Maras Moray (Day Trip)

If you’re visiting Cusco and want a taste of the Inca landscape firsthand, a day trip to Maras and Moray should be right at the top of your list. For just $16 per person, this approximately 6.5-hour adventure takes you through two of the Sacred Valley’s most captivating archaeological sites, with the added bonus of a small-group setting—max 15 travelers—that ensures more personalized attention.

We loved the way this tour combines history, nature, and local craftsmanship into a manageable day. The salt ponds at Maras are mesmerizing, with their thousands of shallow pools carved into the mountainside, a sight that feels straight out of a fantasy. Moray’s circular agricultural terraces, with their otherworldly symmetry, give you a tangible peek into Inca ingenuity. Another highlight is the hassle-free hotel pickup and drop-off directly in Cusco, which saves you time and effort.

A small caveat: the entrance fees are not included in the tour price, and tickets can be a bit tricky to organize on your own if you’re on a tight schedule. If you’re keen on exploring these sites at your own pace, you’ll need to budget for the entrance cost—70 Soles for the partial ticket or 130 Soles for the full ticket.

This tour is perfect if you’re looking for an affordable, well-organized way to see two iconic Incan sites with a knowledgeable guide who brings history to life. It suits travelers who appreciate a personalized experience and want to avoid the hassle of planning transportation and logistics on their own.

Key Points

• Authentic Inca Sites: Visit the salt terraces of Maras and the circular agricultural terraces of Moray.
• Small-Group Experience: With a maximum of 15 travelers, expect a more intimate and engaging tour.
• Hassle-Free Transportation: Includes hotel pickup and drop-off in Cusco, allowing you to relax and enjoy the scenery.
• Expert Guide: Guides are bi-lingual and highly knowledgeable, making the history accessible and fun.
• Affordable Price: At just $16, this tour offers excellent value for two significant archaeological sites.
• Entrance Fees Not Included: Budget for tickets, which are around 70-130 Soles, depending on the ticket type.

A Closer Look at the Itinerary and Experience

Starting Out: The Comfort of Cusco’s Hotel Pickup

We appreciated how the tour begins promptly at 8:30 am with hotel pickup in Cusco. This convenience means no stress about navigating public transport or taxis, especially if you’re new to the city. The transport is comfortable and reliable, setting a good tone for the day.

First Stop: Maras Salt Ponds

Our first visit was to Maras, a site with over 3,600 salt wells carved into the mountainside. The salt pans are still operational, with the process being remarkably consistent with what the Incas used over 500 years ago. As our guide explained, the salt water fills these shallow pools, which then evaporate, leaving behind crystallized salt. It’s fascinating to think that this traditional activity continues today, blending history with ongoing livelihoods.

A highlight here is the visual impact—the shimmering pools spread across terraced levels, creating a patchwork of whites and grays that look surreal against the mountain backdrop. As one reviewer put it, “the salt pans are an incredible sight, and it’s amazing to think this has been going on for centuries.”

Next Stop: Moray Agricultural Terraces

About 4.5 miles from Maras, we arrived at Moray, a site often described as an “Inca experiment in agriculture.” The circular terraces descend in concentric rings, each with different microclimates that the Incas used to test crop adaptation. The symmetry and engineering of these terraces are impressive—today, they feel almost like a natural amphitheater carved into the land.

Our guide was excellent at describing how these terraces weren’t just beautiful—they served a practical purpose, allowing Incas to experiment with different crops and growing conditions. We loved the way this site makes you pause and reflect on Inca innovation.

What Travelers Say

According to reviews, visitors find the guides informative and friendly. One reviewer mentioned, “Karen was very helpful and informative, which helped me organize and plan things seamlessly,” highlighting how personalized attention can elevate the experience. Another praised the top-class guide service that made the tour memorable.

Additional Considerations

While the tour covers two superb sites, the entrance fees are separate—you’ll pay around 70 Soles for a two-day valid ticket or 130 Soles for a 10-day ticket. You might find this to be a small inconvenience, but it’s a minor detail considering the overall value and the ease of the tour.

Final Thoughts

This day trip is an excellent choice for travelers who want to see iconic Inca sites without breaking the bank or spending a whole day in transit. The combination of historical significance, scenic beauty, and local craftsmanship makes it a memorable outing. The small-group format ensures you get more personalized insights, and the logistics are handled smoothly.

It’s especially suitable for those who prefer a guided experience and want to enrich their understanding of Inca ingenuity, all while enjoying the comfort of organized transportation. If you’re a history enthusiast, a curious traveler, or someone simply eager to see the Sacred Valley’s highlights, this tour hits the sweet spot between value and authenticity.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This trip is perfect if you’re seeking a cost-effective, guided visit to the salt terraces and Moray’s terraces, especially if you appreciate small-group intimacy. It’s ideal for those who want to avoid the hassle of organizing transport and tickets themselves, and who value a local guide who can bring the sites alive.

Travelers who are short on time but want a meaningful glimpse into Inca culture will find this trip rewarding. It’s also suitable for those on a budget, since the overall cost is quite reasonable considering the sites visited and the included services.

Frequently Asked Questions

• What is included in the tour price?
  The tour includes transport and a bi-lingual guide. Entrance fees are not included, so you’ll need to budget for those separately.

• How much are the entrance tickets?
  Entrance tickets are around 70 Soles for a 2-day valid ticket or 130 Soles for a 10-day ticket.

• What is the tour duration?
  The entire experience lasts about 6 hours and 30 minutes, including travel time, sightseeing, and breaks.

• Can I participate if I have mobility issues?
  The sites involve some walking and uneven terrain, especially at Moray and Maras, so consider your comfort level before booking.

• Is this tour suitable for children?
  Yes, most travelers find children enjoy the sites, but be aware of walking distances and the need for supervision.

• Are meals included?
  No, meals are not included. However, there will be opportunities to purchase snacks or lunch along the way.

• What should I bring?
  Bring comfortable walking shoes, sun protection, water, and some cash for entrance fees and souvenirs.

Final Word

The Maras Moray day trip offers a crisp and compelling window into Inca ingenuity and local traditions. It’s a smart choice for travelers who want a meaningful, well-organized tour that won’t strain your budget. With knowledgeable guides, hassle-free logistics, and sites that truly inspire, this tour delivers more than just a snapshot—it’s a chance to connect with the heart of the Sacred Valley.

Whether you’re a history buff or simply curious about Peru’s ancient civilizations, you’ll come away with a deeper appreciation of Inca mastery and the vibrant local culture that keeps these sites alive today.