Maras, Moray and Chinchero
Visit to the Maras Salt Mines, with its more than 3,000 salt pools on natural terraces
- Meals
- Not included
- Accommodation
- Not included
- Difficulty
- Easy
- Walking distance
- 1-2 km approx.
- Walking time
- 2-3 hours (guided tour and free time)
- Start elevation
- 3,300 m (Maras)
- Lowest point
- 3,300 m (Maras)
- Highest point
- 3,762 m (Chinchero)
- Stop 01
Hotel pick-up
Our adventure begins with pickup from your hotel in Cusco. As we leave the city behind, the cityscape transforms into majestic Andean valleys and mountains. The fresh morning air and the golden light of the rising sun will accompany us on the tour. During the journey, our guide will share stories about the region, preparing us for the spectacle that awaits us in Moray and Maras.
- Stop 02
Panoramic view of Chinchero
Before arriving at our first destination, we will pass through Chinchero, known as the "City of the Rainbow". This town preserves its Inca essence with adobe houses, cobblestone streets and a breathtaking view of the Sacred Valley. It is famous for its artisanal fabrics, made with ancestral techniques and vibrant colors. If time permits, we will be able to make a short stop to admire its market and the skill of the local weavers.
- Stop 03
Exploration of Moray: The Inca Agricultural Laboratory
Our first big stop is Moray, a stunning set of circular terraces in the shape of an amphitheatre. This place was used by the Incas as an agricultural laboratory, allowing them to experiment with different microclimates to optimize crops.
As we descend through the concentric rings of Moray, we will be able to feel the change in temperature between the levels and understand how the Incas managed to adapt their crops with surprising precision.
Here, you will have the opportunity to take spectacular photos and connect with the energy of this sacred site.
- Stop 04
Visit to the Maras Salt Works: the art of salt
After exploring Moray, we continue to the impressive Maras Salt Works. This complex, with more than 3,000 staggered salt pools on the mountainside, creates a dreamlike landscape, especially when the reflections of the sun play with the white and gold tones of the saline water.
Here we will learn about the artisanal process of salt extraction, a technique passed down from generation to generation. You will also have the opportunity to purchase pink salt from Maras, famous for its minerals and culinary properties.
- Stop 05
Return to Cusco
After having explored these two incredible destinations, we will make our way back to Cusco. During the trip, you will be able to enjoy the beautiful Andean landscape, remembering the wonders you have just witnessed. We will drop you off at the door of your hotel, thus concluding an unforgettable experience. With new stories to tell and spectacular photos, you'll have discovered two of the most impressive sites in the Sacred Valley.
