Explore the Abode of the Gods on an ATV Adventure Near Cusco

Imagine cruising on a sturdy ATV, wind in your hair, as you glide through a landscape dotted with colossal stone sculptures and sweeping views of the Andes. The Morada of the Gods ATV Tour offers a memorable way to connect with Peru’s indigenous heritage while enjoying an adrenaline rush. Located just 13 km from Cusco, this 1-day excursion costs around $35 per person, making it an accessible choice for travelers seeking a mix of culture, nature, and a bit of thrill.

What we particularly love about this experience is how it combines adventure with cultural insight. You get to see the impressive sculptures carved into stone, many of which hint at both Inca and Colonial influences, all set against breathtaking scenery. Plus, the guided nature of the tour ensures you’re safe while exploring off the beaten path. On the flip side, a potential drawback is that the entrance fee isn’t included, so you’ll need a little extra cash—around 15 soles—for that. This tour suits anyone with a bit of a spirit for adventure, a love of history, and a desire to enjoy Peru’s natural beauty in a lively, hands-on way.

Key Points

Affordable Price: At $35, this ATV tour offers a compelling mix of adventure and culture.
Cultural Highlights: See the impressive stone sculptures and learn about their significance.
Spectacular Scenery: Enjoy panoramic views of the Andean landscape.
Guided Experience: Benefit from clear instructions and safety equipment.
Flexibility: Book now, pay later, and cancel up to 24 hours in advance.
Family-Friendly: Suitable for those comfortable with motorized vehicle touring.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Introduction to the Morada of the Gods ATV Tour

The Morada of the Gods ATV Tour is a fantastic option if you’re looking for a day trip that balances adventure, culture, and scenery. This tour takes you to see the Apukunaq Tianan, or the Abode of the Gods, located just outside Cusco. The site features massive stone sculptures carved with Inca and Colonial motifs, crafted by artist Michael Monteagudo, which makes it a fascinating stop for those interested in Peru’s ancient civilizations.

The tour is priced at $35 per person, which considering the transportation, guide, safety gear, and the chance to explore on an ATV, feels quite reasonable. It lasts around a full day, with flexible starting times depending on availability, and includes hotel pickup—meaning fewer logistical headaches for travelers. It’s particularly appealing for those who like a bit of adrenaline mixed with cultural discovery.

Two things we love about this tour are the spectacular landscape views and the personalized experience provided by the guide, who gives clear instructions and insights. The route includes a 30-minute drive to the starting point, followed by a brief safety briefing before you take off on your ATV adventure. The opportunity to take photos amidst monumental sculptures and natural scenery makes this a memorable day.

One possible consideration is the entrance fee of 15 soles not included in the initial price, so budget accordingly. Also, because the tour involves riding an ATV, it’s best suited for travelers who are comfortable operating motorized vehicles and enjoy outdoor activities.

This experience is ideal for travelers who seek a blend of adventure and culture, especially those who want to see unique stone sculptures and enjoy stunning views without the crowds of more tourist-heavy sites.

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In-Depth Look at the Itinerary and Experience

Pickup and Transportation

Your day begins with a hotel pickup from your accommodation in Cusco’s historical center. The private transportation ensures a smooth start, allowing you to relax and get ready for the day ahead. The drive to the Tica Tica – Sencca sector takes about 30 minutes, giving you a chance to acclimate to the Andean scenery and perhaps chat with your guide about what lies ahead.

Safety Briefing and ATV Instruction

Once at the base camp, you’ll receive a detailed safety briefing and practical instruction from your guide, who will make sure you’re comfortable handling the ATV. This part is crucial, especially if it’s your first time riding one. The guides are attentive and professional, making sure everyone feels confident before hitting the trail.

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The ATV Adventure

After the briefing, the real fun begins. The route is designed to maximize the incredible views of the surrounding mountains and the sculptures carved into the rocks. As you ride, you’ll pass by monumental stone carvings, many of which are colossal in size, some alluding to Inca and Colonial themes. The sculptures, created by Michael Monteagudo, blend seamlessly into the landscape, giving the feeling of traveling through a living museum.

Many reviewers mention that the landscape is stunning, with sweeping vistas that show off the natural beauty of the Cusco region. We loved the way the route combines nature’s grandeur and human craftsmanship, providing photo opportunities at every turn.

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Exploring the Abode of the Gods

The highlight of the tour is the visit to the Abode of the Gods (Apukunaq Tianan). Here, you can walk among the large sculptures, admire the intricate carvings, and try to decipher their meanings. Some sculptures feature Inca motifs, while others have Colonial influences, creating a layered sense of history. The site feels like an open-air gallery, full of mystery and grandeur.

Return and Reflection

After exploring, you’ll return on your ATV back to the base camp. The ride back is just as scenic, offering a different perspective and plenty of opportunities for photos. Once back at the base, your guide will escort you back to Cusco, ensuring a hassle-free end to your day.

Why This Tour Offers Great Value

Considering the price of $35, this tour offers excellent value—combining transportation, a guided ATV ride, safety gear, and cultural insights for a reasonable cost. Entrance fees are not included, but at just 15 soles, they are manageable within your budget. The convenience of hotel pickup and return makes it a stress-free way to explore a lesser-known but impressive site.

The tour is perfect for adventure-seeking travelers who want to experience Peru’s landscape in a dynamic way. It’s also suitable for those interested in art and history, given the sculptures’ significance and artistry. The flexible booking options, including free cancellation and pay later, add peace of mind, especially if your plans might shift.

Who Should Consider This Tour

If you’re looking for a short, energetic outing that combines nature, culture, and adventure, this tour fits perfectly. It’s best suited for those who are comfortable riding an ATV and enjoy discovering sites off the typical tourist trail. Families with children who meet safety requirements will find it an enjoyable, active day out. Budget travelers will appreciate the affordability, especially since the tour includes transport and guide services.

However, if you’re extremely sensitive to rough terrain or prefer more structured, museum-like visits, this might not be your ideal experience. Also, if you’re not comfortable with motorized vehicles, it’s worth considering other ways to explore the region.

FAQ About the Morada of the Gods ATV Tour

Is transportation included?
Yes, the tour includes pick-up and transfer in private transportation from your hotel in Cusco’s historical center and return after the trip.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience takes about a full day, with starting times depending on availability. Check with the provider for specific schedules.

What is the cost?
The base price is $35 per person, with additional costs for entrance fees (15 soles) and optional snacks or water.

Is the tour suitable for children or beginners?
The tour includes a safety briefing and instructions. It’s best suited for those comfortable with riding ATVs; specific age or experience restrictions are not provided, so check with the operator if you’re unsure.

Do I need to bring anything?
Besides comfortable clothes and a sense of adventure, consider bringing cash for the entrance fee and snacks, as these are not included.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Booking now and paying later offers added flexibility.

What language is the tour guided in?
The live guide conducts the tour in Spanish.

Are safety equipment and instructions provided?
Yes, safety equipment is included, and guides provide a thorough safety briefing before the ride.

Final Thoughts

The Morada of the Gods ATV Tour offers a compelling mix of culture, scenery, and adventure that’s hard to beat for the price. It’s a fantastic way to see some of the lesser-visited archaeological sculptures and enjoy the stunning landscapes outside Cusco while indulging your sense of adventure. It’s particularly well suited for travelers who want a hands-on experience that’s both fun and informative.

If you’re seeking a lighthearted, active day that connects you with Peru’s natural beauty and ancient artistry, this tour is worth considering. It’s a great option for families, groups, or solo travelers eager to explore in a dynamic way without breaking the bank.

Just remember to budget for the entrance fee and ensure you’re comfortable on an ATV — and you’ll likely come away with some incredible photos and stories to tell.