Cusco: ATV Tour to Huaypo Lake and Maras Salt Mines

Cusco: ATV Tour to Huaypo Lake and Maras Salt Mines
Location: Cusco Region, Peru
Country: Peru
Rating: 5
Price: $33 per person
Supplier: Pacha Peru Explorer

A quick taste of adventure in the Sacred Valley
If you’re after a mix of adrenaline, breathtaking scenery, and authentic Peruvian sights, this ATV tour offers a surprisingly affordable way to do it all. For around $33, you get about six hours of riding through the Sacred Valley of the Incas, with stops at the enchanting Huaypo Lake and the fascinating Maras Salt Mines. Guided by friendly bilingual guides, you’ll be guided safely through mountain trails and picturesque villages, making it an activity perfect for those seeking both thrill and cultural flavor.

What we love most? First, the stunning mountain views while riding, which make each twist of the trail more memorable. Second, the visit to Huaypo Lake, a quiet spot with peaceful waters where you can soak in the scenery away from the more touristy spots. A possible consideration? The entry fees for Huaypo Lake (7 soles) and the Salt Mines (20 soles), payable in cash, aren’t included, so budget accordingly.

This tour suits adventurous travelers who want to see a different side of Cusco beyond temples and ruins. It’s also a good pick for those who enjoy outdoor activities but want the safety and expertise of guided instruction.

Key Points

• Affordable adventure: At just $33, this tour provides a full day of sightseeing and riding.
• Stunning scenery: Expect mountain vistas and peaceful lakes that truly highlight the Sacred Valley’s natural beauty.
• Authentic cultural sites: Visit the Maras Salt Mines and Huaypo Lake for a taste of local history and tradition.
• Guided safety: Bilingual guides ensure safe riding and informative commentary.
• Flexible timing: The tour runs at different times of the day, so check availability for your preferred schedule.
• Extra costs: Entry fees and community taxes are cash-only and not included in the price.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A detailed look at what to expect from this ATV tour

Starting Point and Transportation
The adventure begins at Plaza Regocijo in Cusco, the city’s lively central square. The tour includes shared transportation from Cusco to Cruzpata, which is a key you’ll appreciate—it means you don’t need to rent a vehicle or figure out transportation logistics yourself. The drive through the Sacred Valley is quite scenic, giving you a glimpse of rural life and terraced fields along the way.

Safety Briefing and Equipment
Before hitting the trails, your guides (who speak both English and Spanish) give a quick safety briefing—about 15 minutes—that covers how to operate the quad bikes and stay safe. They’ll also fit you with helmets and provide instructions, which helps beginners feel more comfortable. Keep in mind that the quad bikes are for one person or two people sharing, but three people cannot share one ATV, so plan accordingly if you’re traveling in a group.

Riding Through the Sacred Valley
Once on the quads, you’ll start riding through the sacred landscape, with the towering snow-capped Andes in the background. The guides often encourage you to enjoy the stunning mountain views, which are truly the highlight of this part of the trip. We loved the way the trails weave through small villages and farmland, giving a real sense of local life away from the tourist crowds.

Stop at Huaypo Lake
Your first major stop is the mysterious Huaypo Lake, a tranquil spot where the guide will give you a brief explanation of the lake’s natural surroundings and local significance. The quick visit allows you to capture photos and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere. We appreciated that the guide emphasized the lake’s serenity—it’s a peaceful contrast to the more active parts of the tour.

ATV Ride to the Basecamp
After visiting Huaypo Lake, you’ll hop back on your ATV and continue riding until you reach the basecamp. Here, you’ll park your quad bikes and switch to a van to visit the Maras Salt Mines. This part of the journey offers a different perspective—more about exploring local industry and history rather than thrill-seeking.

Maras Salt Mines
The salt mines are a fascinating site—thousands of small, terraced salt evaporation ponds arranged in a grid pattern, dating back to pre-Inca times. Your guide will provide insights into how the salt is harvested and the significance for local communities today. The visit is brief but memorable, especially for those interested in traditional practices that have persisted for centuries.

Return to Cusco
After exploring the salt flats, you’ll hop back into the van to return to Cusco, ending the tour back at Plaza Regocijo. The entire experience offers a full day of activity, scenery, and cultural insight.

