The Sacred Valley’s Maras region packs a powerful one-two punch with its fascinating salt mines and nearby Moray terraces. These sites tell an incredible story of Inca innovation. Half-day tours make perfect sense here – you’ll see both highlights and still have time for lunch. I love the morning tours that arrive at the salt ponds just as the sun hits the white crystalline terraces.
For a more active experience, I recommend the bike tours through the valley – they’re less crowded and let you soak in the rural countryside at your own pace. The ATV tours are fun too, though they can be dusty in dry season.
My favorite combination includes a local guide who explains the centuries-old salt harvesting techniques, followed by time to shop for salt products directly from family vendors.
Check out these top-rated Maras tours that give you the best bang for your buck:
Key Points
- The Maras Salt Mines and Moray Agricultural Terraces are the two primary attractions for Maras tours, offering insights into Inca history and engineering.
- Maras tours typically include round-trip transportation and last around 4 hours, with options for ATV, biking, and horseback riding experiences.
- Visitors can purchase high-quality salt directly from local producers at the Maras Salt Mines, seeing traditional salt harvesting techniques.
- The Moray Agricultural Terraces showcase the Inca’s advanced engineering, with guides providing detailed information about the site’s historical significance.
- Longer tour packages may include visits to iconic destinations like Machu Picchu and Humantay Lake, providing a more comprehensive exploration of the region.
Cusco: Maras and Moray Half Day Tour
One of the most popular tours in the Cusco region is the Maras and Moray Half Day Tour. This tour takes visitors to two fascinating archaeological sites: Maras and Moray.
At Maras, you’ll see the stunning salt mines, with their terraced ponds that have been used for salt production since pre-Inca times. You’ll learn about the salt-harvesting process and have the opportunity to purchase some of the high-quality salt.
Next, you’ll visit Moray, an Inca agricultural site featuring circular terraces that some believe were used for experimenting with crop cultivation. Explore the site and marvel at the impressive engineering that created these unique structures.
The tour typically lasts around 4 hours and includes round-trip transportation from Cusco. It’s an excellent way to learn about the region’s rich history and stunning landscapes in a single half-day excursion.
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Cusco: Tour to Maras and Moray | Half Day |
For those seeking to explore the Inca legacy and natural wonders of the Cusco region, the Cusco: Tour to Maras and Moray || excursion offers a captivating and efficient experience. This half-day tour takes visitors to two remarkable sites – Maras, the historic salt mines, and Moray, the Inca’s unique agricultural terraces.
At Maras, you’ll descend into the valley to witness the ancient salt ponds, where salt has been harvested for centuries. The striking white ponds, nestled against the rugged Andes, present a visually stunning sight. After exploring Maras, the tour continues to Moray, an Inca archaeological site featuring massive circular terraces, believed to have been used for agricultural experimentation.
The tour provides a well-paced itinerary, allowing ample time to appreciate the significance and beauty of these remarkable Inca sites. With knowledgeable guides, you’ll gain insights into the rich history and engineering feats of the Inca civilization. This half-day excursion is an excellent way to explore Cusco’s cultural heritage and natural wonders.
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Cusco: Maras Salt Mines and Moray Terraces Tour
The Cusco: Maras Salt Mines and Moray Terraces Tour takes visitors on an immersive exploration of two captivating Inca sites.
The journey begins at the Maras Salt Mines, a remarkable system of salt-evaporation ponds that have been in use since the Inca era. Visitors can witness the intricate process of salt extraction, where local families continue the centuries-old practice of harvesting salt from the natural brine.
Next, the tour moves to the Moray Terraces, a series of enormous, circular agricultural terraces that were used by the Incas for crop experimentation. Guests can marvel at the ingenious engineering of these terraces, which were designed to create microclimates for testing various crops.
The tour also includes the opportunity to explore the surrounding areas and gain insights into the rich cultural heritage of these remarkable Inca sites.
