Physical Level

Easy

Trip Style

Max Altitude

Group Size

INQUIRY ABOUT THIS TREK

Visit the stunning Maras Salt Mines and the archaeological center of Moray, two of the main attractions in the Cusco region. Touring these ancient salt pans offers a unique experience that cannot be found elsewhere, as they stretch along the side of a mountain for several kilometers in the Maras Valley, creating a picturesque view.

During the tour, visitors will learn about the history and culture of the ancient Inca (Quechua) civilization, as well as traditional salt collection methods. Additionally, visitors can enjoy a panoramic view of the experimental agricultural terraces from the top of Moray. This tour provides a unique opportunity to learn about an advanced Inca civilization. Don’t miss the chance to explore these beautiful and ancient salt pans!

Itinerary

DAY 1:

1 Day Tour to Moray and Maras Salt Mines

To begin our Tour to Moray and Maras Salt Mines, we will pick you up from your hotel at approximately 07:00 hours and then head to Moray and the Maras Salt Mines in our transportation. Along the way, you will see beautiful Andean landscapes surrounded by trees and wildlife.

First, we will visit the archaeological center of Moray, which is located 38 km from the city of Cusco. Moray is considered an Inca agricultural laboratory built in the form of rings composed specifically of four muyus or circles, which are concentric terraces. The deepest is an 80-meter depression, with the lowest terrace having a diameter of 36 meters.

Within the terraces, temperature variations range from 0.5 to 1.5°C per terrace, allowing for up to 20 different types of microclimates. It is said that the purpose of this archaeological center was to cultivate products that did not naturally grow in this area.

Next, we will visit the Maras Salt Mines. As the name suggests, these are salt mines formed by around 3,000 small ponds, each producing approximately 50 to 80 kilos of salt per season. It is believed that they served the Incas by supplying this mineral to Cusco and its surroundings. These ponds are fed by an underground saline spring, and this natural process takes nearly two months for a cultivation season. Maras salt is highly sought after, and the highest quality is pink mineral salt, which also has medicinal properties. Don’t forget to purchase some along our path, as there are various products made from this salt.

Undoubtedly, these two locations have a rich history and interesting facts that our guide will share with you along the way. After visiting and touring these spectacular sites, our transportation will pick you up, and we will return to the city of Cusco, where our tour concludes at approximately 14:00 hours, completing our Tour to Moray and the Maras Salt Mines.

Group Service for Maras and Moray 1 Day Tour

The group service for the Maras and Moray 1 Day Tour involves joining other travelers in a shared vehicle and guided experience.

Group Service Pricing

Service Type	Price per Person (USD)
Group Tour	$25

Group Service Description and Characteristics

In group service, participants travel with 10 to 18 others under a fixed schedule. The service covers round-trip transportation from Cusco, a bilingual guide, and visits to Moray terraces and Maras salt mines. Characteristics include cost-effectiveness and group interactions, with a focus on historical insights during the half-day trip through Andean landscapes.

Private Service for Maras and Moray 1 Day Tour

Private service for the Maras and Moray 1 Day Tour provides an all-inclusive customized outing for your group. Prices encompass exclusive transport, guide, and site visits, with optional extras in upgrades.

Private Service Pricing by Group Size

Number of People	Price per Person (USD)
1	$280
2	$170
3	$140
4	$115
5	$85
6	$75
7	$65
8	$60
9	$55
10 or more	$50

Advantages of Private Maras and Moray Tour Service

Private service allows schedule flexibility, starting at preferred times and adjusting stops for personal interests during the day tour.

Dedicated guides in private tours offer in-depth explanations tailored to your questions about Inca agriculture at Moray and salt extraction at Maras.

All-inclusive private options ensure comfort with exclusive vehicles, ideal for families or small groups seeking a relaxed pace amid scenic views.

