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 buses 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 hours 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 panoramic Vistadome 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
• Panoramic train to return (Vistadome or 360)

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.

Maras Moray and Machu Picchu tour price

Price per person:  

Book Now

• 520.USD per person for adults
• 480.USD per person for children & students
• 650.USD per person for a private tour
• 4+ Travelers, contact us to get a special quotation.

To book the Maras Moray and Machu Picchu Tour, you need to make an initial payment of 200.USD per person, the remaining balance can be paid online, in installments, or Cusco with any credit card at no booking fees at all.

Student Discount:

• 40$ off per person

All travelers under 17 will have a $40 discount.

If you are 25 years old or under when traveling, you can get a 40$ discount with your student ID. Please advise by email to give you 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. 

​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​

Similar tours you might be interested in:

• Sacred Valley + Machu Picchu Tour
• Rainbow Mountain & Red Valley hike 
• Humantay Lake from Cusco
• Classic Inca Trail 4 days
• Short Inca Trail 2 days

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, are 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, it's required to have a licensed guide to visit Machu Picchu, and it's recommended to have one for Maras Moray as well. 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, there is a daily limit to the number of visitors allowed at Machu Picchu, which is currently 2,500 people per day. It's recommended to book your tickets in advance to ensure availability.