Maras Moray Tour

1.- HISTORICAL BACKGROUND

During the Inca time the agricultural activity was the most important activity that allowed the expansion and development of the whole civilization, however they had to face adverse factors that hindered greatly the production, climate and altitude so they used all their knowledge in finding a solution to this, that is why nowadays we can enjoy the Maras Moray Tour visiting these unique places.

1.1.- The Terraces of Moray

Moray is one of the most important archaeological centers of the Andes, located almost 40 km from the city of Cusco. At first glance what stands out and draws the attention of all travelers is the amount of circular platforms created in concentric levels, giving an appearance similar to the Roman amphitheater, 3500 meters above sea level this place is surrounded by snow-capped mountains and extensive fields which creates an ideal environment to simulate the different altitudinal floors that exist in Peru, is part of the tour that you can visit during the Maras Moray Tour.

Moray

At some point in history it was thought that the large crater in which these terraces are located was the result of the impact of a meteorite, however over time this theory was discarded thanks to research, the reality is that everything was the product of the wear of the earth that together with the weather caused huge craters where the Incas would use their skill and ability inherited by generations to create an environment for research and agricultural experimentation. Being a Maras Moray half day Tour the best time to visit it is in the morning, where the climate is much more suitable and allows us to see each concentric circle, that means a different height where the Incas acclimatized seeds and plants.

1.2.- Maras Salt Flats (H3)

Within the Inca culture there was no currency as a commercial use, that is why they used alternative ways to get new supplies, spices and even seeds. During the Maras Moray Salt Mines Tour you can appreciate the most valued mineral during this time, the salt mines of Maras, that are located 50 km from the city of Cusco and stand out at a glance among all the Andes, these salt deposits are not only belonging to the Inca culture but they are much older but during the Inca time, they gave a more frequent and useful use, supplied by a small channel of salt water emanating from the mountain has its origin still very uncertain.

maras

Within the Andean belief there is a legend related to this place and the origin of the Inca culture mentioning the Ayar brothers as participants, it is said that among the brothers there was one who had superhuman forces called Ayar Cachi, who was feared even by his brothers for what he could do, was betrayed and locked in a cave with lies to remain there captive for eternity. Heartbroken and saddened by the betrayal he suffered, he began to cry non-stop until he created a channel that later reached these pools, his tears becoming the source of this precious mineral.

Currently when you take the Maras Moray Salt Mines Tour you will discover that this set of pools only belong to the people of Maras, no outsider can get or own them. Thanks to the popularity of the Maras Moray Tour among travelers, it has positioned itself as one of the most famous and requested instagrammable places.

2.- WHY CHOOSE THE MARAS MORAY TOUR?

Experiencing the Maras Moray Tour is one of the top 10 things to do in Cusco, it is a completely different panorama to the one you traditionally experience when visiting the Sacred Valley. During the tour you not only enjoy both destinations but also the incredible panoramas and landscapes that it offers, from incredible views of snow-capped mountains, groups of llamas and alpacas to learn the history behind each destination. You will love every moment during the Maras and Moray Tour experience.

guest in maras

3.- ABOUT THE PERUVIAN ANDES

“Do you know that… in Maras there are more than 3000 salt ponds while in Moray due to its terraces there are more than 20 identified microclimates?. ”

Click here to learn more

4.- How to live the Maras Moray Tour?

Enjoying the Maras Moray Tour is quite easy and accessible for everyone nowadays, you can choose to choose the experience through a travel agency or do it on your own.

• The first alternative is the most appropriate, the Maras Moray Tour done with a travel agency is always better planned. During the visit of the circular terraces and the salt mines there is also a short stop at a factory in Chinchero where you can learn more about the process of dyeing wool, which complements the trip perfectly. The Maras Moray half day tour has departures every day in shared versions if you want to meet more friends from other countries but if you want to experience the Maras Moray Tour in a more exclusive way, Auri Peru can help you organize it.
• The second alternative is more free for your organization of the Maras Moray tour, you can start hiring a private transportation that can take you first to Maras and then to Moray with an adequate time of visit, this transportation can be hired through an app like Uber or InDriver but the prices can be higher, the best alternative is that you also do it with a travel agency that will give you a better price and security at the same time.

maras moray tour map

5.- ALL YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT MARAS MORAY TOUR

5.1.- Costs and entrance Fees

Every year the prices of the Maras Moray Tour are updated, for this year 2024 the prices are:

5.2.- What to Bring

It is important to be prepared for the Maras Moray Tour, we recommend that you have the following items in your luggage:

• Passport or Identity Card: At the time of presenting the entrance ticket, it is required to also present the identity card to verify the data.
• 
Light clothing: Remember that the weather in these areas can vary, a long sleeve polo shirt, comfortable pants and routine shoes will be ideal. If it is the rainy season, bring an extra rain poncho in your backpack.
• Sun protection: Include a hat, cap and sunglasses in your luggage.
• Medication: Carry your personal medication with you at all times.
• Extra: Equipment you will need such as camera, external battery or other items.
• Extra money: You may need to spend on something personal, take cash with you.

packing list

To enjoy the Maras and Moray Tour you just have to decide the right time for you. Auri Peru has constant and exclusive schedules that you can be part of start planning now, contact us and we will be delighted to assist you!

“Travel is the only thing you buy that makes you richer.”