What the reviews reveal

Travelers consistently praise the value for money—with tours costing just over thirty dollars, it’s hard to find a more budget-friendly adventure that combines outdoor fun with cultural sights. One review mentions, “For the price, it’s a fantastic way to see the Sacred Valley and get some real adrenaline.” Others highlight how the guides are friendly and supportive, making beginners feel comfortable—even if you’re new to quad biking, you’ll receive thorough instructions.

Many also comment on the stunning views—riders love the chance to snap photos of the mountains and lakes. However, some mention the cash-only entry fees as a small inconvenience, so be prepared for those additional costs.

A common observation is that the timing can be tight, especially if you want to spend more time at the salt mines or Huaypo Lake. Checking the schedule and starting early helps maximize the experience.

Practical details and tips for travelers

Transportation & Group Size
The shared transportation from Cusco simplifies logistics, but keep in mind that larger groups may want to arrive early to ensure your preferred start time. The group sizes tend to be small to medium, creating a friendly environment where guides can give personalized attention.

Price & Value
For $33, you get approximately six hours of activity, including transportation, gear, and guided visits. The entry fees for Huaypo Lake and the salt mines are extra, so plan around 32 soles in cash for those. Considering the cost of similar tours in Cusco, this is an excellent value.

What to Wear & Bring
Since you’ll be outdoors, plan to wear comfortable clothes and closed-toe shoes—preferably sturdy sneakers or hiking shoes. A hat, sunscreen, and water are essentials. The tour isn’t suitable for pregnant women or those with back problems, so keep that in mind.

Timing & Availability
Tours run at different times, so check with the provider for availability. The morning tour starts around 6:40–7:00 am, ideal if you want to make the most of your day, while the afternoon session begins at 1 pm.

Who should consider this tour?

Adventurous travelers who enjoy outdoor activities and want a fun, active way to see the Sacred Valley. It’s especially suited for those who like mountain scenery and cultural sites but don’t want the crowds. If you’re traveling with friends or family over 16, this offers a lively, memorable experience.

Not recommended for pregnant women or anyone with back issues, and be prepared for a bit of cash handling for entry fees. It’s a fantastic choice for those looking for a low-cost, high-energy day, with plenty of opportunities for photos and local interaction.

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The Sum Up

This ATV tour to Huaypo Lake and the Maras Salt Mines presents an excellent blend of adventure, scenery, and cultural insight—all at an accessible price. The stunning mountain vistas and peaceful lakes make it a rewarding experience, especially for travelers eager to see the Sacred Valley’s natural beauty from a different perspective. It’s a flexible, fun way to add some excitement to your Cusco itinerary without breaking the bank.

If you enjoy outdoor activities, are curious about local traditions, or simply want a day away from the typical tourist spots, this tour is a solid choice. It’s a great balance of thrill and authenticity, ensuring you come away with stories and photos to cherish.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for beginners?
Yes, guides provide instructions and safety tips, making it accessible even for those new to quad biking.

What is included in the price?
Shared transportation, quad bikes (single or double), a bilingual guide, and pickup/drop-off in Cusco’s city center are included. Entry fees for Huaypo Lake and the Salt Mines are extra.

How long is the tour?
It’s approximately six hours, from pickup in the morning or early afternoon until returning to Plaza Regocijo.

Are there age restrictions?
Participants must be at least 16 years old to join.

Do I need to bring cash?
Yes, for entry fees (7 soles for Huaypo Lake, 20 soles for the Salt Mines) and a community fee (5 soles). Remember cash-only policy.

Can I share a quad bike with someone?
Yes, options for shared two-person quad bikes are available. Three people cannot share one ATV.

What should I wear?
Wear comfortable clothes, closed-toe shoes, and bring a hat, sunscreen, and water.

Is this activity suitable if I have back problems?
No, it’s not recommended for people with back issues.

This tour offers a lively, inexpensive way to experience some of the most scenic and authentic sights of the Sacred Valley, blending outdoor fun with cultural discovery. Whether you’re craving adventure or an authentic local experience, it’s well worth considering during your Cusco stay.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby