Maras Salt Mines, Moray Terraces and Chinchero Artisans
Get picked up at 8:00 AM and meet your Peruvian tour guide at your hotel.
Travel for 1 hour and 20 minutes northeast of Cusco into the Sacred Valley, enjoying the beautiful and contemplative landscape along the way.
Upon arrival, explore the salt mines of Maras, where white patches spread across the hillside of the Sacred Valley. More than 3,000 artificial wells, carved into the mountainside and used since pre-Inca times, are filled by naturally salty water emerging from the subsoil. During sunny days, the water evaporates and leaves behind the highly nutritious pink salt.
Continue to the ruins of Moray, an agricultural experimental center famous for its sunken amphitheatre. Formed by four circular terraces that seem to disappear into the earth like an artificial crater, the site features symmetrical terraces built one above another. This complex irrigation system allowed the Incas to cultivate different plant species.
On the way back to Cusco, visit the artisans of Chinchero, among the most outstanding in the area for preserving their cultural essence and customs. They will share their skills in dyeing and spinning textiles using natural elements from the region.
Stop for lunch at one of Chinchero's authentic local restaurants, with sweet mountain views and overwhelming scenery. Lunch is optional and not included.
Return to Cusco by private transport.
End of the tour.
