Maras, Moray, and the Salt Mines are three of the most fascinating attractions in Peru’s Sacred Valley, offering a perfect blend of history, engineering, and breathtaking landscapes. Located northwest of Cusco, this region reveals the ingenuity of the Inca civilization and the enduring traditions of the Andean people.
Moray is an extraordinary archaeological site featuring a series of circular agricultural terraces carved into the earth. These terraces functioned as an Inca agricultural laboratory, where different microclimates allowed the Incas to experiment with crops and adapt them to varying altitudes and temperatures.
Just a short distance away lies the town of Maras, a quiet colonial village known for its traditional lifestyle and panoramic views of the Andes. Nearby are the famous Salt Mines of Maras (Salineras), a spectacular network of thousands of salt ponds that have been used since pre-Inca times. Fed by a natural saltwater spring, the pools create a striking white landscape that contrasts beautifully with the surrounding mountains.
Today, visitors can walk along the paths overlooking the salt pans, learn about traditional salt extraction methods still practiced by local families, and enjoy one of the most photogenic sites in the Sacred Valley. A visit to Maras, Moray, and the Salt Mines offers an unforgettable cultural experience and is an essential stop on any journey through the Cusco region.
Private Transfer to Maras, Moray, and the Salt Mines from Cusco
If you are planning a private tour to Maras, Moray, and the Salt Mines from Cusco, Peru Xcapes can provide a private vehicle with a professional driver for a comfortable day tour to these beautiful destinations in the Sacred Valley of the Incas.
Moray, Maras, and the Salt Mines are located approximately 38 km from Cusco. The drive takes about 1 hour and 7 minutes to reach the first stop, Moray. Moray features impressive Inca agricultural terraces that were used during Inca times as an experimental farming center and natural greenhouse to acclimatize crops such as potatoes and other Andean and jungle products.
After visiting Moray, continue driving for about 30 minutes to the colonial town of Maras, where you can see the colonial church and explore the charming streets of the town. Then continue to the Salt Mines (Salineras), where you can observe the saltwater pools that have been used for salt production since ancient times.
In the afternoon, return to Cusco. On the way back, you may stop in Chinchero to visit its enigmatic colonial church and Inca temples. Finally, your Peru Xcapes driver will drop you off at your hotel in Cusco.
How Does Peru Xcapes Work with Travelers?
If you request a private van for your day tour, Peru Xcapes provides tourist transportation according to the number of travelers in your group. Our vehicles are comfortable and suitable for visiting destinations such as Maras, Moray, and the Salt Mines.
Our drivers are experienced and professional. They will take you safely to all the main Inca sites included in your itinerary and allow you enough time to explore each place. They are patient and helpful, and they understand which stops are most important for visitors.
While the driver is not a tour guide, he knows the routes like the palm of his hand and has extensive experience driving in the Sacred Valley. Safety is always a top priority, and you can expect careful and responsible service throughout your journey.