Exploring Maras and Moray is diving into the history, culture, and natural beauty of the Sacred Valley of the Incas. These destinations, located in the Cusco, Peru region, offer a unique combination of archaeology, stunning landscapes, and living traditions that still survive in local communities.
If you are planning a visit to Cusco, these places are a must-stop for those seeking an authentic experience in the Andes. Below, we tell you everything you need to know about
Maras, Moray, the Misminay community, and the Huaypo lagoon.
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Maras: The Natural Salt Mines of the Incas
Located over 3,000 meters above sea level, the Maras Salt Mines are a collection of more than 3,000 salt evaporation ponds carved into the mountainside. These ponds have been used since Inca times and remain in operation today, producing one of the purest salts in the world.
What to do in Maras?
✔ Explore the Salt Mines: Walk among the ponds and observe the incredible process of salt extraction, which is done traditionally.
✔ Take stunning photographs: The view of the salt ponds reflecting the sunlight is simply spectacular.
✔ Taste and buy Maras pink salt: It’s a unique product, rich in minerals, and appreciated by chefs worldwide.
Entry to the Salt Mines has an accessible cost and is one of the most authentic experiences in the Sacred Valley.
Moray: The Agricultural Laboratory of the Incas
A few kilometers from Maras is Moray, a surprising Inca archaeological site known for its design in the form of concentric circular terraces. It is believed that this place was an agricultural laboratory, where the Incas experimented with different microclimates to improve their crops.
What to see and do in Moray?
✔ Explore the impressive circular terraces: These are unique structures that show the advanced agricultural technology of the Incas.
✔ Learn about the importance of the site: With a guide, you can discover how the Incas managed to modify the climate and adapt it to different crops.
✔ Enjoy the landscape: Moray is surrounded by mountains and valleys, offering stunning panoramic views.
The Moray site is included in the Cusco Tourist Ticket, so you can visit it along with other historical sites in the Sacred Valley.
Misminay Community: An Authentic Experience with the Living Andes
A short distance from Moray is the Misminay Community, a small Andean village where you can immerse yourself in local culture and get to know the traditions of the descendants of the Incas up close.
Why visit the Misminay Community?
✔ Experience experiential tourism: You can stay with local families and share their lifestyle.
✔ Learn about traditional textile techniques: The residents of Misminay are experts in Andean weaving and use ancestral techniques to create colorful textiles.
✔ Participate in agricultural activities: If you visit during harvest season, you can learn how to work the land as the Incas did.
✔ Enjoy the panoramic view of Moray: From Misminay, you can see Moray from a unique perspective, with the Sacred Valley in the background.
This is an ideal visit for those looking to connect with Andean culture and have an authentic experience in the mountains of Cusco.
Lagoons around Maras: Nature and Adventure in the Andes
A few kilometers from Maras and Moray is the Huaypo Lagoon, a body of water surrounded by mountains offering a peaceful environment and spectacular views.
Activities you can do at Huaypo Lagoon:
✔ Kayak rides: A relaxing and fun way to explore the lagoon.
✔ Hikes around the area: Enjoy the fresh air and natural landscapes surrounding the lagoon.
✔ Picnic with a lagoon view: Perfect for enjoying lunch surrounded by nature.
✔ Photography and birdwatching: If you are a nature lover, this is an ideal spot to capture unique images.
Huaypo Lagoon is a lesser-known destination, but perfect for those seeking a moment of relaxation and adventure away from the tourist crowds.
You might be interested in:
If you are planning your trip through the Sacred Valley, here are some other recommendations that might interest you:
✔ How to get to Machu Picchu from the Sacred Valley
✔ Complete route to visit Pisac and Ollantaytambo in one day
✔ The best restaurants in the Sacred Valley of the Incas
✔ Trekking and adventure: Must-do hikes in Cusco