This half day tour is a glimpse into the ingenuity of the Inca civilization. Departing Cusco, our first stop is at Moray, explore a series of impressive circular terraces that the Inca used as an agricultural laboratory. Travel further into the valley to Maras Salt mines, a stunning patchwork of thousands of pans that have been in use since before Inca Times. The breathtaking Andean landscapes make this the perfect short adventure in the Sacred Valley.
Pick up from your hotel will be at 8 a.m. On our half day journey, we will travel one hour and 20 minutes to Moray. On the way, see the snowy peaks of the Andes, wheat fields and some local villages. The guide will point out interesting things to witness while driving. Finally, you will arrive at the fascinating terraces at Moray.
Moray
Moray has three terraces similar to an amphitheater. It is thought that the Inca used these terraces, which are carved into the depths of the earth in the shape of a bowl, to determine the optimal conditions for cultivation.
When you have finished exploring Moray, you will head about two miles away to the salt mines of Maras.
Maras
This town is known as an ancient salt production center and is believed to date back to pre-Inca times. There are more than 3,000 salt pools carved into the side of the mountain, which are filled daily with a stream of water from the mountain above. Here is the perfect opportunity to take photos of the spectacular landscape. Later, we drive back to Cusco.
INCLUDED
- Hotel pick-up and drop-off.
- English speaking guide (Professional).
- First-aid kit.
NOT INCLUDED
- Tips for Wayna Trekkers’ crew.
- Entrance fee. You can buy at the entrance.
- Meals
- Hotels
PRICES:
Group prices
| # OF PERSONS | PRICE PER PERSON |
|---|---|
| 2 persons | $90 pp |
| 3 persons | $75 pp |
| 4 persons | $65 pp |
| 5 persons+ | $50 pp |
Add on’s:
- Not applicable
Please read the following information.
Booking
Acclimatization to the altitude:
High altitude starts to have an effect on our bodies from between 1,500m – 2,000m (4921ft – 6561ft) when our bodies start to react differently to make up for the changes in oxygen levels. As you get higher, the air gets thinner, so with every breath there is less oxygen for your body. Your body gradually adapts to getting less oxygen – you breathe faster and deeper and the body produces more red blood cells. This takes time so this is why if you go from low to high altitude too quickly, you may feel symptoms of altitude sickness until your body acclimatizes.
The Cusco region is generally set at very high elevations. The city of Cusco stands at a staggering 3 399m/ 11 152ft. On the other hand, the classic Inca Trial has varying degrees of elevations, lowest is your starting point (thrailhead:km82) at 2 729m/8 923 and gets as high as 4 200m/13 779ft (Dead Women´s Pass). So, altitudes sickness is to be expected when hiking the classic Inca Trail. However, people react differently to altitude sickness and it can present itself in a variety of symptoms. Common symptoms include: headache, nausea, vomiting, fatigue, poor appetite, dizziness and disturbed sleep and in extreme cases, loss of oxygen.
There are number of ways to deal with altitude sickness. Firstly, you need to acclimate, by spending a few days in the Sacred Valley or Cusco. The body does adjust to the thin air, it just needs time. There are a number of day tours you can participate in before your hike, that don’t require much exertion. Secondly, get lots of sleep, relax and take it easy. Another option is to watch what you consume, try to avoid alcohol and drugs and also drink lots of water and coca tea. Keep your meals light, high in calories with lots of carbs. Lastly, we recommend visiting your doctor before traveling to Peru and ask for recommendations for medication that can help with altitude sickness.
These are the recommended remedies for altitude sickness is WATER, COCA TEA and OXYGEN, IF NEEDED.
Briefing.
For 1 day tours there is no briefing needed, but we will be intouch with you and set the briefing over the phone.
How do I pay my remaining balance?
You can pay the rest of your bill upon arrival to Cusco at our office with a card or cash if you want to avoid any extra high credit card fees. Our representative will show you the invoice confirmed at booking time. Otherwise, you can pay through PayPal or Visa but you have to pay 5% service fee charged by VISA and PayPal.
Recommendations
- Passport.
- Light and warm clothes.
- Hat.
- Sunglasses.
- Photographic camera.
