Maras and Moray Biking Tour From Cusco

The Maras and Moray Biking Tour from Cusco offers an exhilarating adventure through the Sacred Valley. Covering 7km along dirt roads and mountain trails, participants explore the Inca terraces of Moray and the ancient salt mines of Maras. With professional bikes, a box lunch, and entrance fees included, this tour provides a unique blend of culture and breathtaking landscapes. Whether you’re seeking an active day or simply want to discover the region’s hidden gems, this excursion is designed to leave you with an unforgettable experience. But what makes this tour truly special is the opportunity to connect with the local community and gain a deeper understanding of their way of life.

Good To Know

• The Maras and Moray Biking Tour from Cusco is a full-day adventure covering 7km of dirt roads and mountain trails to explore the Moray terraces and Maras salt mines.
• The tour includes professional bikes, gloves, helmets, a box lunch, and entrance fees, providing a seamless and immersive experience in the Sacred Valley.
• Participants should have a moderate fitness level and be comfortable with extended bike riding, as the tour requires navigating uneven terrain and inclines.
• The tour highlights Inca engineering and sustainable resource management, with opportunities to engage with local culture and witness traditional artisanal practices.
• Customer feedback praises the scenic views, knowledgeable guides, and the balance of challenge and enjoyment, though some suggest improvements to the bikes.

Tour Overview

The Maras and Moray Biking Tour from Cusco whisks visitors through the stunning Sacred Valley, offering an exhilarating way to experience the region’s Inca heritage and natural beauty.

This full-day tour provides a moderate biking adventure, covering 7km along dirt roads and mountain trails. The key highlights include the circular terraces of Moray, the ancient Maras salt mines, and immersion in local culture.

Priced from $160, the tour includes quality bikes, a box lunch, and entrance fees. Prospective participants should be in moderate physical condition and pack appropriate gear.

Itinerary and Highlights

The tour’s itinerary starts with pickup from guests’ Cusco hotels, followed by a transfer to the trailhead at Cruz Pata.

From there, a 7km (4.5 mile) biking route along dirt roads and mountain trails awaits, taking participants to the key sites:

• Moray, the Inca’s circular terraces that served as a prototype greenhouse
• Maras Salt Mines, the ancient "Salineras" salt pans
• Local villages, where visitors can enjoy the culture and enjoy views of the Sacred Valley and Urubamba River

After the biking portion, a boxed lunch is provided at Maras, rounding out a full-day exploration of these remarkable Inca sites.

Inclusions

Included in the tour price are the necessary equipment, a box-lunch, and entrance fees to the key sites. Participants are provided with professional bikes, gloves, and helmets to ensure a comfortable and safe biking experience. A box-lunch is served after the biking portion, allowing guests to refuel and continue their exploration. Plus, the tour covers the entrance fees to both the Moray and Maras sites, removing any additional out-of-pocket costs for visitors.

Equipment	Meals	Entrance Fees
Professional bikes	Box-lunch	Moray: 70 soles
Gloves		Maras: 15 soles
Helmet

The inclusions aim to provide a seamless and hassle-free tour, allowing guests to focus on seeing the stunning landscapes and Inca heritage of the Sacred Valley.

Physical Requirements

Cycling the Maras and Moray Biking Tour requires a moderate level of physical fitness, making it suitable for cyclists with some experience.

While the tour isn’t considered strenuous, participants should be prepared for approximately 7km (4.5 miles) of biking along dirt roads and mountain trails.

Some key physical requirements include:

• Ability to navigate uneven terrain and moderate inclines
• Endurance to complete the full-day tour
• Comfort with riding a bike for extended periods

The tour provides professional bikes, gloves, and helmets, but it’s recommended to bring your own comfortable cycling attire, sunblock, and sunglasses to ensure an enjoyable and safe experience.

Customer Feedback

Reviewers generally praise the Maras and Moray Biking Tour for its scenic views and knowledgeable guides, highlighting the good balance of challenge and enjoyment.

Many customers also appreciate the unique experience compared to traditional bus tours.

However, some reviews note the need for bike upgrades, and a few mention that early communication could be improved.

Biking Route

The biking route takes participants on a 7km (4.5 miles) journey through dirt roads and mountain trails, offering a thrilling and immersive experience.

Along the way, cyclists will enjoy:

• Breathtaking views of the Sacred Valley and the Urubamba River
• Navigating through challenging sections of the trail, testing their riding skills
• Opportunities to witness local life and culture in the villages along the route

The route is designed to provide a good balance of adventure and sightseeing, allowing travelers to fully enjoy the stunning Andean landscape while engaging in an active and memorable exploration of the region.

Key Sites

Two key sites along the Maras and Moray Biking Tour are Moray and the Maras Salt Mines.

Moray is an Inca site featuring circular terraces, believed to have been used as an agricultural prototype for greenhouse experiments.

The Maras Salt Mines, known as "Salineras," are ancient salt mines that have been in use since Inca times. Visitors can explore the salt ponds and witness the traditional salt-harvesting process.

These unique sites provide insights into Inca engineering, agriculture, and sustainable resource management. Exploring them by bike allows for a more immersive and adventurous experience compared to traditional tours.

Local Experience

During the Maras and Moray Biking Tour, travelers have the opportunity to engage with local culture and witness the day-to-day lives of Peruvian villagers.

Along the biking route, you’ll pass through small villages where you can:

• Interact with friendly locals and learn about their traditional way of life
• Observe artisans crafting handmade textiles, pottery, and other products
• Admire the stunning views of the Sacred Valley and Urubamba River that have inspired the local communities for centuries

This immersive cultural experience complements the tour’s exploration of the ancient Inca sites, providing a well-rounded understanding of the region’s rich heritage.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are Any COVID-19 Safety Protocols in Place During the Tour?

COVID-19 safety protocols may include limited group sizes, mandatory mask-wearing, enhanced cleaning procedures, and temperature checks. However, exact measures can vary, so customers should check with the tour operator for the latest updates.

Can the Tour Accommodate Dietary Restrictions?

The tour can accommodate dietary restrictions, such as vegetarian or gluten-free, with advance notice. Guests should notify the operator of any special dietary needs when booking the tour.

Is There an Option to Extend or Customize the Tour?

The tour doesn’t specifically mention customization options, but travelers can likely work with the tour operator to extend the duration or modify the itinerary to fit their needs. It’s best to inquire about any special requests.

What Is the Cancellation and Refund Policy for the Tour?

The cancellation and refund policy allows full refunds for cancellations made at least 24 hours in advance. Partial refunds may be available for last-minute cancellations, subject to the tour operator’s discretion.

Can the Tour Be Booked for Private Groups?

The tour can be booked for private groups. Customers have the option to arrange a private tour, providing more flexibility and personalized experience at an additional cost compared to the standard group tour.

The Sum Up

The Maras and Moray Biking Tour offers an unforgettable adventure through the Sacred Valley. Exploring the Inca terraces of Moray and the ancient salt mines of Maras, this full-day excursion combines culture with breathtaking landscapes. With professional bikes, lunch, and entrance fees included, it’s an ideal choice for active travelers seeking a unique experience in Peru.