Cusco: 2-Day Maras, Moray Salt Mines and Machu Picchu Tour

Cusco, the historic heart of the Inca Empire, serves as the gateway to an extraordinary two-day adventure through Peru’s Sacred Valley. Visitors will uncover the ancient secrets of the Moray archaeological site, an Inca agricultural experiment, before venturing to the centuries-old Maras Salt Mines, where local communities continue the tradition of manual salt harvesting. But the true highlight awaits – a guided exploration of the iconic Machu Picchu, a UNESCO World Heritage site that defies description. With a scenic Vistadome train journey back to Cusco, this immersive experience promises to leave a lasting impression on even the most seasoned traveler.

Key Points

• This 2-day tour from Cusco takes you to explore the unique Moray archaeological site, the ancient Maras salt mines, and the iconic Machu Picchu.
• The tour includes transportation, a guided visit to Moray and Maras, a buffet lunch, and a Vistadome train journey to Machu Picchu.
• At Moray, you’ll discover the Inca’s sophisticated agricultural experimentation site with its circular terraces designed to create complex microclimates.
• The Maras salt mines offer a glimpse into the centuries-old salt harvesting practices, with the opportunity to purchase artisanal salt as a souvenir.
• The guided tour of Machu Picchu provides insights into the architectural marvels and the enduring legacy of the Inca civilization at this UNESCO World Heritage site.

Itinerary Overview

Cusco: 2-Day Maras, Moray Salt Mines and Machu Picchu Tour

Itinerary Overview

The 2-day tour begins with hotel pickup in Cusco, where travelers embark on a comfortable bus journey to the first stop, the Moray archaeological site.

Here, they’ll explore the unique circular terraces, believed to have been an Inca agricultural testing laboratory.

Next, the tour continues to the Maras Salt Mines, where they’ll witness the centuries-old salt harvesting process.

After a buffet lunch in Urubamba, the group boards a Vistadome train to Aguas Calientes, the gateway to Machu Picchu.

The following day, they’ll enjoy a guided tour of the iconic Inca citadel before returning to Cusco.

Moray Archaeological Site

The Moray archaeological site, nestled within the heart of Peru’s Sacred Valley, is renowned for its unique circular terraces that are believed to have served as an Inca agricultural experimentation laboratory. These intricate, multi-level terraces were constructed at varying depths, creating a complex microclimate system. Researchers suggest the Incas used this site to test and cultivate different crops, taking advantage of the natural temperature variations across the levels. Visiting Moray offers a fascinating glimpse into the Inca’s advanced agricultural practices and their innovative approach to harnessing the region’s diverse ecosystems.

Elevation	Estimated Temperature
Top Terrace	15°C
Middle Terrace	11°C
Bottom Terrace	5°C

Maras Salt Mines

After exploring the intriguing Moray archaeological site, visitors can venture to the nearby Maras Salt Mines, another captivating highlight of Peru’s Sacred Valley.

These ancient salt pans have been in use since the time of the Incas, offering a unique glimpse into the region’s enduring salt production traditions. Hundreds of small salt pools dot the hillside, each one fed by a natural spring that deposits mineral-rich water.

Locals have been manually harvesting the salt for generations, carefully maintaining the pools and channels. Visitors can wander among the salt pans, observing the traditional methods and even purchase some of the artisanal salt as a souvenir of their Sacred Valley adventure.

Machu Picchu Exploration

Visitors exploring Machu Picchu can marvel at the impressive ruins and enjoy the ancient city’s captivating history.

The guided tour takes them on a journey through the iconic structures, revealing the architectural marvels and insights into the Inca civilization that once thrived here.

Travelers will witness the breathtaking citadel perched atop a mountain ridge, surrounded by the lush Andes. They’ll discover the iconic Temple of the Sun, the enigmatic Intihuatana stone, and the mysterious rooms and plazas that showcase the Incas’ advanced engineering.

With the knowledgeable guide’s expertise, guests uncover the fascinating stories behind Machu Picchu’s enduring legacy and its place as a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Vistadome Train Journey

Traveling aboard the Vistadome train offers a captivating journey through Peru’s breathtaking landscapes, providing passengers an immersive visual experience.

