Tour to Maras Moray and Salineras 1/2 Day

Exploring Cusco’s Off-the-Beaten-Path Wonders in Half a Day

This half-day tour offers an excellent way to uncover some of the less touristy yet profoundly authentic sites around Cusco, including Maras, the Salt Mines, Moray, and Chinchero. Priced at just $29 per person, it lasts about 6 hours and is perfect if you’re short on time but eager to see more than just the city’s core attractions.

What we love most about this tour is how it combines cultural history with spectacular landscapes — from the salt wells still operated by local families, to the agricultural terraces once used as experimental farms, to the vibrant artisan market in Chinchero. The small group size (max 18 travelers) and professional guide help make the experience feel personal and insightful.

A potential consideration is that admission tickets to attractions like the salt mines and Moray are not included, so you’ll need extra cash for those. Also, this is a morning-to-lunch excursion, so if you prefer a more leisurely pace or a full-day adventure, you might want to look elsewhere.

This tour suits those who are keen on authentic local experiences and don’t mind a bit of walking between sites. It’s perfect for history buffs, photographers, or anyone wanting a quick but meaningful taste of the Sacred Valley beyond Cusco.

Key Points

• Cultural insights with engaging guides who provide detailed commentary
• Authentic sites often missed by larger tours, like Maras and Chinchero
• Stunning landscapes at Moray’s terraces and the salt mines
• Affordable price for a well-rounded half-day experience
• Includes transportation and pickup from Cusco hotels
• Admission fees are extra, so plan accordingly

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

Convenient Pickup and Transportation

Starting at Plaza Haukaypata in Cusco, the tour kicks off around 9:00 am with a comfortable group bus that handles the logistics. You’ll appreciate how this organized transport allows you to maximize your time, with no fuss about getting to each site. The vehicle is typically shared with other travelers—small enough to feel intimate but large enough to keep everyone comfortable.

First stop: Maras and its Salt Mines

Arriving in Maras, you’ll immediately sense its historic importance. Once a key salt supplier during the Viceroyalty era, the town’s church and historic houses tell stories of colonial grandeur and indigenous nobility. One of the tour’s highlights is the Salt Mines, where over 3,000 wells are still operated by more than 360 families.

As one reviewer notes, the salt wells are a “surprise,” a vast, textured landscape that’s fascinating to see and photograph. It’s especially intriguing to learn that the community manages the salt production through an association, ensuring sustainable and community-driven operation since the late 1980s.

Please note that admission to the salt mines is not included, and typically costs a small fee. Still, watching local families work these ancient wells gives you a glimpse into living history—not just a tourist attraction.

Second stop: Moray’s Agricultural Terraces

Next, you’ll visit Moray, where the circular terraces are a marvel of Inca ingenuity. These natural amphitheaters served as agricultural laboratories, allowing ancient farmers to experiment with crops like potato and corn across different microclimates. We loved the way these terraces challenge the terrain — they seem to sprout from the hillside like giant, concentric circles.

The view alone warrants a camera, but what makes Moray special is its story: how Andean farmers took advantage of their environment to develop diverse crops. The 50-minute visit gives you enough time to take photos and absorb the impressive engineering.

Third stop: Chinchero and its Artisan Market

A short drive from Moray takes you to Chinchero, a town rich in Inca and colonial history. Here, you’ll explore the ruins of what was once a royal hacienda built by Túpac Inca Yupanqui. The foundation of this colonial church rests on Inca stonework, which is always a delight for history lovers.

But the real prize is the artisan market. Originally a barter exchange for local farmers, it’s now a bustling hub of handmade textiles and colorful crafts. Several reviews mention that this market is “a true spectacle of color and movement,” with vendors offering high-quality textiles made in pre-Columbian styles. It’s a fantastic place to see authentic craftsmanship and perhaps pick up a handmade souvenir.

Wrapping Up

After about 40 minutes exploring Chinchero, your tour concludes with a return to Cusco, usually by lunchtime. The group transport drops you back at your hotel or a designated spot in Cusco, leaving you with the rest of the day free to explore further or relax.

The Practicalities and Value

This tour, priced at $29, delivers remarkable value considering the expert guiding, transport, and access to sites most travelers overlook. While you’ll need to pay for attraction entry fees separately, the overall experience is cost-effective for what you get — especially when you factor in the small group setting and personalized commentary.

The guide’s knowledge was consistently praised, with many reviewers mentioning how well they explained each site’s history and significance. This makes the experience not just sightseeing, but an educational journey.

Timing and Group Size

The 6-hour duration is well-paced, with enough time at each stop without feeling rushed. The small group size fosters a more intimate atmosphere and allows the guide to answer questions more personally. This is ideal if you prefer a more personalized tour experience over the crowd-heavy large bus tours.

Who Will Love This Tour?

Travelers who are interested in local history and culture, avid photographers, or those wanting to escape the crowds in Cusco will find this tour a perfect fit. It’s especially suited for history buffs and craft lovers who appreciate authentic artisanal markets. If you’re on a tight schedule but want a meaningful half-day, this tour strikes a good balance of sights and storytelling.

The Sum Up

This half-day tour to Maras, Moray, and Chinchero offers a well-rounded introduction to some of the most intriguing yet lesser-known sites around Cusco. It’s a wonderful option for travelers seeking a deep dive into local history and traditions without the hassle of a full-day commitment.

The knowledgeable guides and stunning scenery elevate the experience, and the affordable price makes it accessible for many. While you’ll need to budget for admission fees, the overall value and authenticity make this tour stand out.

Ideal for history enthusiasts, culture seekers, and photographers, this tour provides a meaningful glimpse into the heart of the Sacred Valley. It’s perfect if you want to maximize your limited time in Peru while experiencing something genuinely local and memorable.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are transportation and pickup included?
Yes, the tour includes group transport and pickup from your Cusco accommodation, making it easy to start your day without extra hassle.

How long is the tour?
It lasts approximately 6 hours, starting at 9:00 am and concluding around lunchtime, which leaves you free for other activities in Cusco afterward.

Do I need to buy tickets for the attractions separately?
Yes, admission tickets to sites like Salinas de Maras and Moray are not included in the tour price, so plan to have some extra cash on hand.

What’s the group size?
The tour is limited to a maximum of 18 travelers, ensuring a more personal and engaging experience.

Is this suitable for all ages?
Most travelers can participate, but be prepared for some walking and uneven terrain at sites like Moray and the salt mines.

What should I bring?
Bring cash for entrance fees, water, sun protection, and your camera to capture the stunning landscapes.

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

This tour offers a balanced mix of history, culture, and scenery — perfect for travelers wanting a short but meaningful journey outside Cusco’s bustling streets. Whether you’re a history enthusiast, a photographer, or simply a curious traveler, you’ll find plenty to enjoy on this half-day adventure.