Take Your Sweet Selfie With Baby Alpacas – Half Day Tour Moray & The Salt Mines

Experience the Charm of Cusco’s Incan Heritage on a Half-Day Tour of Chinchero, Moray, and the Salt Mines

This half-day tour offers a well-rounded glimpse of some of Cusco’s most captivating archaeological and natural sights. For $87.17 per person, you’ll explore Chinchero’s well-preserved Inca walls and colonial church, walk through the fascinating Moray terraces used for agricultural experiments, and marvel at Maras Salt Mines’ thousands of salt pools carved into the mountainside. Typically booked 47 days in advance, this tour lasts around 6 to 8 hours — enough time to enjoy each site without feeling rushed.

What we especially like about this experience is the balance between culture and scenic beauty. First, the visit to Chinchero offers a peek into traditional weaving arts and a chance to see Inca stonework integrated into colonial architecture. Second, the Maras Salt Mines provide a surreal landscape of thousands of salt pools, giving you a real sense of local ingenuity.

One potential drawback is that admission tickets for the archaeological sites are not included, so you’ll need to budget for those separately. Plus, while the tour is primarily focused on history and landscape, those seeking a more in-depth exploration of each site might find the 1-2 hours allocated somewhat brief.

This tour is best suited for travelers who want a quick but meaningful look at Cusco’s ancient and natural marvels, especially if you enjoy scenic drives, light walking, and authentic cultural insights.

Key Points

• Well-rounded experience: Combines archaeological sites, traditional villages, and stunning landscapes.
• Authentic cultural encounters: Learn about Andean weaving traditions and explore well-preserved Inca walls.
• Spectacular scenery: Marvel at the terraces of Moray and thousands of salt pools at Maras.
• Flexible and private: Private transportation and a knowledgeable guide make for a comfortable, personalized day.
• Additional costs: Entrance fees for sites are not included and should be budgeted separately.
• Ideal for: Travelers with limited time who want a taste of Cusco’s history and natural beauty.

In-Depth Review: A Closer Look at the Experience

Starting with Chinchero: A Blend of Past and Present

Your day begins with the drive to Chinchero, a charming Andean village known for its weaving craft and Inca ruins. The main square, where Inca walls remain remarkably intact, immediately transports you back hundreds of years. These walls, built with precisely cut stones, show the skill and resilience of Inca masonry. Equally compelling are the altars aligned to the four cardinal points, reflecting the Inca’s sophisticated spiritual and astronomical knowledge.

A highlight here is visiting the colonial church, which features artwork that uniquely blends Inca and Spanish influences. You’ll also get a chance to see local weavers demonstrating traditional techniques, continuing practices that predate the Incas by centuries. One reviewer noted, “A fortaleza de Chincheros… ruins where the Spaniards built a cathedral using Inca stones,” highlighting the layered history present at the site.

Moray: An Agricultural Laboratory in Miniature

Next, you’ll head to Moray, often called an “agricultural experiment station.” This site features concentric terraces carved into the earth, creating a series of rings that form a microclimate ladder. The warm, lower terraces gradually give way to cooler higher levels, providing ideal conditions for testing different crops. We loved the way these terraces look like giant, ancient amphitheaters nestled in the landscape.

The site invites a gentle walk around and a chance to imagine ancient farmers working with this sophisticated system. The terraces’ gradient of microclimates highlights Inca ingenuity in food production, making it a fascinating stop for those interested in traditional agriculture and engineering.

Maras Salt Mines: A Surreal Landscape

About two miles from Moray are the Salt Mines of Maras, a stunning display of local resourcefulness. Over 3,000 salt pools are carved into the hillside, each filled daily with mineral-rich water from a natural stream. When the water evaporates, salt crystals are harvested by local families, a practice that has persisted since pre-Inca times.

Walking among these pools, you’ll witness a mosaic of geometric patterns that seem almost surreal against the mountain backdrop. One traveler shared, “The salt pools are a fascinating sight — like a giant mosaic, and you can see the effort that goes into harvesting salt here.” Expect about 45 minutes at this site, enough to photograph the pools, learn about traditional salt extraction, and take in the breathtaking views.

Practical Details and Logistics

Transportation is private, meaning your group can enjoy the day at a comfortable pace. Your English-speaking guide, likely to be knowledgeable and friendly, will enrich the experience with insights about the sites’ history and significance. Be aware that admission tickets for Chinchero, Moray, and Maras are not included, costing approximately S/.70 soles or $25 USD per person in total — a small additional expense that’s worth budgeting for.

The tour’s duration of 6 to 8 hours allows for ample time to explore each site fully, with some flexibility to linger at points of particular interest. Since this is a private experience, it’s especially suitable for those who prefer a personalized, relaxed pace.

Authenticity and Local Flavor

One of this tour’s gems is its focus on authentic local traditions. For instance, the weaving demonstration connects you with a craft that has thrived for generations, providing cultural insights beyond just sightseeing. The salt pools and terraces also highlight how ancient communities adapted to their environment, making these sites feel alive with history.

The Price and Value

At $87.17 per person, the tour delivers a good value considering private transportation, a guide, and the chance to see multiple sites in one day. While the entrance fees are extra, they are modest, and the overall experience offers a nice balance of affordability and depth. It’s especially appealing for those who want a rundown without committing to a full-day or group tour.

Limitations to Consider

While the itinerary hits key highlights, the time at each site is fairly limited — roughly an hour at Moray and slightly less at the Salt Mines. If you’re a history buff or want to learn every detail, you might find the visits somewhat cursory. Plus, travelers looking for a more active adventure or in-depth archaeological exploration may want to consider longer, more specialized tours.

Who Should Book This Tour?

This tour suits travelers who appreciate cultural authenticity, scenic landscapes, and brief but meaningful visits. It’s ideal for those with limited time in Cusco who want to see iconic sites without the crowds or lengthy commitments. History lovers will enjoy the well-preserved Inca walls and terraces, while photography enthusiasts will find plenty of stunning vistas and colorful salt pools.

It’s also perfect for travelers who prefer a private, flexible experience and want to avoid large tour groups. If you’re interested in traditional Andean crafts and working with local communities, this tour offers a nice introduction.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are all the sites included in the tour?
No, the entrance tickets for Chinchero, Moray, and Maras are not included in the price. You should plan to pay approximately $25 USD per person for these sites.

How long does the tour last?
The tour is approximately 6 to 8 hours, giving enough time to visit all three sites comfortably.

Is transportation provided?
Yes, private transportation is included, making travel between sites smooth and convenient.

Is the tour suitable for all ages?
Most travelers can participate, as it involves light walking and is not physically demanding. However, young children or those with mobility issues should consider their comfort level.

What should I wear or bring?
Comfortable walking shoes are a must, along with sun protection — hats, sunglasses, and sunscreen. Bringing water and a camera is also recommended.

Is a guide provided?
Yes, an English-speaking guide is included, who will support your understanding and appreciation of each site.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, giving you flexibility if your schedule shifts.

What’s the best time of day to do this tour?
Most prefer to start in the morning to avoid midday heat and crowds, but the schedule can be flexible with private arrangements.

To sum it up, this tour offers an accessible, engaging way to explore some of Cusco’s most captivating sites. Its focus on authentic Inca architecture, traditional crafts, and stunning landscapes makes it an excellent choice for travelers seeking a meaningful, visually rewarding experience. Perfect for those who want a taste of history, culture, and scenery in one relaxed outing, it balances affordability with a sense of discovery. If you’re looking for a well-organized, private excursion that introduces you to the best of the Cusco region’s natural and archaeological treasures, this tour hits the mark.