Embark on a 2-day journey to the heart of the Incan empire with the Maras Moray to Machu Picchu 2-day tour. Discover the Famous Market of Chinchero, Moray's ancient agricultural terraces, Salineras of Maras, Ollantaytambo town, and the enigmatic citadel of Machu Picchu.
This tour combines breathtaking landscapes, rich history, and cultural immersion, making it an unforgettable adventure. From exploring traditional markets to witnessing the sunrise over Machu Picchu, every moment is designed to awe. With expert guides, experience the essence of the Upper Sacred Valley and the mystery of the Incas.
Maras, Moray & Machu Picchu Tour 2 Days
Explore some of Peru's most fascinating Inca ruins and cultural sites and experience the breathtaking beauty of Machu Picchu. Chinchero, Maras, Moray, Ollantaytambo, and Machu Picchu would typically involve the following itinerary:
Finally, Machu Picchu is the most famous of all the Inca sites. The "Lost City of the Incas" is situated high in the Andes Mountains and can only be reached by train or foot. When visiting Machu Picchu, be sure to hike to Huayna Picchu for incredible site views.
Tour Highlights:
- Chinchero: You'll see the Inca agricultural terraces, the colonial-era church, and the traditional market.
- Moray: Don't miss the large Inca amphitheater-like site composed of several concentric circular terraces.
- Maras: Is home to the famous Salt Mines, which have been in use since pre-Inca times. The Salineras is an amazing sight, with thousands of small pools filled with salty water.
- Ollantaytambo: Is an Inca archaeological site and a living town. The site includes the ruins of an ancient fortress, a temple, and several homes. Be sure to take a walk through the town to get a feel for modern life in the Sacred Valley.
- Machu Picchu: Beat the crowds to Machu Picchu and watch the sunrise upon arrival. After the tour, you will travel in the Expedition trains.
Maras Moray Machu Picchu at a Glance:
Day 1: Cusco – Chinchero – Moray – Salineras – Ollantaytambo – Aguas Calientes
- Pick up from your hotel in Cusco at 8:am and drive to Chinchero to explore the traditional textiles and Inca ruins.
- Visit Moray's archaeological site, a unique Inca site of circular agricultural terraces.
- Explore the town of Maras, which is known for its colonial architecture
- Explore the Salineras of Maras, salt pans that have been in use since the Inca times.
- After lunch, visit the town of Ollantaytambo and the archeological site
- Take a train to Aguas Calientes, the town located at the base of Machu Picchu.
- Check into your hotel and spend the evening exploring the town.
Day 2: Explore Machu Picchu – Return to Cusco
- Wake up early and take a bus up to Machu Picchu to watch the sunrise.
- You'll have a guided tour of the site, learning about the history and significance of this iconic Inca site.
- After the tour, you'll have free time to explore Machu Picchu on your own or hike to Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain.
- In the afternoon, take the Expedition train back to Ollantaytambo.
- From Ollantaytambo, you will travel in a private van back to Cusco.
- The expected arrival time is around.7:30 pm.
Again, it's important to note that entrance tickets to Machu Picchu and the train tickets should be purchased in advance, as they can sell out quickly, especially during the peak travel season.
Included:
- Pick up from your hotel in Cusco
- Door-to-door complete service (hotel to hotel)
- All transportation included
- Entrance tickets to all the places we visit
- Buffet lunch and dinner day 1
- 1 night in a 3-start hotel in Aguas Calientes (Susanna INN or similar)
- Bus up and down to Machu Picchu
- Professional Tour guide
- Round-trip Expedition train
Not Included:
- Huayna Picchu tickets
- Montaña Machu Picchu Tickets
- Meals not mentioned
- Travel Insurance
Extra hikes after the Guided tour in Machu Picchu:
- Huayna Picchu Mountain – Additional US$ 68 per person (2 hours round trip).
- Machu Picchu Montaña – Additional US$ 68 per person. (3 hours round trip).
Additional info:
- This is a door-to-door service. We start at your hotel and take you back to your hotel.
- Vegetarian meals are available during lunch on day 1.
- By booking this tour, you support social projects that help education in rural villages.
- There is a surcharge of US$ 35 for a private single room.
