Moray and maras salt pools – half day tour

Detail Itinerary

We will pick you up from your hotel in Cusco around 7:00 AM. After boarding our private van, we will head towards Chinchero (altitude: 3,700 meters / 12,343 feet), a charming town rich in traditional Andean culture and Inca architecture. In Chinchero, we will visit an alpaca farm and a textile center, where you can find handwoven textiles and unique handicrafts made by local artisans. We will also explore the Inca constructions in Chinchero.

Next, we will pass through to the town of Maras. and we will take a road that leads to  Moray (altitude: 3,800 meters / 12,467 feet), a remarkable archaeological site where you’ll step in a series of concentric agricultural terraces.

After exploring the site and witnessing the engineering of these terraces, we’ll make our way to the stunning Salt Ponds of Maras (altitude: 3,200 meters / 10,090 feet). The Maras salt mines consist of thousands of small salt pools fed by an underground natural saltwater stream, providing a fascinating insight into ancient salt extraction techniques that are still in use, and now worked by local families using methods passed down through generations.

After exploring the salt ponds, we’ll begin our journey back to Cusco, where we’ll arrive around 3:00 PM, concluding a memorable half-day tour filled with history, culture, and stunning landscapes. This experience will leave you with a deeper appreciation for the ancient wonders of the Sacred Valley.

• Includes
• Hotel pick-up and drop-off: We will pick you up from your hotel in Cusco City, and after the tour, we will drop you off at your hotel in Cusco as well.
• Tourist van: We offer a new tourist van for your Cusco Sacred Valley tour, guaranteeing comfortable transportation between all points of interest.
• English-speaking Tour Guide: We will provide an English-speaking guide who specialized in the sacred valley. Our expert guide will share captivating information about each site visited, enhancing your experience with their extensive knowledge.
• First Aid Kid: Our transportation will be equipped with first aid kits to handle any medical emergencies that may arise, including altitude sickness, diarrhea, cuts, and scrapes.
• A Tank Of Oxigen: Each of our transportation vehicles has its own oxygen tank. Although the Sacred Valley is at a lower altitude than Cusco, some locations we will visit, such as Chinchero, are situated at a higher elevation, approximately 3,700 meters (12,139 feet). If you experience any discomfort, we will provide you with oxygen.

• Not Included
• Tourist Ticket: To visit Moray & Chinchero, a tourist ticket is required, which costs 70 Peruvian Soles.
• Maras Salt Mines entrance ticket: It costs (S/ 20 per person). USD 07
• Lunch: Optional lunch stop available upon request or you can have lunch after the tour in Cusco.
• Tips for the staff: Giving tips is optional, but it’s becoming more common in Peru.
• Personal expenses

INFO

Go To Know Before Your Tour

• Booking in Advance: While last-minute bookings for our Maras Moray Half-Day Tour are possible, we highly recommend reserving your spot at least a week in advance during peak season (May through August). This is because guides are in high demand, and availability may be limited. However, rest assured that entrance tickets for the sites remain available year-round.
• Access to Bottled Water: You’ll find plenty of opportunities to purchase bottled water at various stops throughout the tour, ensuring you stay hydrated throughout the journey.
• Minimum Group Size: Our Maras Moray Half-Day Tour runs daily, provided there are at least two participants. If you’re a solo traveler, contact us to check for available groups you can join.
• Cash-Only Transactions: Be aware that credit cards are not accepted for purchasing tourist tickets at the entrance of archaeological sites. It is essential to carry cash (preferably in Peruvian soles) to cover any entrance fees and small purchases along the way.

Pro Tips For A Smooth Experience

Acclimate Before Your Tour: Cusco sits at an altitude of 3,400 meters (11,155 feet) above sea level, which can affect travelers who are not used to high elevations. To prevent altitude sickness, we strongly advise resting at your hotel for at least a day upon arrival before starting any tours. This will allow your body time to adjust and ensure you fully enjoy your experience.

Prepare for Unpredictable Weather: Even if you’re visiting during the dry season (April to October), occasional rain showers can still occur. Carrying a lightweight rain jacket or poncho will keep you comfortable in case of unexpected weather changes.

Group Tours – Understanding the Pace: Our group tours are designed to accommodate travelers of different ages and physical conditions. Some participants may walk faster or slower than others. If you join a group, please understand that everyone will progress at their own pace. We always ensure there’s enough time for the group to explore each site comfortably while keeping the experience enjoyable for all.

Strikes & Demonstrations – Travel Disruptions In Peru

Peru occasionally experiences strikes and protests, which can lead to roadblocks and affect transportation routes. While we do our best to keep our tours running smoothly, these events are beyond our control. If a strike or demonstration disrupts your scheduled tour, we will inform you as soon as possible and provide options such as rescheduling or a full refund. Your safety and satisfaction remain our top priorities.

Cancellations & Refund Policy

• At Pureq Travel, we understand that unexpected situations can arise, and we strive to be as flexible as possible with our cancellation policy:
• Full Refund: If you cancel your tour at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time, you will receive a 100% refund—no questions asked.
• Partial Refund: If you cancel within 24 hours of the tour but before 7:00 PM the day before, you will be eligible for a 50% refund of your payment.
• No Refund: If you cancel after 7:00 PM the day before your tour, unfortunately, we will not be able to offer a refund as preparations for the tour will already be finalized.
• For cancellations or rescheduling requests, please contact us as soon as possible to discuss available options.

Tourist Tickets To Access the Inca Sites

To visit the Chinchero and Moray sites, you need to buy a tourist ticket. You can buy the General or Partial ticket in Cusco or at the site. However, the Salt Mines ticket cannot be bought in Cusco; you must buy it at the site. Below, we will explain all the details of each ticket.

