Cusco to Maras Salt Mines, Moray and Ollantaytambo: Day trip

Marvel at the Maras Salt Mines, where over 3,000 terraced salt pools create a dazzling geometric landscape that has been harvested continuously since Inca times, demonstrating the sophisticated water management systems that enabled ancient civilizations to thrive in challenging mountain environments. Walk among the gleaming white terraces filled with mineral-rich water from underground springs, learning how local families maintain traditional harvesting methods passed down through generations and produce the prized pink salt that supplies restaurants worldwide. The contrast between the brilliant white salt pools and the brown mountain landscape creates one of Peru's most striking and photogenic scenes, especially during harvest season when workers in traditional colorful clothing tend the pools against the backdrop of snow-capped Andean peaks. Keep in mind that opening hours can vary slightly, but the site is typically open 8 AM to 5 PM. Entry costs around $5-$7 per person.

Explore Moray's mysterious circular terraces that descend deep into the earth like a natural amphitheater, serving as the Inca Empire's agricultural research center where scientists developed the crop varieties that fed millions of people across diverse ecological zones. Walk around the perfectly engineered terraces that create different microclimates within a small area, learning how temperature variations of up to 15 degrees Celsius between top and bottom levels allowed researchers to simulate growing conditions from coastal regions to high mountain valleys. The site's sophisticated design demonstrates the Incas' advanced understanding of agriculture, climate, and food security that enabled their empire to thrive for centuries in one of the world's most challenging environments. Entry to Moray is also included in the Cusco Tourist Ticket.

Discover Ollantaytambo, the best-preserved Inca town where massive stone terraces and fortress walls rise dramatically above narrow cobblestone streets that have been continuously inhabited since Inca times, creating a living museum of ancient urban planning. Climb the steep stone steps to explore the Temple of the Sun and other ceremonial structures built from massive pink granite blocks transported from quarries across the valley, demonstrating engineering capabilities that continue to amaze modern architects and archaeologists. Walk through the traditional town below where indigenous families still live in houses built on original Inca foundations, maintaining traditional lifestyles while serving as the gateway to Machu Picchu for thousands of visitors who pass through this timeless Andean community that bridges ancient and modern worlds. Entry to Ollantaytambo is included in the partial or full Cusco Tourist Ticket.