Upgrade Services for Maras and Moray 1 Day Tour

ATV Rental ($60 USD per person): Replaces standard transport with quad bikes for parts of the route. Important for adding adventure and accessing sites dynamically, enhancing excitement on rugged paths.
Horseback Riding ($30 USD per person): Guided horse ride to the salt mines. Crucial for easier navigation on trails, reducing walking effort while enjoying panoramic Andean vistas.
Premium Lunch Upgrade ($20 USD per person): Adds a gourmet meal with local ingredients. Valuable for a cultural dining experience, providing energy and insight into Peruvian cuisine.
Extended Chinchero Visit ($15 USD per person): Includes weaving demonstration. Essential for deeper cultural immersion, learning traditional textile techniques beyond standard stops.
Private Photographer ($50 USD per person): Professional photos during the tour. Key for capturing high-quality memories at iconic sites without handling equipment yourself.

Discounts Available for Maras and Moray 1 Day Tour

Student discounts of $5 USD apply with valid ID, making the tour more accessible for educational travelers.

Combo discounts offer 10% off when booking with another Cusco excursion, such as Machu Picchu, for multi-day planners.

Child reductions of 15% are available for ages 5-11, supporting family-friendly budgeting on this easy day trip.

Inclusions

Entry fees to Maras, Moray, and the Salt Mines
Round-trip transfers
Professional bilingual guide (English-Spanish)

Hotel night in Cusco
Meals
Other services not mentioned

What to Bring

Light backpack
Comfortable clothing
Windbreaker jackets
Comfortable sneakers or shoes
Sunscreen
Water bottle
Sunglasses
Camera

About ISIC Card

Valid Student ID for Classic Inca Trail Hike and Machu Picchu

To qualify for the student discount on Inca Trail Permits, travelers must meet the following requirements:

Age Limit: Students must be 25 years old or younger at the time of entering the Inca Trail and Machu Picchu. Those over 25 years old cannot enter as a student.
ID Requirements: The student ID must include:
- The name of the university
- The student’s name and photo
- A valid expiration date
ISIC CARD: This card type is no longer valid anymore

Invalid Student IDs for the Inca Trail Discount

Student IDs will not be accepted for the discount under the following conditions:

The traveler is older than 25
The ID is expired
The ID does not have an expiration date
ISIC cards are not valid for obtaining the student discount for Inca Trail permits.

This information is crucial for travelers seeking to benefit from discounted permits for the Inca Trail and Machu Picchu.

Why to Choose

Why choose “Imperial Travel Peru”?

“Imperial Travel Peru” is a 100% Peruvian-owned tour operator based in Cusco, with extensive experience in hiking, adventure tours, and customized travel packages. As a completely local company, we’re dedicated to providing travelers with authentic, high-quality experiences.

Our vision as a local company is to deliver personalized travel and hiking journeys, managed exclusively by experienced local professionals, with a strong focus on HIGH-QUALITY and PERSONALIZED SERVICE.

We are proud of our reputation as a travel agency that upholds RESPONSIBLE and SUSTAINABLE practices benefiting both the environment and local communities.

We treat our team like family and ensure they receive fair wages. We are incredibly proud of each member of our team! Their dedication makes it possible for us to provide the top-notch service that our many travelers appreciate.

At “Imperial Travel Peru,” we understand that our reputation and the feedback from our travelers are essential for gaining the trust of future adventurers. You can check out honest reviews from our guests on TripAdvisor, Facebook, and Google to see why we’re a reliable choice for creating your Peruvian adventure.

Small Group Travel

To ensure a more personalized experience at “Imperial Travel Peru,” we keep our group sizes to a maximum of 8 travelers. This approach allows us to offer a tailored experience, unlike companies that operate with larger groups.

About Our Tour Guides

Our guides are our pride. They’re highly knowledgeable and professional, fluent in English, and deeply passionate about Inca culture and history. Each guide is committed to ongoing personal and professional development, allowing them to share accurate insights and fascinating theories about Andean heritage. They are friendly, athletic, and well-educated, with backgrounds in Archaeology, Tourism, Botany, History, or Anthropology.

Our Inca Trail Porters

Hiking with “Imperial Travel Peru” ensures a fulfilling experience. Our porters are here to make your journey comfortable and memorable. They carry your equipment, prepare meals, set up camps, and attend to your needs so you can relax and enjoy the adventure. Along the way, you’ll connect with local people, explore stunning sites, and discover historic Inca villages.

