Highlights
- Discover the circular terraces of Moray, an ancient Inca farming laboratory
- Walk through the Maras Salt Mines and see traditional salt harvesting
- Admire panoramic Andean landscapes while learning about Inca culture
Description
Discover some of the most fascinating attractions of the Sacred Valley of the Incas on this half-day tour from Cusco. Travel through beautiful Andean landscapes, visit traditional communities, and explore the impressive archaeological site of Moray and the famous Maras Salt Mines.
Your experience begins with pickup from a central meeting point in Cusco. From there, travel through the scenic Andean countryside toward Chinchero, your first stop of the day.
In Chinchero, you will visit a traditional local textile workshop run by local women. Take some time to explore the workshop, learn about their ancestral weaving traditions, and discover how natural dyes are prepared and used to create beautiful Andean textiles. You will also have free time to take photographs and enjoy the surrounding landscapes while experiencing the authentic local atmosphere of this traditional community.
After the visit to Chinchero, continue to Moray, one of the most remarkable archaeological sites in the Sacred Valley. This impressive complex of circular agricultural terraces is believed to have been used by the Incas as an agricultural experimentation center. Accompanied by your professional bilingual guide, you will learn about the site's history, sophisticated irrigation system, engineering, and the different microclimates created by the terraces.
The journey then continues to the Maras Salt Mines, also known as the Salineras de Maras. This spectacular site is made up of thousands of small salt pools cascading down the mountainside. Fed by a natural underground spring, these pools have been used by local families to produce salt since pre-Inca times.
During your visit, your guide will explain the traditional salt extraction process and the importance of Maras salt to the local community. You will also have time to enjoy the panoramic views, take photographs, and purchase locally produced salt products.
Throughout the tour, your guide will share fascinating information about Inca history, Andean traditions, local culture, and the significance of each destination.
After visiting the Maras Salt Mines, begin the return journey to Cusco. The tour concludes near Plaza de Armas, in the historic center.
This half-day experience is perfect for travelers looking to combine history, culture, traditional communities, and breathtaking Andean scenery in one unforgettable journey.
Includes
Round-trip transportation from Cusco
Professional bilingual guide (English and Spanish)
Guided visit to the Moray archaeological site
Visit to the Maras Salt Mines
First aid kit
Oxygen tank for emergency assistance
Excludes
Partial Tourist Ticket (BTC – Circuit III Sacred Valley): S/ 70 per person
Entrance ticket to the Maras Salt Mines: S/ 20 per person
Food and drinks
Personal expenses
Important Information
- This tour includes short walks at the visited attractions, so comfortable walking shoes, sun protection, and appropriate clothing for the Andean weather are recommended
- Due to the altitude of Cusco and the Sacred Valley, some travelers may experience altitude-related effects. Proper acclimatization before the activity is recommended
- The itinerary may vary slightly depending on weather conditions, traffic, or local circumstances
- Visitors must bring their passport or identification document for entrance verification at the attractions
- The Partial Tourist Ticket (BTC) for Moray and the entrance ticket to the Maras Salt Mines are not included in the tour price and must be paid directly at the entrance points
Easy cancellation
Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund
