English
Español
Experience an immersive journey into traditional Andean culture with the Textile Tour through Chinchero, Moray, and the Maras Salt Mines. This half-day tour has been designed to enjoy some of the most impressive destinations in the Sacred Valley of the Incas, where you can delve into the ancient Andean textile tradition and closely discover its natural dyeing process, in an unforgettable cultural journey.
Why choose this experience with us?
Small groups and guaranteed departures: The trip is organized in groups of a maximum of 18 people, so you can enjoy a more authentic experience throughout the journey. Additionally, departures are confirmed from 2 passengers, giving you the flexibility to plan your adventure with complete confidence.
Andean traditional experience: Get to know the Andean culture up close with the most traditional towns of the Sacred Valley, and experience a demonstration of their natural dyeing process and their millennia-old textile tradition.
Professional guide throughout the tour: From the pick-up at your hotel to the end of the experience, you will have the continuous support of our professional guide. He will be able to address each of your questions, as well as provide you with information and security throughout the entire journey.
Enjoy each destination without haste: Our itinerary is designed to explore each attraction along the route at a leisurely pace, appreciating the natural landscapes and the cultural richness of the destination in detail.
Half Day | Cusco – Chinchero – Textile Center – Moray – Maras Salt Mines - Cusco Discover a half-day program ideal for those who seek a peaceful day. The tour combines stunning Andean landscapes, archeological sites, and living culture: the ancestral textile tradition of Chinchero, the agricultural laboratory of Moray, and the famous Maras Salt Mines.
Technical data
Duration:
Half a day (6 hours)
Schedule:
Pickup 8:30 a.m. / Return 02:30 p.m.
Maximum altitude:
Chinchero — 3,762 meters above sea level / 12,343 feet.
Minimum altitude:
Salt Mines of Maras — 3,380 meters above sea level / 11,089 feet
Difficulty level:
Easy
Temperature:
Minimum 2 °C / Maximum 25 °C
Highlighted places
Chinchero (3,762 m / 12,343 ft): Important Inca agricultural and cultural center, known for its terraces, colonial church, and the stunning views of the snow-capped mountains surrounding the Sacred Valley.
Chinchero Textile Center (3,762 m / 12,343 ft): Space where Andean women preserve the ancient techniques of weaving and natural dyeing, a tradition passed down from generation to generation since ancient times.
Moray (3,500 m / 11,500 ft): Known for its enormous circular terraces, it forms an impressive natural amphitheater. During the Inca period, it was an agricultural experimentation center where different microclimates were studied to improve and adapt various crops.
Salt Mines of Maras (3,380 meters above sea level / 11,080 feet): At first glance, they appear to be an immense white blanket covering the mountain, but in reality, they are more than 3000 salt ponds fed by a natural spring, utilized since pre-Inca times.
HALF DAY | CUSCO – CHINCHERO – TEXTILE CENTER – MORAY – SALINERAS DE MARAS - CUSCO
The adventure of the Textile tour through Chinchero, Maras, and Moray begins with the pickup from your hotel between 8:00 and 8:30 in the morning, to travel toward the Chinchero archeological complex, on a journey of approximately 40 minutes.
Chinchero is an ancient Andean village that preserves Inca terraces and enclosures in excellent condition. You also visit its beautiful colonial church built on Inca foundations, where you can still appreciate murals of great artistic value. The guided tour lasts approximately 30 minutes in this place.
Subsequently, also in Chinchero, a textile interpretation center is visited. In this place, local artisans will demonstrate the ancient process of obtaining natural dyes from plants, minerals, and insects. Additionally, traditional Andean weaving techniques will be learned, as well as how to recognize authentic baby alpaca fiber garments.
At the end of the tour, the journey will continue for 25 minutes until reaching the archeological site of Moray, whose three enormous circular terraces descend in an amphitheater shape, creating a unique landscape. During the Inca period, it is believed to have been an important agricultural experimentation center, where different microclimates were studied to improve and adapt crops that were then distributed throughout the Inca Empire. The guided tour lasts approximately 30 minutes.
A few minutes from Moray, passing through the traditional village of Maras, you arrive at the impressive Maras Salt Mines. At first glance, they appear as an immense white blanket on the mountainside, although in reality, they are more than 3000 salt pools fed by a natural saline spring, utilized since pre-Inca times. During the Inca Empire, salt was a very valuable product, used for barter and food preservation, and today this ancestral activity continues to be the livelihood of many families in the Maras community, who still extract it in a traditional manner.
There is also an opportunity to purchase different varieties of salt and related products. The visit lasts approximately 45 minutes, including the guide's explanation and free time to explore.
After being part of this enriching cultural experience, the group will begin the return to the city of Cusco, enjoying the incredible landscapes of the Sacred Valley. The Textile Tour through Chinchero, Maras, and Moray ends around 2:30 PM, after experiencing unforgettable moments.
Technical data
Duration:
Half a day (6 hours)
Schedule:
Pickup 8:30 a.m. / Return 02:30 p.m.
Maximum altitude:
Chinchero — 3,762 meters above sea level / 12,343 feet.
Minimum altitude:
Salt Mines of Maras — 3,380 meters above sea level / 11,089 feet
Difficulty level:
Easy
Temperature:
Minimum 2 °C / Maximum 25 °C
Accompaniment and security
Virtual assistance before the tour: Before the start, the team provides virtual assistance to resolve all the traveler's questions and doubts about the program, so they can enjoy their trip without worries.
Bilingual professional guide (Spanish and English): An excellent staff of professional guides, highly trained in history, culture, and tourist information, accompanies the entire tour to provide a safe, informative, and memorable experience.
First aid kit and oxygen tank: Sakura Expedition prioritizes safety during every tour. Therefore, the guides receive constant training in first aid, ensuring timely assistance and a safe journey for all passengers.
24/7 Customer Service: The team is available to address the traveler's inquiries from start to finish, with an emergency phone number they can call whenever needed.
Tourist Transfers
Pick-up in tourist service from your hotel in Cusco.
Tourist transportation throughout the entire tour.
What is not included?
General Tourist Ticket (BTG) or Partial Ticket (BTP): It is necessary to purchase it to enter the archeological sites of the City Tour, the Sacred Valley, the South Valley, Moray, and some museums in the city of Cusco. You can also purchase just the partial ticket for a single visit, paying directly in soles.
Partial Ticket: 70.00 soles / approximately 21.00 USD
General Ticket: 130.00 soles / approximately 40.00 USD
Entry to the Maras Salt Mines: this ticket is not included in the Tourist Ticket; it is purchased at the entrance.
General admission: 20.00 soles / approximately 6.00 USD.
Note: the amounts in dollars are for reference and are subject to the current exchange rate. The payment is made in soles.
Enhance your experience
Private service at your own pace. A more comfortable and personalized experience, with flexible schedules, more time for photographs, and the freedom to explore each place without the limitations of a shared group. To be consulted with the sales executive.
Ancestral walk with llamas, payment to the earth, and pachamanca in the community of Chinchero (private service): Live an authentic experience in the Andes by walking alongside community llamas, learning about the living traditions of Chinchero, participating in a payment to Pachamama, and enjoying a traditional pachamanca, along with music and ancestral dances. Available before or after the tour.
Take the first step toward your adventure. Check availability with our sales executive and receive a personalized quote.
Mandatory documents
Original valid passport or ID card (mandatory).
Valid physical student card (if booked with student fare).
Recommended luggage
Lightweight backpack or handbag (20 to 30 liters) for the essentials.
Water bottle and snacks.
Cash for shopping and souvenirs during the tour.
Clothing and footwear
Comfortable shoes with a good non-slip sole.
Light and breathable clothing.
Waterproof jacket or rain poncho.
Warm clothing for the morning and evening.
Hat or cap for the sun.
Sunglasses.
A special set to capture unforgettable photographs in Moray and the Maras Salt Mines.
Personal items
Sunscreen.
Personal medication.
Basic personal first aid kit.
Wet wipes or toilet paper.
Hand sanitizer.
Equipment and extras
Camera or cell phone.
Extra cash for drinks, souvenirs, or tips.
Important considerations
It is an ideal tour to acclimate in Cusco before embarking on a more extensive tour.
Avoid heavy luggage to better enjoy the experience.
Always keep your documents and valuables with you.
How long does the Chinchero, Maras, and Moray textile tour last?
The textile tour lasts approximately 6 hours, including guided visits, time for photographs, and tourist transfers.
What time does the tour start?
The tour starts with the pickup from the hotels between 08:00 and 08:30 in the morning. The return to Cusco is approximately at 2:30 in the afternoon.
Does the tour include pickup from the hotel?
Yes, from hotels located within the historic center of Cusco. For hotels outside that area, a nearby meeting point is coordinated. At the end, the transportation drops the traveler off near the Plaza de Armas.
What is the difference between this tour and the Super Sacred Valley?
This tour is designed for those who have half a day or prefer a more relaxed experience. It focuses on the living culture of Chinchero, the agricultural laboratory of Moray, and the Maras Salt Mines. Unlike the Super Sacred Valley, it does not include Pisac, Ollantaytambo, or a buffet lunch, so it requires less time and has a more relaxed pace.
Is the Tourist Ticket required to take the tour?
Yes. It is mandatory to enter Chinchero and Moray. You can purchase the Partial Tourist Ticket (BTP) or the General Tourist Ticket (BTG).
Partial Ticket (foreign adult): 70.00 soles / approximately 21.00 USD.