We provide our porters with essential equipment at no cost: jackets, sun hats, warm hats, shirts, pants, hiking boots, comfortable bags, canteens, back support belts, sleeping bags, mattresses, and travel insurance. Our porters come from remote communities, and by hiring them, we help improve their economic conditions and support their children’s education. We treat our porters like family!

Our Team and Equipment

Our team—guides, cooks, porters, muleteers—and our equipment make “Imperial Travel Peru” stand out from the competition. During our hikes, we provide:

Our Tents: We use 4-season EUREKA Timberline tents, designed for four but used by two for extra comfort and storage. They include a small vestibule for boots and poles.
Foam Mats: Insulate you from the ground for added warmth.
Air Mattresses: Available to rent for $20 USD.
Kitchen and Dining Tents: Serve as a common area during meals, perfect for relaxing and socializing.
Tables and Chairs: Set up in the dining area, adapted for varying weather.
Travel Bags: Provided the night before the trek.
Additional Items: We offer pillows, rain covers for backpacks, survival shirts, and portable toilets during the trek.

Our Commitment to Social Responsibility

“Imperial Travel Peru” is committed to giving back to isolated communities. We support social projects and prioritize hiring local staff.

We are proud to support local communities not only by providing employment but also by offering assistance to their families. This holistic approach benefits our employees from the Peruvian Andes and their loved ones, strengthening our connection to the local heritage.

Faqs

What does the Maras Moray 1-Day Tour include?

The tour generally includes transportation from Cusco, a bilingual guide, entry fees to the Moray archaeological site and Maras Salt Mines, and sometimes lunch, depending on the package.

How long does the Maras Moray Tour last?

The tour lasts about 6 to 7 hours, including travel time from Cusco and visits to both sites.

Is it necessary to book in advance?

Booking at least one or two days in advance is recommended, especially during peak season, to secure your spot.

Is the tour suitable for all ages?

Yes, the tour is suitable for all ages, though children and older adults may need assistance on uneven terrain.

What should I bring on the Maras Moray Tour?

Bring sunscreen, a hat, sunglasses, layered clothing, comfortable shoes, a water bottle, and cash for purchases or extra fees.

What is the best time to do the tour?

The dry season, from May to September, offers the most stable weather and clearer views, making it the best time to visit.

How difficult is the hike in Moray?

The hike is light to moderate, with some descent and ascent along circular terraces, but it is manageable for most visitors.

Can you visit the Maras Salt Mines?

Yes, visitors can view the Maras Salt Mines from a nearby viewpoint, though access to the pools is restricted.

What can you buy in Maras?

Local handmade products like textiles and pink salt from the salt mines are popular purchases in Maras.

Can this tour be combined with other Sacred Valley sites?

Yes, many operators offer the option to combine Maras and Moray with other Sacred Valley sites, like Chinchero or Urubamba.

Are there bathrooms available at the archaeological sites?

Yes, bathrooms are available at both Moray and the Maras Salt Mines, though it’s wise to bring toilet paper.

Is acclimatization necessary before the tour?

Yes, spending at least one or two days in Cusco for acclimatization is advisable, as Maras and Moray are at 3,000 to 3,500 meters above sea level.

What clothing should I wear for the tour?

Dress in layers with light clothing for the day and a jacket for cooler mornings and evenings. A raincoat is recommended during the rainy season.

How much time is spent at each site?

Generally, you’ll spend around 1 hour at Moray and 45 minutes at the Maras Salt Mines, allowing ample time for exploration and photos.

Can the tour be done independently?

Yes, Maras and Moray can be visited independently, though a guided tour provides valuable historical and cultural insights.

Travel Guide

Recommendations for the Maras Moray 1 Day Tour

The one-day tour to Maras and Moray is an excellent option to explore some of the most impressive archaeological sites and landscapes of the Sacred Valley of the Incas. Below are some key recommendations to help you enjoy your visit to the fullest.

