Love culture , landscapes, and ancient history? This Maras Moray & Chinchero Half-Day Tour lets you discover some of Cusco's most enchanting places. Journey through the Sacred Valley highlands to see the ingenuity of the Inca civilization. Marvel at the agricultural terraces of Moray, stand in awe of the shimmering white salt pools of the Salineras de Maras, and experience living traditions with local weaving artisans in Chinchero.

Maras Moray & Chinchero Half-Day Tour - Overview

Get to know the heart of Cusco on a Maras Moray & Chinchero Half-Day Tour, a few-hour guided adventure through the Sacred Valley sites where striking Andean views meet centuries of living history. Visit the circular terraces of Moray, the salt mines of Maras, and the traditional town of Chinchero as you explore ancestral traditions that still endure today.

A guided visit that transforms a short journey into lasting memories, with three destinations that remind you that wonder is never far from sight.

Tour Highlights:

  • Travel on your terms: Flexible morning or afternoon starts from Cusco.
  • Maximize your Cusco stay: Get an epic 6-hour dose of culture and views.
  • Expertly Led: Venture with local experts and private transport.
  • Three Cusco must-see stops: Visit Moray, Maras, and Chinchero.

Maras Moray & Chinchero at a Glance:

  • We’ll begin the tour with a convenient hotel pick-up at your chosen start time (8:00 a.m. or 12:30 p.m.), followed by a comfortable trip into the Sacred Valley.
  • We'll take a scenic drive to Moray, our first stop. Here, you'll discover incredible insights from our knowledgeable tour guide about these mysterious circular terraces.
  • Then, you can check a hidden gem off your travel list as we arrive at the Maras salt ponds, home to thousands of salt pools carved into the mountainside.
  • After our visit, we'll head to Chinchero, our last stop. You will explore its archaeological site and see a traditional weaving demonstration, with opportunities to purchase local crafts.
  • Finally, your tour concludes with a return to Cusco and a convenient drop-off at your hotel.

Included:

  • Comfortable transportation.
  • Pick-up from your hotel in Cusco (8:00 a.m. or 12:30 p.m.).
  • Drop-off back at your hotel.
  • Professional Tour Guide
  • Moray and Chinchero entrance ticket (Partial Cusco tourist ticket)
  • Entrance ticket to Salineras of Maras

Not Included:

  • Meals not provided
  • Staff tip not included

Why book with TreXperience?

  • Local Expert: Get the best prices and best service with a 100% Peruvian company
  • Expert Tour Guides: Our tour guides are professionals and fluent in English
  • Positive impact: By choosing this tour, you are supporting social projects that benefit local communities.
  • TreXperience always has a solution: Feel free to contact us for additional tour options.

Maras Moray & Chinchero Tour - Full Itinerary

We will pick you up from your hotel in Cusco at 8:00 a.m. or 12:30 p.m. (you can choose a morning or afternoon tour) and drive for 1 hour to Moray (3,385 m/11,110 ft), the circular terraces used by the Incas for agricultural experiments, which is a great way to learn about the innovative farming practices of this ancient civilization. The stunning natural scenery and impressive Inca site provide a breathtaking backdrop for a truly unforgettable experience.

Make your way along the Sacred Valley Highlands, driving for about 30 minutes to Maras (3,385 m/11,105 ft), a small town in the Sacred Valley of Peru, about 40 kilometers northwest of Cusco. This place is known for its long history as a former home to Inca nobility, its role as a colonial trading center, and its centuries-old salt production. Visitors can stroll through the narrow streets, admire the traditional adobe houses, and visit the beautiful church built during the colonial period.

The tour's highlight is the Salineras of Maras (3,200 m/10,498 ft), just 20 minutes from Maras town. The Salineras have been in use since pre-Inca times, and the traditional methods of salt production are still used today. The ponds are owned and operated by local families who harvest the salt through evaporation, which can take up to a month. Once harvested, the salt is sold in local markets or used for traditional purposes. There are over 3000 salt ponds, and the harvesting process is truly fascinating and makes for a great photo opportunity.

