Cusco: Zipline + ATVs + Salt Mines of Maras + Moray

Cusco: Zipline + ATVs + Salt Mines of Maras + Moray

Imagine a day where you’re soaring over valleys, zooming across rugged trails on an ATV, and exploring ancient salt mines and agricultural terraces—all within the stunning backdrop of the Sacred Valley. For $85 per person, this 7.5-hour tour offers a blend of adrenaline and authentic sights, guided by bilingual experts who know how to keep things fun and informative.

What we love most? First, the variety of activities packed into one day—ziplining, ATV riding, and site visits—means you get a full dose of adventure and culture without spending days bouncing between locations. Second, the spectacular views of the Sacred Valley from the zip lines and ATV routes are genuinely breathtaking, giving you a new appreciation for Peru’s rugged beauty.

A couple of considerations: the tour does not include entrance fees to the salt mines or Moray, so you’ll need to budget an extra $5 for Maras. Also, the tour is not suitable for children under 14, those with mobility issues, or anyone over 275 lbs. This experience best suits active travelers craving a mix of fun and cultural discovery, who are comfortable with outdoor pursuits and don’t mind a full schedule.

If you’re after an engaging day with a nice balance of thrill and insight, this tour offers excellent value for the price. It’s especially well-suited for those who want to see some of the most iconic and photogenic sites of the Sacred Valley while getting a healthy dose of adventure.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Adventure-packed: Combines ziplining, ATV riding, and cultural visits in one day.
• Spectacular scenery: Offers panoramic views of the Sacred Valley, Nevado de Chicón, and Pitusiray.
• Flexible booking: Reserve now, pay later, and cancel up to 24 hours in advance for full refund.
• Small group experience: Limited to 15 participants ensures personalized attention.
• Not suitable for children under 14 or those with certain health restrictions.
• Includes transportation and safety gear, but entrance fees are extra.

An In-depth Look at the Sacred Valley Adventure

Starting Bright and Early in Raqchi

Your day begins with a prompt early morning pickup, heading toward the base in Raqchi. The drive itself is part of the fun, offering glimpses of the lush green terraces and rugged peaks of the Sacred Valley. Along the way, you’ll admire views of Nevado de Chicón and Pitusiray, which serve as stunning natural landmarks. It’s a quiet moment to soak in the landscape before the adrenaline kicks in.

The Zipline Thrills

Upon arrival at the base, your guide—usually a friendly bilingual local—will equip you with a helmet, gloves, and harness. The safety briefing is straightforward and reassuring, especially for those new to ziplining. Then, the real fun begins with four different zip line cables of varying lengths, each offering a unique perspective of the valley below.

Travelers often comment that the zipline experience is exhilarating but also safe, with guides attentive to everyone’s comfort level. The views during the flight are what make this activity stand out—flights over the valley, with distant mountains and terraced fields spreading out beneath you. It’s a perfect blend of adventure and picture-perfect scenery.

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ATV Exploration of Maras and Moray

Next, it’s onto your individual ATV, where you’ll be guided through rugged trails that wind through the landscape. The ATV ride is a highlight for many; you’ll get a little muddy, a little dusty, but always smiling. The ride takes you through the Salt Mines of Maras, known for their thousands of small, terraced salt pools. You’ll learn how salt has been harvested here since Inca times and have time for photos of the shimmering pools.

Following Maras, your route takes you to Moray, famous for its concentric agricultural terraces. These terraces are thought to have served as a kind of microclimate experiment—an ancient Inca innovation in farming. Here, you can walk around and marvel at the precision of the terraces and imagine how they supported diverse crops. Keep in mind, entrance fees are not included (about $5), so be prepared to pay your way in.

Authentic and Practical Details

The guided tour aspect helps make sense of these sites, with guides sharing stories and insights in both English and Spanish. They’ll point out details that you might miss on your own, like the delicate salt crystallization or the subtle terraces at Moray.

The return journey takes you back to Cusco around 3:00 p.m., giving you the afternoon free for exploring more or resting. It’s worth noting that while the tour is packed with activity, it’s a full day—including some physical exertion—so comfortable shoes and prepared clothes are a must.

What the Reviews Say

Travelers often highlight the well-organized nature of this tour. One reviewer mentions, “We loved the way the guides kept everyone safe and had a good sense of humor,” while another appreciated the breathtaking views: “The zipline was a rush, and the scenery was better than I expected.” Some note that the salt mines are a great photo op and educational, but they do wish the entry fee was included.

Practical Tips for the Day

• Bring snacks or a light lunch (the tour does not include meals), especially if you’re hungry after all the activity.
• Pack a windbreaker, as it can get breezy on the zip lines and ATV routes.
• Use comfortable shoes—closed-toe shoes are best for ATV riding.
• Remember your passport for site entries and your camera to capture the stunning views.
• Apply biodegradable sunscreen to avoid harming the environment during outdoor activities.
• Carry cash for entrance fees and any souvenirs.

Who Will Appreciate This Tour?

This experience is perfect for adventurous travelers eager to combine thrills with cultural insights. It’s ideal for those comfortable with outdoor activities, but not necessarily experienced riders or zipliners—guides are attentive and safety-conscious. It’s great for small groups who enjoy a more personalized feel, and for anyone who appreciates authentic sites like Moray and Maras, not just the typical tourist stops.

On the downside, this isn’t suitable for very young children, people with certain medical conditions, or those with mobility issues. Also, if you’re not into adventure or outdoor pursuits, this might feel a bit intense.

Final Thoughts

This tour offers a balanced mix of adventure, culture, and scenic beauty for a reasonable price. The activities are varied enough to keep everyone engaged, and the guides’ local knowledge adds depth to your understanding of the sites. You’ll get a fantastic view of the Sacred Valley’s landscape while experiencing some of its most exciting attractions.

For travelers who want an active day with tangible highlights—ziplining over mountains, riding through salt flats, and exploring ancient terraces—this tour is a solid choice. It’s especially suitable if you’re comfortable with outdoor adventure and eager to see beyond the usual.

Overall, it represents good value for those looking to pack a lot into one day without sacrificing quality or safety. Just prepare for the physical part, bring some snacks, and enjoy the ride.

FAQ

Is transportation included?
Yes, round-trip transportation from Cusco to the tour base is included, making it convenient and hassle-free.

What is the tour duration?
The tour lasts approximately 7.5 hours, with departure times varying—check availability for specific start times.

Are entrance fees included?
No, entrance to the salt mines of Maras costs about $5 and is paid separately; Moray’s entrance fee is not included.

What should I bring?
Bring your passport, comfortable shoes, windbreaker, camera, snacks, biodegradable sunscreen, and cash for entrance fees.

Is this tour suitable for children?
No, it’s recommended for travelers over 14 years old due to activity intensity and safety considerations.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, cancellation is free if made at least 24 hours in advance, offering flexibility for your travel plans.

To sum it up, this tour in Cusco offers a lively mix of adventure and culture, set against one of Peru’s most stunning landscapes. It’s perfect for those who crave a full day of action with enough time to soak in the sights and take memorable photos. Whether you’re a thrill-seeker or simply looking to add some excitement to your Sacred Valley visit, this experience delivers genuine value and authentic moments.

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