ATV tour to Moray and salt mines in Sacred Valley
Summary
Maras, Moray and the Salt Mines of Cusco | General Information
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Maras
Location and Geography
- Maras is a traditional village located in the province of Urubamba, about 40–50 km northwest of Cusco, at an altitude of approximately 3,300–3,375 meters above sea level.
Climate and Best Time to Visit
- Due to its elevation, Maras has a dry and mild climate, with daytime temperatures ranging between 20°C and 21°C and cold nights between 1°C and 7°C. The dry season lasts from April to September and offers clear skies and ideal conditions for sightseeing, while the rainy season occurs from October to March with occasional showers.
Entrance Fees and Prices
- Entrance to the Salt Mines costs approximately S/7 to S/10 around US$2.50–3.00. Please note that the Salt Mines are not included in the general Cusco Tourist Ticket.
History and Culture
- According to Andean legends, the salty waters come from the tears of the mythical Ayar Cachi. Scientifically, the salt originates from a natural underground spring that flows into thousands of small pools, where the water evaporates naturally under the sun.
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Location and Geography
- Moray is an archaeological site located about 7 km from Maras, on a high plateau at approximately 3,385–3,500 meters above sea level. It is famous for its impressive concentric circular terraces that resemble a natural amphitheater.
Climate and Best Time to Visit
- The area has a dry and temperate climate, with daytime temperatures around 20°C to 21°C and chilly nights between 1°C and 7°C. The best time to visit is during the dry season from April to September, when the skies are clear and the landscapes are at their most beautiful.
Entrance Fees and Prices
- Entrance to Moray is included in the Cusco Tourist Ticket – Circuit 3, which costs approximately S/70 for foreign visitors and S/40 for Peruvian citizens.
History and Culture
- Moray is widely recognized as an Inca agricultural laboratory. Its circular terraces create microclimates with temperature differences of up to 15°C between the top and bottom levels, allowing the Incas to experiment with crops adapted to different altitudes, such as corn, potatoes, quinoa, and sweet potatoes.
Experience the Sacred Valley of the Incas in a unique and exciting way with an ATV Tour through one of Cusco’s most breathtaking landscapes. This adventure is perfect for travelers seeking adrenaline, culture, and unforgettable scenery all in one experience.
Riding through the Andean countryside on a quad bike allows you to explore ancient rural trails surrounded by mountains, agricultural fields, and traditional villages. It’s a fun and different way to discover two of the region’s most iconic attractions.
The tour includes a visit to the impressive archaeological site of Moray, famous for its circular terraces that once served as an advanced Inca agricultural research center. You will also visit the renowned Maras Salt Mines, a spectacular collection of thousands of pre-Inca salt pools carved into the mountainside. These salt ponds are still used today by local communities and offer incredible panoramic views.
This ATV tour perfectly combines adventure, history, culture, and nature, making it an excellent option for travelers who want to experience the Sacred Valley beyond traditional sightseeing tours. Along the route, you’ll also enjoy stunning views of the Veronica and Chicón snow-capped mountains, creating an unforgettable journey through the heart of the Andes.
Itinerary
ATV Tour to Maras, Moray and the Salt Mines of Cusco
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Day 1
ITINERARY
Hotel Pickup in Cusco
- Your ATV tour through the Sacred Valley begins with pickup from your hotel in Cusco. We then travel toward Cruzpata while enjoying beautiful Andean landscapes and views of the snow-capped mountains.
Arrival at the ATV Base and Driving Practice
- Upon arrival at the ATV base, you will receive a safety briefing and a short driving practice session. Helmets and gloves are provided before starting the adventure.
Start of the ATV Adventure to Moray
- Begin your ATV ride along rural roads in the Sacred Valley. Enjoy the adrenaline as you pass through agricultural fields, traditional villages, and breathtaking Andean scenery.
Visit to the Archaeological Site of Moray
- We arrive at Moray, the famous Inca agricultural laboratory known for its circular terraces. Your guide will explain its historical importance, and you will have time to explore and take photos. Afterwards, we return the ATVs to the base and continue the journey by bus.
Bus Route to the Town of Maras
- We continue by bus to the traditional town of Maras. Along the way, you’ll enjoy scenic views of the Sacred Valley and observe local Andean crops.
Visit to the Maras Salt Mines
- We travel by tourist transport to the Maras Salt Mines, where thousands of salt pools have been used since pre-Inca times by local families who still harvest salt today.
