We will embark on a Full Day Maras Moray Tour from Cusco, exploring some of the most fascinating and lesser-known gems of the Sacred Valley. This journey will take us deep into the heart of the Peruvian Andes, where history, culture, and natural beauty blend seamlessly.
The day tour will begin in Cusco, the ancient Inca capital. It will lead us to the breathtaking archaeological sites of Moray and the Salineras de Maras. These hidden treasures will reveal the ingenuity of the Inca civilization and offer a unique perspective on the Andean lifestyle.
The first stop of the tour will be the famous terraces of Moray. Here, we will discover the circular terraces that the Incas ingeniously carved into the earth to grow crops. These terraces form a natural amphitheater, creating a series of microclimates perfect for cultivating various plants. We will wander around these ancient circular terraces, learning how they were used during Inca times as an agricultural laboratory.
Our experienced tour guide will explain how each terrace varies in temperature by 15°C (59°F) between the top and bottom levels. This allowed the Incas to experiment with different crop-growing techniques. We highly recommend taking your time to soak in the sweeping views of the surrounding valleys and to feel the sense of mystery that lingers in this archaeological site.
After exploring Moray, we will continue our adventure to the salt mines of Maras, also known as the Salineras de Maras. Perched on a hillside, these thousands of shallow salt pools have been in use since the Inca period. Today, they are managed by local families.
We will marvel at how these salt pans glisten under the sun, creating a breathtaking mosaic of white terraces stretching down the mountainside. The sight of workers harvesting salt using traditional methods will give us a glimpse into a centuries-old way of life. Our tour guide will explain how natural spring water flows into the pools. They then evaporate under the warm Andean sun to leave behind pure salt crystals.
This tour will not just be about history and culture. It will also be a chance to experience the unique high-altitude landscapes of the Sacred Valley. As we travel through the valleys, we will pass vibrant fields, traditional Andean villages, and breathtaking views of snow-capped peaks.
During the dry season, the scenery will be even more striking, with clear skies and golden sunlight casting a magical glow on the valleys. We may even catch glimpses of Rainbow Mountain in the distance, adding more colors to our journey.
As we will be at altitudes of around 3,500 meters (11,500 feet), we will take it slow to avoid altitude sickness. We will carry plenty of water and light snacks to keep our energy up throughout this amazing experience.
Our knowledgeable guide will provide insights into local traditions and share tips on how to acclimate effectively. The tour will also offer plenty of opportunities for photography. We will be ensuring that you capture the beauty of Maras and Moray from every angle.
We will conclude our day tour by returning to Cusco. We will reminisce about the sights, sounds, and stories of the Moray and Maras tour.
Whether you are a history buff, a nature lover, or simply looking for an off-the-beaten-path adventure, this private tour will offer a fascinating glimpse into the heart of the Sacred Valley. Entrance fees, including the tourist ticket, will grant us access to these incredible sites. It also helps support the local communities preserving these traditions.
Maras Moray Cusco Peru Tour Includes
Maras Moray Cusco Peru Tour Excludes
On the Maras Moray Cusco Peru tour, you can expect a journey through the heart of the Sacred Valley, rich with history, culture, and stunning landscapes. We will visit the ancient agricultural terraces of Moray, where the Incas experimented with different crops and microclimates. The circular terraces create a natural amphitheater, offering spectacular views of the surrounding valleys. Our knowledgeable guide will share fascinating insights into Inca engineering and agricultural practices as we explore this archaeological marvel.
Afterward, we will venture to the Salineras de Maras, a collection of thousands of salt pools that have been in use since pre-Inca times. Managed by local families, these terraced salt pans glisten under the Andean sun, creating a breathtaking mosaic on the mountainside. As we walk along the paths, we will see workers harvesting salt using traditional methods, giving us a glimpse into a centuries-old way of life. The tour will also provide plenty of photography opportunities and moments to take in the high-altitude beauty of the Sacred Valley.
We will start our Maras Moray Tour at 8:00 am. After picking you up from your hotel, we will leave Cusco and drive towards the charming town of Maras. As we journey through the Sacred Valley, the stunning scenery of surrounding mountains, fertile fields, and the winding Urubamba River will captivate us.
We will arrive in Maras around 9:30 am. Here, we will spend some time strolling through the narrow streets and exploring the vibrant local market. The market will be filled with colorful textiles, handmade ceramics, and regional delicacies. We will have the chance to interact with local families and experience the town’s warm hospitality.
At 10:30 am, we will head to the Salt Mines of Maras. These salt pans, known as Salineras de Maras, have been in use since pre-Inca times. As we explore this ancient site, we will marvel at the vast network of terraced pools. They are spread across 13 square kilometers (5 square miles).
More than 3,000 shallow pools collect natural spring water, which evaporates to leave behind pure salt crystals. Our guide will explain how local families still use traditional methods to harvest salt here. We will take our time walking along the paths, soaking in the beauty and learning about this age-old practice.
After visiting the salt mines, we will leave Maras at 12:30 pm. We will drive towards the fascinating archaeological site of Moray. We will arrive at Moray around 1:30 pm.
We will dive into the mysteries of the Inca civilization. The site features a series of circular terraces, creating natural amphitheaters used as agricultural laboratories.
As we explore, our guide will explain how the Incas experimented with different crops and microclimates on these terraces. The difference in temperature from the top to the bottom of the terraces can vary by up to 15°C (59°F). This variation allowed the Incas to grow diverse crops in a single location.
After immersing ourselves in the history of Moray, we will begin our journey back to Cusco at 3:00 pm. The drive through the picturesque Sacred Valley will provide us with one last look at the breathtaking landscapes that have surrounded us throughout the day. We will arrive back in Cusco at around 5:00 pm, bringing our Maras Moray Tour to a close. With memories of exploring Maras and Moray, we will gain a deeper appreciation for the region’s rich history and culture.
The Maras Moray tour usually takes about 6 to 7 hours. We will start from Cusco in the morning and return by late afternoon, making it a perfect half-day adventure. The exact duration may vary depending on the pace of the group and the time spent at each site.
The best time to visit Maras and Moray is during the dry season, which runs from April to October. During these months, the skies are clear, and the landscapes are stunningly vibrant. The rainy season from November to March can still be beautiful, but the paths may be muddy and the views occasionally obscured by clouds.
Yes, Maras and Moray are located at approximately 3,500 meters (11,500 feet) above sea level. We recommend spending a couple of days in Cusco or the Sacred Valley before the tour to acclimate to the altitude. It’s also a good idea to stay hydrated and take it slow during the tour to avoid altitude sickness.
We recommend bringing water, snacks, sunscreen, sunglasses, a hat, and comfortable walking shoes. Since the weather can change quickly in the Andes, carrying a light jacket or raincoat is also a good idea. Don’t forget your camera, as the landscapes are breathtaking!
Yes, the Maras Moray tour is suitable for most age groups. However, keep in mind that the high altitude can be challenging, especially for young children and older adults. We will take the tour at a relaxed pace and provide breaks to ensure everyone’s comfort.
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EXCELLENT Based on 116 reviews Sebastian K2024-09-20Verified Perfection! Highly recommended!!! We did two tours with Luan Travel Peru.The first was a private tour to different places without guide. The driver was friendly, punctuak and drove save. The car was clean and spacious. 5/5 stars!The second tour was to Pallay Punchu. The driver arrived in time at 4:00 am. Both the driver and the guide were very nice and real gentlemen! The car was well maintained, clean and spacious. The driver drove save and secure. The guide was very cool and provided loads of interesting info. All we could hope for! Food that was provided was nice and the lunch was really cool in the middle of this amazing landscape! 6/5 stars!Thank you so much! Definitely highly recommended!!! We ll surely come back!Best regards,Lu and Sebastian Said I2024-02-09Verified Eventful short stay went to Cusco with limited time(3 days). Juan helped us a lot. First day atv tour second day machu picchu (Bus, Train and entry ticket included) at a great price. Daniella F2023-11-17Verified Rainbow Mountain Luan Travel Peru organized a spectacular Rainbow Mountain tour. Their guides were attentive and informartive, providing great insight into the area´s significance. The journey was a colourful as the destination, with top notch service from start to finish. Truly a memorable experience! Marc S2023-11-09Verified Rainbow Mountain Tour I had an amazing time on the Rainbow Mountain Trek with Luan Travel Peru! The natural beauty was beyond words, and our guides enthusiasm and expertise made the challenging hike incredibly rewarding. The team´s support and the well organised itinerary added to the unforgettable experience. Highly recommended. Eklavya P2023-10-31Verified Unmissable Breathtaking and unforgettable! The Rainbow Mountain Tour with Luan Travel Peru was spectacular. Professional guides, stunning landscapes, and a well planned journey. An absolute must-do! Sameera A2023-10-19Verified Rainbow Mountain magic with Luan Embarked on a full day Rainbow Mountain Tour with Luan Travel Peru. The sights, service, and expertise were unparalleled. A day to remember! Melissa B2023-10-18Verified Rainbow Mountain with Luan Travel Peru Undertook the Rainbow Mountain tour with Luan Travel Peru and it was a sheer delight! The natural splendor of the mountain was amplified by the meticulous planning and insightful knowledge of the team, Our guide was passionate and made the experience memorable with fascinating local tales and ensuring everyone´s comfort. Highly recommend Luan Travel peru for a seamless and unforgettable journey! Saul R2023-10-17Verified Rainbow Mountain Tour with Luan Took the Rainbow Mountain Tour with Luan travel and it was exceptional. Stunning vistas and top tier guidance made this a memorable journey. Two thumbs up. josh2023-10-14Verified Experience of a lifetime Our group embarked on the Choquequirao Trek with Luan Travel Peru and it was an expertice of a lifetime. The stunning landscapes, rich history, and the challenges of the trek were made even more memorable with the unparalleled guidance and support from the agency. For anyone looking to dive deep into the wonders of Peru, I really recommend this tour and travel agency. PrinceFredd2023-10-13Verified Magical 2-Day Inca Trail An enchanting 2-day Inca Trail journey to Machu Picchu with Luan Travel Peru. Compact, insightful, and utterly mesmerizing!