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ATV Tour Maras, Moray and Cusco Salt Mines
Embarking on an exhilarating ATV adventure, this tour immerses visitors in the captivating landscapes of Maras, Moray, and the Cusco Salt Mines. Priced from £36.54 per person, the 6-hour tour is limited to 15 participants and available in English and Spanish.
After a hotel pickup near Cusco’s historic center, guests receive a brief ATV orientation before riding to the ancient agricultural site of Moray. The journey continues to the colonial town of Maras, where the famous salt ponds can be admired via a safer mode of transport.
The tour includes round-trip transportation, a professional bilingual guide, individual ATVs, and safety devices. However, entrance fees to Maras (S/ 15 or $5 USD) and Moray (S/ 70 or $20 USD), as well as food and beverages, are excluded.
With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, this flexible tour offers an adventurous and cultural exploration of Maras and its remarkable landmarks.
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From Cusco: Half Day ATV Tour to Maras and Moray
Travelers seeking an exhilarating adventure can embark on a half-day ATV tour from Cusco that unveils the captivating landscapes of Maras and Moray. Priced from $46 per person, this 6-hour tour accommodates up to 10 participants and is available in Spanish and English.
The journey begins with hotel pickup, followed by a transfer to the ATV base at kilometer 39 of the Sacred Valley, where participants receive training on ATV handling.
The tour includes visits to the Huaypo Lagoon, the archaeological center of Moray with a guided tour, and the town of Maras, where guests explore the town square and the renowned salt mines with a guided tour.
Entrance fees, breakfast, lunch, and essential equipment like helmets are all included. Restrictions apply, such as not being suitable for pregnant women, those with heart problems, wheelchair users, and individuals over 95 years old.
Comfortable clothing, sun protection, and a valid ID are recommended.
Read our full review: From Cusco: Half Day ATV Tour to Maras and Moray Review
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Moray & Maras Salt Mines Tour
Although the ATV tour offers an exhilarating adventure in Maras and Moray, those seeking a more immersive experience may opt for the Moray & Maras Salt Mines Tour.
This guided tour takes visitors to the ancient Inca salt pans in Maras, where they’ll learn about the centuries-old salt-harvesting techniques. Guests then explore the unique concentric stone agricultural terraces of Moray, believed to have been used by the Incas for agricultural experimentation.
The tour typically lasts around 4 hours and includes round-trip transportation from Cusco. Visitors can expect to walk for about 2 hours, so comfortable shoes are recommended.
The tour provides an in-depth look at the region’s rich cultural and agricultural heritage, allowing guests to appreciate the ingenuity of the Inca civilization. With knowledgeable guides and stunning scenery, the Moray & Maras Salt Mines Tour offers a memorable and educational experience for those interested in the history and traditions of the Sacred Valley.
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Cusco: ATV Tour to Moray and the Salt Mines of Maras.
For those seeking a more thrilling adventure in the Maras region, the Cusco: ATV Tour to Moray and the Salt Mines of Maras offers an exhilarating alternative. This guided tour allows participants to explore the iconic Moray archaeological site and the breathtaking Maras salt mines on an all-terrain vehicle (ATV).
The tour begins with a scenic drive from Cusco to the Moray site, where riders can marvel at the ancient Inca agricultural terraces.
Next, they’ll hop on their ATVs and embark on an adrenaline-pumping ride through the stunning Andean landscape, eventually reaching the Maras salt mines. Here, they’ll have the opportunity to witness the traditional salt-harvesting process and learn about the cultural significance of this unique site.
Throughout the tour, you will be accompanied by experienced guides who provide informative commentary and ensure the safety of the group.
The Cusco: ATV Tour to Moray and the Salt Mines of Maras offers a thrilling and immersive way to explore these iconic Peruvian landmarks.
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Atv Tour in Moray and Maras Salt Mines From Cusco
What better way to explore the iconic Moray archaeological site and the breathtaking Maras salt mines than on an exhilarating ATV tour from Cusco?
This 6-hour tour offers the perfect opportunity to discover these stunning Peruvian landmarks at your own pace. Starting with a hotel pickup in Cusco, you’ll travel by car to the Cruzpata Maras base, where you’ll receive safety instructions and equipment before setting off on your ATV adventure.
Explore the ancient Moray site with a guided tour, then continue your journey through the scenic landscapes to the Maras salt mines. Along the way, you’ll witness the unique community lifestyles that make this region so special.
With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and the option to reserve your spot without upfront payment, this tour is both flexible and convenient. Whether you’re traveling with a partner, friends, or family, this unforgettable experience isn’t to be missed.
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Private Service ATV Tour of the Sacred Valley & Maras -Moray
Explore the breathtaking landscapes of the Sacred Valley and learn about the captivating history of Maras and Moray on this private ATV tour from Cusco.
Venture off the beaten path, navigating through rugged terrain and stunning vistas as you journey to the ancient Inca site of Moray and the picturesque Maras Salt Mines. Along the way, your knowledgeable guide will share insights into the rich cultural heritage of these remarkable locations.
Marvel at the extraordinary Inca agricultural terraces in Moray, which may have been used for crop experimentation.
Then, witness the mesmerizing Maras Salt Mines, where salt has been harvested for centuries. As you explore these sites by ATV, you’ll have the flexibility to customize your tour and the freedom to stop and capture the breathtaking scenery at your own pace.
This private tour offers a unique and unforgettable experience, allowing you to discover the wonders of the Sacred Valley in an adventurous and immersive way.
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From Cusco: ATV Tour to Moray, Salt Mines, and Zip Line
Visitors to Cusco can embark on an exhilarating ATV tour that takes them to the renowned Inca site of Moray, the captivating Maras Salt Mines, and an adrenaline-filled zip line adventure.
The tour begins with a drive through the scenic Sacred Valley, where participants can admire the stunning mountain landscapes. At Moray, they’ll explore the ancient Inca agricultural terraces, marveling at the ingenious engineering that allowed the Incas to cultivate a variety of crops.
Next, the tour moves to the Maras Salt Mines, where visitors can observe the traditional salt-harvesting process and even purchase locally-produced salt.
The grand finale of the tour is a thrilling zip line experience, allowing participants to soar above the valley and take in the breathtaking vistas.
This comprehensive tour offers a perfect blend of history, culture, and adventure, providing an unforgettable experience for those seeking to explore the wonders of Maras and the surrounding region.
Read our full review: From Cusco: ATV Tour to Moray, Salt Mines, and Zip Line Review
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From Cusco: Chinchero, Salinas De Maras and Moray Tour
Departing from Cusco, this comprehensive tour takes visitors on an exploration of some of the region’s most captivating historical and natural wonders. Priced at €19.21 per person, the 5-hour journey includes stops at Moray, Salinas de Maras, and Chinchero. Guests can be picked up from the Plaza de Armas or Plaza Kusipata.
At Moray, they’ll discover the Inca’s agricultural research center, featuring mesmerizing circular terraces.
Next, the tour ventures to Salinas de Maras, home to over 3,500 salt ponds dating back to pre-Inca times. The final stop is Chinchero, renowned for its preservation of Andean textile techniques.
Included in the tour are round-trip transportation and a bilingual guide. Travelers are advised to wear comfortable shoes, pack sun protection, and bring water and cash.
The tour isn’t suitable for wheelchair users or pregnant women. While reviews are generally positive, some customers have reported issues with communication and pickup times.
Read our full review: From Cusco: Chinchero, Salinas De Maras and Moray Tour Review
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Maras Moray Biking Tour
One of the best ways to experience the stunning landscapes of Maras and Moray is through the Maras Moray Biking Tour. This exhilarating excursion takes visitors on a guided bike ride through the Sacred Valley, showcasing the region’s natural wonders and cultural heritage.
The tour begins with a transfer from Cusco to the starting point in the Maras district. Riders then embark on a thrilling descent, navigating the winding roads and soaking in the breathtaking vistas of the Andes mountains.
Along the way, they’ll stop to explore the iconic Salinas de Maras, a remarkable network of salt evaporation ponds dating back to pre-Inca times.
The highlight of the tour is the visit to the Moray archaeological site, where participants can marvel at the ancient Inca agricultural terraces and learn about their unique design and purpose.
After exploring Moray, the tour concludes with a scenic ride back to the starting point.
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Maras Moray Quad Tour | Privaate Tour |
For those seeking a more thrilling way to explore the Maras and Moray region, the Maras Moray Quad Tour offers a private and exhilarating adventure. This guided tour takes adventurers on all-terrain vehicles, allowing them to navigate the rugged terrain with ease and excitement.
The tour begins with a safety briefing and instruction on operating the quads. Then, riders set out on a journey through the stunning Andean landscape, passing by the iconic Moray archaeological site and the unique salt ponds of Maras.
Along the way, they’ll have the opportunity to stop and take in the breathtaking views, snap photos, and learn about the history and culture of the area.
The private nature of the tour ensures a personalized experience, with the guide tailoring the route and pace to suit the group’s preferences.
Whether visitors are seeking an adrenaline-fueled ride or a more leisurely exploration, the Maras Moray Quad Tour provides an unforgettable way to discover the wonders of this remarkable region.
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Cusco: Tour to Maras, Moray, and the Salt Mines in a Day
Travelers eager to explore the Maras, Moray, and salt mines in a single day can embark on a comprehensive tour from Cusco. This guided excursion takes visitors on a journey through these iconic Andean landmarks, providing an immersive experience in a convenient, time-saving package.
The tour begins with a visit to the remarkable Moray archaeological site, featuring the intriguing circular terraces believed to have been an Inca agricultural experiment.
Next, the group heads to the nearby town of Maras, where they’ll witness the striking salt ponds, each one manually harvested by local workers.
After exploring the salt mines, the tour continues to the nearby Maras community, where participants can learn about the traditional salt-making techniques and even purchase some of the sought-after pink salt.
Throughout the day, the knowledgeable guide provides insights into the history, culture, and significance of these remarkable Peruvian destinations, ensuring a well-rounded and enlightening experience for all participants.
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From Cusco: Atv Tour to Moray and the Maras Salt Mines
Adventurous visitors to Cusco can embark on an ATV tour that takes them to the remarkable Inca site of Moray and the iconic Maras salt mines.
The tour begins with a thrilling ATV ride through the stunning Andean countryside, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains.
At Moray, participants explore the intricate network of circular terraces, believed to have been an agricultural laboratory for the Incas.
From there, the tour continues to the Maras salt mines, where thousands of small pools harvest salt from the natural springs. Visitors can witness the traditional salt-harvesting methods and even participate in the process.
The ATV tour provides a unique and exhilarating way to experience these two iconic Peruvian landmarks, offering an adventurous alternative to traditional tours.
With the wind in their hair and the freedom of an ATV, travelers can enjoy the rich history and stunning landscapes of the Cusco region.
Read our full review: From Cusco: Atv Tour to Moray and the Maras Salt Mines Review
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Maras-Moray Quad Tour at ATV
The Maras-Moray Quad Tour at ATV offers an exhilarating way to explore two of Peru’s most captivating archaeological sites. Participants embark on an off-road adventure, riding powerful all-terrain vehicles through the stunning Andean landscape.
The tour begins at the ancient Inca agricultural terraces of Moray, where explorers can marvel at the mysterious circular depressions believed to have been used for crop experimentation.
From there, the quad bikes wind through the picturesque Sacred Valley, leading to the Maras salt mines – a remarkable system of thousands of salt evaporation ponds that have been in use since pre-Inca times.
Along the way, knowledgeable guides provide fascinating insights into the history and cultural significance of these remarkable sites.
