Discover the captivating sights of Peru’s ancient salt ponds and agricultural wonder on this immersive half-day tour. Explore the vibrant Salinas De Maras, where locals have harvested salt for centuries using traditional techniques, and marvel at the remarkable circular terraces of Moray, believed to be an Inca experimental site. With a knowledgeable guide, private transportation, and included amenities, this tour promises an unforgettable glimpse into the country’s rich heritage. But what secrets do these remarkable sites hold, and what insights can they offer about the Inca’s advanced agricultural practices?

About Your Stay

Salinas De Maras and Moray Half-Day - About Your Stay

  • A half-day tour that visits the ancient Salinas de Maras salt mines and the Inca archaeological site of Moray near Cusco, Peru.
  • Includes private transportation, an expert guide, entrance fees, snacks, and bottled water for a hassle-free experience.
  • Offers an immersive cultural experience, showcasing traditional salt-harvesting techniques and the Inca’s agricultural experimentation site.
  • Rated 5.0 stars by previous travelers for its knowledgeable guides, comfortable transportation, and overall value.
  • Suitable for most travelers, with a maximum group size of 15 for a personalized tour.

Tour Overview

Salinas De Maras and Moray Half-Day - Tour Overview

The Salinas de Maras and Moray Half-Day tour is an activity offered by the provider Ritisuyo in Cusco, Peru.

This half-day tour has a maximum of 15 travelers and provides private transportation, a guide, a tourist ticket, snacks, and bottled water.

The tour includes a visit to the Maras salt mines and the Moray archaeological site.

The meeting point is at Ritisuyo’s office, and the tour returns to the same location.

The tour is suitable for most travelers, but it’s not wheelchair accessible.

Despite having only one review, it’s rated 5.0 stars based on Viator and Tripadvisor.

What to Expect

Salinas De Maras and Moray Half-Day - What to Expect

Visitors can expect an immersive cultural experience on this half-day tour. The journey begins with a visit to the Maras Salt Ponds, where you’ll witness the ancient salt-harvesting techniques used for centuries.

Next, you’ll explore the mysterious Inca site of Moray, known for its unique concentric circular terraces. Your knowledgeable guide will share insights into the site’s historical significance and architectural marvels.

Throughout the tour, you’ll have the opportunity to take in the stunning Andean scenery and learn about the local traditions and customs.

The tour includes private transportation, a tourist ticket, snacks, and bottled water, ensuring a seamless and enjoyable experience.

Meeting and Pickup

Salinas De Maras and Moray Half-Day - Meeting and Pickup

Your tour begins at Ritisuyo, located at Manzanapata 305 in Cusco, where you’ll meet your guide.

The tour departs promptly at 7:00 am, so be sure to arrive on time.

Throughout the half-day excursion, you’ll travel by private transportation to the Salinas de Maras and Moray sites.

At the end of the tour, you’ll return to the meeting point at Ritisuyo.

The tour is suitable for most travelers, though it’s not wheelchair accessible.

Infants can sit on laps, and service animals are allowed.

You’ll receive confirmation of your booking, and the tour includes a tourist ticket, snacks, and bottled water.

Exploring Salinas De Maras

Perched amidst the rugged Andean landscape, the Salinas de Maras are a captivating network of salt ponds that have been cultivated for centuries.

Visitors can wander through the terraced salt pans, marveling at the intricate patterns created by the evaporation of the mineral-rich waters. The ponds, which range in color from vibrant white to deep red, have been a source of livelihood for the local communities for generations.

Travelers can learn about the traditional salt-harvesting techniques and gain insights into the cultural significance of this unique natural wonder.

The Salinas de Maras offer a glimpse into Peru’s rich heritage and the enduring connection between people and their environment.

Visiting Moray

After exploring the captivating Salinas de Maras, the tour continues to the archaeological site of Moray.

Situated in the Cusco region, Moray is known for its remarkable, circular terraces. These terraces are believed to have been an Inca agricultural experimentation site, used to study the effects of different microclimates on crops.

Visitors can wander along the paths that wind through the terraces, marveling at the ancient engineering feat. The site offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys, providing an immersive experience into the Inca’s agricultural practices.

This unique destination complements the earlier visit to the salt pans, offering a comprehensive understanding of the region’s history and cultural heritage.

Included Amenities

The tour includes private transportation, ensuring a comfortable and convenient journey to the sites.

Travelers will be accompanied by a knowledgeable guide who can provide insights into the history and significance of the Salinas de Maras and Moray.

The tour also includes:

  • Boleto turistico (tourist ticket) for access to the sites
  • Snacks to fuel the exploration
  • Bottled water to stay hydrated
  • Entrance to the Maras salt ponds
  • A maximum of 15 travelers, allowing for a more personalized experience

These amenities create a well-rounded and hassle-free half-day tour, allowing visitors to fully enjoy the unique landscapes and cultural heritage of this region.

Additional Information

Salinas De Maras and Moray Half-Day - Additional Information

The tour is confirmed upon booking, and infants are welcome to sit on laps during the journey.

Service animals are allowed, and the tour is stroller accessible. Most travelers can participate, though the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible.

The half-day excursion departs at 7:00 am and returns to the original meeting point in Cusco.

With a maximum group size of 15 travelers, this tour offers a personalized experience to explore the Salinas de Maras and Moray sites.

The provider, Ritisuyo, has received a 5-star rating based on verified reviews, ensuring a high-quality and enjoyable tour for all participants.

Customer Reviews

According to the reviews, customers have overwhelmingly praised this tour.

With a perfect 5-star rating across all reviews, the Salinas de Maras and Moray Half-Day tour has impressed travelers:

  • Guides are knowledgeable and engaging, bringing the history and culture of the sites to life
  • The itinerary allows for enough time to fully explore the stunning salt pans and ancient agricultural terraces
  • Transportation is comfortable and the pickup/drop-off location is convenient
  • Snacks and bottled water are provided, ensuring travelers stay energized throughout the experience
  • The tour offers excellent value and an unforgettable glimpse into Peru’s remarkable natural and archaeological wonders.

Questions About Your Stay

Is There a Minimum Age Requirement for the Tour?

The tour does not have a specified minimum age requirement. Infants are allowed to sit on laps, indicating that the tour is suitable for children of all ages.

Can I Book the Tour for a Group Larger Than 15 Travelers?

The tour has a maximum of 15 travelers. However, if a group is larger than 15, they can inquire with the tour provider, Ritisuyo, about accommodating a larger group size. The provider may be able to make special arrangements for a group exceeding the standard maximum.

Are There Any Dietary Restrictions for the Included Snacks?

According to the tour overview, the provider doesn’t specify any dietary restrictions for the included snacks. Travelers with special dietary needs should check with the tour company prior to booking to ensure their requirements can be accommodated.

Can I Store My Luggage at the Meeting Point Before the Tour?

The tour provider does not offer luggage storage at the meeting point. Travelers should plan to bring only what they need for the tour, as there are no facilities to store large bags or luggage.

Is There an Option to Extend the Tour Duration?

The tour provider, Ritisuyo, does not offer an option to extend the tour duration. The tour is a half-day activity, and the start and end times are fixed. Any changes to the duration would need to be arranged separately with the provider.

Final Verdict On This Stay

The Salinas De Maras and Moray half-day tour offers a captivating exploration of Peru’s ancient heritage. Visitors will marvel at the striking salt ponds and the remarkable Inca agricultural site, gaining an immersive understanding of the country’s rich history. With private transportation, knowledgeable guides, and included amenities, this tour provides an unforgettable experience for those seeking to uncover the enchanting wonders of the Cusco region.