Half-Day Cycling Tour of Maras and Moray From Cusco

Embarking on a half-day cycling adventure through the captivating landscapes of Maras and Moray from Cusco promises an unforgettable experience for active explorers. Covering 35 kilometers, this tour showcases the breathtaking beauty of the Andean mountains, ancient salt drying ponds, and Inca terraces, all while ensuring safety with high-quality Kona Stinky-Six bicycles. With a 100% traveler recommendation, this excursion offers the perfect blend of culture and outdoor recreation. Whether you’re seeking stunning vistas or a glimpse into the region’s rich heritage, this cycling tour is sure to leave you captivated and eager to uncover more.

Good To Know

• This half-day cycling tour covers 35 kilometers through the Andean mountains, providing scenic views and visits to the Salinas de Maras and Inca terraces of Moray.
• The tour includes high-quality Kona Stinky-Six bicycles, essential safety equipment, and private transportation, ensuring a comfortable and convenient experience.
• Participants will learn about the ancient salt-harvesting process at Salinas de Maras and the advanced agricultural techniques of the Incas at Moray.
• The tour is highly recommended, with a 100% traveler recommendation rate from 12 reviews highlighting the knowledgeable guides and immersive cultural experience.
• Booking details include hotel pickup/drop-off, mandatory information, and recommendations for appropriate clothing and items to bring.

Tour Overview and Details

The half-day cycling tour of Maras and Moray from Cusco offers adventurous travelers a 5-hour mountain bike excursion covering 35 kilometers (22 miles) through the stunning Andean mountains.

With 12 reviews and 100% traveler recommendation, this tour provides a comprehensive experience, including hotel pickup/drop-off, equipment, and lunch.

Visitors will explore the famous salt drying ponds of Maras and the impressive Inca terraces of Moray, gaining insights into the region’s history and culture.

The tour’s focus on safety ensures participants enjoy the scenic views while riding high-quality Kona Stinky-Six bicycles and wearing provided safety gear.

Equipment and Safety

Full-suspension Kona Stinky-Six bicycles and essential safety equipment are provided by the tour.

Private vehicle transportation is included throughout the tour, ensuring a comfortable and hassle-free experience.

The tour also covers all entrance fees to both Moray and Maras, so there’s no need to worry about additional costs.

However, gratuities for the guide aren’t included in the tour price, so it’s a good idea to have some cash on hand.

With these safety and logistical considerations taken care of, participants can focus on enjoying the stunning scenery and learning about the fascinating history of the region.

Meeting and Pickup Information

Pickup for the tour is available from Cusco hotels, with the details provided at the time of booking. The recommended start time is 8:30 am.

Booking requires mandatory information, including:

1. Hotel details
2. Height and weight
3. Passport number
4. Date of birth

Infants can join the tour but must sit on laps. Infant seats are available. However, the tour isn’t recommended for pregnant travelers.

Guests should be prepared with the necessary items, such as shorts, comfortable cycling clothes, a backpack, sneakers, a water bottle, sunblock, and sunglasses.

Tour Highlights and Expectations

Weather permitting, the cycling tour provides scenic views of the Andean mountains.

Visitors can expect to visit the Salinas de Maras, an ancient set of salt pools that have been in use for centuries.

After lunch, a guided walking tour offers a closer look at the local culture and history.

The tour is designed to be informative and enjoyable, with knowledgeable guides sharing insights about mountain biking and the surrounding area.

Travelers should bring appropriate clothing, a backpack, water, and sun protection to make the most of this unique cycling adventure in the Peruvian highlands.

Scenic Views of the Andean Mountains

Atop the Andean foothills, the cycling tour promises breathtaking vistas that captivate the senses. Depending on the weather, participants can expect to be treated to:

1. Majestic snow-capped peaks piercing the horizon.
2. Rolling green slopes dotted with pre-Columbian ruins.
3. Panoramic views of the Sacred Valley’s patchwork landscape.
4. Stunning contrasts between the arid terrain and azure skies.

This picturesque setting provides the perfect backdrop for an immersive exploration of the region’s rich cultural heritage and natural beauty.

As cyclists wind their way through the Andean terrain, they’ll be in awe of the sheer scale and grandeur of their surroundings.

Visit to Salinas De Maras

One of the highlights of the cycling tour is a visit to the Salinas de Maras, an extraordinary set of ancient salt evaporation ponds nestled in the Andean foothills.

Spanning over 3,000 individual ponds, this remarkable site has been in use since pre-Inca times. Visitors can wander through the network of ponds, observing the traditional salt-harvesting process as the sun evaporates the mineral-rich water, leaving behind the valuable salt.

The stark white ponds contrast beautifully with the surrounding green hills, creating a visually striking landscape.

After exploring the Salinas de Maras, the tour continues on to the impressive Inca terraces of Moray, providing a well-rounded experience of the region’s unique history and natural wonders.

Guided Walking Tour After Lunch

After a hearty lunch, the tour guides lead participants on a guided walking exploration of the nearby Inca terraces at Moray.

This captivating site features a series of circular depressions, believed to have been an agricultural experimental center for the Incas.

Visitors can:

1. Marvel at the intricate design and engineering of the terraces.
2. Appreciate the stunning views of the surrounding Andean peaks.
3. Learn about the advanced agricultural techniques employed by the Incas.
4. Immerse themselves in the rich cultural heritage of this ancient site.

The walking tour provides a deeper understanding of Moray’s historical significance and the ingenuity of the Inca civilization.

Traveler Reviews and Feedback

Travelers consistently praise the Half-Day Cycling Tour of Maras and Moray, with an impressive 100% recommendation rate from the 12 reviews.

The tour has an overall 5.0 rating, with 11 five-star and 1 four-star review. Customers highlight the knowledgeable guides and emphasis on safety.

Travelers appreciate learning about mountain biking and local Andean culture during the tour. The positive feedback indicates the tour delivers on its promises, offering scenic views, visits to the famous Salinas de Maras salt ponds, and a guided walking tour after lunch.

With a high level of customer satisfaction, this cycling adventure is a must-do experience for those seeking an active exploration of Maras and Moray from Cusco.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Minimum Age Requirement for This Tour?

Though infants can join the tour, they must sit on laps. Infant seats are available. However, the tour is not recommended for pregnant travelers due to the physical nature of the cycling activity.

Do I Need Any Prior Mountain Biking Experience?

No prior mountain biking experience is required for this tour. The tour provides full-suspension bicycles and safety equipment, and guides are there to assist participants throughout the ride. The tour is suitable for beginners as well as experienced cyclists.

Can I Bring My Own Bicycle Instead of the Provided One?

You can’t bring your own bicycle on this tour. The tour provides high-quality Kona Stinky-Six mountain bikes and safety equipment. Using the provided bikes ensures everyone’s safety and a hassle-free experience.

Is There an Option for a Private Tour Instead of a Group Tour?

Yes, this tour offers a private option. Travelers can book a private cycling tour to Maras and Moray, which provides a more personalized experience and allows them to set their own pace.

Can I Customize the Tour Itinerary to Include Additional Sites?

Yes, the tour operator offers the flexibility to customize the itinerary. Travelers can request additional sites or activities to be included in the tour, subject to logistics and guide availability. This requires prior coordination with the tour provider.

The Sum Up

This cycling tour offers an unforgettable adventure through the stunning Andean landscapes. Travelers can expect breathtaking views, fascinating historical sites, and a well-organized experience with quality equipment and knowledgeable guides. With high traveler recommendations, this half-day excursion is an excellent choice for active explorers seeking to enjoy the rich cultural heritage of Maras and Moray.