From Cusco: Maras Moray by bicycle

Exploring Cusco’s Hidden Corners by Bicycle: Moray and Maras

This 8-hour guided bike tour from Cusco takes you on a memorable journey through some of the region’s most iconic sights—Moray’s circular terraces and the salt mines of Maras. Priced at $159 per person, it’s an active way to break away from the usual tourist crowds and see landscapes that feel almost untouched. The tour departs early, giving us time to enjoy the fresh air and stunning views before the day heats up.

What we love about this experience is how accessible it makes two remarkable archaeological and natural sites. The incredible terraces of Moray, which served as an agricultural experiment station for the Incas, are both awe-inspiring and educational. Plus, the salt mines of Maras with their thousands of crystallized salt pans are still in operation today and offer a fascinating glimpse into traditional salt harvesting. Another highlight is exploring the small local villages along the way, offering a taste of rural life in the Sacred Valley.

One thing to consider is that the tour involves about 2 hours of cycling, so it’s best suited for those comfortable on a bike. Also, entrance fees to the sites (70 soles for Moray, 10 soles for the salt mines) are not included, so you’ll want to budget for that. This tour is perfect for active travelers craving a deeper, more authentic connection with the region’s history and landscapes—especially if you love combining physical activity with cultural insights.

Key Points

• Active exploration: Cycling for about 2 hours through scenic landscapes offers a more intimate experience.
• Historical sites: Moray’s terraced circles and the salt mines reveal ancient Inca ingenuity.
• Authentic encounters: You’ll visit small villages, gaining insight into local life.
• Early start: Departing at 7:00 am maximizes your day and avoids crowds.
• Included gear: Helmets, gloves, and bikes are provided, making it accessible even if you’re not a seasoned cyclist.
• Flexible cancellation: Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering peace of mind.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Closer Look at the Maras Moray Bicycle Tour

Starting the Adventure: From Cusco to Chinchero

The day begins early — your guide arrives promptly to pick you up from your hotel, a thoughtful touch that takes the hassle out of logistics. The ride to Chinchero (or Cruz Pata, depending on your route) is a scenic drive that sets the tone for the day ahead. En route, you’ll quickly realize how much the Sacred Valley’s landscape changes with each mile, from terraced fields to rugged mountains.

Once we arrive at Chinchero, the process of gearing up begins. The tour operator provides the mountain bikes, helmets, and gloves, so you’re all set for the ride. The staff is friendly and attentive, making sure everyone feels comfortable and safe before hitting the trail.

Pedaling Through Moray’s Circular Terraces

The highlight of the day is reaching Moray, an agricultural marvel. The Inca terraces are a series of concentric circles carved into the earth, creating a natural amphitheater. It’s easy to feel like you’ve stepped into a giant, ancient science experiment. Our guide explained that Moray was likely used as an experimental farm, where different crops and microclimates were tested.

The topography here is extraordinary—those terraces are set into a depression, which allowed for unique irrigation and temperature management. The view from the terraces looks out over the Sacred Valley, offering a perfect blend of history and scenery. We loved the way the terraces seem to stretch endlessly, each level revealing a different perspective on Incan ingenuity.

Riding to Maras: Salt Pans and Local Life

From Moray, it’s on the bikes again, heading toward the salt mines of Maras. This part of the ride offers an excellent chance to enjoy the local countryside and watch traditional salt harvesting in action. The salt pans are a shimmering mosaic of thousands of small, rectangular pools, each filled with salty water evaporating under the sun.

Here, you can observe how salt and minerals have been collected since Inca times, a practice still alive today. The process is simple but fascinating: the salt water is channeled into the pools, and the salt crystals form naturally as the water evaporates. It’s a tangible link to the region’s living traditions and a reminder of how resourceful the Incas and their descendants are.

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Alternative Perspectives and Authentic Encounters

Many travelers noted how much they appreciated the chance to interact with local people. The small villages along the route give a glimpse of rural life, with children waving from roadside farms and locals tending their fields. This adds depth to the experience beyond just sightseeing.

Logistics and Practicalities

The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, which is a huge convenience. The group size tends to be manageable, allowing for a more personalized experience. The total duration is about 8 hours, including transportation, site visits, and cycling.

Since the entrance fees (70 soles for Moray and 10 soles for the salt mines) are not included, it’s wise to carry cash. Also, as meals and drinks are extra, packing a snack or water bottle is recommended, especially since it’s a full day of activity.

What Others Say

Reviews frequently mention the professional guidance and how the cycling was “just right” for most skill levels. One traveler said, “We loved the way the guide explained the history while we pedaled through the landscape.” Others appreciated the early start, noting it helped beat the crowds and made for a more peaceful experience.

A few pointed out that the cycling can be a bit challenging on uneven terrain, so those with balance issues or physical limitations should consider this. But most found the pace manageable, thanks to the guide’s support and the well-maintained bikes.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is ideal for active travelers who want to combine physical activity with cultural and scenic exploration. It’s perfect if you enjoy cycling, have a decent fitness level, and are eager to see parts of the Sacred Valley that are less crowded. The inclusion of small villages and traditional practices makes this a genuine insight into local life, not just a sightseeing bus route.

It might not be the best fit if you prefer a more relaxed, less physically demanding day, or if you’re on a tight budget, given the additional site fees and optional meals. But if you’re looking for a balanced mix of adventure, history, and authentic rural scenery, this tour delivers.

Final Thoughts

This bike tour from Cusco to Moray and Maras offers a fantastic way to see some of the region’s most remarkable sights while staying active. You’ll get a good dose of Inca engineering ingenuity, combined with natural beauty and cultural authenticity. The early start and full-day schedule mean you’ll maximize your time, and the inclusion of gear, transport, and guides makes it a hassle-free way to explore.

The experience strikes a balance between adventure and learning, making it appealing for travelers who want more than just sightseeing—those keen on connecting with the landscape and local traditions.

For anyone craving a blend of history, nature, and physical activity in a manageable, well-organized package, this tour offers excellent value. It’s especially suited for travelers comfortable on a bike, eager to discover off-the-beaten-path sights, and looking for an engaging, full-day experience in the Sacred Valley.

FAQ

Is the cycling difficulty suitable for all skill levels?
The tour involves about 2 hours of cycling over varied terrain. While most find the pace manageable, those with balance issues or limited fitness should consider their comfort level before booking.

Are helmets and gloves provided?
Yes, the tour includes mountain bikes, helmets, and gloves, ensuring safety and comfort during the ride.

How much do the site entrance fees cost?
Entrance to Moray costs 70 soles, and the salt mines are 10 soles. These are not included in the tour price and should be purchased separately.

What should I bring for the day?
Bring cash for entrance fees, a water bottle, snacks, sunscreen, and sunglasses. Pack light but be prepared for a full day outdoors.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility if your schedule shifts.

Is transportation included?
Yes, hotel pickup and drop-off are part of the package, simplifying logistics and saving time.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby