How to plan your Moray, Maras Salt Mines & Chinchero Weavers Half-Day Tour in Cusco

If you’re looking for a half-day tour from Cusco that combines natural beauty, history, and cultural experiences, the Moray, Maras Salt Mines & Chinchero Weavers Half-Day Tour might be the perfect option for you. Here’s what you need to know to plan your trip:

Experience

On this tour, you’ll visit some of the most intriguing sites of the Urubamba Valley. You’ll experience a day of unparalleled natural beauty as you travel through the valley, pass the snow-capped peaks of the Peruvian Andes, and meander through lush yellow fields of wheat and sleepy little villages. You’ll discover the ancient landscapes of Moray and Maras, where you can learn about the ingenuity of the Incas as you explore their mysterious circular terraces and visit a village that has a history as a center for salt production. Finally, you’ll watch an instructive cultural demonstration at a local weaving center, where you can admire the unique quilt work and learn about traditional techniques.

Highlights

The highlights of this tour include Moray, Maras, and Chinchero. Moray is an ancient Incan site that features a series of circular terraces that were used for experimental agriculture. The terraces were built at different elevations, which created various microclimates, allowing the Incas to test different crops and growing conditions. Maras is a village that has been the center of salt production since pre-Columbian times. Visitors can see over 3000 salt ponds spilling into the Sacred Valley – it’s a spectacular sight! Chinchero is a traditional Andean village that is known for its weavers. You’ll have the chance to watch a cultural demonstration and see the traditional techniques that have been passed down through generations.

Full description

The tour will start with a pick-up from your hotel in Cusco (if you select this option), and transportation to Moray. Once you arrive, you’ll have a chance to explore the circular terraces and learn about the Incan’s agricultural experiments. You’ll then head to nearby Maras, where you can witness the salt ponds and learn about the history of salt production in the area. Next, it’s off to Chinchero to visit a local weaving center. You’ll watch a cultural demonstration and see the traditional techniques used to create beautiful textiles. The tour includes transportation and a bilingual guide, and you’ll be dropped off back at your hotel in Cusco at the end of the day.

Includes

The tour includes hotel pickup in Cusco (if option selected), a bilingual guide, transportation, and hotel drop-off (drop-off is in the center of Cusco).

Booking

To book the Moray, Maras Salt Mines & Chinchero Weavers Half-Day Tour, visit the GetYourGuide website.

FAQ About the City of Cusco, Peru

Cusco is a beautiful and historic city located in the southeastern region of Peru. A former capital of the Inca Empire, Cusco today attracts visitors from all over the world with its unique culture, stunning architecture, and gorgeous natural scenery. If you are planning a visit to Cusco, it is important to be prepared and informed. Here are some frequently asked questions about this fascinating city.

1. What is the best time of year to visit Cusco?

Cusco has a mild climate year-round, but the best time to visit is during the dry season, which runs from May to September. During this time, you can expect sunny days and cool nights, with very little rain. However, this is also the busiest time for tourists. If you prefer to avoid the crowds, you may want to consider traveling to Cusco during the shoulder seasons, which are April and October.

2. What are the top tourist attractions in Cusco?

Cusco is packed with incredible sights, so it can be tough to narrow down your itinerary. Some of the top attractions in the city include: – Machu Picchu: This ancient Inca city is one of the most famous landmarks in Peru and can be accessed by taking the train from Cusco. – Sacsayhuaman: This Inca fortress is located just outside of Cusco and boasts impressive stonework and stunning views. – Plaza de Armas: The main square of Cusco is a must-visit for its beautiful colonial architecture and lively atmosphere. – San Pedro Market: This bustling market is a great place to experience local culture and sample traditional Peruvian foods. – Qorikancha: This Inca temple was once the most important religious site in the empire and features fascinating architecture and history.

3. Is Cusco safe for tourists?

Cusco is generally a safe city for tourists, but it is important to take some precautions to stay safe. Be aware of your surroundings and avoid carrying large amounts of cash or wearing flashy jewelry. Also, be cautious of pickpockets in busy areas like markets and festivals. If you are traveling alone, it is a good idea to stick to well-lit areas at night.

4. What should I wear when visiting Cusco?

Cusco’s high altitude means that the weather can be unpredictable, so it is best to dress in layers. During the day, temperatures can range from the 60s to the 70s Fahrenheit, depending on the season. At night, temperatures can drop into the 40s or lower, so make sure to bring a warm jacket or coat. Also, be aware that some religious sites like churches require visitors to dress modestly and cover their shoulders and knees.