General Ticket (foreign adult): 130.00 soles / approximately 40.00 USD.
How much does the Tourist Ticket cost for students and children?
Foreign student aged 10 to 16: 70.00 soles / approximately 21.00 USD, with original passport.
Foreign student aged 17 to 22: 70.00 soles / approximately 21.00 USD. Conditions: original physical university ID card (PVC), which includes a photograph, full name, university, and a validity date for the year of travel. Children under 9 years old do not pay for the Tourist Ticket.
Is the entrance to the Maras Salt Mines included?
No, it will need to be purchased directly at the entrance gate. The price of the general admission ticket is 20.00 soles / approximately 6.00 USD.
How is the payment for the admission tickets made? Can you pay with a card or dollars?
It is recommended to carry cash in Peruvian soles to expedite entry to the attractions. At some points, it is possible to pay with a credit or debit card, with an approximate surcharge of 5% and subject to internet signal availability. Dollars are also accepted, although change is not always immediately available.
Should I buy the tickets in advance or can I get them on the same day?
It is possible to purchase them on the same day, before starting the visits. However, if you have time in Cusco, it is recommended to buy them in advance to streamline the tour.
What is the maximum and minimum altitude of the route?
The maximum altitude of the route is Chinchero, at 3762 meters above sea level (12,343 feet), while the minimum is the Maras Salt Mines, at 3380 meters above sea level (11,089 feet).
Is it recommended for the first day in Cusco?
Yes. It is an excellent option for acclimatization, as it combines cultural tours and short walks with stunning Andean landscapes.
What is the difficulty level of the tour?
The level of the textile tour is easy. The walks are short and suitable for most travelers.
Can children and seniors participate?
Yes. It is an ideal route for families, couples, and seniors who can walk independently. It is recommended for ages 5 and up. As it is a shared service, the group maintains a general pace; those who desire more flexibility and more breaks can opt for the private service. Older adults can participate as long as they maintain good physical condition.
Do children from 3 years old pay for a seat?
Yes. It is recommended that children have their own seat for greater comfort. Additionally, for safety reasons and in accordance with current transportation regulations, passengers aged 3 and above must have a seat.
What will I learn at the Chinchero Textile Center?
You will learn the ancestral techniques of weaving and natural dyeing that Andean women have preserved for generations, and you will also learn to identify authentic alpaca and baby alpaca fiber garments.
Why is Moray considered unique in the world?
Moray was an important center of Inca agricultural experimentation. Its circular terraces allowed the creation of different microclimates to study and adapt crops, which were then distributed throughout the Inca Empire.
How many pools make up the Maras Salt Mines?
They are made up of more than 3000 salt ponds fed by a natural spring, utilized by local families since pre-Inca times.
What clothes should I bring?
Comfortable shoes with good soles, a waterproof jacket or rain poncho, light clothing for the day and a coat for the morning, a cap or hat, sunglasses, sunscreen, and a water bottle.
Does the tour operate during the rainy season?
Yes, it operates all year round. Between November and March, it is recommended to wear a raincoat or poncho.
In which languages is the guided service offered?
Professional guides provide explanations in Spanish and English. For other languages, such as German, French, or Portuguese, a private guide is required, which must be arranged in advance.
How long is each place visited?
The duration may vary slightly depending on the group's pace and the conditions of the tour:
Chinchero: 30 minutes.
Chinchero Textile Center: 20 minutes.
Moray: 30 minutes.
Salineras de Maras: 45 minutes.
At each location, the guide provides detailed explanations and sufficient time for photographs.
What happens if I don't want to enter the Maras Salt Mines? Can I stay on the transport?
Yes. Those who decide not to enter can comfortably remain in the tourist transport while the rest of the group visits, and then continue with the itinerary. Even so, it is recommended to visit this attraction, as it is one of the most iconic and photographed landscapes in the region.
What happens if I feel affected by the altitude?
The guides are equipped with a first aid kit and an oxygen tank to handle any eventuality during the tour.
Can the date be canceled or changed?
Yes, it is possible to cancel or change the date of the reservation up to 48 hours before departure. In these cases, an administrative fee is applied, which is deducted from the total amount as appropriate.
Do you have any more questions?
You can contact the sales team via WhatsApp at the numbers +51 993 150 947 or +51 941 411 418, or by email at info@sakuraexpedition.com.
Why choose Sakura Expedition?
Sakura Expedition is a 100% Peruvian company specialized in adventure and cultural tourism in the Cusco destination. It has a team of certified guides, porters, and operational staff committed to providing unique, safe, and high-quality experiences. Responsible and sustainable tourism, respect for local communities, and personalized attention in every service set it apart. Backed by its tourism quality certification, it guarantees standards of excellence in every detail of the operation.
