How to Understand Moray – The Inca Laboratory

Today, Atoq decided to visit Moray and share with you some facts about this incredible site, along with different ways to explore this Inca laboratory. Moray (from the Quechua word Amoray, meaning corn harvest) is a well-known archaeological complex that dates back to the Inca period. The Incas are renowned for their advanced techniques in agriculture, science, and irrigation systems, among other things.

Moray is located 45 km from Atoq San Blas in Cusco, and the journey takes around 50 minutes. The site is composed of circular terraces, each built with precise elevation differences and a special orientation toward the sun. The difference in depth between the terraces (more than 100 meters) creates a temperature variation of up to 15°C between the upper and lower levels. Fun fact: this 15°C difference is similar to the variation in climate between Peru’s Coast and Highlands—regions once occupied by the Inca Empire during its peak.These microclimates created by the design of Moray allowed the Incas to experiment with various crops and their adaptability to different climates, achieving naturally modified crops. It’s believed that Peru’s vast variety of potatoes (over 2,000 types) is partly a result of these experiments.

Here are a few options to visit Moray. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can take a bike tour to Moray via downhill routes (difficulty level – medium), which also includes a visit to Maras. Cusco Biking Tour is a company that specializes in biking adventures and offers a tour that picks guests up directly from Atoq San Blas, visits Maras, and continues on to Moray. The tour includes a traditional culinary experience known as Huatia—a traditional method of cooking potatoes underground. All necessary equipment is provided, and the tour can be booked online.

Willka Travel is a great option for visiting Moray by ATV. This tour also includes a visit to Maras (check out our post for more information on Maras). It’s a full-day tour that includes hotel pick-up from our boutique hotel and all required gear.

You can also hike to Moray from Chinchero or Urubamba. The walk takes a little over two hours and should be done with someone familiar with the area. Be sure to wear proper walking shoes, light clothing, and bring water. If you take this route, don’t forget a hat and sunscreen—the sun can be intense during the day. Pay special attention to the altitude, as Moray is located at 3,500 meters above sea level.

If you’d prefer to visit Moray more comfortably—and without ending up covered in mud from head to toe—Turismoi is a platform where you can book a guided van tour to Moray & Maras. This tour includes hotel pick-up and also makes a short stop at the Huaypo Lagoon (check out our post to learn more about it).

Please note that entry to Moray requires a Tourist Ticket or payment of a single-entry fee. The best time of year to visit is just after the rainy season (December–March), when the terraces are green and the views are at their most impressive.