ATV Abode of the Gods and Piuray Lagoon From Cusco

Imagine zooming across rugged terrains on a TRX 250 ATV, soaking in the stunning views of Piuray Lagoon, and exploring ancient Inca rock carvings. For $50 per person, this 4-hour guided tour offers a chance to combine adventure, history, and natural beauty just outside of Cusco. The tour starts with convenient hotel pickups and ends back in Plaza Regocijo, making it easy to fit into your travel plans.

What we love about this experience is the thrill of riding through diverse landscapes, from lush fields to mountain views, and the unique chance to see Inca carvings that are not as heavily visited as the standard tourist spots. Plus, the expert bilingual guide makes sure you’re well-informed and safe throughout.

A possible consideration is that you’ll need moderate physical fitness since the tour involves several hours on an ATV, including safety briefings and driving training. If you’re someone who prefers more relaxed sightseeing or isn’t comfortable on a bike, this might not be your best fit.

This adventure suits travelers who crave active experiences and are eager to see more of the Cusco region beyond the usual ruins. It’s ideal for adventurers, photo enthusiasts, and those keen to combine cultural insight with outdoor fun.

Key Points

• Authentic Inca Carvings: Cyclopean rock carvings of mythological beings add a cultural layer to your adventure.
• Scenic Route: The ATV ride offers sweeping views of Piuray Lagoon and surrounding landscapes.
• Guided Safety & Training: Short safety briefing and driving training ensure all riders are prepared.
• Flexible & Convenient: Pickup from central Cusco and return to Plaza Regocijo makes logistics easy.
• Reasonable Price: At $50, it offers a good value for a mix of adventure and culture.
• Limited Group Size: Max of 10 travelers keeps the experience intimate and personalized.

A Detailed Look at the ATV Abode of the Gods and Piuray Lagoon Tour

Starting Point & Logistics

The tour kicks off with pickups from Plaza Regocijo or nearby hotels, which is a major advantage, saving you the hassle of navigating to a meeting point. The drive from Cusco to the base in Tica Tica’s Sencca sector takes about 15 minutes, giving you a quick scenic introduction to the countryside before the fun begins.

The small group size, capped at 10 travelers, means you won’t be lost in a crowd. The air-conditioned vehicle ensures comfort during transfers, which is especially nice if you’re traveling during warmer months.

Safety & Training

Once at the base, you’ll receive a 10-minute safety briefing and driving instructions—a crucial step for newbies or those unfamiliar with ATVs. The TRX 250 ATVs come with helmets and gloves, and the guides are bilingual, so language won’t be a barrier. This focus on safety reassures most travelers, especially those new to off-road riding.

Piuray Lagoon: Nature & Culture

Your first stop, the Piuray Lagoon, is a natural basin that irrigates surrounding farms. Here, you’ll spend about 30 minutes soaking in the scenery, taking photos, and observing local people in traditional Chinchero costumes. The lagoon’s surface is calm and expansive, providing a peaceful contrast to the adrenaline of the ride.

Travelers have noted how beautiful and photographic this spot is. One reviewer commented that “it was so lovely to ride through the area,” emphasizing the scenic appeal.

Off-Road Adventure & Inca Carvings

Following Piuray, the tour continues for about 20 minutes on the ATVs to the Abode of the Gods—a site featuring cyclopean rock carvings of mythological beings from the Inca era. Visiting this site for about 30 minutes offers a chance to explore these mysterious stone sculptures that are less crowded than the famous archaeological sites.

While the entrance fee to the Abode of the Gods isn’t included, the opportunity to see authentic Inca carvings in a natural setting adds significant cultural value. It’s an excellent way to connect with local history without the large crowds.

Final Stop: Apukunaq Tianan

The tour then proceeds for another 20-minute ATV ride to Apukunaq Tianan, a newer tourist attraction near Cusco, which you’ll visit for about 30 minutes. The site provides additional insight into local legends and history, rounding out the cultural aspect of your adventure.

Return & Reflection

After the last stop, you’ll return to the base for a quick debrief and then back to Cusco, arriving at Plaza Regocijo. The entire tour lasts roughly 4 hours, making it a perfect half-day escape from the city’s busy streets.

The Experience in Perspective

What sets this tour apart is the combination of adventure, culture, and scenery in just a few hours. Unlike traditional guided visits to Machu Picchu or other ruins, this tour offers a hands-on experience on ATVs, which appeals to those who want more than just sightseeing.

Rasheeda_A from her review mentions, “It is hands down my favorite thing I’ve done here,” highlighting how memorable and fun this activity can be. The ride through the countryside is described as “lovely,” giving a sense of the peaceful yet exciting nature of the tour.

Practical Considerations

While the $50 price includes ATV rental, safety gear, and professional guides, it does not cover the entry to Piuray Lagoon or the Abode of the Gods. If you plan to visit these attractions independently, additional costs will apply. Many travelers find the costs reasonable, considering the included transportation, guide, and the unique experience of riding through scenic landscapes.

Weather can impact the experience, so good weather is recommended. If canceled due to rain or poor conditions, you’re offered a reschedule or full refund, adding flexibility.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is ideal for adventurous travelers who don’t mind getting a little dirt on their boots (or helmets). It’s also suited for those interested in Inca culture and scenic outdoor activities. If you’re traveling with family or friends who enjoy physical activity and unique photo opportunities, this is a solid choice. However, if you prefer relaxed, seated sightseeing, this might not be your best fit.

Final Thoughts

The ATV Abode of the Gods and Piuray Lagoon Tour offers a compelling mix of thrilling off-road riding, cultural exploration, and stunning scenery. For just $50, it delivers a well-organized, fun, and authentic experience that many travelers rave about. The small group size and bilingual guides enhance the feeling of personal attention, making it suitable for a broad range of travelers.

If you’re eager to see a different side of Cusco—away from the crowded ruins—while actively engaging with the landscape and history, this tour will likely be a highlight of your trip. It’s especially perfect if you want to combine physical activity with cultural insights, leaving with memorable stories and photos.

FAQs

Is transportation included?
Yes, pickup from Plaza Regocijo or nearby hotels is included, and transportation takes you to the base in Tica Tica.

How long is the ATV ride?
The ATV route lasts approximately 3 hours, with several stops along the way.

Do I need previous experience riding ATVs?
No, a brief safety briefing and training are provided, making it accessible even for beginners.

What should I wear?
Comfortable casual clothes suitable for outdoor activity, plus your own sun protection or rain gear depending on the weather.

Are helmets and gloves provided?
Yes, helmets and gloves are included for safety.

Can I cancel if the weather is poor?
Yes, if canceled due to weather, you can reschedule or get a full refund.

Is there an age or fitness restriction?
You should have moderate physical fitness; the tour lasts about 4 hours with some physical activity involved.

What attractions are included?
Piuray Lagoon and the Abode of the Gods, plus a visit to Apukunaq Tianan.

Are the entrance fees to Piuray Lagoon or the Abode of the Gods included?
No, entrance fees are not included for these sites.

Who would enjoy this tour?
Active travelers, culture enthusiasts, and anyone looking for a fun, off-the-beaten-path adventure near Cusco.

This tour balances adventure, history, and natural beauty, perfect for those who want a lively half-day outside the usual tourist spots. It’s a fantastic way to see a different side of Cusco—through the lens of a rugged ATV ride that’s both exhilarating and educational.