Is this tour suitable if I'm not very fit?

The tour involves moderate walking and some uphill sections, particularly at Moray. Maras and Chinchero are less strenuous. If you have significant mobility concerns, contact the operator beforehand—some parts may be challenging at this altitude.

What's the best way to prepare for high altitude?

Spend at least one night in Cusco before the tour to acclimatise. Stay hydrated, avoid alcohol the night before, and ask your guide for coca tea. If you have altitude sickness concerns, consult a doctor about preventive medication.

Will I have time to buy textiles in Chinchero?

Yes, the tour includes time in Chinchero to browse and purchase directly from weavers and vendors. Prices are typically lower than in Cusco markets, and you'll support artisans directly. Sunday visits offer the largest selection.

How much walking is involved per site?

Maras requires roughly 30 minutes of gentle walking around the pools. Moray involves a 20–30 minute descent into the circular terraces with some steep sections. Chinchero is the least demanding with casual strolling through town.

Is entrance to the sites included in the EUR 58 price?

The tour price typically covers minivan transport, guide, and access to Maras and Moray. Chinchero's entrance fee may be separate—confirm what's included when booking.

Can I visit Maras and Moray independently, or is a guide necessary?

Both sites are accessible independently, but a local guide enriches the experience significantly by explaining Inca engineering, salt harvesting techniques, and historical context. The organized tour also handles transport from Cusco efficiently.

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Maras Moray Chinchero Tour

(5)

Cusco, Peru

Cultural ToursDay Trips & ExcursionsBus & Minivan Tours

About this activity

Explore three remarkable Sacred Valley sites in a single 6-hour excursion: the evaporative salt terraces of Maras, the ingenious concentric agricultural laboratories of Moray, and the textile heritage centre of Chinchero. This tour reveals how the Inca engineered solutions for farming, climate control, and trade across varied elevations.

Visiting Maras and Moray is an incredible experience. Maras is home to salt pools. Moray has ruins in the form of the Roman Coliseum with impressive micro climates. The town of Chinchero houses a unique and ancient textile culture.

This Chinchero Maras Moray tour will take you to visit these Inca sites that were used to investigate many different agricultural products.

Enjoy a half day tour at the Sacred Valley of the Incas exploring these amazing tourist attractions with Inca ruins.

Highlights

✓Walk among hundreds of hand-carved salt ponds still harvested using 500-year-old methods
✓Descend into Moray's amphitheatre-like circular terraces—believed to be an Inca agricultural research station
✓Learn traditional weaving techniques from artisans in Chinchero's colonial town
✓Experience the micro-climates Inca engineers created to test crops at different altitudes
✓Stunning views across the Sacred Valley and surrounding snow-capped peaks

Insider tips

★Visit Maras early morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds and catch better light for photography of the salt pools
★Wear layers: Moray sits at high altitude (3,600m), so temperature drops significantly; bring a light jacket even on sunny days
★Chinchero's market is most vibrant on Sunday—time your visit accordingly if possible to see local trading and wider textile selection

Good to know

•Tour includes minivan transport with pickup typically from central Cusco; confirm exact meeting point and time when booking
•Altitude: sites range from 3,000m–3,700m above sea level; allow time to acclimatise and drink coca tea before the tour
•Bring sun protection (SPF 50+), water (at least 1.5L), and sturdy walking shoes with good grip—some sections are steep and uneven
•The tour is moderately paced but includes short uphill walks; not recommended for those with severe mobility issues, though Maras and Chinchero are relatively accessible

Who it's for

Cultural and archaeological enthusiasts keen to understand Inca engineering and agriculturePhotography-focused travellers drawn to dramatic landscapes and unique terraced formationsTextile lovers and craft shoppers wanting hands-on encounters with traditional weaversFirst-time visitors to Cusco seeking a comprehensive Sacred Valley introduction without a multi-day trek

Best time to visit

May to September (dry season) offers clear skies, excellent visibility, and minimal rainfall. Avoid the wet season (November–March) when cloud cover obscures views and muddy paths slow progress. Morning departures (7–8am) are ideal to maximise daylight and avoid afternoon crowds.

Frequently asked questions

Reviews

(5)

Laura H.

Jun 2026

our guide Wei had so many stories and a massive herd of elephants crossing in front of us was the highlight, and miles ahead of a similar safari we tried in Crete.

Tom S.

Feb 2026

our guide Amani was nice enough, but a cheetah on the hunt felt a bit rushed honestly. Over easter break. Would only really suit you if youre not fussy, we saw 4 of the big five in one day. Bit disappointed ngl, booked it for my birthday.

Adam P.

Jan 2026

our guide Diego had so many stories and two rhinos by the waterhole was the highlight, and perfect for first-timers, and we saw 4 of the big five in one day, tbh

Laura T.

Nov 2025

our guide Sofia really knew their stuff and two rhinos by the waterhole was the highlight. Last day of the trip so it wasnt too busy. Booked it for my birthday, and used it for our summer trip. Would book again no question.

Toni S.

Jul 2025

our guide Carla really knew their stuff and a massive herd of elephants crossing in front of us was the highlight. Did it on our first morning so it wasnt too busy. Mid-week so it was quiet, and handy if youre short on time, and out for a solid 6 hours. Would book again no question, tbh

from€58.72€58.3/ person

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