Quad Tour to Moray and Maras, Salt Mines from Cusco

Quad Tour to Moray and Maras, Salt Mines from Cusco
Location: Cusco Region, Peru
Country: Peru
Rating: 4.8
Price: $47 per person
Supplier: XPLORA AMERICA

A quick snapshot of the experience
Imagine tearing across the rugged Andean terrain on an ATV, with views that seem to jump straight out of a postcard. This 5-hour adventure whisks you from Cusco into the Sacred Valley, stopping at two of the most iconic sights: the mysterious Moray terraces and the ancient Salt Mines of Maras. The tour costs $47, which is a surprisingly fair price for the mix of adrenaline, scenery, and cultural insights packed into a single day.

We love the way this tour combines adventure with authenticity—riding ATVs through lively villages and past vibrant fields gives you a genuine sense of rural Peruvian life. Plus, the scenic drive along Huaypo Lagoon and the view of towering peaks like Veronica and Chicon make every moment visually rewarding.

One possible drawback? The tour’s focus on adrenaline and scenic sights means it might not suit travelers seeking a deeply cultural or historic experience. It’s more about the fun and views than detailed Incan history, so if your priority is learning about the ruins, this might not be your best choice. Still, it’s perfect for thrill-seekers and those wanting a taste of the Sacred Valley’s natural beauty.

If you enjoy outdoor activities, stunning vistas, and a bit of excitement, this tour should be right up your alley. It’s especially well-suited for adventure lovers who don’t mind getting a little dusty and are eager to see some of the region’s most photogenic spots with a local guide.

Key Points

Adventure in the Sacred Valley: Ride ATVs through beautiful Andean landscapes.
Iconic sights: Visit Moray’s circular terraces and the historic Maras Salt Mines.
Scenic drive: Pass Huaypo Lagoon and snow-capped peaks like Veronica.
Value for money: For $47, you get a full 5-hour experience including guide, transportation, and gear.
Flexible booking: Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, with the option to reserve now and pay later.
Authentic local experience: See rural villages and watch locals work in their fields.

You can check availability for your dates here:

In-depth review: What to Expect from this Quad Tour

Starting the Day: Pickup and Introduction

Your day begins early, around 7 am, with a pickup from a designated point in Cusco. The comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle takes you through the Sacred Valley, already a stunning journey as you leave the city behind. Your guide, who speaks both English and Spanish, will first give a quick safety briefing and instruction on how to handle the ATV. This is crucial, especially for first-timers, because the guide’s calm, clear instructions make even nervous riders feel confident.

We appreciated the care taken in the training—it’s not a race; safety comes first. Afterward, you’re ready to hit the trails, feeling both excited and prepared.

The Ride: Villages, Fields, and Lagoons

As you drive through the countryside, you’ll pass by rustic churches and local farmers working in the fields, giving you a glimpse of authentic rural life. The scenery is delightful—yellow wheat fields stretch out, and small villages dot the landscape. We found the drive to Cruz de Pata particularly scenic, with the backdrop of snow-capped peaks and lush greenery.

The highlight here is the thrill of riding an ATV in such a stunning environment. The tour offers a good balance of riding time and sightseeing, with guides managing the pace and making sure everyone stays safe.

Moray: The Inca Circular Terraces

When you arrive at Moray, you’ll see the circular terraces that have puzzled historians and visitors alike. These terraces, believed to have been used for agriculture and experimentation, showcase Inca ingenuity. The terraces’ concentric circles descend into the earth, creating an almost otherworldly landscape.

One reviewer mentioned: “We loved the way the terraces looked like something out of a science fiction movie,” which captures how surreal and fascinating these structures are. The guides are knowledgeable, providing insights into how the Incas might have used these terraces for farming.

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Maras Salt Mines: Living History

A short drive away, Maras offers a striking contrast: thousands of salt evaporation ponds that have been in use since Inca times. As you walk through the terraces, you’ll see locals harvesting salt, a practice that has remained largely unchanged for centuries.

