Moray is Peru’s Hidden Incan Gem

Moray, Peru
Photo by Willian Justen de Vasconcellos on Unsplash

Oftentimes, a country has one spectacular tourist attraction that millions of people flock to, and for good reason. But these countries often have other attractions that are spectacular in their own right that simply don’t get enough love and attention due to their status in the shadow of the big player.

Moray, Peru’s hidden Incan gem, is a perfect example of this.

While Machu Picchu might receive all of the attention when it comes to Incan sites in Peru, Moray is a spot that is absolutely worth discovering in its own right.

Located just 45 kilometers to the southeast of Machu Picchu is Moray, an Incan archeological site that stands on its own as the most spectacular example of Incan agricultural practices that is left for us to see today.

Several terraced circular depressions, some of which extend up to 100 feet deep below ground level, are the highlights of this site. Archeologists have determined that these terraced features were built in order to cultivate crops such as potatoes.

The striking appearance of the remains of Moray and their deliberate geometric figures contrast sharply with the jagged, natural peaks of the Andes Mountains that lurk behind them in the region.

If you’re looking to plan a trip to Peru to see the wonder of Machu Picchu, make sure to make time for a stop at Moray as well.