Adventurers can expect breathtaking views, a thrilling ride, and a deeper understanding of Peru’s rich heritage.
The Maras-Moray Quad Tour is a must-do experience for anyone seeking an adrenaline-fueled exploration of the region’s archaeological wonders.
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ATV Tour to Maras, Moray, and Salt Mines of Cusco
This ATV tour offers an exhilarating way to explore three of Cusco’s most captivating historical and natural wonders – the Maras salt mines, the Moray Inca ruins, and the stunning Andean landscape in between.
Priced at $45 per person, the 6-hour excursion includes hotel pickup, ATV training, and guided visits to Moray and the Maras salt pans. Along the way, you’ll gain insights into Inca agricultural practices and the colonial-era salt production that still thrives today.
While entrance fees to Maras and Moray are extra, the tour package covers all other essentials, from round-trip transportation to safety gear.
Just remember to bring your passport, comfortable shoes, and cash. With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, this is a flexible and adventurous way to explore some of Cusco’s most iconic sites.
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Maras Moray Tour Half Day
One of the most popular half-day tours in the Cusco region is the Maras Moray Tour. The tour takes visitors to the Inca archaeological site of Moray and the village of Maras, known for its ancient salt mines.
Guests typically start the tour by exploring the mysterious circular terraces of Moray, believed to have been used by the Incas for agricultural experimentation. After Moray, the tour moves on to the stunning Maras salt mines, where visitors can observe the traditional salt-harvesting process and even purchase some of the pink Andean salt.
The tour usually lasts around 4 hours and includes round-trip transportation from Cusco. It’s an excellent opportunity to experience two of the region’s most unique and fascinating attractions in a single day.
Many travelers find the Maras Moray Tour to be a highlight of their time in the Sacred Valley.
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Maras Moray Half Day Tour From Urubamba, Peru
For those exploring the Sacred Valley from the town of Urubamba, the Maras Moray Half Day Tour provides a convenient opportunity to visit two of the region’s most captivating attractions.
The tour begins with a scenic drive to the Moray archaeological site, where visitors can marvel at the intricate circular terraces, believed to have been an Inca agricultural experimentation center.
After exploring Moray, the tour then proceeds to the nearby town of Maras, home to the iconic salt ponds, where salt has been harvested for centuries. Guests can wander through the ponds, observing the traditional salt-harvesting techniques still in use today.
The half-day tour is an efficient way to experience these two unique destinations, offering a glimpse into the rich cultural heritage and stunning natural landscapes of the Sacred Valley.
With its convenient departure from Urubamba, the Maras Moray Half Day Tour is a must-do for those seeking to maximize their time in the region.
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Cusco: Full-Day Horseback Riding Tour to Maras & Moray
A full-day horseback riding adventure through the Sacred Valley takes visitors on an unforgettable journey to the renowned archaeological site of Moray and the captivating Maras Salt Mines.
Starting from Cusco or Urubamba, the tour includes a 70-minute bus ride to a local ranch, followed by 2.5 hours of horseback riding to Moray.
After a guided tour of this Inca agricultural site, the ride continues to the picturesque town of Maras, where participants can explore the 400-year-old church and the nearby salt mines.
The tour includes a buffet lunch with vegetarian options and provides all necessary equipment, including saddles and safety helmets.
However, there are some participant restrictions, such as a weight limit of 90 kg or 200 lbs.
This full-day experience offers panoramic views of the Sacred Valley, insights into Inca history and culture, and the chance to take in the natural beauty of the region.
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Cusco: Tour to Maras With Salt Massage + Moray and Misminay
Although the Cusco: Tour to Maras With Salt Massage + Moray offers a similar itinerary to the Cusco: Full-Day Horseback Riding Tour to Maras & Moray, this tour provides an additional unique experience – a relaxing salt massage.
Departing from Cusco, the tour first takes visitors to the ancient salt ponds of Maras, where they can explore the stunning terraced salt pools and witness the traditional salt-harvesting process.
