-hour tour exploring the Inca agricultural laboratory of Moray terraces and the ancient Maras salt pools in the Cusco region of Peru.
- Highlights include scenic Andean views and insights into Inca engineering and agricultural practices, with a 5.0 rating from 7 reviews.
- The tour features the three-tiered Moray terraces used to experiment with microclimates and crop cultivation, and the 3,000+ salt pools at Maras.
- Admission includes a 1-day tourist ticket granting access to multiple Sacred Valley attractions and museums in Cusco.
- Not recommended for individuals with back problems, serious medical conditions, or respiratory/cardiovascular issues due to high altitude and physical demands.
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Contents
- Key Points
- Tour Overview
- Moray: Inca Agricultural Laboratory
- Maras: Ancient Salt Pools
- Tour Itinerary
- Admission Fees and Benefits
- Accessibility and Health Advisories
- Inclusions and Cancellation Policy
- Pricing and Payment Options
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Tour?
- Are There Any Restroom Facilities Available During the Tour?
- Is Photography Allowed at the Archaeological Sites?
- What Should I Pack for the Tour?
- Can I Customize the Tour to Fit My Interests?
- Recap
- Our Top Picks in Cusco
- More Half-Day in Cusco
- More Tours in Cusco
- More Tour Reviews in Cusco
- Not for you? Here's more things to do in Cusco we have recnetly reviewed
Tour Overview
The Moray Terraces and Maras Salt Pools Half-Day Tour offers visitors a unique opportunity to explore two remarkable Inca archaeological sites in the Cusco region of Peru.
This 6-hour tour takes travelers to the Moray terraces, an intriguing agricultural laboratory, and the ancient Maras salt pools, which have been in use since pre-Incan times.
With a 5.0 rating from 7 reviews, the tour promises to showcase the ingenuity and sophistication of Inca engineering and agriculture, all set against the stunning backdrop of the Andes mountains.
Highlights include learning about Inca agricultural practices and enjoying scenic views throughout the journey.
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Moray: Inca Agricultural Laboratory
At the heart of the tour lies the awe-inspiring Moray terraces, an Inca archaeological site believed to have served as an agricultural laboratory.
These three amphitheater-like terraces, carved into a natural depression, are thought to have been used by the Incas to experiment with different microclimates and crop cultivation techniques.
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The terraces are arranged in a spiral pattern, with each level having a slightly different temperature and soil composition.
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This unique design allowed the Incas to test the optimal growing conditions for various crops, contributing to their advanced agricultural practices.
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Visitors can explore the site, marveling at the Inca’s ingenuity and the breathtaking views of the surrounding Andean peaks.
Maras: Ancient Salt Pools
After exploring the captivating Moray terraces, the tour moves on to the ancient salt pools of Maras. Nestled in the Andes, these 3,000+ salt pools have been in use since pre-Inca times. Locals still harvest salt from the pools, using traditional methods passed down through generations.
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| History | The salt pools date back to the Inca Empire and even earlier, with roots in the region’s indigenous culture. |
| Salinity | The high salinity of the water produces the unique white and pink hues of the salt crystals. |
| Sustainability | The Maras salt industry remains an important economic and cultural resource for the local community. |
The Maras salt pools offer a fascinating glimpse into the enduring traditions of the Sacred Valley.
Tour Itinerary
Departing from Cusco, the tour embarks on a 1.5-hour journey through the Andean countryside, offering captivating glimpses of snow-capped peaks, quaint villages, and verdant farmlands.
Upon arrival, the first stop is the Moray archaeological site, where guests explore the unique amphitheater-like terraces believed to have been an agricultural laboratory for testing crop growth conditions.
Next, the tour proceeds to the Maras salt pools, a remarkable site with over 3,000 individual salt ponds still in use, dating back to pre-Incan times.
The final stop allows visitors to wander and marvel at the striking contrast of the white salt pools against the surrounding landscape.
