Cusco: ATVs in Laguna Huaypo and Maras Salt Mines

Travelers eager for a mix of adventure and natural beauty will find this tour a delightful break from the usual city sightseeing in Cusco. For just $50 per person, you’ll spend around five hours exploring extraordinary landscapes by all-terrain vehicle (ATV), starting from the lush valleys near Cusco and ending at the fascinating Maras Salt Mines. Guided by friendly, professional guides, this experience is perfect for families, groups of friends, or solo travelers looking for a taste of Peru’s countryside with a thrill of riding slope-filled trails.

What we love most about this tour is how it combines stunning panoramic views—from the mountain vistas of Verónica, Chicón, and Pumahuanca—to the unique experience of riding through traditional salt mines. The chance to see local wildlife and flora up close at Laguna Huaypo adds a layer of authenticity often missing from more touristy outings. Plus, the safety gear and organized transportation make it accessible for most skill levels.

One potential drawback is that, since the tour involves off-road ATV riding, it might not suit travelers who prefer a more relaxed, ground-based sightseeing experience or who are concerned about physical exertion. Also, entrance to the Salt Mines is an additional S/.10, so keep that in mind if you’re on a tight budget.

This tour is an ideal pick for adventure seekers eager to explore less touristy corners of the Sacred Valley while enjoying stunning scenery. If you enjoy active travel and want a mountain adventure with cultural touches, it’s hard to go wrong.

Key Points

• Unique ATV Experience: Ride through slopes, farmland, and scenic landscapes with safety gear included.
• Spectacular Views: See the mountains of Verónica, Chicón, and Pumahuanca, plus observe wildlife at Laguna Huaypo.
• Cultural Highlights: Visit the Maras Salt Mines and learn about traditional salt extraction.
• All-Inclusive: Transportation, guide, and equipment are included for a straightforward adventure.
• Short & Sweet: A 5-hour experience that packs in variety without taking up an entire day.
• Flexible & User-Friendly: Free cancellation with the option to reserve now and pay later.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Detailed Look at the Cusco ATV Tour

From Cusco to the Trails: The Journey Begins

Most tours start with pickup services from your accommodation, making logistics easy and hassle-free. From there, you’ll head out in a comfortable vehicle toward the San José – Sector Bajo, the starting point for this adventure. The 5-minute drive to the San José viewpoint allows travelers to stretch their legs and snap some photos of the surrounding mountains and valleys—often a favorite moment for visitors eager to get a first glimpse of what’s ahead.

The initial stop at the viewpoint is brief but rewarding, offering a panoramic snapshot of the landscape. It’s a great spot for those first impressions of the Sacred Valley’s lushness and ruggedness.

Laguna Huaypo: Wildlife, Birds, and Spectacular Views

Next, the tour proceeds about 20 minutes to Laguna Huaypo, a high-altitude lake surrounded by verdant fields and craggy mountains. Here, you’ll pause for roughly 20 minutes to observe local birdlife, enjoy the flora that surrounds the water, and listen to your guide’s explanations about the area’s ecology.

What makes Laguna Huaypo special is its serenity and natural beauty. You’ll likely see waterfowl and other wildlife that thrive in this ecosystem. The view of prominent peaks like Verónica, Chicón, and Pumahuanca provides a stunning backdrop, which visitors often find breathtaking. It’s a perfect spot to take some memorable photos or just soak in the peaceful scenery.

Ride to Tiobamba: The ATV Trail Fun Starts

After the lake, you’ll make your way to Mahuaypampa, where you’ll get your ATV gear and receive a safety briefing. The ride involves navigating many slopes and rough terrain, designed to be fun but challenging enough to get your adrenaline going.

The ATV trail takes you through beautiful landscapes—slopes with sweeping views of the mountains and farmland. As one reviewer noted, “The slopes and landscapes are just beautiful, and the fun of riding through them makes it all worthwhile.” It’s a chance to feel more connected to the landscape and experience local rural life from a different perspective.

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Maras Salt Mines: A Unique Cultural Experience

One of the tour’s highlights is the visit to Maras Salt Mines. Here, you’ll get a guided tour lasting about 25 minutes, during which you’ll learn how salt has been extracted from mineral-rich waters in a traditional and sustainable manner for centuries. The mines are a fascinating site, with thousands of small, terraced pools that shimmer under the sun—a photographer’s dream.

You’ll also get a chance to observe the sacred valley and the Vilcanota River, adding a touch of cultural and natural context. While entrance costs S/.10, many find the value well worth it considering the authenticity and beauty of the site.

Return to Cusco

After exploring the salt terraces, you’ll hop back on the ATV and head toward the base, about 25 minutes away, where your private transport awaits. The journey back offers a different perspective of the landscape, often with sunset hues if timed later in the day.

The return trip wraps up your five-hour adventure, leaving you with plenty of stories and photos to share.

What’s Included and What To Budget For

The price of $50 covers a lot: pick-up, round-trip transportation, a professional guide, all-terrain vehicle use, and safety gear like helmets and gloves. This makes it quite a good deal for a half-day adventure.

However, you’ll need to budget for extra expenses such as the S/.10 entrance fee to the Salt Mines, plus any souvenirs, snacks, or drinks you might want during or after the tour.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience suits adventurous families, groups of friends, or solo travelers eager for outdoor activity and authentic scenery. If you’re comfortable on an ATV and enjoy mountain views, you’ll find this tour very rewarding. Travelers less inclined toward physical activity or with mobility concerns may want to consider the terrain involved.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

For just $50, this tour offers a dynamic combination of nature, culture, and adventure. The opportunity to ride through scenic slopes, see wildlife, and visit the historic salt mines makes it a well-rounded experience. The stunning vistas and authentic rural scenes make it stand out among typical tour options.

We appreciated how the tour balanced adventure with education—your guide explaining the significance of each site—and how the safety equipment and transport logistics made the trip accessible. It’s a great way to add some adrenaline to your Cusco visit without feeling rushed or overwhelmed.

If you’re the type of traveler who loves active pursuits and wants to really see the countryside beyond the typical tourist trail, this tour fits the bill. It’s also excellent for families or groups who want a shared experience that’s both fun and informative.

In contrast, if you prefer more relaxed sightseeing or are concerned about rough terrain, you might find the ride a bit challenging. But overall, for the value and authenticity it delivers, this tour is a solid choice in Cusco’s adventure lineup.

FAQs

Is transportation included?
Yes, round-trip transportation from Cusco is included in the tour price, making logistics simple.

What is the duration of the tour?
The entire experience lasts about 5 hours, including stops, riding, and the Salt Mines visit.

Do I need any experience riding ATVs?
No prior experience is necessary. Your guide will give a safety briefing and instructions before riding.

Is the tour suitable for children?
The tour is designed for families and groups, but children should be comfortable riding ATVs and be supervised at all times.

Are helmets and safety gear provided?
Yes, helmets and gloves are included to ensure safety during the ride.

How much does the entrance to the Salt Mines cost?
Entrance is S/.10, which is an additional cost not included in the base price.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, free cancellation is possible up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

What languages are available?
Guides speak both English and Spanish.

What should I wear?
Wear comfortable clothes suitable for outdoor activity, and bring sunscreen and sunglasses for protection from the sun.

Is this tour weather-dependent?
Yes, outdoor activities like ATV riding are weather-dependent. It’s best to check the forecast beforehand.

This Cusco ATV tour offers a memorable mix of adventure, spectacular views, and cultural insight. For those craving honest, active exploration in stunning natural settings, it’s a worthwhile addition to your itinerary.

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