Maras Moray Full Day

Moray, Maras & Salt Mines Tour

We'll begin this exciting day's tour at 8:00 A.M. when our vehicle picks us up right at your hotel doorstep. We’ll leave Cusco and take a scenic drive through beautiful mountains and valleys on our way to Moray.

Then we'll arrive at Moray, located 3,500 meters above sea level. This site holds massive circular terraces carved into the earth like green bowls. These formations may have served as an Inca agricultural laboratory for crop adaptation.

We'll explore each level and learn how the Incas used them to simulate various climates. We may take time to photograph the stunning symmetry of Moray and its mountain backdrop. Our guide will explain how altitude and sunlight influenced Inca planting strategies. We will walk at a relaxed pace while absorbing history and nature in perfect harmony. This part of the tour connects us to Inca science and sustainable farming practices.

After visiting Moray, we will continue along the day's route to the colonial town of Maras. We will arrive at 3,380 meters above sea level, where traditional homes line narrow streets.

This small village offers panoramic views of the Sacred Valley and surrounding Andean mountains from Cusco. From Maras, we will travel a short distance to the archaeological site of salt mines of Maras. We’ll walk among over 3,000 salt ponds glistening white against red hills and blue sky. Local families still extract salt by hand using traditional methods passed down through generations.

We will witness the flowing mineral spring that feeds every pond through a clever irrigation system. The reflection of the sun on the salt pools creates a surreal scene. We may purchase pure pink Maras salt, valued for its flavor and healing properties. This experience will offer a blend of history, craftsmanship, and natural wonder.

After our final visit, we will return comfortably to Cusco in our tourist vehicle. We will end the day at Plaza de Armas, the historic heart of the Inca capital. Along the return, we can reflect on the day's discoveries and majestic views. We will carry with us stories of Inca wisdom, Andean culture, and mountain beauty.

• Total distance traveled: 90 kilometers round trip
• Highest altitude reached: 3,500 meters at Moray
• Lowest altitude reached: 3,300 meters at Cusco
• Route: Cusco – Moray – Maras – Salineras – Cusco
• Difficulty level: Easy to moderate (short walks, light terrain, high elevation)