Note: There is a small entrance fee of 10 soles, and partial tickets cost 70 soles—so be prepared for that. Many travelers find it worthwhile, given the photo opportunities and the chance to see traditional salt production.

One review praised**: “Watching locals work in the salt flats made me appreciate the continuity of their craft.” It’s a vivid reminder of the region’s living traditions.

The Return: Scenic and Different Routes

On the way back, the guide takes a different route, offering new vistas of the Urubamba Mountains. This detour allows you to enjoy the scenery with fresh eyes and perhaps snap a few more photos of the peaks like Veronica and Chicon. The tour ends around 1:30 pm, leaving you plenty of time to relax or explore other parts of Cusco later in the day.

The Practicalities: What’s Included and What to Consider

Included in the price are air-conditioned transportation, pickup from the city center, an ATV with gear, a safety kit, and a bilingual guide. The safety and instruction briefings are appreciated, especially for those new to ATVs.

What’s not included are the entrance fees to the Salt Mines (10 soles, or about $3), and partial tickets (70 soles). Meals are also not included, so plan accordingly—there are plenty of local eateries in Cusco to grab a quick lunch before or after.

The tour is designed for flexibility, allowing free cancellation up to 24 hours ahead and the option to reserve now and pay later.

A key consideration: The tour’s focus is on fun and scenery, rather than in-depth cultural history. If you’re looking for a profound Incan archaeological experience, you might want to consider other tours. But if your priorities are adventure, stunning landscapes, and some local flavor, this tour hits the mark.

Why this tour stands out

The stunning views are a major highlight. The combination of the rugged terrain, snow-capped peaks, and lush green valleys makes every photo a keeper. The adrenaline rush of riding an ATV through this environment adds an element of excitement that casual sightseeing can’t match.

The authenticity of the salt mines is another strong point. Watching locals work in these age-old ponds connects you to Peru’s living traditions. Plus, the fact that the tour is reasonably priced—just $47—means it offers excellent value for the variety of experiences packed into a half-day.

Who will enjoy this experience most?

This tour is ideal for adventure lovers who enjoy outdoor activities and are comfortable riding ATVs. It suits those eager to see the Sacred Valley beyond the usual tourist spots, appreciating natural beauty and traditional industries. It’s perfect for travelers with a sense of humor and a spirit of fun, looking to add some excitement to their Cusco visit without breaking the bank.

Final thoughts

If you’re seeking a dynamic and scenic way to explore the Sacred Valley, this ATV tour to Moray and Maras offers a compelling mix of thrill, culture, and breathtaking landscapes. It’s a great way to break from the usual sightseeing routine, especially if you’re craving a bit of adventure and authentic local scenes.

While it might not satisfy history buffs craving detailed Incan stories, it compensates with stunning vistas and an exciting ride. The tour’s flexibility, friendly guides, and value make it appealing for independent travelers and group adventurers alike.

In short, this trip provides a memorable snapshot of Peru’s natural beauty and traditional livelihoods, all wrapped up in a fun, adrenaline-fueled package. It’s the kind of experience that leaves you with stories—and plenty of incredible photos—to share.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for beginners?
Yes. The guide provides a training session before you start riding, so even first-timers can feel confident.

What are the main sights visited?
You’ll see Moray’s circular terraces and the historic salt evaporation ponds in Maras, set against stunning mountain scenery.

How long is the ATV riding part?
The tour lasts about 5 hours in total, with the ATV portion covering a significant part of that, balanced with sightseeing stops.

Are there any additional costs?
Yes. Entrance to the salt mines costs 10 soles, and partial tickets are 70 soles. Meals are not included, so plan to dine after the tour.

What should I bring?
Comfortable clothes suitable for outdoor riding, sun protection, and perhaps a camera to capture the views. The tour supplies gear and safety equipment.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes. You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. The booking also allows you to reserve now and pay later, providing flexibility.

This ATV tour through the Sacred Valley offers a lively, scenic, and authentic Peruvian experience—perfect for those looking to combine adventure with stunning vistas. Whether you’re craving adrenaline or simply want to see more of the landscape that makes this region so special, it’s a ride worth considering.

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