Moray & Maras Salt Mines
Moray & Maras Salt Mines
Overview
A visit to the salt mines of Maras is to know the oldest salt extraction and production of salt from the Peruvian territory; since ceramic remains were found at the scene from ethnic groups prior to the Incas, such as Killke and Chanapata. In addition, to be a historic place; This space continues to be exploited by the residents in an artisanal way, probably in the same way as our ancestors did.
Itinerary
Day 1: Moray & Salineras de Maras
Moray and Maras are two of the most fascinating and unique places in Cusco. If you have the chance to visit them, don’t hesitate! This tour will take you to discover the circular terraces of Moray and the salt mines of Maras — two jewels of the Sacred Valley that combine history, engineering, and tradition.
Our tour begins with the pick-up of the group between 8:00 a.m. and 8:30 a.m. from their respective hotels in Cusco. We will then board our tourist transport for a journey of approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes to reach Moray, our first stop.
At this impressive archaeological site, your guide will explain how the ancient Incas used these concentric circular terraces as a natural agricultural laboratory, where they experimented with different microclimates to acclimatize crops from warmer regions and adapt them to the colder highlands of the Andes. In addition to its historical significance, the landscape is truly breathtaking — perfect for photography and for enjoying a unique experience.
Next, we will continue to the famous Maras Salt Mines, a spectacular site with more than 3,000 salt pools dating back to pre-Inca times. To this day, local families continue to use this place to extract salt in a traditional way, which is then sold in regional markets. From the viewpoints, you will enjoy stunning panoramic views and, if you wish, purchase souvenirs made of salt by the local artisans themselves.
Finally, we will return to the city of Cusco on a journey of approximately 1 hour and 40 minutes, arriving around 3:00 p.m., thus concluding a tour full of history, tradition, and unforgettable landscapes of the Sacred Valley of the Incas.
Included:
- Tourist transportation.
- Bilingual Professional Guide (Spanish-English).
Not included:
- Entrance for salt mines = 20 soles
- Btg cusco general tourist ticket
- Breakfast – Lunch.
Recommendations
- A hat or hat to protect yourself from the sun and/or cold.
- Sun block.
- Jacket or rain poncho (rain season).October to March.
- water and snacks.
- camera
- Extra money.
