Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
house is architect-designed with Italian influence. It is also well set up for children, with a
playroom and swings. They can arrange excursions around the region. A set menu in the
restaurant is S50.
Hospedaje Mi Piuray $
( 30-6029;
www.hospedajemipiuraycusco.com
; Garcilaso 187; s/d/tr/q incl breakfast
S40/70/ 80/90)
A welcoming family hostelry with large, neat rooms with pastel accents
and a sunny courtyard. There's also an onsite restaurant and bar.
GUESTHOUSE
Getting There & Away
Combis
and
colectivos
traveling between Cuzco (S4/S6, one hour) and Urubamba (S3/S6,
30 minutes) stop on the corner of the highway and Calle Manco Capac II; just flag down
whatever comes along. They will also drop you off at intermediate points such as the
turnoff to Maras.
Moray & Maras
The impressively deep amphitheater-like terracing of
Moray
(admission S10; dawn to
dusk)
, reached via the small town of
Maras
(admission S5)
, is a fascinating spectacle.
Different levels of concentric terraces are carved into a huge earthen bowl, each layer of
which has its own microclimate, according to depth. Some theorize that the Incas used the
terraces as a kind of laboratory to determine the optimal conditions for growing crops of
each species. There are three bowls, one of which has been planted with various crops as a
kind of living museum.
Though refreshingly off the beaten path, this site is not challenging to reach. Take any
transportation bound between Urubamba and Cuzco via Chinchero and ask to be let off at
the Maras/Moray turnoff. Taxis usually wait at this turnoff to take tourists to Moray and
back for around S30, or both Moray and Salinas and back to the turnoff for around S50. If
you're coming in the depths of low season, it's worth calling the
Maras taxi company
(
75-5454, 984-95-6063)
to ensure that a taxi is waiting for you at the turnoff. A taxi
from Urubamba to visit both Salinas and Moray costs around S80.
You could also tackle the 4km walk to the village of Maras yourself. From there, follow
the road another 9km to Moray.