Admission Fees and Benefits
Visitors to the Moray Terraces and Maras Salt Pools tour must purchase separate admission tickets. The tourist ticket required for Moray costs 70 soles, or approximately $22, and provides 1-day access.
A separate 10 soles, or $3.50, entrance fee is charged for Maras. However, the benefits of the 1-day ticket extend beyond these two sites, as it grants access to multiple attractions in the Sacred Valley and some museums in Cusco.
This bundled ticket offers travelers convenience and value, allowing them to make the most of their time in the region.
Accessibility and Health Advisories
The Moray Terraces and Maras Salt Pools tour isn’t wheelchair accessible. This is due to the uneven terrain and steep staircases at both sites.
Travelers should also take note of the following health advisories:
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Not recommended for those with back problems or other serious medical conditions, as the tour involves a significant amount of walking and climbing.
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Pregnant travelers are advised to consult with their healthcare providers before participating, as the physical demands of the tour may pose risks.
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Individuals with respiratory or cardiovascular issues may find the high altitude at the sites challenging and should exercise caution.
Inclusions and Cancellation Policy
Included in the tour price are hotel pickup, a professional guide, transportation to and from the sites, the required tourist ticket for Moray, and the entrance fee for Maras.
This comprehensive package ensures hassle-free exploration of the archaeological sites. The tour operator also offers a flexible cancellation policy, allowing travelers to cancel their booking up to 24 hours before the experience without any penalties.
This gives customers greater peace of mind when planning their Cusco adventure. With a lowest price guarantee and a pay-later option, the Moray Terraces and Maras Salt Pools tour provides an accessible and budget-friendly way to discover these remarkable Inca sites.
Pricing and Payment Options
Pricing for the Moray Terraces and Maras Salt Pools tour is competitively set, ensuring an accessible and budget-friendly experience.
The tour offers a lowest price guarantee, allowing travelers to book with confidence. Plus, travelers have the option to reserve now and pay later, providing flexibility in planning and budgeting.
The tour’s inclusions are:
- Hotel pickup
- Professional guide
- Transportation, touristic ticket, and Maras entrance fee
With these features and the affordability, the Moray Terraces and Maras Salt Pools tour provides an excellent value proposition for those seeking to explore Inca archaeological sites in Cusco, Peru.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Tour?
Yes, travelers can bring their own food and drinks on the tour. The tour operator allows participants to bring their own refreshments to enjoy during the excursion.
Are There Any Restroom Facilities Available During the Tour?
There are restroom facilities available during the tour. Visitors can use the restrooms at the Moray and Maras sites. Basic amenities are provided to ensure a comfortable experience throughout the excursion.
Is Photography Allowed at the Archaeological Sites?
Photography is generally allowed at the Moray Terraces and Maras Salt Pools. However, visitors should be mindful of not disturbing the sites or other visitors. It’s best to check with the tour guide for any specific photography guidelines.
What Should I Pack for the Tour?
When packing for the tour, visitors should bring comfortable walking shoes, sun protection, a light jacket, snacks, and water. It’s also a good idea to bring any necessary medication and cash for entrance fees.
Can I Customize the Tour to Fit My Interests?
Yes, the tour can be customized to fit your interests. Many tour operators offer flexible options, allowing you to modify the itinerary or add/remove activities based on your preferences and travel goals.
Moray Terraces and Maras Salt Pools Half-Day Tour From Cusco
“The Morsy Terraces and Maras Salt Pools were amazing to see. The genius of the Inca Civilization was on full display. We also saw an interesting de…”
Recap
This captivating half-day tour from Cusco offers a rare glimpse into Inca history and ingenuity. Explore the remarkable Moray Terraces, an agricultural laboratory showcasing advanced crop cultivation techniques. Then, marvel at the ancient Maras salt pools, where over 3,000 individual ponds glisten with striking white and pink hues. This tour promises breathtaking Andean views and an enriching insight into the Inca’s remarkable accomplishments.
