Moray salt mines
Pachacutec Expeditions will introduce you to some of Cusco’s most interesting Inca sites. Moray is a magnificent series of terrace circles set into the ground that were once used by the Incas for experimentation with crops and acclimatize crops to different altitudes. Then we will go to the Maras salt mines which have been in use since Pre-Inca times. Water from a subterranean stream is channelled to the pools where it evaporates and leaves behind pure salt crystals. With thousands of stark white pools stretching down the valley, the views are stunning.
Overview
Itinerary
- salt mines of Maras
Included: English-speaking Tour Guide
Itinerary
Pachacutec Expeditions will pick you up from your hotel around 8 AM and head to Moray. The drive is about 1 hour and 20 minutes and is honestly beautiful. You will drive through snow capped peaks of the Andes, through lush yellow fields of wheat and pass some villages. Finally you will arrive to the fascinating display of terraces in Moray. Moray boasts three amphitheater-like terraces made by the Incas. These terraces, which are carved deep into the earth in a bowl shape, were thought to be used to determine the optimal conditions for growing crops.
Exploring Moray you will head to the salt mines of Maras, which is about 2 miles away. This village is known as a former salt-producing center that dates back all the way to pre- inca, incas, colonial and modern times. There are over 3000 salt pools all carved into the mountain side, being filled daily by a little stream of water. The area is amazing and spectacularly beautiful. Once you are done with the visit, you will head back to the city in time to enjoy some lunch on your own.
Included
Included
- Round-trip transportation (tourist bus)
- English-speaking Tour Guide
- Entrance fees to all the sites visited
Not Included
- Lunch
What you need to take
- Tourist ticket (included in price)
- Sun hat
- Sun protection cream
- Waterproof jacket/rain poncho
- Water
- Camera and films
Pictures
Map
Price
US$ 40 Per person
Minimun 2 people required
Biking tours of Maras Moray are also possible – if you are interested please contact us.