Imagine zipping across the Sacred Valley’s stunning landscapes on a rugged ATV, with the chance to see ancient terraces in Moray and the shimmering salt flats of Maras. For just $39 per person, this 5-hour adventure offers a lively combination of thrilling riding and cultural discovery—a perfect way to experience some of the most iconic sites near Cusco. Your guides, like Juan and Maria (if reviews are anything to go by), will ensure you’re well briefed and safe, whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned rider.

Two things we love about this tour are the diverse scenery—from vast salt terraces to Inca-era agricultural terraces—and the group fun that makes the experience lively and memorable. Plus, the round-trip transportation from Cusco makes logistics straightforward. A possible consideration? If you’re not comfortable on a quad bike, or have mobility issues, this might not be your best fit, as it involves some physical activity and outdoor riding.

This tour suits adventurers who enjoy scenic rides, curious travelers eager to combine history and nature, and those looking for a value-packed half-day. Whether you’re traveling solo, as a couple, or in a small group, it’s an engaging way to blend adventure with cultural insights.

Key Points

Scenic ATV riding across the Sacred Valley’s landscapes
Visits to Moray’s ancient terraces and the Maras Salt Flats
Suitable for beginners and experienced riders thanks to professional guides
Includes safety gear, round-trip transport, and a briefing
Flexible cancellation policy with full refunds if canceled 24 hours in advance
Timing varies, so check availability for your preferred start time

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring the Sacred Valley by ATV

This tour offers a unique perspective on the Sacred Valley. Instead of just touring by bus, you’re on a high-energy ATV, giving you the freedom to explore narrow paths and panoramic viewpoints inaccessible by larger vehicles. The itinerary begins with a pickup in Cusco, followed by roughly an hour’s drive to Cruzpata, where your adventure starts.

While in Maras, here are other experiences we've covered

The Ride and Sites

Once equipped with helmets and gloves, you’ll receive a briefing on how to handle the quad bike safely. Whether you’re a first-timer or a seasoned rider, guides are there to assist and answer questions. The ride to Moray takes approximately 2.25 hours, giving you plenty of time to enjoy the views and explore the terraces. We loved how the guides shared insights about the site’s architectural ingenuity—the circular terraces are believed to have been used as an agricultural laboratory by the Incas, and you’ll get a closer look.

After Moray, the trip continues to the Salt Flats of Maras, a striking landscape of thousands of pools used for salt extraction since Inca times. The contrast of white salt against the green mountains is truly captivating. Many reviews mention the stunning vistas, emphasizing how these sites are even more impressive in person than photos can convey.

Authentic Experiences and Group Fun

What makes this tour stand out is the fun communal atmosphere. We found that riding alongside other travelers, sharing laughs, and stopping for photos added an authentic, lively feel. Guides are praised for being friendly, informative, and attentive, making sure everyone’s comfortable and safe throughout.

Practical Details and Value

The cost of $39 covers everything—high-quality quad bikes, safety gear, an expert guide, and transportation. It’s a lot of value for a half-day adventure. The tour is designed to be flexible, with options to book now and pay later, giving you peace of mind to plan your trip without upfront commitments.

More Great Tours Nearby

What to Expect: A Detailed Breakdown

While you're exploring Maras, here are other experiences we've looked into

Pickup and Transport

Your experience begins with a hotel pickup in Cusco. The transport is private, comfortable, and arrives promptly, which many travelers appreciate, especially after a long day of sightseeing. The drive to Cruzpata takes about an hour, giving you a scenic preview of the valley’s landscape.

Moray: An Inca Engineering Marvel

Arriving at Moray, you’ll have time to walk around the circular terraces, marveling at the Inca ingenuity. Your guide will share stories about how these terraces were possibly used as agricultural experiments, making it a fascinating blend of history and science. Many visitors find Moray to be a quietly powerful site—less crowded than other attractions, and deeply evocative.

ATV Ride

The quad biking portion lasts about 2.25 hours, during which you’ll traverse dirt paths, gentle slopes, and scenic viewpoints. The guides emphasize safety, providing helmets, gloves, and training. Reviews comment on how accessible it is for beginners, with some noting it’s surprisingly easy to pick up even if it’s your first time on an ATV.

Maras Salt Flats: A Natural Wonder

Following Moray, you’ll visit the salt flats, a geological marvel. The thousands of salt pools sparkle under the Andean sun, and many travelers are struck by how peaceful and photogenic the landscape is. You can walk among the pools and learn about the traditional salt extraction process that has remained unchanged for centuries.

Return Journey

After exploring the salt flats, your guide will lead you back to the bus for the return drive to Cusco, which takes around 2.5 hours. The entire experience totals approximately 5 hours, making it manageable for most travelers and a great way to break up your sightseeing day.

Authentic Insights from Traveler Reviews

One traveler remarked, “The views during the ATV ride are breathtaking, especially when you reach the salt flats—it’s a perfect mix of adventure and scenery.” Others appreciated the friendly guides who “made the experience easy and fun,” especially for those new to quad biking. Several reviews mention the stunning scenery as the highlight, with one stating, “The salt flats are even more incredible in person, and riding through the valley’s landscape is something I’ll never forget.”

A few cautioned that physical activity is involved, so if you’re concerned about mobility or prefer a less active experience, this might not be ideal. Also, since the tour involves outdoor riding, be sure to wear sun protection and comfortable clothing.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience is perfect for adventurous travelers who want a fun, hands-on way to see Moray and Maras. It’s ideal for those who enjoy outdoor activities and are comfortable on a quad bike—beginners are welcomed, thanks to guides’ support. Families with older children, small groups, or solo travelers will find it a lively, engaging outing. If your priority is historic museums or cultural shows, this may not be the best fit, but for scenic rides and natural landscapes, it hits the mark.

The Sum Up

The Sacred Valley ATV Tour from Cusco offers a dynamic blend of adventure, history, and natural beauty. For just $39, you gain access to some of the region’s most photogenic sites, all while enjoying the thrill of quad biking. The professional guides and included transportation make it a smooth, worry-free experience, leaving you free to soak in the stunning vistas and connect with the landscape in a personal way.

This tour is a fantastic choice for those looking to combine physical activity with cultural exploration. It’s particularly well-suited for travelers wanting a value-packed half-day that offers picturesque scenery and a dash of adrenaline.

Whether you’re an outdoor enthusiast, a history buff eager to see Inca terraces, or simply someone seeking a fun, memorable outing, this adventure delivers authentic experiences with a lively spirit. Just remember to wear sun protection, bring your camera, and prepare for a beautiful ride through the heart of the Sacred Valley.

FAQ

Is transportation included?
Yes, round-trip transportation from Cusco to Cruzpata is included, making logistics straightforward.

Can beginners participate in the ATV riding?
Absolutely. Guides provide a pre-departure briefing and assistance, ensuring beginners are comfortable and safe.

How long is the ATV riding portion?
The ATV ride lasts approximately 2.25 hours, allowing plenty of time to enjoy the scenery and explore.

What sites are included in the tour?
You’ll visit Moray, famous for its Inca terraces, and the Salt Flats of Maras, known for their stunning pools used since Inca times.

Is the tour suitable for children?
It’s suitable for travelers over 1 year old, but children should be comfortable on outdoor rides. Those over 70 may want to consider physical limitations.

What’s the cost, and what does it include?
The price is $39 per person, including ATV rental, safety gear, a professional guide, and transportation.