Tour Maras Moray and Salt Mines- Half Day
USD 10
USD 25
Explore the Rich History and Stunning Landscapes of the Sacred Valley on the Maras, Moray, and Salt Mines Tour with Inca Path Peru
Embark on a captivating half-day adventure with Inca Path Peru to the ancient sites of Maras, Moray, and the Salt Mines. This tour offers an exclusive glimpse into the ingenuity of Inca agricultural techniques and the timeless beauty of Andean salt pans. Designed for both history buffs and nature enthusiasts, this journey through the Sacred Valley showcases breathtaking landscapes and ingenious ancient technologies.
The tour begins with a visit to Moray, an astonishing archaeological site featuring terraced circular depressions that plunge into the earth like an amphitheater of emerald green. Scientists believe these terraces were used by the Incas for agricultural experiments, taking advantage of varying microclimates to optimize the growth of different crops. Each level’s temperature subtly differs from those above and below, creating a series of climatic conditions that could mimic the vast Inca empire’s environments. This site not only highlights the Incas’ advanced understanding of horticulture and ecology but also offers spectacular photographic opportunities thanks to its unique, striking appearance.
Next, you’ll explore the Maras Salt Mines, where thousands of shimmering salt pools spill down a hillside valley. Still active today, these salt pans were developed by the Incas but have been used to extract salt since pre-Inca times. As you walk along the narrow paths between the pools, you’ll see how the natural flow of hypersaline water is expertly managed to evaporate and leave behind crystalline salt—a process that paints a breathtaking mosaic of whites and rusty browns against the green mountain backdrop.
Concluding the tour, Maras welcomes you—a charming Andean village with streets full of history and traditional textile markets. The town is a perfect spot to appreciate the local way of life and perhaps pick up a handwoven souvenir to remember your journey.
Tour Details
We will pick you up from your hotel at between 8:00 a.m. and 8:20 a.m. for the drive to the Sacred Valley of the Incas and the village of Maras. The main attractions in the area are the colonial-era church and the saltpans, which offer an interesting setting for photographs. Since Pre-Inca times, the salt from Maras has been obtained through evaporation by the sun of saltwater from a nearby stream. There are thousands of pools at this site, and when sunlight is reflected in them the effect is stunning. Moray is one of the most impressive archaeological complexes in the entire Sacred Valley. This tour will enable you to visit the magnificent circular structures once used by the Incas for crop experimentation. At the end of the tour, we will return to Cusco at 2:00 p.m.
PLACES THAT YOU WILL VISIT:
- Moray – Maras
- Salt Mines
PLEASE NOTE: Be sure to take along your Visitor’s Ticket.
Inclusions
Included
- Round trip transport
- Guide in English and Spanish (both languages will be spoken during the tour)
Not Include
- Entrance ticket to the saltpans (S/10.00 Peruvian soles)
- Water, food, snacks
- Entrance for Moray Maras = 70 soles, If you have already the tourist ticket, you can use it.
Price
PRICE: USD 10.00