The train’s large panoramic windows and open-air observation cars allow travellers to soak in the stunning vistas of the Sacred Valley.

The Vistadome experience includes:

• Comfortable, spacious seating with ample legroom
• Onboard entertainment and refreshments
• Guides who share insights about the passing scenery

This mode of transport is an integral part of the Maras, Moray Salt Mines and Machu Picchu tour, transporting visitors from the town of Ollantaytambo to the iconic Inca citadel.

The Vistadome journey adds an extra layer of wonder and appreciation to an already unforgettable adventure.

Aguas Calientes Accommodation

The tour includes 3-star hotel accommodation in Aguas Calientes, the town located at the base of Machu Picchu.

These hotels provide a comfortable respite for travelers after a day of exploring the ancient Inca ruins and the surrounding landscapes.

The lodgings feature basic amenities like private bathrooms, heating, and Wi-Fi, ensuring a good night’s sleep before the next day’s adventures.

Conveniently situated, the hotels are just a short walk from the bus station that takes visitors up to the Machu Picchu site.

This accommodation allows travelers to maximize their time at the iconic citadel without the need for long commutes.

Inclusions and Exclusions

This tour includes a range of services and amenities to ensure a comprehensive and enjoyable experience, but there are also some additional costs for travelers to consider.

The package covers hotel pickup in Cusco, transportation via comfortable bus, Vistadome train, and private bus, guided tours of Moray and Machu Picchu, a buffet lunch in Urubamba, 3-star hotel accommodation in Aguas Calientes, and entrance fees to Machu Picchu.

However, tickets for Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain, the Sacred Valley tourist ticket, and the Maras Salt Mines entrance fee aren’t included. Travelers should also budget for tips, which aren’t covered in the tour price.

Cancellation Policy

Travelers can’t cancel or get a refund for this activity. It’s a non-refundable tour, which means once you’ve booked it, you’re committed.

This policy is in place to ensure the tour operator can plan and organize the logistics effectively. After all, there’s a lot that goes into coordinating transportation, hotels, and guided tours across multiple sites. The operator needs to secure these arrangements well in advance.

So if you need to cancel for any reason, you won’t get your money back. Keep this in mind when booking, and make sure your travel plans are set before committing to the tour.

The upside is you’re guaranteed a spot on this immersive 2-day exploration of Peru’s Sacred Valley.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Purchase Additional Snacks and Beverages During the Tour?

Yes, you can purchase additional snacks and beverages during the tour. Many tour stops have local vendors selling a variety of food and drink options that you can purchase at your own expense.

Is There a Minimum or Maximum Group Size for This Tour?

The tour doesn’t have a set minimum or maximum group size. Group sizes can vary, but they’re typically small to provide a more personalized experience. The exact group size may depend on demand and availability.

What if I Have Special Dietary Requirements or Food Allergies?

For those with special dietary requirements or food allergies, it’s recommended to notify the tour provider in advance. They can typically accommodate various dietary needs and ensure appropriate meals are provided during the tour.

Can I Bring My Own Luggage or Backpack to Machu Picchu?

Visitors can bring their own luggage or backpack to Machu Picchu. However, large bags and suitcases aren’t recommended as they may be difficult to carry along the site’s trails and stairs. Smaller, lightweight bags are generally more practical.

Is There an Option to Upgrade the Hotel Accommodation in Aguas Calientes?

Yes, there’s typically an option to upgrade the hotel accommodation in Aguas Calientes for an additional fee. Travelers can inquire about available upgrade options when booking the tour or with the tour operator directly.

Recap

This captivating two-day tour from Cusco offers a unique glimpse into Peru’s Sacred Valley.

Visitors will explore the ancient Inca sites of Moray and Maras, marvel at the Machu Picchu ruins, and enjoy a scenic Vistadome train journey back to Cusco.

With its blend of history, natural beauty, and culture, this excursion provides an unforgettable experience for any traveler exploring the wonders of Peru.