Finally, we will drive 40 minutes to Chinchero (3,762 m/12,343 ft), where you can see traditional textile production and visit a colorful market, allowing visitors to shop and support local artisans.

The people of Chinchero are known as expert weavers who use a variety of natural fibers, including alpaca, llama, and sheep wool, to create beautiful textiles. They use diverse techniques, including spinning, dyeing, and weaving, to create intricate patterns and designs that reflect the culture and history of the region.

In Chinchero, you will also visit the Inca site and enjoy the stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. After the tour, you will return to your hotel in Cusco. 

Note: The tour can be customized: you can add Ollantaytambo or explore for a full day!

Maras Moray & Chinchero Half-Day Tour - Price

Price per person: 

To book the Maras Moray Tour, you need to make an initial payment of US$ 50 per person; the remaining balance can be paid online or at our office in Cusco with any card and without booking fees.

Book with Confidence and Flexibility

Before you book:

  • This tour requires a minimum of 2 participants to proceed.
  • Cancellation Policy: full refund for cancellations made at least 48 hours in advance.

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Places to Visit in Maras Moray & Chinchero Tour

Moray (Circular terraces)

Moray is an archaeological site in the Sacred Valley of the Incas at 3,385 m (11,110 ft). Its circular terraces form concentric rings the Incas used as an open-air agricultural lab, where temperature shifts created microclimates to test crops. The site also includes ceremonial and administrative buildings, irrigation channels that controlled water, and facilities for storing agricultural products.

Photo of Moray circular terraces

Salt Ponds (Salinera of Maras)

The Salt Ponds of Maras (Salineras de Maras) sit in the Sacred Valley at 3,200 m (10,498 ft). Thousands of terraced pools feed from a natural saline spring; the sun evaporates the water, leaving crystals that local families harvest by hand. Worked since pre-Columbian times, Maras salt is prized for purity and taste and remains a key livelihood for the community.

Pic of Salineras de Maras

Chinchero (Land of great weavers)

Chinchero is a small Andean town at 3,762 m (12,343 ft), known as the Land of Great Weavers; artisans produce intricate textiles with traditional techniques and natural dyes. The area includes terraces and remains of an Inca palace attributed to Túpac Yupanqui, with fine stonework and a central courtyard. The town has broad Andean views and markets selling hand-woven textiles and local crafts.

Photo of weaving artisans in Chinchero

Maras Moray & Chinchero Tour - Packing List

When you visit Chinchero, Moray, and Maras, keep in mind that these locations are at a higher elevation than Cusco. This can lead to potentially cooler temperatures and highly unpredictable weather, with Andean microclimates shifting from sunny to rainy in minutes. 

While you will travel in our comfortable private vans, please be prepared for walking on uneven terrain for about 30 minutes at each site. To ensure a comfortable and pleasant day, we invite you to be prepared with the following items:

  • A small backpack perfect for carrying your personal belongings.
  • Comfortable walking shoes are essential for exploring the sites.
  • Warm clothes for early morning or evening when temperatures can drop.
  • Light jacket or sweater, depending on the season, for varying weather conditions.
  • Sunscreen, hat or cap to protect your skin from the strong Andean sun.
  • Sunglasses to protect your eyes from the bright sunlight.
  • Rain gear, such as rain ponchos, in case of unexpected rain.
  • Camera or phone with a camera to capture the stunning landscapes.
  • Water bottle to stay hydrated throughout the tour.
  • Snacks (optional) for extra energy during the day.
  • Cash for any additional purchases, souvenirs, or tips for your guide and driver.

It is also good to check the weather forecast before the tour to prepare you for possible bad weather conditions. Bring any necessary medication or supplies if you have any specific medical needs.

