Plizio Visual Lab
Moray
Plizio editorial teamData Sources
Landmark
Moray is one of the most enigmatic and visually striking Inca sites, consisting of several massive circular terraces that resemble a giant amphitheater. Located on a high plateau in the Sacred Valley, these concentric terraces are believed to have been a sophisticated agricultural laboratory. Each level of the terraces has its own microclimate, with a temperature difference of up to 15 degrees Celsius between the top and the bottom, mimicking various ecological zones across the Inca Empire. Here, Inca scientists likely experimented with different crops and seeds to determine the best conditions for their growth. The precision of the engineering, including the drainage system that prevents flooding even during heavy rains, is a testament to the Incas' deep knowledge of ecology and agriculture.
- Location: Peru
- Top sights: Museo de la Chicha Yola · Simamuyu · K'uychi Muyu
- Nearby: Urubamba (9 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is May, Aug, Sep.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 9 | 9 | 8 | 8 | 8 | 8 | 7 | 8 | 9 | 9 | 9 | 9 |
| Rain mm | 129 | 127 | 96 | 44 | 9 | 4 | 11 | 8 | 18 | 63 | 72 | 137 |
📋 Practical info
Visiting
Moray is an Inca archaeological site that can be visited for a small entrance fee. Visitors can view the circular terraces from above and also walk down into them.
Typical hours
The site is typically open daily from morning until late afternoon, with exact hours varying by season. Visiting early in the morning is recommended to avoid crowds.
Photography
Photography is allowed throughout the site, but drones are not permitted. The best shots are from the upper viewing platform or from the center of the circles.
Time needed
Allow about 1 to 1.5 hours for a thorough visit, including the terraces and viewpoints. Those interested in Inca agriculture may stay longer.
Combine with
Moray is close to the Maras salt flats and the Inca town of Chinchero; these can be combined in one day. The Sacred Valley of the Incas provides many other sights.
Getting there
Moray is about 50 km northwest of Cusco and is best reached by car or organized tour. Public buses go to the nearby town of Maras, from where you can take a taxi.
Insider tip
Visit Moray late in the morning when the sunlight best highlights the terraces. Bring sun protection and altitude medication as the site is above 3,500 meters.
Geography
Facts
- Consists of three large circular depressions, the largest being over 30 meters deep.
- Designed to simulate different ecological zones, from the coast to the highlands.
- The site features a sophisticated irrigation system that kept each terrace hydrated.
- The temperature difference between levels allowed for testing over 250 different plant species.
- Believed to be a key reason for the Incas' success in achieving food security.
- The perfect circular shapes were carved into a natural depression in the earth.
- Despite heavy rains, the lowest level of the terraces never floods due to excellent drainage.
- Located at an altitude of 3,500 meters, near the village of Maras.
Explore nearby
Notable places around
Route planner — Car & Motorhome
Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.
Vehicle
Only stops with (optional):
© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService
Sights in the town Moray (8)
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
What exactly are the Moray terraces?
They were agricultural experimental sites of the Incas.
Is it a long way to get there?
About 1.5 to 2 hours by car from Cusco.
Is it very windy there?
Yes, due to the location it can be very windy, bring a jacket.
Can you descend into the terraces?
Yes, you can use the stairs to get to the center.
Is a ticket required?
Yes, it is usually part of the 'Boleto Turístico'.
Moray: where is it located?
Moray is located in Peru.
Moray: what is there to see?
Highlights include Museo de la Chicha Yola, Simamuyu, K'uychi Muyu.
Moray: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is May, Aug, Sep.
Moray: why is it worth visiting?
Moray is one of the most enigmatic and visually striking Inca sites, consisting of several massive circular terraces that resemble a giant amphitheater.
Explore with Plizio
Discover more places in South America
More places in Peru →
Nearby cities
History & landmarks
Ollantaytambo
One of the best-preserved Inca towns with an impressive fortress, located in the Sacred Valley.
Sacsayhuamán
A massive Inca fortress near Cusco, known for its massive, seamlessly fitted stone blocks.
Cusco Cathedral
The magnificent main church on the Plaza de Armas in Cusco, built on the foundations of an ancient Inca palace.
Cristo Blanco
A large white statue of Jesus on Pukamoqo Hill, watching over the city of Cusco with open arms.
Coricancha
The most important sun temple of the Inca Empire in Cusco, upon whose ruins the Spanish built the Church of Santo Domingo.
Q'enqo
One of the largest Inca sanctuaries in the Cusco region, known for its channels and altars carved into the limestone rock.
Tambomachay
An Inca archaeological site that served as a sanctuary dedicated to water or baths of the Inca.
Machu Picchu
The famous Inca citadel high in the Andes, a UNESCO World Heritage site and a wonder of the world.
Nature
More places
Qorikancha
The most important temple of the Inca Empire, dedicated to the sun god Inti, on which the Spanish built a monastery.
Puka Pukara
An Inca military ruin whose name means 'Red Fortress'.
Megantoni Sanctuary
A hard-to-reach protected region that forms a vital bridge between the Andean highlands and the Amazon rainforest.
Machupicchu Butterfly House
An educational center and sanctuary for butterflies near the famous ruins, showing the life cycle of local species.
Salcantay
Salcantay is the highest peak in the Cordillera Vilcabamba and a famous alternative trekking peak en route to Machu Picchu.
Pisac
Inca ruins with extensive agricultural terraces above the Sacred Valley.
Potato Park of Pisac
An agricultural zone managed by indigenous communities that protects over a thousand native potato varieties.
Tipón
An impressive Inca complex known for its advanced agricultural water system.