Moray and the Maras salt mines: how to visit from Cusco or the Sacred Valley

Moray and the Maras salt mines are two of the most photogenic sites near Cusco and are usually visited together, being a few kilometres apart on the plateau above the Sacred Valley. Moray is an enigmatic Inca complex of circular terraces; Maras is an amphitheatre of thousands of white and ochre salt pools clinging to the hillside. Together they take half a day and pair nicely with Chinchero or a stay in the Sacred Valley.

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Moray: the circular terraces

Moray sits at about 3,500 m and consists of several natural depressions where the Incas built concentric terraces like an amphitheatre. The largest is about 30 m deep. The most widespread theory is that it was an agricultural research centre: there are notable temperature differences between the upper levels and the bottom, which may have allowed crops to be studied and adapted to different microclimates. Other researchers also suggest a ceremonial use.

To protect the site, walking down into the terraces isn't currently allowed; you follow a perimeter path with viewpoints.

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The Maras salt mines

The salt mines are thousands of small stepped pools on a mountainside at about 3,300 m. A very salty spring emerges at the top and is channelled between the pools; as the sun evaporates the water, salt remains and families harvest it by hand. They've been worked since before the Incas and are now run by families of the Maras community, organised as a cooperative.

The view from the upper viewpoint is spectacular, especially in afternoon light. Shops at the entrance sell pink salt, herb salts and other products — a good souvenir that supports the community.

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Tickets

• Moray: included in the Cusco Tourist Ticket, both the general one and the partial Sacred Valley circuit (with Pisac, Ollantaytambo and Chinchero). Individual tickets aren't sold.
• Maras salt mines: separate entrance charged by the community, paid in cash at the gate.

Prices change; check official information and carry cash in soles.

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Getting there

• Half-day tour from Cusco: the easiest option, usually leaving in the morning or at midday, sometimes stopping in Chinchero. Check whether entrances are included.
• Taxi or private transport: from Cusco (about 1.5 hours) or Urubamba (about 30–40 minutes). Go at your own pace and pick the best light.
• Public transport: colectivo from Cusco towards Urubamba to the Maras turn-off, then a local taxi to Moray and the salt mines.
• By ATV or bike: adventure tours across the plateau.

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Walking down from the salt mines to the valley

A highly recommended option is to finish by walking down from the salt mines to the valley floor near the community of Pichingoto, by the Urubamba River. It's roughly a 1-hour trail, mostly downhill, with changing views of the pools. At the bottom, cross the bridge and catch transport to Urubamba or Cusco. Wear shoes with good grip: the path has loose stones and narrow sections.

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Best time and season

• The salt mines look best in the afternoon, with sun on the pools; Moray is pleasant in the morning, with fewer people.
• In the dry season (roughly May to October) the salt mines are in full production and look whiter.
• In the rainy season (roughly December to March) rain fills the pools and production stops; the landscape changes, more ochre with reflections.

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Recommended combos

• Chinchero + Moray + Maras: the classic half or full day.
• Moray + Maras + Ollantaytambo: if you're sleeping in the Sacred Valley or catching the Machu Picchu train.
• Full Sacred Valley: some full-day tours include Pisac, Ollantaytambo, Moray and Maras, though with little time at each.

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Tips

• Sunscreen and a hat: the plateau is very exposed.
• Don't walk on the edges of the salt pools except on permitted paths; they're the families' livelihood.
• Bring water and snacks; there are few services beyond the entrances.
• If you're worried about altitude, these sites are slightly below or level with Cusco.

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Notice: This guide shares advice and recommendations based on research and local experience. Prices, opening hours and rules may change: always check with official sources and operators. Cusco Tips is not responsible for third-party services, bookings or decisions made using these guides; some links are affiliate links (see our affiliate policy).