ATV Quadbikes Around Sacred Valley Moray & Maras Salineras

Exploring Cusco’s Sacred Valley on an ATV: An Authentic Adventure

When you’re in Cusco and crave a way to see the Sacred Valley that’s more than just a bus window, this ATV tour offers a lively, hands-on experience. For around $36 per person, you’ll spend roughly six hours exploring some of Peru’s most iconic spots, including the terraces of Moray, the salt mines of Maras, and the colorful landscapes that surround them. What’s especially appealing about this tour is its small-group format, capped at 13 travelers, which ensures plenty of personal attention and a more relaxed, less hurried pace.

Two things we love about this experience are the chance to see diverse landscapes on a single trip and the knowledgeable guides, who are praised for safety and friendliness. The tour’s emphasis on adventure is clear—after a brief lesson, you’ll jump onto a quad bike and hit the trails, feeling your pulse rise as you navigate the rustic paths. A second highlight is the authenticity of the visit: you’re not just passively observing but actively engaging with the environment and local landmarks.

A potential consideration is that entrance fees to Moray and the salt mines are not included in the base price, meaning you’ll need cash to pay these on-site. Plus, because the tour involves riding on uneven terrain, a moderate level of physical fitness is recommended. Lastly, while the tour offers pickup in Cusco for the morning departure, transportation is not included for the afternoon option, so you may need to make your own arrangements.

This tour suits adventure lovers who want a more dynamic way to experience the Sacred Valley, and those keen on guided insights into local sites. It’s ideal for travelers seeking a blend of thrill, culture, and stunning scenery, all within a manageable half-day outing.

Key Points

• Authentic Exploration: Discover the Sacred Valley on a quad bike, experiencing the landscape in a fun, active way.
• Expert Guides: Guides are praised for safety, professionalism, and friendly knowledge, making the experience both enjoyable and informative.
• Flexible Scheduling: Morning and afternoon options allow you to fit the tour into your Cusco itinerary.
• Cost-Effective: At just $36, it offers a memorable, activity-packed half-day, with opportunities to visit key sites like Moray and Maras.
• Additional Fees: Entrance to Moray and the salt mines are extra, payable in cash, so plan accordingly.
• Limited Group Size: With a maximum of 13 travelers, the tour maintains a personal touch and allows for more interaction.

A Closer Look at the Sacred Valley ATV Tour

Starting Point and Logistics

The tour begins at Willka Travel, located at C. Garcilaso 265 in Cusco. Pickup is offered only for the morning departure, which is convenient if you’re staying in Cusco’s central hotels. The return is to the same meeting point, simplifying your day.

The ATV Experience

Once you arrive, you’ll receive a quick safety briefing and a trial ride to get comfortable. The quad bikes themselves are straightforward to operate, making this accessible even if you’re new to riding. The focus here is on fun and safety, with guides like Wilson, Yadira, and Arthur earning high praise for their professionalism and friendliness.

Visiting Moray and Maras

Your first stop is Moray, an astonishing Inca agricultural laboratory with concentric terraced circles. The guides help explain its purpose, adding depth to the visit. Keep in mind that the entrance fee for Moray is 70 soles, and for the salt mines, it’s 20 soles. Both are cash-only transactions, so bring enough local currency.

At the salt mines of Salineras, you’ll see thousands of small salt pools that have been harvested for centuries. The contrast of white salt against the mountains makes for fantastic photos and a real sense of local tradition. As Olga from a review put it, the experience was “safe, exciting, and special,” especially with the professional guides Yadira and Arthur.

The Scenic Journey

What makes this tour stand out is the combination of active exploration and scenic beauty. The landscape is characterized by rugged mountains, terraced fields, and patchworks of salt pools. We loved the way it felt like a true local adventure, away from the more touristy bus routes.

The Guides and Safety

Reviews consistently highlight the guides’ knowledge and attentiveness. Fabian loved the “stunning look” and the well-organized nature of the tour, especially praising Joel. The guides’ emphasis on safety, combined with their engaging personalities, makes the trip both secure and enjoyable.

What to Expect in Terms of Time and Comfort

The total duration is approximately six hours, including transportation, stops, and riding time. The group size remains small, which enhances the experience—you’re not just a number. Expect to spend some time in the sun and on uneven terrain, so comfortable clothes, sunscreen, and water are advisable.

Value for Money

At $36, the tour offers good value—you’re paying for the thrill of riding a quad bike, guided visits to notable archaeological sites, and the chance to see some of Peru’s most beautiful landscapes. Remember, the entrance fees are extra, but the guides help facilitate this process smoothly.

Who Will Love This Tour?

If you’re someone who enjoys active pursuits and wants to see the Sacred Valley from a fresh perspective, this is perfect. It’s especially suited for adventure seekers eager for a bit of adrenaline and those interested in authentic, off-the-beaten-path experiences. It also appeals to travelers who value small-group tours with knowledgeable guides, ensuring a friendly atmosphere and personalized attention.

This tour is not for those who prefer a leisurely, seated visit or have mobility limitations, given the riding involved and uneven terrain. It’s also ideal if you’re comfortable with cash payments for entrance fees and enjoy a mix of outdoor activity and cultural sightseeing.

Final Thoughts: Is This the Right Tour for You?

This ATV tour in the Sacred Valley strikes a satisfying balance between adventure, education, and scenery. The opportunity to drive your own quad bike through striking landscapes, combined with expert guides who keep safety front and center, makes it stand out. The visit to Moray and Salineras are genuine highlights, offering a glimpse into Inca ingenuity and traditional salt harvesting—experiences you can’t get from a bus window.

For those looking to add a dash of excitement to their Cusco visit and don’t mind paying a little extra for entrance fees, this tour offers a memorable, active way to connect with the local culture and landscape. It’s especially good for travelers who want to combine scenic beauty with a bit of adrenaline and friendly guidance.

In summary, this tour is a smart pick for active travelers, curious explorers, and anyone wanting a more personal, engaging way to experience the Sacred Valley.

FAQ

Is pickup included in the tour?
Pickup is available for hotels in Cusco only for the morning departure. If you’re in Cusco, this makes logistics easier; if you’re in a different location, you may need to arrange your own transport.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience is about six hours, including transportation, stops, and riding time. It’s a manageable half-day that leaves plenty of time to explore other parts of Cusco.

What should I bring?
Bring cash for entrance fees (Moray and Salineras), sunscreen, a hat, water, and comfortable clothes suitable for outdoor riding on uneven terrain.

Are the quad bikes easy to operate?
Yes. After a quick safety briefing and practice session, most beginners find riding straightforward and fun. Guides are on hand to help and ensure safety.

What if I don’t want to ride the quad bike myself?
The tour is designed for active participation; riding is part of the experience. If you prefer not to, you might want to look for a different type of tour.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance. If you cancel sooner, you’ll get a full refund; less than 24 hours, and it’s non-refundable.

This adventure blends adrenaline, culture, and stunning scenery into a memorable half-day. Whether you’re a thrill-seeker or simply looking to experience Cusco’s countryside in an authentic way, this ATV tour through the Sacred Valley offers a fun, engaging, and visually rewarding experience.