How to go to Maras and Moray without a tour? Route and tips
Can you visit Maras and Moray without a tour? Of course! Many people don’t know that there are easy, affordable routes perfect for those who prefer to travel independently. If you’re looking to explore these two places at your own pace, in this article I’ll tell you how to get there, what to keep in mind, and some tips that few people mention.
Content
- Route and transportation
- Costs and tickets
- What to avoid when going without a tour
- Frequently Asked Questions
Route and transportation
Where to take buses to Maras from Cusco?
To get to Maras from Cusco by bus, go to the bus stop for Urubamba. It’s located on Pavitos Street, near Cusco’s historic center. Buses depart throughout the day, and the trip takes approximately one hour to the Maras detour.
Once the bus drops you off at the turnoff (on the Cusco–Urubamba highway), you can take a local taxi or motorcycle taxi to the village of Maras, which is about 4 kilometers uphill. This journey takes between 10 and 15 minutes; you can also walk if you prefer, although it takes longer.
How to get from Maras to Moray on your own?
From the village of Maras, you can easily reach Moray by taking a local taxi or motorbike taxi. The journey takes around 20 minutes and is a convenient option if you want to go directly.
Another option is to walk, although the path is dirt and can take between 1 and 1.5 hours, depending on your pace. This route is safe and fairly peaceful, ideal if you enjoy hiking and enjoying the scenery. However, there are no constant signs, so it’s advisable to use a GPS or offline maps.
Can you easily return to Cusco without a tour?
Yes, you can easily return to Cusco on your own without booking a tour. From Moray or Maras, you can take a taxi or motorcycle taxi to the turnoff on the main road and from there wait for a bus back to Cusco or continue to Urubamba, where you can connect.
The bus service usually runs until late afternoon, around 5:00 or 6:00 pm, so it’s advisable to leave early to avoid being left without transportation. If it gets very late, you could consider taking a taxi directly to Cusco, although this option will be more expensive.
Is it possible to get there by bicycle or motorcycle?
Yes, it’s possible to get there by bike or motorcycle, as there are secondary routes and dirt roads from Cusco that connect to Maras and Moray. By bike, the most popular route is the one through Chinchero, a route with ups and downs, ideal for those looking for a more adventurous experience.
You can also travel by motorcycle without any problems, as the roads are in good condition and many people use this mode to explore the area. However, it’s advisable to have experience driving on rural roads and check that the weather is favorable, especially during the rainy season, when the roads can become slippery.
Costs and tickets
How much does transportation to Maras and Moray cost?
The cost of transportation to Maras and Moray depends on the type of service you choose. If you decide to travel on your own, you can take a bus from Cusco to the detour in Maras, which costs approximately S/7, and then a collective taxi to the salt mines or Moray, which costs between S/10 and S/15 each way.
If you prefer an organized tour, prices typically range from S/. 60 to S/. 100 per person, depending on whether it includes a guide, tickets, and other services. This option is more convenient, as you’ll be picked up from your hotel, so you don’t have to worry about coordinating transportation for each trip.
What ticket do I need for Moray?
To enter the Moray archaeological site, you need the Cusco Tourist Ticket, either partial or general. The Partial Ticket (Circuit II), which includes Moray, costs S/ 70 and is valid for 2 days, while the General Ticket costs S/ 130 and allows access to several archaeological sites for 10 days.
This ticket can be purchased at the entrance to the sites or at authorized offices in Cusco. Please note that the ticket is not sold online and does not include additional services such as transportation or a guide.
Does Maras have a separate entry fee?
Yes, admission to the Maras Salt Mines has an additional cost, as it is not included in the Tourist Ticket. The general admission price is S/. 10 per person and is payable directly at the complex’s entrance. There are no discounts for purchasing in advance or in conjunction with other tickets.
This fee is due to the fact that the salt mines are managed by a local community, which operates its own fee system. Admission allows visitors to explore the viewing points and take photos, but walking between the pools is currently prohibited for conservation reasons.
Does the Tourist Ticket include both sites?
No, the Cusco Tourist Ticket only includes admission to the Moray archaeological site, but does not cover admission to the Maras Salt Mines. It’s important to keep this in mind when planning your visit, as many people believe both sites are included in the same ticket.
If you plan to visit both sites, you’ll need to purchase a Tourist Ticket (either general or partial, depending on your itinerary) and pay separately for admission to Maras. This combination is common on tours and allows you to make the most of your day with two different and interesting stops.
Note:
Traveler, it’s important for you to know that the tourist ticket, whether partial or full, not only gives you access to the Moray Archaeological Park, but also includes admission to other archaeological sites. Make the most of it!
What to avoid when going without a tour
What happens if I can’t find transportation back?
If you can’t find transportation back from Maras or Moray, it’s best to return to the main detour on foot or by motorcycle taxi (approximate cost: S/ 5 to S/ 10) and wait for a colectivo or bus on the road to Cusco or Urubamba. Collective taxis or combis often pass by during the day, but it can be more difficult to find transportation in the afternoon, especially after 4 p.m.
To avoid getting stranded, it’s recommended to leave Cusco early and coordinate your return in advance, especially if you’ve hired private transportation or a taxi. Carrying cash and having a good cell phone signal can help you use mobility apps or call a taxi in case of an emergency.
What should I do if I don’t have a tourist ticket?
If you don’t have a Tourist Ticket and are already on your way to Moray, you can purchase it directly at the entrance to the archaeological site. It’s also available at official ticket sales points in Cusco, such as the Department of Culture.
Remember that a ticket is not sold exclusively for Moray: you must purchase a General Ticket or a Partial Ticket (Circuit II). If you plan to visit other archaeological sites, the General Ticket may be more convenient. Remember, you cannot enter Moray without this ticket.
Is it a good idea to go during the rainy season?
Visiting Maras and Moray during the rainy season (November to March) may be less comfortable due to the weather. Rain can make the roads slippery or in poor condition, affecting access, especially if you’re self-guided. Furthermore, views may be obscured by fog or rain.
However, during this season, the landscape is greener and there are fewer tourists, allowing for a more peaceful experience. If you decide to go, bring waterproof clothing, non-slip footwear, and check the weather forecast before heading out. Leaving early in the day also reduces the risk of encountering heavy rain.
Can I visit if I only have half a day?
Yes, it’s possible to visit Maras and Moray in just half a day if you plan your time well. Ideally, you should leave Cusco early, as the entire trip (round trip) can take about 4 hours, including the time spent visiting both sites. Many tours offer morning or afternoon departures, lasting approximately 5 hours.
If you’re traveling independently, be sure to arrange transportation in advance to avoid wasting time. It’s preferable to visit Moray and then Maras first, as they’re on the same route, but Moray is farther away. Planning your schedule well will allow you to enjoy both sites without rushing.