May 13, 2025
Circular Terraces of Moray
One of the main attractions of the Sacred Valley is the circular terraces of Moray, which resemble an amphitheater. A big part of their appeal is that each level has a different microclimate, which were used as agricultural laboratories during the Inca era. Discover more about this incredible site, along with tours in the Valley that will take you there.
Contents
- What will I find in Moray?
- What are the Circular Terraces of Moray like?
- Where is Moray?
- Tours to the Circular Terraces of Moray
- Tips for your visit to Moray
- Frequently Asked Questions
What will I find in Moray?
Moray is an archaeological site from the Inca era whose main function was agriculture, acting as an Inca laboratory with a different microclimate at each level of its terraces.
Another of its main functions was as an astronomical observatory, from where it was possible to observe the sun’s alignment and predict seasonal changes in the region, all thanks to the shadows cast by the mountains.
Its construction reflects the Incas’ deep knowledge of engineering, agriculture, and astronomy, where each of these aspects was closely tied to their connection and belief in the cosmos and the earth.
What are the Circular Terraces of Moray like?
The Circular Terraces of Moray are a kind of massive pits with terraces built around them. During our visit to this magical site, we’ll see three circular complexes of different sizes, the largest of which has twelve terrace levels. Each level has a different microclimate, with the lower levels being warmer and the higher ones cooler.
The approximate depth of the largest one is 100 meters, and together with the other two circular complexes, they offer some of the most beautiful views and landscapes in the Sacred Valley of the Incas.
Where is Moray?
The Circular Terraces of Moray are located in the town of Moray, in the Sacred Valley. They lie approximately 58 kilometers from the city of Cusco, about 1 hour and 30 minutes by car to the entrance of the site. This is one of the highest points in the Valley, situated at 3,500 meters above sea level.
While touring the terraces, we’ll visit all three circular complexes, each with different dimensions. They are located adjacent to each other, making the tour easy and quick. That’s why it’s highly recommended to visit Moray along with the Maras Salt Mines in the same trip, since the salt mines are just a 20-minute drive away. This way, you’ll have a much broader and more diverse experience.
Tours to the Circular Terraces of Moray
Visiting Moray to see its impressive circular terraces is a must when traveling through Cusco. The landscapes and the mystique of the place will leave you amazed. Discover the main tours that include Moray as one of their destinations:
Maras and Moray Tour in the Sacred Valley (1/2 day)
This is the ideal tour to thoroughly explore the circular terraces of Moray, and you’ll also get the chance to visit the Maras Salt Mines and the archaeological site of Chinchero. The adventure through the Sacred Valley begins around 8:30 AM, with the first stop in Chinchero, then the Maras Salt Mines, and finally Moray. This half-day tour ends at approximately 2:30 PM in the city of Cusco.
VIP Sacred Valley Tour (1 day)
The second recommended option is the VIP Sacred Valley Tour, the most complete itinerary. It includes many more destinations such as the archaeological fortress of Ollantaytambo and the archaeological complex of Pisac, along with the previously mentioned sites of Chinchero, the Maras Salt Mines, and the Circular Terraces of Moray. A buffet lunch is included in the town of Urubamba. The trip starts at 6:40 AM and ends at 6:00 PM.
ATV Tour through Maras and Moray (1/2 day)
If you’re looking for an adventure in the Sacred Valley, this is the perfect tour for you. The adventure starts at 8:00 AM from Cusco. From there, we head to the town of Cruz Pata, where we’ll hop on ATVs and ride toward the Maras Salt Mines to explore the site. We’ll also visit the circular terraces of Moray on this enriching journey. Afterward, we return to Cruz Pata by ATV and head back to Cusco, arriving around 2:00 PM.
Tips for Your Visit to Moray
To help you make the most of your trip through the Sacred Valley of the Incas and the Circular Terraces of Moray, here are some tips that could make your visit even more memorable. Discover them here:
- The Sacred Valley of the Incas is one of the best places to acclimate during your first days in Cusco, thanks to its altitude of approximately 2,900 meters above sea level, it offers a mild climate.
- Discover each of the different microclimates of Moray on a tour that immerses you in the Inca legacy.
- Take a break from your journey in the middle of the mountains in Moray — every angle here is photo-worthy.
- If you visit the terraces of Moray during the dry season (April to October), you’ll enjoy sunnier, clearer weather, but also more tourists.
- During the rainy season (November to March), there is a higher chance of rain in Moray, but you’ll have the opportunity to explore its circular complexes with fewer crowds.
- Visit the Maras Salt Mines during your Moray tour for a more immersive and enriching travel experience.
- Take your time exploring each of the circular complexes of Moray so you don’t miss any detail and can enjoy all its magical panoramas.
- Moray is open every day of the year from 8:30 AM to 5:00 PM.
- If you wish to visit the circular terraces of Moray without a tour, you’ll need to purchase the Cusco Tourist Ticket (Boleto Turístico Integral) or the Circuit 3 ticket, which also grants access to Pisac, Ollantaytambo, and the Chinchero archaeological park.
- Remember that you can plan your Sacred Valley tour and decide on the route yourself. Consult with our advisors to learn about all the available options for your visit.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What are the Circular Terraces of Moray?
The Circular Terraces of Moray are a set of agricultural terraces in the shape of circles. It is believed that the Incas used them as agricultural laboratories to experiment with crops in different microclimates.
2. Where is Moray located?
Moray is located in the Sacred Valley of the Incas, about 58 kilometers from Cusco. The journey takes approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes.
3. What is the best time to visit Moray?
The best time to visit Moray is during the dry season, between April and October, when the weather is sunnier and the views are clearer. However, from November to March, during the rainy season, there are fewer tourists, allowing for a more peaceful visit.
4. Is it necessary to buy a ticket to enter Moray?
Yes, you need the Cusco Tourist Ticket to visit Moray. You can choose the full ticket or the partial Circuit 3 ticket, which also includes access to Pisac, Ollantaytambo, and Chinchero.
5. What tours include a visit to Moray?
There are several options. The half-day Maras and Moray tour is the most direct. There’s also the VIP Sacred Valley Tour, which includes other archaeological sites. For adventure lovers, the ATV tour through Maras and Moray lets you explore beautiful Sacred Valley landscapes.
6. How much time is needed to explore Moray?
Visiting the three circular complexes of Moray can take between 45 minutes and one hour. It’s an easy walk that allows you to enjoy the site at your own pace.
7. What other attractions can I visit near Moray?
Very close by are the Maras Salt Mines, a set of ancient salt pools that are still in use today.
8. What are the opening hours of the Moray archaeological site?
Moray is open every day of the year from 8:30 AM to 5:00 PM.
9. How difficult is the hike in Moray?
The hike in Moray is considered easy. The terrain is flat and does not require much physical effort.
10. Can Moray be visited with children or elderly people?
Yes, Moray is accessible for people of all ages. The paths are wide and easy to walk.