Maras Moray Day Tours

The Tour is a popular excursion in the Sacred Valley of the Incas, located near Cusco, Peru. This tour typically includes visits to two significant sites: the Maras Salt Mines and the Moray agricultural terraces. Here’s an overview of what you can expect from this tour:

Maras Salt Mines (Salineras de Maras)

• History and Function: The Maras Salt Mines, date back to pre-Inca times and are still in use today. These mines consist of thousands of small salt evaporation ponds that have been passed down through generations.
• Visual Appeal: The sight of the salt ponds is striking, especially when viewed from a distance. The ponds create a patchwork of white and earthy colors, providing a unique photographic opportunity.
• Salt Production: The process involves channeling salty water from a natural spring into the ponds, where it evaporates under the sun, leaving behind crystallized salt.

Moray Agricultural Terraces

• Historical Significance: The Moray Terraces in Inca times served as an agricultural research site. The circular terraces are believed to represent a large-scale agricultural laboratory where the Incas experimented with various crops. To then be able to produce in large quantities and feed the entire town.
• Design and Function: The concentric terraces create microclimates, with the temperature varying significantly between the top and bottom levels. This allowed the Incas to grow a variety of crops at different altitudes.
• Architectural Marvel: The terraces are an impressive example of Inca engineering, showcasing their advanced understanding of agriculture and environmental management.

Tour Highlights

• Cultural Insights: Learn about Inca history, agricultural practices, and the cultural significance of these sites.
• Scenic Views: Enjoy panoramic views of the Sacred Valley, with its dramatic landscapes and picturesque villages.
• Local Interactions: Some tours offer opportunities to interact with local communities, providing insight into traditional ways of life and allowing you to purchase local products, such as pink salt from Maras.

Practical Information

• Duration: The tour typically lasts from half a day to a full day, depending on the specific itinerary and starting point.

• Accessibility: While the tour involves a bit of walking and climbing, its  appropriate for the majority of visitors.
• Best Time to Visit: The dry season, which runs from May to September, is the ideal time to go because of the usually clear and steady weather.

Tips for Visitors

• Comfortable shoes: Due to the unevenness of the terrain. Good walking shoes are you required.
• Bring Sun Protection: The high altitude and reflective surfaces can increase UV exposure.
• Hydration and Snacks: Carry water and light snacks, especially if you are prone to altitude sickness.
• Camera: Don’t forget your camera to capture the stunning landscapes and unique architecture.

We will pick you up from your hotel at approximately 8:00. in the morning, in our transportation, to then continue with the trip in the direction of the sacred valley, the Maras Moray tour is a captivating experience that takes visitors to two of the most notable sites in the Cusco region: the Salineras of Maras and the agricultural terraces of Moray.

Maras Salt Mines (Salineras de Maras).

• Location: Situated about 40 kilometers (25 miles) northwest of Cusco.
• Historical Significance: The salt mines have been in use since pre-Inca times and continue to produce salt using traditional methods.
• Structure: Comprising over 3,000 salt ponds, the mines are fed by a natural saline spring.
• Method: Salty water from the spring is pumped into the ponds. As the water evaporates, it leaves behind layers of salt crystals that are later extracted.
• Visual Appeal: The terraced salt ponds create a striking visual effect, especially under bright sunlight.

Moray Agricultural Terraces.

• Location: About 50 kilometers (31 miles) northwest of Cusco and near the town of Maras.

• Historical importance: These circular terraces were used by the Incas as a large agricultural laboratory.
• Structure: These terraces are built in concentric circles, resembling a large amphitheater.

• Function: The design creates varying microclimates, with temperature differences between the top and bottom levels. This allowed the Incas to experiment with crop cultivation at different temperatures and altitudes.
• Architectural Significance: The site showcases the Inca’s advanced understanding of agriculture, engineering, and environmental management.

Tour Details.

• Duration: Typically half a day to a full day, depending on the tour operator and itinerary.
• Start Point: Most tours start in Cusco, with transportation provided to and from the sites.
• Activities: Guided tours often include educational talks about the history, culture, and agricultural practices of the Incas, as well as ample time for exploration and photography.

This tour of Maras Moray offers a fascinating insight into the ingenuity and development of the Inca civilization and the impressive landscape of the Sacred Valley of the Incas, making it a must-see for all visitors to the Cusco region.

OUR SERVICE INCLUDES:

• Touristic bus.
• Professional guide.
• Entrance Tickets to Maras mines.

NOT INCLUDED:

• Tourist ticket: S/.70 soles for National Tourist – S/.130 soles for Foreign Tourist.
• Lunch
• Additional costs.
• Tips.

YOU NEED BRING:

• Thick jacket
• Camera
• Water
• Sunscreen
• Money to eat and to shop

Price: Season 2024

Shared Service:

• Price per person U$. 40.00
• The approximate group is 15 people

Private & Personalized Service:

• Price per person U$ .120
• Minimum people 02 pax