The General Tourist Ticket

This ticket gives access to 16 tourist sites in the Cusco region. If you plan to visit the Cusco City Tour and the Sacred Valley, we recommend buying this general ticket. It costs 130 Soles (about $36 USD), with a discounted price of 70 Soles (around $20 USD) for students. The ticket is valid for 10 days.

Partial Tourist Ticket:

The Partial Tourist Ticket is valid for one or two days and allows entry only to Inca ruins in the Sacred Valley, such as Pisac, Ollantaytambo, Moray, and Chinchero. This ticket is not available for students or children. If you only want to visit Maras and Moray without a city tour, this is the best option. The ticket costs 70 Soles (about $20 USD)

Salt mine ticket:

The salt mine is owned by the Maras community. To visit, you need to pay 20 soles. There is no discount for students.

FAQ´S

How Can I Book The Maras Moray Tour With Pureq Travel?

Booking your tour is simple! Just click the “BOOK NOW” button on the Maras Moray Tour page. Select your desired date, fill in your personal details, and complete the deposit payment. Once your payment is received, we will send you a confirmation email with all the necessary details, including pickup time, what to bring, and any other relevant information to ensure a smooth experience.

Can We Start The Maras Moray Tour From The Sacred Valley?

Yes, you can begin your tour from the sacred valley. however, this service is only available as a private tour. if you are interested, please contact us so we can provide you with the pricing details for a private tour option.

Can You Drop Us Off In Ollantaytambo? Is There An Additional Cost For This?

Yes, we can drop you off in Ollantaytambo at the end of the tour. This is a convenient option if you plan to continue your journey to Machu Picchu. There is no additional cost for this service—just let us know in advance so we can make the necessary arrangements.

What Is The Difficulty Level Of This Tour?

This is an easy and accessible tour, suitable for all ages and fitness levels. The visit involves light walking at the archaeological sites of Moray and the salt mines of Maras. While there are some uneven paths and small inclines, the walking is minimal, making it an enjoyable experience for travelers of all backgrounds.

How Long Does The Tour Last?

The Maras Moray tour typically lasts between 7 to 8 hours. We usually depart from Cusco around 7:00 AM and return by approximately 3:00 PM. If you are starting from the Sacred Valley or need to be dropped off in Ollantaytambo, the schedule may vary slightly.

What If The Weather Is Bad?

Actually, we do not cancel our Maras Moray tour in case of bad weather. While rain is possible, it typically lasts for only 1 to 2 hours, and after that, the weather improves significantly. Therefore, we continue with the tour as planned, as the rain is usually not severe enough to disrupt the experience.

Is This Tour Wheelchair Accessible?

Unfortunately, this tour is not wheelchair accessible. the archaeological site of moray and the maras salt ponds have uneven terrain, dirt paths, and steps that may be difficult to navigate. if you have mobility concerns, please contact us, and we will be happy to discuss possible alternatives or modifications.

Is There A Minimum Or Maximum Number Of Participants For The Tour?

Yes, the minimum number of participants required to operate the tour is two people, while the maximum group size is eight participants. We aim to keep our groups small and intimate to provide a more personalized experience with our knowledgeable guides.

Do We Stop For Lunch During The Tour?

Since the tour ends in the early afternoon, we recommend having lunch upon returning to Cusco, where you’ll find a variety of excellent restaurants to choose from. If you prefer, you can bring snacks to enjoy during the tour. Our guide will be happy to offer recommendations for dining options once we arrive back in the city.

Is There A Minimum Age Requirement For The Maras Moray Tour?

No, there is no age restriction for this tour. It is suitable for all ages, from young children to older adults. However, parents should be aware that the tour involves some walking on uneven terrain, so younger children should be supervised at all times.

Can I Fly A Drone At The Maras And Moray Sites?

Flying drones is not allowed at the Inca sites of Maras, Moray, Chinchero, and the Salt Mines. The only areas where drone flying is permitted are located far from these sites. If you wish to fly your drone, we can arrange a private service and guide you to locations where it is allowed.

Can I Bring My Pet On The Maras Moray Tour?

Unfortunately, pets are not allowed on this tour. Most archaeological sites in Peru have strict regulations prohibiting pets from entering to preserve the integrity of the locations. Additionally, the salt ponds of Maras have delicate ecosystems that require special care.

How Much Time Do We Spend At Each Site During The Tour?

On average, we spend approximately 45 minutes to 1 hour at each location. This time frame allows for a guided explanation from our expert tour guide, free time for photos, and a chance to explore the surroundings at a comfortable pace.

Can You Pick Me Up From The Airport For The Maras Moray Tour?

Yes, we can arrange an airport pick-up to take you directly to the tour. However, we recommend that your flight arrives no later than 6:30 AM to ensure that you have enough time to begin the tour smoothly. Additionally, there is an extra charge of $10 USD for this service.

Can You Drop Us Off At The Airport After The Tour?

Yes, we can drop you off at the airport after the tour. However, there is an additional charge of $10 USD for this service.

Can I Book The Maras Moray Tour As A Private Tour?

Yes, you can absolutely book this tour as a private experience. If you prefer a more personalized tour for yourself, your family, or your friends with a private guide and transportation, please contact us via email or WhatsApp so we can provide you with a customized quote.

Where Can I Store My Luggage During The Tour?

If you have luggage or large bags that you don’t want to bring along on the tour, we offer a free and secure storage room at our office. You can leave your belongings with us, and they will be kept safe until you return.

Can I Book My Flight On The Same Day As The Maras Moray Tour?

Yes, you can schedule your flight for the same day as the tour. However, we strongly recommend booking your flight for 7:00 PM or later to allow sufficient time. Since the tour concludes around 3:00 – 4:00 PM, this will give you enough time to return to Cusco, collect your luggage if necessary, and reach the airport without rushing.