Book in Advance: Although this tour is not as crowded as others, it is advisable to book one or two days ahead, especially during the high tourist season (May to September).
Bring Cash: Some entrances to the archaeological sites require payment in cash, and ATMs are not always available. Additionally, you can purchase local handmade products in the Maras markets.
Pre-Acclimatization: Since the tour is conducted at altitudes ranging between 3,000 and 3,500 meters above sea level, it is recommended to acclimate in Cusco for at least a couple of days before the tour.

Climate on the Maras Moray Tour

The climate in Maras and Moray is similar to Cusco, with seasonal variations and temperatures depending on the altitude.

Dry Season (May to September): During the dry season, the weather is more stable. Daytime temperatures range between 10°C and 20°C, but mornings and nights can be cold, with temperatures around 5°C. It is the best time to do the tour.
Rainy Season (October to April): In the rainy season, precipitation is frequent, especially in the afternoons. Daytime temperatures are similar, but you should be prepared for humidity and possible rain that can make trails slippery.

Tips on How to Dress for the Maras Moray Tour

Proper attire is key to being comfortable and protected while visiting these archaeological sites.

Layered Clothing: Wear multiple layers of clothing to adapt to temperature fluctuations. Use a lightweight T-shirt, a warm sweater or jacket, and a waterproof layer to protect against unexpected rain.
Proper Footwear: It is essential to wear comfortable footwear, preferably sneakers or trekking boots, as you will be walking on uneven terrain in Moray and the Maras Salt Mines. If visiting during the rainy season, ensure they are waterproof.
Important Accessories: Bring a hat or cap to protect against the sun, sunglasses, and high-factor sunscreen, as solar radiation at this altitude is intense. Don’t forget an umbrella or poncho if visiting during the rainy season.

Restrictions on the Maras Moray Tour

While this tour is accessible to most travelers, there are some important restrictions to consider.

Access to Maras Salt Mines: Although you can visit the Maras Salt Mines, direct access to the salt pools is restricted to protect their conservation. Visitors can observe them from a nearby viewpoint.
Minimum Age Recommendation: The tour is suitable for people of all ages, but young children may need assistance walking on the more uneven terrains.

Physical Preparation for the Maras Moray Tour

The Maras Moray Tour does not require extensive physical preparation, but it is important to be in good shape to fully enjoy the tour.

Light Hiking: The tour includes light hikes on uneven terrains, but they are not physically demanding. If you have moderate physical condition, you can enjoy the tour without issues.
Altitude Acclimatization: It is advisable to acclimate before the tour to avoid altitude sickness. The altitude ranges between 3,000 and 3,500 meters above sea level, so walking at a moderate pace and drinking water is essential.

Health Recommendations for the Maras Moray Tour

Taking care of your health during the tour is essential to avoid complications due to altitude and climate.

Constant Hydration: Carry a reusable water bottle and drink frequently to stay hydrated, especially if visiting during warmer months or at higher altitudes.
Prevention of Altitude Sickness: Some travelers may experience altitude sickness, so bringing coca leaves, coca candies, or medications recommended by a doctor can be helpful. Listen to your body and rest if necessary.
Sun Protection: The sun at high altitudes can be very strong. Ensure you apply sunscreen frequently and wear sunglasses to protect yourself from UV rays.

Altitudes on the Maras Moray Tour

The tour takes place in high-altitude areas, so it is important to be prepared for possible altitude effects.

Altitude in Cusco: Cusco is situated at 3,400 meters above sea level. It is important to acclimate before the tour to avoid discomfort.
Altitude in Maras and Moray: The altitudes in Maras and Moray range between 3,000 and 3,500 meters above sea level, which can affect some people, especially those not accustomed to the height.

Temperatures During the Maras Moray Tour

Temperatures during the tour can vary significantly depending on the time of day and the season.

Daytime Temperatures: During the day, temperatures can range between 10°C and 20°C, which is ideal for walking and exploring the archaeological sites. However, if it is cloudy or raining, it may feel colder.
Morning and Night Temperatures: Mornings and nights in the Sacred Valley can be cold, with temperatures dropping to 5°C or lower. It is important to wear warm clothing, especially if you are touring early in the morning.

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SALINERAS DE MARAS AND MORAY WITH ATV EVERY DAY 1 DAY