Cusco: Chinchero, Moray, and Salt Mines Tour in Cusco
Are you looking for the perfect daytrip to explore the beautiful city of Cusco? Look no further! On this tour, you’ll get to experience some of the natural and historical-cultural attractions in the city that are often overlooked by travelers. We’ll explore the majestic Inca temples of Chinchero, the mysterious archaeological site of Moray, and the famous Maras Salt mines. Read on to learn what to expect from the tour, what you need to bring, and more!
Overview
This full-day tour allows travelers to explore some of the most spectacular popular attractions near Cusco. Get to know about Inca’s agricultural experiments at Moray, experience the rustic charm of Maras village, observe the rock formations at the salt mines, and discover the rich cultural heritage of Chinchero’s stunning Inca ruins. Highlights include:
- Exploring the impressive archaeological testimony of the Inca culture at Chinchero’s sacred temples
- Seeing the mysterious Moray – an Inca archaeological complex consisting of several concentric circles of terraces believed to have served as an agricultural laboratory
- Visiting the fascinating Maras salt mines which have been in use since Pre-Inca times
- Sunscreen
- Comfortable shoes
- Hat and sunglasses
- Insect repellent
- Water/snacks
- Camera (optional)
The tour complies with all safety protocols and adheres to local government regulations. The experienced guides will ensure you have a fun, yet safe, outing.
Itinerary
The tour begins early in the morning with pickup from your hotel in Cusco in an air-conditioned bus. Travelling down from Cusco’s paved roads to unpaved dirt roads you’ll arrive at your first stop – Chinchero. Admire the stunning landscape in the distance and snap a few pictures before visiting the traditional village which once was an important religious, economical and cultural center for Inca’s.
Continue your journey to visit Moray archaeological complex where you’ll get a chance to examine one of the most misunderstood sites of Peru. Learn about the terracing techniques used in the times of Incas, understand how each terrace functions as an ecological niche and supports different microclimates.
Continue your journey to Maras town located 2,800 meters above sea level. Visit the beautiful salt mines, explore Qoripujio’s church as you pass through Maras town and find out how locals have been extracting salt since over 500 years. Admire the mesmerizing view of over 5,000 salt pools harvested by locals with tools and techniques unchanged since pre-Inca times.
At the end of a fulfilling day, drive back to Cusco and get dropped off at your hotel.
What to Bring
Conclusion
The Chinchero, Moray & Salt Mines Tour near Cusco is a great way to get away from hustle and bustle of Cusco and embrace Peruvian culture. You can book this tour with GetYourGuide, which offers great service at good prices. So what are you waiting for? Book now and start exploring!
Insider’s Guide to Cusco: Chinchero, Moray, and Salt Mines Tour
Cusco is a city in southeastern Peru that is well-renowned for its history and ancient archeological marvels. It was once the capital of the great Incan Empire, and that rich history is still celebrated today through the beautiful architecture, unique traditions, and vibrant culture. For tourists visiting Cusco, there are endless attractions and experiences that will make you want to stay much longer than initially planned. In this guide, we’ve curated some of the must-visit destinations within the city, including Chinchero, Moray, and Salt Mines Tour, to make sure you experience the best this gem of a city has to offer.
Local Attractions
Cusco is teeming with ancient archeological sites that are a perfect representation of its rich history. Among them are:
– Machu Picchu: This 15th-century citadel is one of the world’s most remarkable ancient archeological sites. From Cusco, you can take a train or hike the Inca Trail to reach the top and enjoy incredible views.
– Sacsayhuamán: This ancient fortress sits just a few miles from Cusco’s center and is famous for its skillfully built walls made of large stones fitted meticulously together, without the use of mortar.
– Tambomachay: This ancient Incan water temple is a stunning site that served as a sanctuary for the Inca elite. It is known for its impressive hydraulic systems, which still operate today, creating refreshing fountains and waterfalls.
Dining spots
When it comes to food, Cusco is a destination you must visit. Its restaurants offer tantalizing dishes that highlight the local flavors and produce. Some must-try places include:
– Chicha by Gastón Acurio: This is a contemporary eatery that serves up Peru’s traditional dishes with a modern twist. It was opened by renowned Peruvian chef Gastón Acurio and is a great place to savor the country’s diverse culinary tradition.
– Green Point: If you’re looking for delicious vegan cuisine, then Green Point is your go-to restaurant. It offers a range of dishes infused with Peruvian flavors, from stuffed Rocoto peppers to vegan ceviche, all made from locally sourced ingredients.
– Pachapapa: This restaurant focuses on Cusco’s traditional dishes and provides a cozy atmosphere where you can unwind and treat your taste buds with some of the most popular dishes such as Alpaca meat and Chupe de Camarones, a soup made from shrimp and Andean ingredients.
Cultural Experiences
Besides the ancient ruins and delicious cuisine, Cusco has a vibrant cultural scene that is deeply rooted in art, music, and traditional festivals. Some cultural experiences that you should not miss include:
– Peruvian Folk Music: The ‘Compañía de Arte y Cultura Qosqo’ offers a nightly performance of traditional folk music and dance at the Centro de Convenciones Cusco, providing a glimpse into the vivid culture of Cusco and the Peruvian Andes.
– Cusco Cathedral: This gothic-style church is the centerpiece of Cusco’s Plaza de Armas and is recognized for its stunning art and architectural craftsmanship. It was named a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1983.
– Inti Raymi: Inti Raymi or “The Festival of the Sun” is a ceremony that celebrates the Incan winter solstice. It was banned during the Spanish colonization, but it was reinstated in the 1940s and now, it is one of Cusco’s most significant cultural events.
Local History
The city of Cusco holds tremendous significance in world history, and by exploring the historic sites and museums, you can get an in-depth understanding of its past. Some of the best places to visit include:
– Museo Inka: This museum is dedicated to the Incan dynasty and exhibits artifacts that span from the pre-Incan period to the colonial era, making it a perfect location to’ve a deeper insight into the rich Andean culture.
– Centro Qosqo de Arte Nativo:This cultural hub is home to several exhibitions that showcase the Andean culture and traditions, both past, and present.
– Plaza de Armas: The heart of the city serves as a geographic and historic landmark for Cusco; it was the center of the Inca empire and later became a site for the Spanish colonial government.
Off-The-Beaten-Path Suggestions
If you want to experience a different side of Cusco that is away from the usual tourist sites, then there are a few hidden gems you should check out, like:
– San Blas Neighborhood: This trendy quarter is a hidden treasure, boasting of narrow streets, colonial architecture, lovely courtyards, and artisan markets. It also has some fantastic cafes and bars, making it an excellent spot to spend a relaxing afternoon.
– Salcantay Trail: Although not as popular as the Inca Trail, the Salcantay Trail is still one of the most stunning treks in Cusco and offers breathtaking views of the Andean countryside.
– Q’orikancha: This Incan temple might not be a secret, but it is less visited. It was an essential religious building during the Incan Empire, and its walls were once covered with gold, making it an awe-inspiring site to visit.
Conclusion
Cusco is a city that should be on every traveler’s bucket list and promises to offer a unique experience, rich in history, and vibrant Andean culture. The Chinchero, Moray, and Salt Mines Tour allows you to experience some incredible ancient architectural wonders, but that’s just the tip of the iceberg. With the numerous attractions, dining spots, cultural experiences, local history, and off-the-beaten-path suggestions, you’ll be amazed at how much Cusco has to offer.
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