How to Visit Maras Salt Mines and Moray

Maras and Moray are two of the most fascinating and unique sites in Peru’s Sacred Valley. While they may not be as famous as Machu Picchu, these ancient Inca sites offer a glimpse into the innovative agricultural practices and salt mining techniques of the Inca civilization. Visiting Maras and Moray is necessary to plan a trip to the Sacred Valley. In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know to make the most of your visit.

Maras: The Salt Pans

Overview

The Maras salt pans are stunning, with thousands of individual salt pools cascading down a hillside. These pools have been used for salt extraction since pre-Inca times and are still harvested by the local community today.

What to Expect

Visitors can walk along the paths between the salt pools, taking in the breathtaking views and learning about the traditional salt extraction process. The salt pans are particularly beautiful in the late afternoon when the sun casts a warm glow over the site.

maras moray hike

Tips for Visiting

• Respect the Environment: Stick to the designated paths and avoid touching the salt pools.
• Photography: The salt pans are a photographer’s dream, so bring your camera and plenty of memory cards.
• Souvenirs: You can purchase bags of locally harvested salt as a unique souvenir.
• Moray: The Agricultural Laboratory

Overview

Moray is an archaeological site consisting of several terraced circular depressions. The Incas are believed to have used these terraces as agricultural laboratories to experiment with growing crops at different temperatures.

What to Expect

Visitors can explore the terraces and marvel at the ingenuity of the Inca engineers. The site offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and is a peaceful place for contemplation.

Tips for Visiting

Hiking: Wear comfortable shoes, as some walking involves exploring the terraces.

Guided Tours: Consider hiring a guide to learn more about the history and purpose of the site.

Getting There

Maras and Moray are about an hour’s drive from Cusco and easily accessible by car or taxi. Many visitors visit both sites in one day as part of a guided tour from Cusco or the Sacred Valley. If you prefer to explore independently, you can hire a taxi for the day or rent a car.

Entrance Fees

Maras and Moray require an entrance fee, which is not included in the general tourist ticket (Boleto Turístico del Cusco). Tickets can be purchased at the entrance to each site.

Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit Maras and Moray is during the dry season, from April to October. The weather is generally sunny and clear, providing excellent conditions for exploring the sites and photographing.

Sacred Valley and Maras Moray Tours

• Cusco City Tour Half Day
• Cusco City Tour Full Day
• Moray & Maras Salt Mines Tour – Half Day
• Moray Private Tour Full-Day
• South Valley Cusco Tour
• Full-Day Tour Tipon, Pisac, Sacsayhuaman
• Tour Inti Raymi 2026, Festival of the Sun

Conclusion

Maras and Moray are two of the Sacred Valley’s hidden gems. They offer a fascinating insight into the agricultural and salt mining practices of the Inca civilization. With their stunning landscapes and rich history, these sites are well worth a visit. By following this guide, you’ll be well-prepared to make the most of your trip to Maras and Moray.