Full Itinerary of Maras Moray + Machu Picchu Tour
Day 1: Cusco – Chinchero – Moray – Salineras – Ollantaytambo – Aguas Calientes
At 8:00 am, you will be picked up from your hotel in Cusco and driven to Chinchero, about 28 km (17 miles) from Cusco. Upon arrival, you will visit the archaeological site, including the Inca palace's remains, a ceremonial center, and several agricultural terraces. Next, you will visit the colonial church of Chinchero, which was built on the foundations of an Inca temple. The church has beautiful colonial-era paintings and decorations and a baroque altar made of gold leaf.
After the church, you will have some free time to explore the town and visit the handicraft market. Chinchero is known for its textiles, and you will find a variety of handmade garments, blankets, rugs, and other woven goods made by local weavers. You can also see the artisans' traditional dyeing and weaving techniques. After visiting Chinchero, you will continue to Moray and explore the circular agricultural terraces arranged in concentric circles and descending into the ground. The Incas used terraces for experimental farming, and each level created a different microclimate, allowing the Incas to grow a variety of crops.
Next, you will continue to Maras to explore the village and the Salineras of Maras, a series of salt mines on the side of a mountain. The salt mines have been in use since pre-Inca times and are still operated by local families today. Your guide will explain the salt extraction process and the cultural significance of the mines for the local community. Lunch will be served in a local restaurant in Urubamba, where you can taste some of the local dishes, such as ceviche, lomo saltado, or rocoto relleno, as well as some vegetarian and vegan options. The restaurant also offers a variety of beverages, including pisco sours, chicha morada, or mate de coca.
After lunch, you will continue your journey to Ollantaytambo, where you will visit the Inca site, which includes a fortress, a temple, and several residential areas. Your guide will explain the history and significance of the site, as well as the strategic importance of its location in the valley. You will have some free time to explore the ruins on your own, take photos, or climb to the top of the fortress for panoramic views of the town and surrounding mountains.
You will also have a walking tour of the town of Ollantaytambo, where you will see the traditional Inca and colonial architecture. Your guide will explain the cultural and economic importance of the town, as well as its connection to the surrounding communities. After the tour, you will take a train from Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes, the town at the base of Machu Picchu. You will spend the night in a hotel in Aguas Calientes.
- Transportation included
- Entry fees included
- Tour Guide
- Buffet Luch in Urubamba
- Dinner in a local restaurant in Ollantaytambo
- 3-star hotel
Day 2: Explore Machu Picchu – Return Cusco
After breakfast in your hotel, you will board the first bus to Machu Picchu. Buses frequently run from early morning until late afternoon. It's recommended to arrive early to beat the crowds and to have plenty of time to explore the site.
Once in Machu Picchu, you will begin a 2 to 3-hour guided tour, where visitors are given a brief introduction to the site and its history. From there, the guide will take visitors through the various sections of the citadel, pointing out important features, structures, and landmarks. Some of the highlights of Machu Picchu are the viewpoints, the Temple of the Sun, the Intihuatana Stone, the Temple of the Three Windows, and the Temple of the Condor. The guide will also explain the significance of the various agricultural terraces and water channels that the Incas used to sustain life in this rugged mountain environment.
You will have free time in Machu Picchu to explore on your own or participate in optional hikes: you can hike up to Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain, both offering stunning views of the citadel and the surrounding landscape. These hikes require a separate ticket and must be booked in advance, as they have limited daily entry.
After exploring Machu Picchu, take the bus back to Aguas Calientes for lunch and board the Expedition train back to Ollantaytambo and a private van back to Cusco. You will return to your hotel in Cusco around 7:30 pm.
- Transportation included
- Entry fees included
- Tour Guide
- Breakfast at hotel
- Other meals not included
- Expedition train & bus to return to Cusco
Maras Moray and Machu Picchu Tour Price
Price per person:
- From US$ 450 - Adults
- From US$ 420 - Children and students
To book the Maras Moray and Machu Picchu Tour, you need to make an initial payment of US$ 200 per person; the remaining balance can be paid online or at our office in Cusco with any credit card.
Student Discount:
- 30$ off per person
All travelers under 17 have a $30 discount. If you are 25 years old or under when traveling, you can get the discount with your Student ID. Please send us an email to receive a code for the discount.