Maras Moray & Chinchero Tour - Travel Info

Location

This tour explores three unique sites in the Sacred Valley of the Incas, all located near Cusco. The sites include:

  • Moray: Located at an altitude of approximately 3,385 m / 11,110 ft.
  • Maras & the Salt Mines (Salineras de Maras): The town of Maras is at about 3,385 meters (11,105 ft), and the salt mines are a short drive from there.
  • Chinchero: Situated at a higher altitude of 3,762 meters (12,343 ft).
History

We’ll visit pre-Inca, Inca, and colonial sites, offering an in-depth look at the region’s history and living traditions.

  • Moray: Features large, concentric circular terraces carved deep into the earth. It is believed that the Incas used these terraces as an agricultural laboratory to experiment with crop adaptation to different microclimates.
  • Maras & the Salt Mines: The Maras salt mines have been in use since pre-Incan times. They consist of thousands of pools carved into the mountainside, which are filled daily by a natural stream of water. The salt is then harvested after the water evaporates.
  • Chinchero: A small Andean village with historical significance, known as the mythical birthplace of the rainbow. The town is famous for its traditional weaving, Inca ruins, and a colonial church.
Altitude

The tour's locations vary in altitude, ranging from approximately 3,385 meters (11,105 feet) at Maras to 3,762 meters (12,342 feet) in Chinchero. While lower than other destinations, these altitudes are still high and may affect visitors.

Weather

The weather in the Sacred Valley is variable. It can be sunny and warm during the day but also quite cold, especially in the early morning and late afternoon. Visitors should be prepared for changing conditions, particularly on the higher-altitude plains near Chinchero.

Difficulty

The tour is generally considered to be of "easy" to "moderate" difficulty. The main activities involve light walking on uneven terrain at the various sites. The main challenge of this tour is the altitude, which can still affect individuals who are not properly acclimatized. The walking portions are short, and the pace is adjusted to the group's needs.

Tips for visiting Maras Moray & Chinchero 

Explore nature and the stunning Andean landscapes on a brief cultural escape from Cusco with the Maras Moray & Chinchero tour.

  • Acclimate to the altitude in Cusco for at least a day; coca tea can help with this.
  • While tours are available year-round, the best time to visit for clear conditions is from May to September.
  • Immerse yourself in local culture, especially in communities like Chinchero.
  • Don't forget to carry your camera to capture incredible photos at these unique sites.
  • Carry cash for souvenirs/tipping, particularly in local markets.

Maras Moray Tour - Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Maras Moray and Chinchero Tour?

The Maras Moray and Chinchero Tour is a popular day trip from Cusco, Peru, that takes visitors to the ancient Inca agricultural terraces of Moray, the salt mines of Maras, and the traditional town of Chinchero.

What is the best time of year to take the Sacred Valley tour?

The best time to take the tour is typically during the dry season, which runs from April to October, as the weather is typically sunny and clear. However, the sites can be visited year-round.

Do I need to book in advance?

This tour can be booked daily throughout the year. While advance booking is recommended, especially during the peak season (June-August) when demand is higher, it's generally possible to find availability even a day or two before your desired date.

How much should I budget for a souvenir?

Budgeting for souvenirs is highly personal and depends on your shopping habits and desired items. However, a good starting point might be anywhere from US$20 to US$40 USD per person.

What kind of physical preparation do I need for this tour?

No specific training is needed, but having a basic level of fitness is helpful. It is recommended to spend at least one day in Cusco or the Sacred Valley to acclimatize to the altitude before embarking on this tour.

Is the tour suitable for children?

Yes, the tour is generally suitable for children. The tour is considered easy and safe for children.

Is the tour wheelchair accessible?

The sites visited on tour may not be fully wheelchair accessible due to the uneven terrain and stairs. TreXperience can accommodate wheelchair users with advance notice and special arrangements. 

Is it safe for pregnancy or heart/lung conditions?

Altitude can be challenging. Consult your doctor and consider a private tour at an easy pace to ensure your comfort and safety.

Inquire about this Tour