Maras, Moray & Salt Mines Tour – Full Day

How long does the actual walking take at each site?

Very manageable. At Maras, you walk along the edge of the salt pond terraces — relatively flat, no strenuous climbing, around 30–45 minutes of easy exploration. At Moray, it’s a short walk from the parking area to the circular terraces, with the option to descend into the site itself (roughly 20–30 minutes). Neither site is physically demanding — the challenge is altitude, not terrain.

Is this suitable for children and older travelers?

Yes. This is one of the most accessible tours in the Cusco region. The terrain is gentle, the distances are short, and the altitude (~3,400m) is lower than Cusco city itself. Children love both sites — the salt ponds are visually magical, and Moray is unlike anything they’ll have seen before. For older travelers or those with mobility concerns, we recommend taking it slowly and staying well hydrated.

What exactly is the Boleto Turístico and do I need to buy it in advance?

The Boleto Turístico is Cusco’s official tourist ticket, which covers entry to a number of archaeological sites including Moray. A partial Boleto (Circuit III) costs S/70 (~$18 USD) and covers several Sacred Valley sites. It can be purchased on the day at the entrance to Moray, or in advance at the Dirección Regional de Cultura in Cusco. You do not need the full Boleto unless you plan to visit other included sites — your guide will advise based on your itinerary.

When is the best time to visit — morning or afternoon?

Morning is generally preferred. The light on the Maras salt ponds is extraordinary in the morning, especially with early sun catching the white crystalline surfaces. It also tends to be less crowded before midday. That said, afternoon departures are available — the golden-hour light at both sites is also beautiful, and afternoon tours are ideal if you need the morning free for rest or other activities.

Can this be combined with other tours on the same day?

Absolutely — that’s one of the strengths of this tour. Because you’re back in Cusco by 12:30 PM, the afternoon is entirely free. Many travelers combine it with a city tour of Cusco in the afternoon, or use it as the first day of arrival before heading to the Sacred Valley the following day. It also pairs naturally with Chinchero (a short additional stop en route) for those who want a fuller morning. Ask us about combination options when you book.

Is this tour available year-round?

Yes, Maras and Moray are open year-round and both sites are fully accessible even during the rainy season (November–March). In fact, the salt ponds during the rainy season have a striking visual quality — the pools reflect the sky and the colors shift dramatically. The road to both sites is paved, so rain has minimal impact on access. The dry season (May–October) typically offers clearer skies and sharper photography conditions.

Do local families still work the Maras salt ponds?

Yes — and this is one of the most meaningful aspects of the visit. The Maras salt ponds (known locally as Salineras de Maras) have been in continuous use since before the Inca period, and today around 200 local families each own and manage their own individual pools. The salt is harvested by hand, dried naturally in the sun, and sold primarily as artisanal pink salt. Purchasing a bag of Maras salt directly from the local cooperatives at the site is one of the best souvenirs you can bring home — and the proceeds go directly to the community.