Next, they’ll head to the archaeological site of Moray, known for its unique circular terraces that were used for agricultural experiments by the Incas.
The highlight of the tour is the salt massage at the Maras salt ponds. Visitors can relax and rejuvenate with a soothing massage using the mineral-rich salt from the ponds. This therapeutic treatment is said to have numerous benefits, including skin nourishment and stress relief.
The tour then concludes with a visit to the local community of Misminay, where visitors can learn about their traditional way of life and customs.
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From Urubamba: ATVS Tour Adventure Maras, Moray & Salt Mines
Venturing beyond the serene salt massage experience, the From Urubamba: ATVS Tour Adventure Maras, Moray & Salt Mines offers an exhilarating off-road journey through the stunning landscapes of the Sacred Valley.
Priced from $60 per person, this 6-hour small-group tour, limited to 10 participants, promises an unforgettable adventure. Guests will explore the Inca agricultural terraces of Moray, enjoy a 2.5-hour ATV ride, and discover the captivating salt pools of Salineras.
Along the way, they’ll bask in panoramic views of the surrounding mountains, valleys, and Andean communities. The tour includes a professional, multilingual guide, safety equipment, and round-trip transportation from Cusco or Urubamba.
With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and a reserve now, pay later option, this thrilling ATV experience is a must-try for adventure-seekers visiting Maras.
Past travelers have raved about the accommodating guides and the tour’s ability to seamlessly blend history, nature, and excitement.
Read our full review: From Urubamba: ATVS Tour Adventure Maras, Moray & Salt Mines Review
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Private Tour-Huaypo Lagoon or Piuray and Salt Mines of Maras
For those seeking a more personalized and comprehensive Maras experience, the Private Tour-Huaypo Lagoon or Piuray and Salt Mines of Maras provides an immersive exploration of the region’s natural wonders and cultural heritage.
This private excursion takes visitors to the stunning Huaypo Lagoon or Piuray Lake, where they can admire the serene waters and surrounding Andean peaks.
The tour then continues to the iconic Maras Salt Mines, a remarkable site where salt has been harvested for centuries using traditional methods. Guests will have the opportunity to learn about the salt-making process, explore the terraced ponds, and even purchase local salt products.
With a private guide, travelers can tailor the pace and focus of the tour to their interests, ensuring a truly customized experience.
Whether it’s admiring the natural beauty, immersing in the local culture, or both, this private tour offers an unparalleled way to discover the wonders of Maras.
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Cusco: 6D/5N Machu Picchu-Humantay Lake Tour + 4-star Hotel
This 6-day, 5-night Machu Picchu-Humantay Lake Tour offers travelers an immersive exploration of Cusco’s captivating landscapes.
Beginning in Cusco, the tour takes visitors to the iconic Machu Picchu, where they’ll have ample time to marvel at the ancient Inca citadel.
The itinerary also includes a visit to the stunning Humantay Lake, nestled in the Andes. Travelers will hike through lush vegetation and past glacial streams to reach the breathtaking turquoise waters.
Accommodations are provided in a 4-star hotel, ensuring comfort and convenience throughout the journey.
With experienced guides leading the way, participants can explore the rich cultural heritage and natural wonders of the region.
This comprehensive tour provides the perfect blend of iconic landmarks and off-the-beaten-path discoveries, leaving travelers with an unforgettable Cusco experience.
Read our full review: Cusco: 6D/5N Machu Picchu-Humantay Lake Tour + 4-star Hotel Review
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Sum Up
Maras offers a variety of tours showcasing its stunning salt mines, ancient Inca ruins, and picturesque landscapes. Visitors can choose from half-day tours to multi-day adventures, with options to explore the area by foot, ATV, or private vehicle. Whether you’re seeking a cultural experience or an adrenaline-fueled excursion, Maras has something to suit every traveler’s interests and preferences.