Valid Student ID
To get the student discount, travelers should have a Valid ID with the following:
- 25 years or less at the time of entering Machu Picchu. Older than 25 can not enter as a student
- The ID must have the Name of the university, name, and photo of the student
- The ID must have a valid expiration date
Invalid Student IDs
Student IDs are not eligible for a discount when:
- Traveler is older than 25
- Expired ID
- Student ID without expiration date
- ISIC cards are not valid.
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Maras Moray and Machu Picchu tour packing list
If you plan on taking a tour of Maras Moray and Machu Picchu, you'll want to ensure you bring the right gear and clothing to stay comfortable and safe throughout your trip. Here are some packing essentials you might want to consider:
- Comfortable walking shoes: You'll be doing a lot of walking and hiking, so it's important to wear sturdy, comfortable shoes that provide good support.
- Sunscreen and sunglasses: The sun can be intense at high altitudes, so make sure you pack plenty of sunscreen and sunglasses to protect your skin and eyes.
- Warm clothing: Even if you're visiting during the summer months, temperatures can drop significantly in the evenings and at high altitudes, so bring warm layers like a jacket, sweater, and long pants.
- Rain gear: Machu Picchu and the surrounding areas can be prone to sudden rain showers, so be sure to pack a waterproof jacket and/or poncho.
- Daypack: You'll want to bring a small daypack to carry your water, snacks, camera, and other essentials during your hikes and tours.
- Water bottle: Staying hydrated is crucial at high altitudes, so bring a refillable water bottle that you can fill up throughout the day.
- Insect repellent: Mosquitoes and other insects can be present in certain areas, so bring insect repellent to keep them at bay.
- Cash: You'll want to have cash and/or a credit card on hand for souvenirs, snacks, and other expenses during your trip.
- Camera or smartphone: You'll want to capture stunning landscapes and historical sites, so don't forget to bring a camera or smartphone with plenty of storage space.
- Personal medication: If you have any personal medication, make sure you bring it with you and keep it easily accessible during your trip.
Remember to check the weather forecast before your trip and adjust your packing list accordingly. With the right gear and clothing, you'll be prepared for an unforgettable Maras Moray and Machu Picchu tour.
Places we visit during the Maras Moray Machu Picchu tour:
Chinchero (Land of Great Weavers)
Chinchero is a small Andean village and archaeological site located in the Sacred Valley of the Incas, about 30 kilometers (18.6 miles) northwest of Cusco in southern Peru. Sitting at an altitude of around 3,800 meters (12,467 feet) above sea level, Chinchero offers stunning views of the surrounding Andean mountains and the valley below.
The village is known for its well-preserved Inca ruins, including agricultural terraces, walls, and buildings. One of the most notable features of Chinchero is the colonial church built on the foundations of an Inca temple. The church, known as the Church of Our Lady of Montserrat, dates back to the early 17th century and showcases a unique blend of Inca and Spanish colonial architecture. Inside, the church is adorned with beautiful frescoes and intricate wood carvings.
Chinchero is also famous for its traditional textile production, which has been passed down through generations. The village is home to several weaving cooperatives where visitors can observe the process of spinning, dyeing, and weaving alpaca and sheep wool into exquisite textiles. The vibrant colors and intricate
Moray (Greenhouses)
Moray is a unique archaeological site located in the upper part of the Sacred Valley of the Incas, near the town of Maras. They are believed to have been constructed by the Inca civilization and consist of several large, circular terraces carved into the land's natural contours.
The terraces at Moray resemble an amphitheater or set of concentric circles, with each terrace level descending deeper into the ground. Some theories suggest that these terraces were used as agricultural research stations. Each level represents a different microclimate, allowing the Incas to experiment with various crops and growing conditions.
The sophisticated drainage and irrigation systems built into the terraces are indicative of the advanced engineering skills possessed by the Inca civilization. Some believe that the Moray terraces also served a spiritual or ceremonial purpose. However, the exact function of the site remains a subject of ongoing research and debate among archaeologists and historians.
The Moray terraces are a popular tourist destination in Peru and provide a fascinating insight into the agricultural and engineering prowess of the Inca civilization.
Maras Village
Maras is a small village located in the Sacred Valley of the Incas in the Cusco region of Peru. It is situated at an altitude of about 3,380 meters (11,090 feet) above sea level and is approximately 40 kilometers (25 miles) northwest of the city of Cusco. The village is known for its picturesque setting, with stunning views of the surrounding Andean mountains and the Urubamba Valley below.