Return to Cusco
- Finally, we return to the city of Cusco by tourist transportation. The tour ends near the historic center after an unforgettable ATV adventure.
Schedules
Morning | 6:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.
Afternoon | 12:50 p.m. – 7:00 p.m.
Includes
What’s Included in the Maras, Moray and Salt Mines ATV Tour?
Hotel Pickup in Cusco
- The service includes pickup from hotels located in Cusco’s historic center or nearby areas before starting the tour to the Sacred Valley.
Round-Trip Tourist Transportation
- Comfortable and safe tourist transportation from Cusco to the ATV base and back at the end of the tour.
Single or Double ATV
- Use of an individual or shared ATV during the ride through the rural roads of the Sacred Valley.
Safety Equipment
- Helmets and gloves are provided to ensure a safe and comfortable ATV experience.
Professional Bilingual Guide
- A professional guide in both Spanish and English accompanies the group, sharing information about the history and culture of the Sacred Valley.
Safety Briefing and Driving Practice
- Before starting the tour, participants receive technical instructions and a short practice session to learn how to operate the ATV safely.
Permanent Assistance During the Tour
- Agency staff provide assistance and support throughout the entire tour to ensure safety, coordination, and a smooth experience.
What’s not Included in the Maras, Moray and Salt Mines ATV Tour?
Entrance Ticket to Moray
- Access requires the Cusco Tourist Ticket.
- Partial Tourist Ticket: S/. 70 soles for foreign visitors.
- Partial Tourist Ticket: S/. 40 soles for Peruvian visitors.
- This ticket is mandatory to enter the archaeological site of Moray.
Entrance Ticket to the Maras Salt Mines
- General entrance fee: S/. 20 soles per person, paid directly at the entrance in cash only.
Meals
- Breakfast and lunch are not included. It is recommended to bring snacks, fruit, or a bottle of water. Local products can also be purchased in Maras.
Personal Expenses
- Souvenirs, snacks, drinks, and other personal purchases are not included.
Personal Travel Insurance
- Personal travel insurance is not included. Travelers are advised to have their own insurance coverage.
Tips
- Tips for the guide and driver are not included and are optional depending on your satisfaction with the service.
Recommendarions
Recommendations for the Maras, Moray and Salt Mines ATV Tour
Documents and Tickets
- Bring your original passport or id for site entry and ticket verification.
- Buy the Cusco Tourist Ticket in advance, as Moray entrance is not included.
- Carry cash in soles for entrances, snacks, and small purchases.
Clothing and Equipment
- Wear comfortable layered clothing for changing weather conditions.
- Bring a jacket or windbreaker for cold temperatures.
- Use sneakers or trekking shoes with good grip.
- Wear sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat for sun protection.
Health and Safety
- Drink water frequently to stay hydrated at high altitude.
- Avoid alcohol the night before the tour.
- Spend at least one day in Cusco to acclimatize before the activity.
- Follow the guide’s instructions during the entire tour.
ATV Experience
- No previous ATV experience is required.
- A safety briefing and driving practice are included before the ride.
- Double ATVs are available for passengers who do not wish to drive.
Extra Tips
- Bring a camera or fully charged phone for photos.
- A portable charger is recommended during the tour.
Questions FAQ's
Frequently Asked Questions about the Maras, Moray and Salt Mines ATV Tour
Is previous ATV experience required?
- No experience is required. Before the tour begins, guides provide safety instructions and a short practice session for beginners.
What is the best season for the tour?
- The dry season from April to October offers sunny weather and better road conditions, although the tour operates all year round.
What is the minimum age to participate?
- Drivers must be at least 18 years old, while children from 12 years old can participate as passengers with an adult.
How long is the ATV ride?
- The complete tour lasts around 6 hours, including approximately 2.5 hours of ATV riding and guided sightseeing visits.
Can two people share one ATV?
- Yes, two people can share one ATV with one driver and one passenger, ideal for travelers who prefer a more relaxed ride.
Is entering Moray mandatory?
- No, visiting Moray is optional. Some alternative routes include Huaypo Lagoon and the famous Maras Salt Mines.
How can I book the tour?
- Reservations are usually made online with a small deposit, while the remaining balance is paid before the tour starts.
Duration: Full day
Group Size: 10 – 20 People
Difficulty: Easy
Entrance Fees: Not included
Service Type: Group Service
