Salt Mines(Maras),Moray and Chincheros

Exploring Cusco’s Hidden Treasures: A Deep Dive into Salt Mines, Moray, and Chincheros

If you’re looking to step beyond the typical tourist trail around Cusco, this private tour offers a well-rounded experience of some of the region’s most fascinating and lesser-known sites. For $70 per person, you’ll spend roughly 6 to 7 hours exploring Salt Mines of Maras, the archaeological site of Chinchero, the agricultural terraces of Moray, and the salt pans of Maras. Led by knowledgeable guides, this tour combines history, culture, and stunning scenery — all in a comfortable, private setting.

What we really love about this experience is the ability to go at your own pace, especially at sites like Maras and Moray, where the expansive views and intricate terraces speak for themselves. Plus, the inclusion of free transportation and insightful commentary makes the price seem like a great deal for the value and depth of the experience.

One thing to consider is that entrance fees are not included in the tour price, so you’ll need to budget separately — a detail that’s important for planning your day. This tour is best suited for travelers who love authentic encounters, appreciate knowledgeable guides, and want to see sites most travelers miss — especially if you’re keen on understanding Inca farming techniques and local salt production.

Key Points

• Private, personalized experience with flexible pacing and in-depth explanations
• Visiting lesser-known sites like Chinchero, Moray, and the salt mines, away from large crowds
• All-inclusive transportation ensures comfort and convenience
• Expert guides provide detailed commentary and capture great photos
• Good value for the diverse sites visited and the duration
• Not including entrance fees means a little extra budget planning

A Complete Look at the Cusco Private Tour: Salt Mines, Moray, and Chincheros

When we think about Cusco, images of Machu Picchu and the Sacred Valley often come to mind. But this tour offers a compelling look at some of the area’s more intimate and intriguing sites. It’s perfect if you’re hungry for a fuller picture of Inca ingenuity and local traditions, all while enjoying personalized service.

The Itinerary Breakdown

Start at Mercado de Artesanías
Your day begins with a visit to a lively artisan market, where the focus is on handmade wool products. Expect to see local artisans working with alpaca wool, and you’ll have some free time to browse or purchase souvenirs. This is a great opportunity to see the craftsmanship that keeps local traditions alive and supports the community. A reviewer highlights its uniqueness, noting, “products in alpaca wool handmade by local people.”

Next stop: Chinchero Archaeological Site
Chinchero is often overshadowed by more popular sites, but it’s a treasure trove of history. Here, you’ll find the ruins of a 15th-century palace of the Inca ruler Pachacuteq, along with a village that illustrates Andean trading practices. The site also offers a peek into colonial history, with remnants of a colonial church. One traveler mentioned that “most travelers miss this place,” making it a special stop for those seeking authentic experiences.

Then, on to Moray
Known as an agricultural laboratory, Moray features a series of terraced circles carved into the mountain. These terraces served as experimental farms where Incas cultivated crops in different microclimates. The view of the concentric terraces descending into the green valley is quite striking. Visitors like us appreciate the opportunity to understand Inca farming techniques and see how they adapted to their environment. One review describes Moray as “the edification of terraces is the main attraction,” emphasizing its educational value.

Finally, the salt pans of Maras
The highlight for many is the salt mines of Maras, a functioning Inca site where salt is still harvested today. The salt pans shimmer in the sunlight, creating a surreal landscape. Watching local workers extract salt using centuries-old methods provides a tangible connection to Inca ingenuity. The site is open for about an hour, and best of all, there’s no entrance fee, which adds to its appeal.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

Personalized Service
This is a private tour, meaning your group can ask questions freely and move at your own pace. One review mentions, “Franco was a great guide, very responsive, and knowledgeable,” which underscores how the guiding aspect enhances the experience.

Authentic, Off-the-Beaten-Path Sites
Visiting Chinchero and Moray, away from the crowds, offers a more personal connection with history and landscape. The salt mines are still actively used by locals, which adds a layer of authenticity many travelers miss.

Comfort and Convenience
All transportation is included, ensuring you avoid the hassle of navigating local buses or taxis. Pick-up is available from your accommodation, making the day smooth from start to finish.

The Downside?

While the tour price is competitive, entrance fees are not included, so budget for those. Also, the tour operates within a specific timeframe (7:00 AM to 3:00 PM Monday through Thursday), so plan accordingly.

Who Will Love This Tour?

If you’re a curious traveler eager to see places most visitors overlook, this tour is perfect. It’s especially suited for those who enjoy learning from guides, taking photos, and understanding local traditions firsthand. Families, solo travelers, and small groups will all find value in the personalized attention.

Why This Tour Offers Excellent Value

The price of $70 includes transportation and a dedicated guide, which significantly enhances the experience. Entrance fees are extra but are minimal compared to the overall value of seeing these significant sites comfortably and privately. For many travelers, the opportunity to avoid large crowds and enjoy the site at their own pace makes this a worthwhile investment.

On top of that, reviews repeatedly praise the guides’ knowledge and friendliness. It’s clear that the guides aren’t just narrating facts—they’re passionate about sharing their culture and history, which elevates the trip from a simple sightseeing day to a memorable educational experience.

How to Prepare for Your Day

To make the most of this tour, wear comfortable walking shoes, bring sunscreen and water, and prepare for variable weather, especially at Moray and Maras. Since entrance tickets are not included, carry some cash or cards for those costs. And if you’re a photographer, the early morning or late afternoon light offers particularly stunning views.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour Right for You?

This private tour from Cusco is a perfect choice for travelers seeking a balanced mix of culture, history, and striking scenery, away from bustling crowds. It’s especially fitting if you want a tailored experience with insightful guides, comfortable transportation, and visits to sites most travelers don’t prioritize.

If you’re interested in Inca engineering, ancient salt production, or local crafts, you’ll find this day enriching and well-spent. It’s also a smart way to get a rundown of the region’s diverse highlights without feeling rushed or overwhelmed.

In short, this tour offers authenticity, comfort, and value—a solid choice for those looking to deepen their understanding of Inca ingenuity and Peruvian traditions.

FAQ

Are entrance fees included in the tour price?
No, the tour price does not include entrance fees for the sites. You’ll need to purchase those separately.

What’s the duration of the tour?
It lasts approximately 6 to 7 hours, starting around 7:00 AM and ending back at the meeting point around 3:00 PM.

Is this a group or private experience?
This is a private tour, so only your group will participate, allowing for personalized attention and a flexible schedule.

What sites will I visit?
You’ll visit the artisan market, Chinchero archaeological site, Moray terraces, and the salt mines of Maras.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, sun protection, water, and cash or cards for entrance fees. A camera for the stunning views is highly recommended.

Is pick-up offered?
Yes, transportation and pick-up from your Cusco lodging are included, making the day hassle-free.

How far in advance should I book?
Most travelers book about 38 days ahead, indicating high demand and a need to plan early.

This tour combines cultural insight with striking landscapes, making it an excellent choice for those eager to explore beyond the usual. It’s a real window into the skill and ingenuity of the Inca, all delivered with personal care and authentic charm.