Moray and Salineras on ATVs: Live the Adventure

Imagine zipping through the rugged landscapes of the Sacred Valley of the Incas, feeling the wind in your hair as you take in breathtaking views of the Andes Mountains. For just $40 per person, this 6-hour guided ATV tour offers an active way to experience the region’s most iconic sites — Moray and the Maras Salt Mines — all while riding a quad bike.

The tour is designed for those looking to combine adventure with culture, with visits to two of the area’s most fascinating archaeological and natural attractions. You’ll get the thrill of off-road riding on well-instructed quads, plus enough time to explore each site with guides who bring the history to life.

What we love about this experience is how it transforms sightseeing into an active, memorable outing — the landscapes are stunning and the sites are compelling. The fact that you get a guided tour means you won’t miss the stories behind the ruins or the salt pans. Plus, the small group size keeps things intimate and personalized, which is a real plus.

A possible consideration is the entry fee (70 soles for Moray and 20 soles for Maras), which is paid in cash on-site, and the transportation logistics — you need to be aware that the drop-off is in Cusco’s city center, not at your hotel, which might require a bit of planning afterwards.

This tour suits those craving adventure combined with cultural discovery, who are comfortable on a quad and eager to explore beyond typical tourist spots. Families with older children, active travelers, and anyone curious about the Incan agricultural innovations or the salt pans will find this a worthwhile experience.

Key Points

• Adventure and Culture: Combines ATV riding with visits to Moray and Maras Salt Mines.
• Stunning Scenery: Enjoy dramatic views of snow-capped mountains and lush landscapes.
• Small Group Experience: Limited to 12 participants for a more personal touch.
• Guided Tours: Learn about the sites’ history and significance from bilingual guides.
• Flexibility in Payment: Book now, pay later with full cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
• Practical Info: Drop-off in Cusco city center; cash for entrance fees; bring sun protection.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring the Sacred Valley on ATVs: An In-Depth Review

The Sacred Valley is a highlight of any visit to Cusco, known for its sweeping mountain vistas, archaeological sites, and quaint villages. This ATV tour offers a lively way to cover more ground than a typical bus trip, combining adventure and learning that’s sure to keep your energy up.

Starting the Journey: Pickup and Orientation

The tour begins early, with hotel pickups in Cusco for the 7 AM morning tour or from a central meeting point for the afternoon option. The shared transportation takes you from the bustling city to Cruzpata, a small town where your adventure officially kicks off. Here, you’ll receive instructions on how to operate your quad bike. These instructions are crucial; even if you’ve never ridden before, the guides focus on safety and simplicity, making the experience accessible for most.

The ATV Ride: A Thrilling Spin Through the Sacred Valley

Once oriented, you’ll hop onto your quad bike, and the fun begins. We loved the way the tour balances adrenaline with scenic beauty. Riding through the rocky, sometimes bumpy paths, you’ll pass terraced fields, traditional villages, and lush farmland, all framed by towering snow-capped peaks.

The guide leads the way, sharing stories about the landscape, the local communities, and the importance of agriculture in Incan times. The ride itself is suitable for most, with options for single or shared quad bikes (note: three people cannot share one ATV). With a small group, you’re likely to get more attention from your guide, who ensures everyone stays safe and has fun.

Moray: The Incan Agricultural Laboratory

Next, your ATV takes you to Moray, a site that looks like a giant, ancient amphitheater carved into the earth. It’s an Incan agricultural experiment station, where different microclimates were developed to test crops. You’ll have about 35 minutes to walk around with your guide, who explains how the terraces functioned as a kind of living laboratory.

We loved the way the guide enriches the visit with stories about Incan ingenuity, making the site come alive. The expansive views from Moray are worth the quick stop, with terraces spiraling into the sky amid mountain vistas.

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Salt Mines of Maras: Salt-Pan Villages and Photogenic Views

From Moray, you’ll return to your ATV, heading to the Maras Salt Mines. This spectacular sight is a sprawling collection of thousands of salt pans, each managed by local families. It’s a vivid reminder of how the Incas and their descendants continue to use traditional methods to extract salt.

You’ll have about 35 minutes here for a guided walk, photo opportunities, and to marvel at the intricate network of rectangular pools, all shimmering in the sunlight. The visit offers a fascinating glimpse into living tradition, still active today.

Return Journey and Practicalities

After the salt mines, you’ll load back into the van for the return trip to Cusco, typically taking around 70 minutes. The tour concludes in Cusco’s city center, close to many hotels and shops.

Value and Experience: What You Take Away

At $40, this tour offers a strong value, especially when considering the cost of entry fees (70 soles for Moray and 20 soles for Maras), which are paid separately in cash. The guided nature of the trip ensures you understand what you’re seeing, making it more than just a fun ride — it’s a chance to grasp Incan innovation and the ongoing traditions of salt harvesting.

Authenticity and Personal Touches

Many travelers have noted that the guides are friendly and knowledgeable, often speaking both English and Spanish. Their insights make each stop more meaningful. We also appreciated the small group size, which fosters a relaxed, informal atmosphere—perfect for asking questions or just soaking in the views.

Practical Tips for Travelers

Bring your passport or ID, sunglasses, and sun protection. Wear comfortable clothes, suitable for riding and walking. Remember there’s cash needed for entrance fees and the community fee (USD 1). Luggage or large bags are not allowed, and drones are prohibited.

Since the tour isn’t suitable for pregnant women, children under 18, or those with mobility issues, it’s best suited for active travelers comfortable with outdoor activity.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This adventure is perfect for active travelers who want more than just sightseeing — they want to feel the landscape beneath their wheels. It’s a fantastic choice for families with older children, couples seeking a mix of thrill and culture, or anyone eager to see how the Incas used their environment creatively.

If you love stunning mountain views, authentic sites, and hands-on experiences, this tour delivers on all fronts. It’s especially well-suited for those who appreciate the small-group vibe, making the experience more personal and engaging.

The Sum Up

This ATV tour of Moray and the Maras Salt Mines offers a unique blend of adventure and cultural insight in the heart of the Sacred Valley. For just $40, you gain access to spectacular scenery, fascinating archaeological sites, and the thrill of riding through varied terrain. The presence of a knowledgeable guide enhances the experience, turning a fun ride into a meaningful exploration of Inca ingenuity and tradition.

While the additional entry fees need to be paid separately, they are well worth it for the chance to see Moray’s terraced experiments and the shimmering salt pans of Maras. The small group size and flexible booking options make this a good choice for travelers looking for a personal, active adventure.

Overall, if you’re seeking a memorable, authentic experience that combines adventure with education, this tour is worth considering. It’s especially ideal for those who want to add a bit of adrenaline to their visit and enjoy the stunning vistas of the Andean landscape.

FAQs

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, hotel pickup is included for the morning tour at 7 AM. For the afternoon tour, pickup is from the meeting point at Machupicchu Adventour.

How long is the total tour?
The tour lasts about 6 hours, including transportation, site visits, and free time at each stop.

Can I share a quad bike?
Yes, depending on the option chosen, you can ride a shared quad bike with 2 people; however, 3 people cannot share one ATV.

Are entrance fees included?
No, the entry to Moray (70 soles) and Maras (20 soles) are paid in cash at the sites. There’s also a USD 1 community fee.

What should I bring?
Bring your passport or ID, sunglasses, sun hat, sunscreen, comfortable clothes, and cash for entrance fees.

Is this activity suitable for children?
No, it’s not suitable for children under 18, pregnant women, or those with mobility issues.

Do I need any prior experience riding quad bikes?
No experience is necessary; guides provide clear instructions to ensure safety and fun.

What language are guides available in?
Guides speak both English and Spanish, ensuring clear communication.

Where does the tour end?
The tour concludes in Cusco’s city center, near many hotels and shops.

How do I book and pay?
You can reserve now and pay later with full refund available if canceled up to 24 hours in advance.

This lively ATV adventure through the Sacred Valley offers not just a dose of excitement but a chance to connect with Peru’s rich cultural landscape in an active, memorable way. It’s worth considering if you want to see two of the most iconic sites with a bit of adrenaline to spice up your sightseeing.

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