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Maras Moray (Half Day Excursion)
Discover Maras, Moray, and Chinchero on a fascinating journey through the Sacred Valley of the Incas. Explore ancient salt mines, remarkable Inca agricultural terraces, and vibrant Andean traditions with Inca World Travel. Enjoy breathtaking mountain views and unforgettable cultural experiences!
1 day
Departures: Daily Departures.
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Maras Moray (Half Day Excursion)
The Maras, Moray, Salineras tour is an essential journey through the Sacred Valley. We will visit Chinchero, a town famous for its ancestral weaving traditions and colonial church, flanked by the majestic Salkantay and Veronica peaks. The adventure continues at the Moray agricultural laboratory, where the Incas experimented with various microclimates using impressive circular terraces. Finally, we will explore the Maras Salt Mines, a stunning complex of over 3,000 natural salt ponds located on the slopes of the Qaqawiñay mountain at 3,380 meters above sea level.
Discover Inca scientific ingenuity and Andean tradition in a single day. Book now with Inca World Travel and ensure an authentic cultural experience with expert local guides and the highest international safety standards for your journey!
Detailed Itinerary: Day by Day
Day 1:
Maras and Moray
Our Maras, Moray & Salt Mines Half-Day Tour begins with hotel pickup in Cusco between 7:50 and 8:30 a.m. We will travel toward the northeastern part of the city, passing through beautiful Andean landscapes. Upon arrival in the town of Maras, we will make a brief stop to visit its colonial church and main square.
Next, we will visit the fascinating Moray Archaeological Site, famous for its circular agricultural terraces built by the Incas. These terraces created different microclimates, allowing the cultivation and study of various crops. We will spend approximately one hour exploring the site and enjoying its remarkable views.
Our journey continues to the spectacular Maras Salt Mines, a collection of thousands of white and pink salt pools carved into the mountainside. Managed by local families, these traditional salt ponds have been used for generations to harvest and process salt, preserving an important part of the region's cultural heritage.
After exploring the salt mines, we will return to Cusco, arriving at approximately 2:30 p.m. Drop-off will be near the Plaza de Armas, from where you can make your own way back to your hotel.
Included
Pick up hotel
Tourist Bus Transport
Bilingual Guide
Not included
Admission: Moray Archeological Site
Admission: Maras Archeological Site
Extra expenses
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Remember! request a quote and modify this experience with the destinations you want.
Aditional information about this service:
Tips:
1. Moray’s Natural Laboratory: The circular terraces create different microclimates, which the Incas used for agricultural experimentation.
2. Ancient Salt Production: The Maras Salt Mines contain thousands of evaporation ponds that have been used since pre-Inca times.
3. Pink and White Salt: The salt's color varies according to its mineral composition and the conditions of each pond.
4. Family-Owned Ponds: Many salt pools are managed by local families who preserve traditional harvesting techniques.
5. A Unique Water Source: The salt ponds are fed by a naturally salty underground spring that flows down the mountainside.
6. Inca Engineering: Moray's terraces feature sophisticated drainage systems designed to manage water and protect the agricultural structures.
7. Living Andean Heritage: Chinchero and the surrounding region are known for traditional weaving, natural dyes, and ancestral textile techniques.
8. Spectacular Mountain Views: The route offers views of the Andes, with snow-capped peaks visible when weather conditions allow.
FAQ
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How long does the Maras, Moray & Salt Mines tour last?
The tour lasts approximately half a day, with return to Cusco around 2:30 p.m.
How high are Maras and Moray above sea level?
Moray is located at approximately 3,500 meters (11,483 feet), while Maras sits at around 3,300 meters (10,827 feet).
Why did the Incas build the circular terraces of Moray?
They are believed to have been used for agricultural experimentation, taking advantage of different temperatures across the terrace levels.
How are the Maras Salt Mines still operating today?
Local families manage individual salt ponds, allowing water to evaporate naturally before harvesting the salt.
Is the tour physically demanding?
The tour involves walking on uneven terrain and at high altitude, but it generally requires less physical effort than a full-day trek.
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