MARAS & MORAY
Explore three of the Sacred Valley’s most fascinating destinations on a half-day journey from Cusco. Discover the Inca and colonial heritage of Chinchero, walk among the thousands of salt pools at Maras, and explore the remarkable circular terraces... read complete
Itinerary
Chinchero, Maras & Moray Tour — Cusco / Chinchero / Maras Salt Mines / Moray / Cusco
- 8:00 am: Time to explore the Sacred Valley! Pick-up from your hotel in Cusco and begin the drive toward the traditional Andean village of Chinchero.
- 9:00 am: Arrive in Chinchero and visit its historic plaza, where a beautiful colonial church was built on the foundations of an Inca temple. Explore the impressive murals, Inca walls and surrounding agricultural terraces.
- 10:00 am: Continue toward the Maras area, traveling through the highlands with views of the surrounding mountains and Sacred Valley.
- 10:30 am: Arrive at the Maras Salt Mines (Salineras), a spectacular hillside complex made up of thousands of small salt pools fed by a natural underground spring.
- 11:15 am: Walk along the viewpoints above the salt terraces and learn how local families continue to collect salt using traditional methods passed down through generations.
- 12:00 pm: Continue to Moray, traveling through the high Andean landscape toward one of the most unique agricultural sites in the Cusco region.
- 12:30 pm: Arrive at Moray (3,450 m / 11,318 ft) and explore its enormous circular terraces. Learn how the Incas may have used the different levels and microclimates for agricultural experimentation.
- 1:30 pm: Begin the return journey to Cusco, passing through traditional communities and enjoying views of the Andes and Sacred Valley along the way.
- 2:30 pm (approx.): Arrive back at your hotel in Cusco, marking the end of your Chinchero, Maras and Moray experience.
Distance: approx. 80 km / 50 mi round trip | Difficulty: Easy | Highest point: Moray, 3,450 m / 11,318 ft | Meals: Not included
Inclusions
What’s Included
Transportation
- Hotel pick-up and drop-off in Cusco.
- Tourist transportation throughout the tour.
Guiding
- Professional bilingual guide (English/Spanish) throughout the tour.
What’s Not Included
- Cusco Tourist Ticket (Boleto Turístico del Cusco) — required for Chinchero and Moray and purchased separately unless you already have a valid ticket.
- Meals and drinks — no lunch is included, giving you flexibility to choose where and what you would like to eat.
- Tips for your guide and driver — always appreciated, entirely at your discretion.
- Personal expenses — souvenirs, bottled water, snacks, etc.
- Travel insurance — recommended, but arranged independently.
FAQS
How difficult is the Chinchero, Maras and Moray Tour?
It’s an easy half-day tour with moderate walking at the archaeological sites. You’ll encounter some uneven surfaces and stairs, but there is no strenuous hiking involved.
How long is the Chinchero, Maras and Moray Tour?
The tour takes approximately 6 to 7 hours, including transportation between the three attractions and time to explore each site with your guide.
What places will I visit on the Chinchero, Maras and Moray Tour?
You’ll visit the traditional village of Chinchero, the Maras Salt Mines and the archaeological site of Moray. The tour combines Inca history, colonial heritage and traditional Andean culture.
What is special about Chinchero?
Chinchero is known for its Inca terraces, archaeological remains and beautiful colonial church. It is also an important center for traditional Andean weaving, where local communities continue to preserve traditional textile techniques.
What are the Maras Salt Mines?
The Maras Salt Mines are thousands of small salt pools built into the mountainside and fed by a natural saltwater spring. Local families continue to harvest salt using traditional methods.
What is Moray?
Moray is an impressive Inca archaeological site made up of large circular agricultural terraces. The different levels create distinct microclimates, and the site is believed to have been used for agricultural experimentation.
Are entrance tickets included?
The entrance to the Maras Salt Mines is included. The appropriate Cusco Tourist Ticket for Chinchero and Moray is not included and must be purchased separately.
Is lunch included on the tour?
No. Lunch is not included, giving you the flexibility to choose where you would like to eat. Your guide can recommend local restaurants depending on your schedule.
What should I bring on the Chinchero, Maras and Moray Tour?
- Original passport or valid ID
- Comfortable walking shoes
- Sun hat
- Sunglasses
- Sunscreen
- Rain jacket or poncho
- Small backpack
- Personal medication
- Water bottle
Can I do this tour if I have just arrived in Cusco?
Yes. The tour does not involve strenuous hiking, but the attractions are located at high altitude. If you have just arrived in Cusco, take the tour at an easy pace and stay well hydrated.
Can children join the Chinchero, Maras and Moray Tour?
Yes. The tour is suitable for families and children. There is no demanding trekking, although children should be comfortable walking on uneven terrain and at high altitude.
Can I do the Chinchero, Maras and Moray Tour without a guide?
You can visit the sites independently, but a professional guide is recommended to understand their history and cultural significance. This tour includes a bilingual guide throughout the experience.
Why Choose Us Velflor Travel
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