Maras & Moray Full-Day Tour

8:00–8:30 a.m. — Hotel Pickup in Cusco

Our team will pick you up from your hotel in Cusco between approximately 8:00 and 8:30 a.m. Once the group is ready, we will begin the journey toward the Sacred Valley.

During the drive, you will enjoy views of traditional communities, agricultural fields, mountain ranges and the beautiful landscapes surrounding Cusco.

Moray Archaeological Complex

Our first major destination will be Moray, an extraordinary archaeological complex formed by circular agricultural terraces descending into the earth.

These terraces are believed to have functioned as an Inca agricultural laboratory. The temperature changes between the upper and lower levels created different microclimates, allowing the Incas to experiment with crops and determine the best conditions for cultivation.

Your guide will explain the site’s engineering, agricultural importance and possible ceremonial functions. You will also have time to walk through the designated viewpoints and take photographs of the terraces and surrounding Andes.

Traditional Town of Maras

After visiting Moray, we will continue to the traditional town of Maras.

During the panoramic visit, you will observe colonial streets, traditional houses and the peaceful rural environment of the Sacred Valley. Maras played an important role during the colonial period and remains closely connected to local agriculture and salt production.

Your guide will provide information about the town’s history and its relationship with the nearby salt mines.

Maras Salt Mines

We will then visit the famous Maras Salt Mines, also known as Salineras de Maras.

More than 3,000 small salt ponds extend across the mountainside. A natural underground spring feeds the ponds with mineral-rich water, which gradually evaporates under the sun and leaves behind layers of salt.

Local families have managed these ponds for generations using traditional techniques dating back to pre-Inca times. From the designated viewpoints, you can admire the contrast between the white salt pools and the brown mountain landscape.

Your guide will explain the salt collection process, the organization of the ponds and the economic importance of this activity for the community.

Return to Cusco

After exploring the Maras Salt Mines, we will begin the journey back to Cusco.

Arrival is expected between approximately 2:30 and 3:00 p.m., although the exact time may vary depending on traffic, road conditions and the pace of the group.