Horse ride through Sacsayhuaman, Qenqo and eucalyptus forest

Horse Ride Through Sacsayhuaman, Qenqo, and Eucalyptus Forest
Location: Cusco Region, Peru
Country: Peru
Rating: 5/5
Price: $85 per person
Supplier: Libertrek Peru Travel Agency

When you think about exploring Cusco, images of ancient ruins and lively streets often come to mind. But for something a little different—an experience that blends history, nature, and a touch of adventure—this horseback ride through Sacsayhuaman, Qenqo, and the eucalyptus forests offers an intriguing alternative.

For about $85, you get a 3-hour journey that’s not just about sightseeing but about feeling the landscape beneath your saddle and seeing Cusco from a new angle. The tour is guided by knowledgeable local guides, and it’s particularly suited for those who enjoy outdoor activities and want to combine a bit of Incan history with scenic beauty.

What we love about this experience is how it turns a typical archaeological visit into something more personal—riding freely through the landscape, with the chance to stop and explore iconic sites from a different perspective. The ride offers spectacular views of Cusco and a peaceful escape into the eucalyptus forests, which are often overlooked in traditional tours.

One possible consideration is that this experience isn’t suitable for pregnant women or people with mobility issues—riding horses requires a certain level of physical comfort and balance. Also, make sure you’re prepared with comfortable clothes, sunscreen, water, and your camera to capture those memorable vistas.

This tour is perfect for travelers who love authentic outdoor adventures, want to experience Cusco beyond the typical tourist spots, and are eager to enjoy a relaxing yet active day in nature. Families, friends, or solo explorers looking for a unique way to enjoy Cusco’s landscape will find plenty to love here.

Key Points

• Unique perspective: Experience Cusco’s archaeological sites from horseback, providing a different view of famous ruins.
• Natural beauty: Enjoy the eucalyptus forest, with beautiful vistas ideal for photography.
• Comprehensive experience: Combines history, scenery, and outdoor activity, all in just three hours.
• Guided tour: Led by a professional guide in both English and Spanish, enriching your understanding of the sites.
• Family-friendly: A fun, relaxed activity suitable for those comfortable on horseback and eager for adventure.
• Value for money: For $85, you get transport, a guided ride, and visits outside traditional tourist routes.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring the Itinerary and Highlights

This horseback ride begins with a hotel pickup—an efficient way to start, ensuring you’re ready and relaxed for the day ahead. The transportation takes you to a ranch near Sacsayhuaman, the impressive fortress known for its massive stone walls and strategic design. Being close to the archaeological park, the riding activity feels seamless, and you avoid the hassle of navigating local transport.

The ride itself is always accompanied by a muleteer, which adds a layer of safety and local expertise, especially for those less experienced in horseback riding. The guide, fluent in both Spanish and English, provides insights into the sites, making the experience both fun and educational.

As you ride through the landscape, you’ll get a different vantage point of Sacsayhuaman and Qenqo, two of the most visited Inca sites. Sacsayhuaman is famous for its precisely cut stones that fit together so tightly they seem almost immovable. While walking through on foot provides a close-up view, riding around it offers sweeping vistas and an overall sense of the scale.

Qenqo, a site known for its carved stones and tunnels, becomes more intriguing from horseback, allowing you to see its layout in context with the surrounding terrain. The perspective from atop a horse can help you understand the strategic placement of these sites within the landscape.

One of the tour’s highlights is visiting the eucalyptus forest. Once amidst the tall, aromatic trees, you’ll enjoy beautiful landscape views of Cusco and the surrounding mountains. The forest’s tranquility and lush environment make it a perfect spot for taking photographs, and some mention this as a favorite part of the tour.

Following the ride, the group returns to Cusco, having experienced a blend of history, nature, and fun. The entire tour lasts around four hours, including pickup, riding, and visits, making it an excellent half-day activity that won’t exhaust you.

Authentic Experience and Practical Details

What makes this tour stand out? It’s not just about ticking off archaeological sites but about feeling the landscape, hearing the stories, and enjoying nature’s serenity. As one reviewer noted, “the horse ride was gorgeous,” emphasizing how the natural scenery adds depth to the archaeological visits.

The tour is designed to be accessible for those with some riding experience but still enjoyable even if you’re new to horseback riding—guided by experienced muleteers who prioritize safety and comfort. The price includes transportation, a professional guide, and the horses, making it clear that the value is focused on delivering a comprehensive experience.

What about the costs? The $85 fee covers most of the essentials, but keep in mind that entrance tickets to Sacsayhuaman and Qenqo are not included. If you want to explore the sites thoroughly, you’ll need to budget for those separately. Also, feeding the horses isn’t included, so if you want to bring some treats, do so with prior permission.

What to bring? Pack your passport or ID, sunglasses, sunscreen, comfortable clothes, and your camera. Since you’ll be outdoors, wear suitable footwear and clothing to enjoy the ride comfortably. Cash might be handy for souvenirs or tips.

Deep Dive into the Experience

This tour’s real charm lies in how it combines physical activity with cultural discovery. Riding through Sacsayhuaman provides a fresh perspective on its impressive stonework—imagine riding along the ramparts of a fortress built hundreds of years ago, feeling the history beneath your horse’s hooves.

While on horseback, you’ll also explore Qenqo, a site with carved stone structures that hint at ceremonial or ritual uses. From the saddle, these carved stones seem more imposing, and it’s easier to appreciate their placement in the landscape.

The eucalyptus forest adds a lush contrast to the stone ruins. The trees are not only beautiful but also fragrant, filling the air with a clean, herbal scent. Many guests find this part of the tour visually stunning, with panoramic views of Cusco’s sprawling city and the surrounding mountains. As one reviewer said, “This tour is a fun option for those who love horseback riding and direct contact with the natural landscape of Cusco.”

The guided commentary enhances the experience, as guides share interesting facts in a friendly manner, making it easy to connect the dots between history and nature. And for photography enthusiasts, the scenic vistas—especially from the eucalyptus forest—are a fantastic opportunity for capturing memorable images.

Duration-wise, three hours of riding plus transportation means you’ll have a relaxed, enjoyable window into Cusco’s outdoors without feeling rushed. The tour ends with a return to the city, leaving you with unforgettable memories of your time atop a horse.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is for those who enjoy outdoor activities, appreciate historic sites, and want to see Cusco from a different perspective. The combination of adventure and culture makes it suitable for solo travelers, families, or groups of friends. If you’re looking for something less crowded than the typical walking tours and want to spend time in nature, this is a good choice.

It’s particularly well-suited for travelers who enjoy photography, given the stunning landscapes and panoramic views. Also, if you’re someone who appreciates authentic local experiences—like riding through forests and archaeological sites with a local guide—this tour ticks those boxes.

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The Sum Up

This horseback ride through Sacsayhuaman, Qenqo, and the eucalyptus forests offers a memorable way to experience Cusco’s landscapes and history. It combines the thrill of riding with the serenity of nature, all while providing a fresh view of some of the region’s most iconic archaeological sites. The experience emphasizes authenticity, scenery, and cultural insight, making it worth considering for travelers eager to combine adventure with education.

While it’s not suitable for everyone—especially those with mobility issues or pregnant women—the tour provides excellent value for its price, with professional guides, scenic vistas, and a relaxed pace. It’s an activity that’s especially great for those wanting a more personal, outdoor-focused exploration of Cusco’s surroundings.

If you love nature, history, and a bit of fun on horseback, this is likely to be a highlight of your journey. It’s a chance to see Cusco in a way that few other experiences can match, and a perfect way to spend a half-day away from the busy city streets.

FAQ

• How long is the horseback ride?
  The ride lasts approximately three hours, including transfer time.

• What’s included in the tour price?
  Pickup from your hotel, tourist transport, the horseback riding, a muleteer, and a professional guide in Spanish and English.

• Are entrance tickets to Sacsayhuaman and Qenqo included?
  No, those are not included and must be purchased separately.

• Is this tour suitable for children?
  It’s family-friendly if children are comfortable riding horses and can handle the outdoor activity.

• What should I bring?
  Passport or ID, sunglasses, sunscreen, comfortable clothes, cash, water, and a camera.

• Can I feed the horses?
  Feeding is not included; you might bring treats if permitted, but check local rules beforehand.

• Is the tour wheelchair accessible?
  No, it’s not suitable for people with mobility impairments due to the nature of horseback riding.

• What is the best time of day for this tour?
  Check with the operator for available starting times; mornings or early afternoons usually work best for good lighting and cooler temperatures.

• What if I want to cancel?
  You can cancel for a full refund up to 24 hours in advance.

• Is this tour offered in multiple languages?
  Yes, guides speak both Spanish and English.

This horseback adventure offers a distinctive way to connect with Cusco’s landscape, history, and natural beauty. Whether you’re a history buff, nature lover, or just seeking a fun outdoor activity, it’s a memorable addition to your Peruvian itinerary.

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