Maras, Moray & Salt Mines - Half Day
Expedition Overview
Embark on a fascinating half-day journey through the Sacred Valley to discover two of the most unique and visually striking sites left by the Incas. First, explore Moray, an incredible archaeological site featuring massive circular terraces that scientists believe served as an ancient agricultural laboratory. Then, visit the spectacular Maras Salt Mines, where over 3,000 brilliant white salt pools cascade down a steep mountainside. These pools have been used to harvest salt since pre-Incan times and are still operated by local families today. This tour offers a perfect blend of history, engineering, and breathtaking photography opportunities.
Day by Day Itinerary
Half Day: Circular Terraces of Moray and Maras Salt Pools
We pick you up from your hotel at 8:00 AM and drive through the high Andean plateau, offering spectacular views of the snow-capped Chicon and Veronica mountains. Our first stop is Moray (3,500m), an impressive Incan site consisting of several enormous terraced circular depressions. Your guide will explain how the Incas used this site to experiment with crops at different microclimates. Next, we drive to the nearby colonial town of Maras and continue to the famous Salineras (Salt Mines). Here, you will witness thousands of geometric salt pools glistening in the sun, fed by a subterranean saline spring. You will learn about the ancient salt harvesting process that continues to this day. After plenty of time for photos, we return to Cusco, arriving around 2:00 PM. • Estimated Time: 6 hours • Highest Altitude: 3,500m / 11,482ft (Moray)
Guaranteed departure dates, official DIRCETUR entrance permits, and zero intermediary commission fees when you reserve directly with our Cusco headquarters.
✅ What is Included
- ✓Pick-up from your hotel near the historical center of Cusco
- ✓Professional bilingual tour guide
- ✓Comfortable tourist transportation
- ✓Guided tours of the Moray archaeological site and Maras Salt Mines
- ✓Drop-off near the Plaza de Armas in Cusco
✕ Not Included
- —Boleto Turístico (Tourist Ticket) - Required for Moray
- —Entrance fee to the Maras Salt Mines (20 Soles)
- —Meals and snacks
- —Tips for the guide and driver
Need Custom Itineraries or Private Dates?
Speak instantly with our experienced mountaineering coordinators in Cusco for immediate itinerary customization and permit verification.