Hike to the 7 Ausangate lagoons 1 day
PE
100% of travellers recommend this
Highlights
- Explore the fascinating ruins at Moray
- Visit the pre-Inca salt mines of Salineras
- Discover the quiet colonial town of Maras
- Enjoy a guided tour with informative commentary
- Round-trip transportation from Cusco
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Duration 6.5 hours
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Bi-lingual Guide
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Private & Small Group Tour
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Includes round-trip transport
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Entrance Ticket Not Included
Experience the hidden gems of Peru on this captivating day trip to Maras and Moray. Leave the beaten path and explore the lesser-known ruins of Moray, featuring its impressive circular agricultural terraces that served as a crop lab for the ancient Incas. Marvel at the ingenuity of their irrigation system and discover the fascinating history behind these ancient structures. Then, journey to the picturesque town of Maras, famous for its 3600 salt wells strategically carved into the mountainside. Learn about the traditional salt-harvesting methods that have been practiced for over 500 years and witness the crystallized salt left behind by the evaporation process. With informative commentary and round-trip transportation from Cusco, this tour promises an unforgettable adventure into the intriguing history and natural wonders of Peru.
At a Glance
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Free cancellation
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13 hours
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Instant Confirmation
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Available in English, Spanish; Castilian
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Mobile voucher
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Small Group tour
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Guided
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Family friendly
Featured Reviews
Explore the hidden gems of Moray and Maras on a captivating day trip from Cusco, complete with expert guidance and round-trip transport.
Included
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OtherFirst aid kit -
Other1 Breakfast 1 Lunch
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OtherWalking sticks
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Othertourist transport
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OtherHotel pick up
Excluded
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OtherBring 20 soles in cash to enter the 7 Lagoons
Pickup
Check if pick-up is available from your location, you will select during checkout (providers may allow other pickup locations)
What to expect
Ausangate 7 Lagunas
Pickup between 4 and 5 am, depending on your hotel location. The journey from Cusco to the community of Pacchanta is a 3-hour drive, where we will have breakfast to begin the tour. After getting ready and receiving instructions from our guide, we will begin our hike toward the lagoons. The first lagoon we will see will be Pukaqocha. Then we will reach Pataqocha, where we will then reach the Alqa Qocha lagoon. The next lagoon we will visit is Q'ome Qocha. Afterwards, we will continue to the Orq'o Otorongo and China Otorongo lagoons. Finally, we will visit the Azul Qocha lagoon. After hiking amidst snow-capped mountains and lagoons for approximately 3 hours, we will return to Pacchanta, where lunch will be waiting for us. We will have free time to visit the hot springs. At around 2:30 pm we will begin to return to the city of Cusco, arriving at approximately 5:30 pm in Cusco, ending one block from the Plaza de Armas
180 minutes
Admission Not Included
The experience can be subject to change due to bad weather or unforseen circumstances. We always endeavour to give you the best possible experience.
Additional Information
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Suitable for all physical fitness levels
What our experts say
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Try the local dishes in Maras town. -
Bring water; it can be quite dry.
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Visit the Maras salt mines early for fewer crowds.
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Wear comfortable shoes for walking.
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Plan for a camera; the views are stunning.
More About this Experience
Introduction
Get ready for an unforgettable adventure in the heart of Peru with the Maras Moray (Day Trip) tour. While not as widely known as other Incan sites, the ruins at Moray and the pre-Inca salt mines of Salineras are just as captivating. This day tour from Cusco offers the perfect opportunity to explore these off-the-beaten-track gems, while also visiting the charming colonial town of Maras. With a knowledgeable guide leading the way and convenient round-trip transportation from Cusco, you'll have all the essentials for an enriching and hassle-free experience.What to expect?
Embark on a journey that will immerse you in the fascinating history and natural beauty of Maras Moray. Explore the ancient ruins at Moray, where you'll be awestruck by the impressive system of circular agricultural terraces. These terraces, up to 330 feet deep, were ingeniously designed to create micro-climates and experiment with various crops. Witness the ingenuity of the Inca civilization as you learn about their advanced agricultural techniques. Next, venture into the picturesque town of Maras, known for its enchanting colonial architecture. Discover the incredible salt pans, strategically dug into the mountainside by the Wari civilization and expanded by the Inca. Marvel at the sight of thousands of shallow pools filled with saltwater, which eventually evaporate to leave behind crystallized salt. This centuries-old tradition continues to this day, making Maras a unique and thriving salt-producing community.Who is this for?
The Maras Moray (Day Trip) tour is a must for travelers seeking to go beyond the well-trodden path and discover hidden gems in Peru. History enthusiasts will delight in exploring the ancient ruins and learning about the advanced agricultural techniques of the Inca civilization. Nature lovers will be captivated by the stunning landscapes, from the circular terraces of Moray to the mesmerizing salt pans of Maras. This tour is suitable for all ages and fitness levels, as the activities involve moderate walking and easy exploration.Why book this?
By booking the Maras Moray (Day Trip) tour, you'll have the opportunity to delve into the lesser-known wonders of Peru. Unlike the crowded tourist hotspots, this tour offers a more intimate and authentic experience. You'll have the chance to interact with the local community in Maras, witnessing their traditional salt production methods firsthand. With a knowledgeable bilingual guide by your side, you'll gain a deeper understanding of the historical and cultural significance of these sites. Plus, the convenience of round-trip transportation from Cusco ensures a hassle-free day of exploration.Good to know
During the Maras Moray (Day Trip) tour, make sure to bring comfortable walking shoes, sunscreen, and a hat to protect yourself from the sun. Don't forget to bring some cash for the entrance tickets to the sites. Partial tickets are available for 70 Soles, valid for 2 days, while complete tickets are priced at 130 Soles, valid for 10 days. Remember to stay hydrated throughout the day and bring a refillable water bottle. This tour operates rain or shine, so be prepared for various weather conditions. Immerse yourself in the local culture by interacting with the friendly residents of Maras and supporting local artisans.Reviews
Travelers who have experienced the Maras Moray (Day Trip) tour have been amazed by the unique and lesser-known sites they discovered. They praise the knowledgeable guides who provided insightful commentary and made the history come alive. Visitors were particularly impressed by the circular agricultural terraces at Moray, marveling at the ingenuity of the Inca civilization. The salt pans of Maras also left a lasting impression, with many describing the beauty and tranquility of the surrounding landscapes. Overall, travelers highly recommend this tour for those seeking an off-the-beaten-path adventure in Peru.Journals from our explorers at this location
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