Cusco: Moray, Maras Salt Mines, and Chinchero Weavers Tour offers travelers a taste of the Sacred Valley’s lesser-known wonders, all for just $16 per person. This half-day trip typically lasts around six hours, making it an ideal choice if you’re short on time but eager to see some authentic Andean sites. Your journey begins with a hotel pickup in Cusco, followed by visits to Chinchero, Moray, Maras, and the famous salt pools—each spot packed with history and local charm.
What we love about this tour is how accessible and authentic it feels. We appreciated the chance to see the ancient Inca terraces at Moray, where crops and farming techniques were once tested at high elevations. Another highlight is the colorful salt pools in Maras, which have been producing salt since pre-Inca times. Plus, the visit to Chinchero’s weaving workshop offers a genuine look at traditional textile arts still practiced by local artisans today.
A potential drawback is the price of entrance fees—$19 for the archaeological sites and $6 for the salt mines—added on top of the tour cost. These are quite standard for the region but do add to your overall expense. Also, the tour’s success hinges on your guide, so if guides are not well-informed or personable, that could impact your experience. This tour is best suited for travelers who value scenic views and local craftsmanship over extensive archaeological exploration, especially if you prefer a relaxed, small-group setting.
If you’re after a taste of real Andean culture, some stunning vistas, and a chance to connect with artisans and farmers, this tour will serve you well. It’s especially good if you want a straightforward, budget-friendly way to tick off some of the Sacred Valley’s highlights without the hassle of a full-day tour.
Key Points
- Authentic experiences at Moray and the salt pools, with opportunities to learn about traditional farming and salt extraction.
- Affordable price point at just $16, with entrance fees paid separately.
- Small group size ensures a more personal experience, with a bilingual guide helping you understand the significance of each site.
- Beautiful scenery and views along the drive, giving you a taste of the Sacred Valley’s stunning landscapes.
- Visiting Chinchero’s weaving workshop provides insight into local textile traditions still alive today.
- Potential for variability in guide quality, as some reviews mention inaccuracies or less engaging commentary.
An In-Depth Look at the Experience
Planning more time in Chinchero? We've covered other experiences worth considering.
Starting Point and Transportation
The tour kicks off with hotel pickup in Cusco, which simplifies logistics and saves you time. Once you’re on the bus or coach, you’ll enjoy a roughly 50-minute ride to Chinchero. During this drive, you’ll get glimpses of the lush farmland and mountains that frame the Sacred Valley—perfect for snapping photos or simply soaking in the scenery.
Chinchero: Textile Traditions and Colonial Charm
The first stop is Chinchero, perched at 3,762 meters (around 12,350 feet). This vibrant Andean town is known for its lively market and traditional weaving workshops. Here, you’ll visit a weaving workshop where local artisans demonstrate their craft. You’ll see how they extract natural dyes from plants—a process that’s been handed down for generations—and how they weave intricate patterns on traditional looms.
This part of the tour offers a chance to see authentic textile arts in action and perhaps buy a handmade souvenir. The guide’s commentary is generally knowledgeable, although some reviews mention inaccuracies. Still, the chance to observe artisans working and learn about their traditions makes this segment worthwhile for those interested in local culture.
Moray: The Inca Agricultural Laboratory
Next, you’ll head to Moray, set at 3,450 meters (about 11,318 feet). This site is famed for its remarkable circular terraces, which look like giant amphitheaters carved into the earth. These terraces were used by the Incas to experiment with different crops at various elevations—an ancient agricultural research station.
We loved the way Moray’s terraces are arranged in concentric circles, offering a visual feast of agricultural ingenuity. The site’s design also creates stunning scenic views of the surrounding mountains and farmland. A guided tour here helps you understand how Moray functioned as a hub of crop experimentation, which was vital for Inca agriculture and food security.
More Great Tours NearbyMaras Salt Mines: A Historic Salt Production Site
After Moray, the tour proceeds to Maras, a small village famous for its 3,000 tiny salt pools. These pools have been used since pre-Inca times, and the process of collecting salt from mineral-rich springs remains largely unchanged.
Walking among these shimmering pools, you’ll appreciate the historic significance and breathtaking landscape. It’s easy to see why this site is a favorite for photographers—each pool’s bright white salt contrasts beautifully with the terraced hillsides. The salt is still harvested today, and you’ll learn how local families have maintained this tradition across generations.
Practical Tips and Considerations
Entrance fees for the archaeological sites ($19) and salt mines ($6) are paid separately and are not included in the $16 ticket price. We recommend carrying cash in soles or USD to cover these costs.
Timing is flexible but expect about 40 minutes at each site, giving enough time for photos, short walks, and guided explanations. The total duration with transportation is around six hours, including hotel pickup and drop-off at Plaza Regocijo—a lively square in Cusco.
The Guide Experience
The quality of your guide can significantly influence your enjoyment. Some reviews praise guides for their knowledge and care, mentioning that they took good care of the group. Others, however, report inaccuracies and repetitive commentary. To make the most of the tour, arrive with a curious mind and a critical ear.
Who Should Take This Tour?
This tour is perfect for travelers seeking an affordable, efficient introduction to some of the Sacred Valley’s less-frequented sites. If you love scenic landscapes, traditional crafts, and historic salt production, you’ll find plenty to enjoy here. It’s also ideal for those who prefer a small-group setting and want to avoid overly commercialized experiences.
However, if you’re after extensive archaeological exploration or guided commentary that’s deeply accurate and detailed, you might want a tour with a different focus or a more knowledgeable guide. Also, be prepared for some site entrance fees and the need for cash.
Final Thoughts
This Cusco tour offers good value, especially for budget travelers interested in the less touristy sides of the Sacred Valley. The chance to see Moray’s terraces, walk through salt pools, and observe local weaving traditions provides a well-rounded snapshot of Andean life and history.
While it’s not a comprehensive archaeological tour, it balances scenic beauty with cultural insights, making it a solid choice for those short on time or seeking a relaxed, authentic experience. Expect beautiful vistas, genuine artisan demonstrations, and a taste of rural mountain life—all for a modest price.
If your goal is to see some of the Sacred Valley’s best-kept secrets and support small-scale local industries, this tour could be just what you’re looking for.
FAQs
What is the duration of the tour?
The entire experience lasts around six hours, including hotel pickup and drop-off.
How much does the entrance to the sites cost?
Entrance fees are $19 for the archaeological sites and $6 for the salt mines, paid separately from the tour price.
Is this a private tour?
It can be, if you select the private option. Otherwise, it’s a small group tour limited to 12 participants.
What should I bring?
Bring your passport, comfortable shoes, sun hat, camera, sunscreen, and cash for entrance fees and souvenirs.
What languages are available for the tour?
The tour is offered in English and Spanish, with a bilingual guide.
Will I see the traditional weaving process?
Yes, you’ll visit a weaving workshop and observe artisans using natural plants for dyes.
Can I buy souvenirs?
Yes, there are opportunities to purchase textiles and other crafts at the weaving workshop and possibly at other stops.
Is transportation comfortable?
The tour uses a bus or coach, with scenic views along the way, making for a pleasant ride.
What if I want to cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, making this a flexible option.
In the end, this tour offers a practical way to connect with the heart of the Sacred Valley—its landscapes, its traditions, and its history—without breaking the bank. It’s especially suited to travelers who cherish authentic local experiences and scenic beauty over exhaustive site visits.
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