5. What is the currency used in Cusco?

The official currency of Peru is the sol. ATMs are widely available in Cusco, and credit cards are commonly accepted in larger restaurants and stores. However, it is always a good idea to carry a small amount of cash in case of emergencies or for smaller purchases.

6. What are some traditional foods to try in Cusco?

Peruvian cuisine is rapidly gaining popularity around the world, and Cusco is no exception. Some traditional dishes to try include: – Ceviche: A dish made of raw fish marinated in lime juice and spices. – Lomo saltado: A stir-fry of beef, onions, tomatoes, and french fries, typically served with rice. – Anticuchos: Grilled skewers of marinated beef heart, served with potatoes and a spicy sauce. – Rocoto relleno: A spicy bell pepper stuffed with ground beef, onions, and spices. – Cuy: A traditional dish of roasted guinea pig, typically served whole with the head and feet intact.

7. How do I get to Cusco?

Cusco has its international airport, Alejandro Velasco Astete International Airport, and several airlines offer regular flights from Lima, as well as some other South American cities. Alternatively, you can take a scenic train ride from Cusco to Aguas Calientes, which is the starting point for the hike to Machu Picchu.

How to Spend Your Time as a Tourist in Cusco

Cusco is a city situated in the southeastern region of Peru famous for being a gateway to Machu Picchu, the famous UNESCO World Heritage Site. It was once the capital city of the Incan Empire and one of the most important cultural centers in South America. Today, Cusco is a popular tourist destination due to its rich cultural heritage, stunning architecture, and breathtaking natural beauty. Here’s a guide to help you make the most of your time as a tourist in Cusco.

1. Visit the Historic Center

The Historic Center of Cusco is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that should be on top of every tourist’s itinerary. The center is a mix of colonial and pre-Columbian history, and it houses a number of iconic buildings such as the Qorikancha, the Cusco Cathedral, and the Plaza de Armas. Take a walk along the narrow streets of the city center and explore its museums, art galleries, and shops.

2. Explore the Ruins of Sacsayhuaman

Located on a hilltop on the northern outskirts of Cusco, Sacsayhuaman is an impressive fortress that offers stunning views of the city. It is believed that the fortress was built by the Incas in the 15th century and served as a military and ceremonial center. The ruins feature massive stone walls, some of which stand over 12 meters tall. Spend a few hours exploring the site and marveling at the impressive Incan technology.

3. Take a Tour of the Sacred Valley

The Sacred Valley of the Incas is a stunning region located a short distance from Cusco. It served as the agricultural heartland of the Incan Empire and is dotted with a number of important archaeological sites such as Pisac, Ollantaytambo, and Chinchero. Take a guided tour of the valley to learn about the region’s rich history and culture. Most tours also include a visit to a local market, where you can sample some of the local cuisine.

4. Hike the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu

Arguably the most popular attraction in Cusco, Machu Picchu is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that attracts millions of tourists each year. The ancient city is located on a mountain ridge overlooking the Sacred Valley and is believed to have been built by the Incas in the 15th century. You can reach Machu Picchu by taking a train from Cusco or by hiking the Inca Trail. The Inca Trail is a four-day hike that takes you through stunning Andean landscapes and past a number of important Incan ruins.

5. Visit the Maras Salt Mines and the Moray Terraces

Located in the Sacred Valley, the Maras Salt Mines and the Moray Terraces are two unique attractions that offer a glimpse into the impressive agricultural practices of the Incas. The Moray Terraces are a series of circular terraces that the Incas used for experimentation with different crops due to the varying microclimates found at different levels. The Maras Salt Mines are a collection of pre-Columbian salt pans that are still used today by the local communities.

6. Experience the Inti Raymi Festival

If you happen to be in Cusco in June, don’t miss the Inti Raymi festival, also known as the Festival of the Sun. This is one of the most important festivals in the city, and it commemorates the winter solstice. The festival features colorful processions, music and dance performances, and a reenactment of the Incan sun worship ceremony.

7. Try the Local Cuisine

Cusco is a food lover’s paradise, with a rich culinary tradition that blends Incan and Spanish flavors. Don’t miss the opportunity to try local delicacies such as cuy (guinea pig), alpaca meat, and ceviche (raw fish marinated in lime juice). There are plenty of restaurants and food stalls in Cusco that offer affordable and delicious meals.

Book Your Tour Now

Cusco is a city that never fails to impress its visitors with its rich history, culture, and natural beauty. From exploring the ruins of Sacsayhuaman to hiking the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu, there’s something for everyone in this vibrant and dynamic city. Follow this guide to make the most of your time as a tourist in Cusco and create memories of a lifetime.