Maras is primarily famous for its proximity to two significant archaeological sites: the Moray terraces and the Salineras de Maras (Maras Salt Mines). These sites attract many tourists who visit the area to learn about the Inca civilization's agricultural and salt mining practices and enjoy the breathtaking landscape.
The village itself has a relaxed atmosphere and offers basic amenities, such as restaurants, small shops, and accommodations for visitors. Many tourists choose to visit Maras as part of a day trip or guided tour from Cusco or the nearby town of Urubamba.
While Maras is not as well-known as other destinations in the Sacred Valley, such as Ollantaytambo or Pis
Salt mines (Salineras)
The Salineras de Maras, or Maras Salt Mines, is another fascinating archaeological site located in the Sacred Valley of the Incas, close to the town of Maras in the Cusco region of Peru. Unlike the Moray terraces, which are believed to have been used for agricultural purposes, the Salineras de Maras have been used for salt extraction for centuries, possibly dating back to pre-Inca times.
The salt mines consist of thousands of small, shallow pools or ponds that are terraced along the hillside. The pools are fed by a natural spring, which contains salt-rich water. As the water evaporates from the pools, the salt crystals are left behind, allowing for easy harvesting. The salt is then collected, processed, and sold in local markets or used for various purposes, such as cooking, preserving food, or even for medicinal purposes.
The Salineras de Maras are still in operation today, and the ancient techniques for salt extraction continue to be used by local families who have inherited the rights to the pools. The site has become a popular tourist attraction, offering visitors a chance to learn about traditional salt mining
Ollantaytambo (Last living Inca Citadel)
Ollantaytambo is a town and an important archaeological site located in the Sacred Valley of the Incas, in the Cusco region of Peru. The town, which lies approximately 60 kilometers (37 miles) northwest of Cusco, was once a strategic military, agricultural, and administrative center for the Inca Empire.
The name "Ollantaytambo" is derived from the Quechua words "Ollanta," which is the name of an Inca general, and "Tambo," which means resting place or lodging. The town is known for its well-preserved Inca architecture, with narrow cobblestone streets, houses with trapezoidal doorways, and an ancient irrigation system that still functions today.
The archaeological site of Ollantaytambo is situated on a hill overlooking the town and features several significant structures, including:
- The Temple of the Sun: A partially constructed temple made of massive, finely cut stones that were meticulously fitted together without mortar. The temple is believed to have been dedicated to the Inca sun god, Inti.
- The Terraces: A series of agricultural terraces built into the steep hillside, which served as both farmland and a defensive structure.
- The Storehouses: Stone buildings situated on the hillside opposite the main site, which were used for storing food and other supplies.
- The Royal Quarters: A complex of buildings that likely served as living quarters for Inca nobility.
Ollantaytambo is also famous as a starting point for the Inca Trail, a popular hiking route that leads to the iconic ancient city of Machu
Maras Moray Machu Picchu tour Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best time to visit Maras Moray and Machu Picchu?
The best time to visit Maras Moray and Machu Picchu is during the dry season, which is from May to October. However, it's important to note that these sites can be visited year-round.
Do I need a guide to visit Maras Moray and Machu Picchu?
Yes, a licensed tour guide is required to visit Machu Picchu and Maras Moray. A guide can provide valuable insights and historical information about these sites.
How difficult is the hike to Machu Picchu?
The hike to Machu Picchu can vary depending on the route you take. The most popular route, the Inca Trail, is a moderate to difficult hike that can take up to four days to complete. However, there are also less challenging options, such as taking the train or bus to the site.
Can I visit Maras Moray and Machu Picchu in one day?
It's possible to visit both Maras Moray and Machu Picchu in one day, but it's not recommended as it can be rushed and tiring. It's better to take at least two days to fully appreciate and enjoy these sites.
What should I wear to visit Maras Moray and Machu Picchu?
Wear comfortable and breathable clothing suitable for the climate, and wear sturdy hiking shoes with good grip. It's also recommended to bring a rain jacket and layers as the weather can be unpredictable.
Is there a limit to the number of visitors allowed at Machu Picchu?
Yes, the number of visitors allowed at Machu Picchu is limited to 2,500 per day. It's recommended that you book your tickets in advance to ensure availability.