Planning Your Trip to Moray Archaeological Site

Moray sits at an elevation of about 11,500 feet. This height means you must acclimatize first. Spend at least two days in the city of Cuzco before visiting. This prevents altitude sickness and ensures you enjoy the sights. You can find more top attractions near Cuzco to fill your adjustment period.

The site is usually visited as part of a half-day tour. Most travelers combine it with the famous Maras salt pans. Private transport is the most comfortable way to reach the area. However, local shared vans or "colectivos" are available for budget travelers. These vans depart from the Calle Pavitos area in the city center.

Buy your tickets in advance to save time. The Sacred Valley is large and requires careful timing. Check out some Sacred Valley day trips to see how Moray fits your schedule. Remember that weather changes quickly in the high Andes mountains. Always carry a light rain jacket even if the sky looks clear.

10 Moray Archaeological Site Tips and Experiences

Use these specific spots and experiences to maximize your adventure. This list covers the best sights within and around the archaeological park. Here are our top Moray archaeological site tips for your 2026 itinerary.

• Best overall pick: Moray Circular Terraces
• Best for families: Maras Salt Mines
• Best unique experience: Mil Centro Dining
• Best free view: Raichi Overlook

1. Name: Moray Circular Terraces
   Type: sight
   Why go: Witness the architectural genius of the Inca circular farming beds.
   Best for: History lovers
   Where: Main Moray complex
   Time: 1 hour
   Cost: Included in Boleto Turistico
   Getting there: Walk from the site entrance parking lot.
   Tip: Photograph the largest terrace from the top rim for the best scale.
2. Name: Salineras de Maras
   Type: sight
   Why go: See thousands of ancient salt evaporation ponds still in use.
   Best for: Photographers
   Where: 15 minutes from Moray
   Time: 1 hour
   Cost: 20 soles entrance fee
   Getting there: Taxi or tour bus from the Moray site.
   Tip: Visit at midday when the sun reflects brightest off the white salt.
3. Name: Mil Centro
   Type: experience
   Why go: Enjoy a luxury culinary experience overlooking the Moray ruins.
   Best for: Foodies
   Where: Adjacent to the Moray site
   Time: 3 hours
   Cost: High-end pricing
   Getting there: Just steps away from the Moray visitor area.
   Tip: You must book reservations several months in advance for this world-class restaurant.
4. Name: Chinchero Archaeological Park
   Type: sight
   Why go: Visit the birthplace of the rainbow and see massive Inca walls.
   Best for: Culture fans
   Where: Chinchero village
   Time: 1.5 hours
   Cost: Included in Boleto Turistico
   Getting there: On the main road between Cuzco and Moray.
   Tip: Go on a Sunday morning for the famous local market experience.
5. Name: Piuray Lagoon
   Type: activity
   Why go: Relax by a high-altitude lake or try stand-up paddleboarding.
   Best for: Active travelers
   Where: Near Chinchero
   Time: 2 hours
   Cost: Activity fees vary
   Getting there: Stop here on your drive back to Cuzco.
   Tip: The lagoon is very calm in the morning for better water sports.
6. Name: Church of San Pedro
   Type: sight
   Why go: View stunning colonial murals inside a traditional Andean adobe church.
   Best for: Art enthusiasts
   Where: Chinchero Main Plaza
   Time: 30 minutes
   Cost: Small entry fee or included in ticket
   Getting there: Short walk from the Chinchero ruins entrance.
   Tip: Photography is often restricted inside, so enjoy the details with your eyes.
7. Name: Misminay Community
   Type: experience
   Why go: Participate in local Andean life and traditional weaving demonstrations.
   Best for: Cultural immersion
   Where: Hills overlooking Moray
   Time: Half-day or overnight
   Cost: Homestay fees apply
   Getting there: Accessible via a dirt road or hiking trail from Moray.
   Tip: Use a local agency to arrange a respectful and authentic visit.
8. Name: Maras Town Plaza
   Type: sight
   Why go: See the historic colonial doorways and traditional village layout.
   Best for: Quick stop
   Where: In the town of Maras
   Time: 20 minutes
   Cost: Free
   Getting there: Located on the road connecting the salt mines and Moray.
   Tip: Look for the carved stone coats of arms on the old house portals.
9. Name: Raichi Overlook
   Type: sight
   Why go: Capture panoramic views of the entire Sacred Valley and Vilcanota range.
   Best for: Panoramic photos
   Where: Above the village of Urquillos
   Time: 15 minutes
   Cost: Free
   Getting there: Ask your driver to stop at the viewpoint on the Chinchero-Urubamba road.
   Tip: This is a perfect spot for sunset photos if you are heading back late.
10. Name: Urubamba River Valley
    Type: sight
    Why go: Enjoy the lush scenery and fertile lands along the river.
    Best for: Scenic drives
    Where: Valley floor below Moray
    Time: Ongoing
    Cost: Free
    Getting there: Descend the winding roads from Maras toward the valley.
    Tip: Many excellent lunch spots are located along the riverbanks in Urubamba.

Essential Logistics for Visiting Moray in 2026

To enter Moray, you need the Boleto Turistico del Cusco. This ticket also covers Pisac, Ollantaytambo, and Chinchero. You cannot buy a single entry ticket just for Moray. Plan to purchase the full or partial circuit ticket at the site entrance. Note that as of 2026, many sites require credit cards or exact local currency.

Timing is everything when visiting this archaeological gem. Most tour groups arrive between 10:00 AM and 1:00 PM. To avoid the crowds, arrive at 8:00 AM or after 3:00 PM. This allows for peaceful exploration of the circular terraces. You can find more details on Maras salt mines tour options to coordinate both locations. This ensures you see the best of the high plateau in one day.

Hiring a guide is highly recommended for Moray. The site has deep botanical and spiritual significance. A professional guide explains how the Incas manipulated soil temperatures. They will help you understand why this site was vital for the empire. If you enjoy history, consider visiting the Pisac market and ruins later in your trip. Both locations showcase incredible engineering skills.

What to Pack for Your Moray Adventure

The sun at this altitude is extremely strong. Wear a wide-brimmed hat and apply high-SPF sunscreen frequently. Even on cloudy days, the ultraviolet rays are intense. Sturdy walking shoes are vital for the gravel paths. While you cannot walk into the center of the terraces, you will walk around the rim.

Hydration is the secret to feeling good in the Andes. Bring a reusable water bottle and drink more than usual. Many travelers find that coca tea or sweets help with the thinning air. For extra energy, pack local snacks like dried fruit or Andean grains. If you plan to hike nearby, read our Rainbow Mountain hiking guide for equipment overlap.

Layered clothing is the standard for Peru travel. Mornings are often freezing, while afternoons feel quite warm. A fleece jacket over a light t-shirt works best. Don't forget your camera with plenty of storage space. For more planning resources, consult the Ministerio de Cultura - Machu Picchu for regulation updates. They provide the latest news on site access and safety guidelines for 2026.