Cusco Sacred Valley ATV Adventure Tour with Experienced Guide

If you’re craving a blend of adventure, culture, and stunning scenery, the Cusco Sacred Valley ATV Adventure Tour offers a fantastic way to see some of the most beautiful spots in the region—in just half a day. Starting at around $37 per person, this 6-hour experience with a knowledgeable guide takes you from the bustling city of Cusco into the tranquil, agricultural-rich landscapes of the Sacred Valley. The tour includes transportation, safety gear, and a chance to learn how to handle an ATV—perfect for those who want to add a little thrill to their Peruvian itinerary.

What we really love about this tour is the flexibility. You can choose from three distinct routes—each showcasing a different aspect of the Sacred Valley—and each offers a unique blend of adventure and culture. Plus, the option to share ATVs with a friend or go solo adds a social or private touch that suits different travelers’ preferences. A highlight for many is the chance to explore lakes like Huaypo and Piuray, or visit the famous salt mines of Maras—although note that access to the salt mines is by car, not ATV.

One possible consideration is that if you opt for the Maras Salt Mines route, you’ll need to travel by car to that part of the experience. Also, since entrance tickets to Moray and Maras are not included, you’ll want to budget around 20 soles for those. Still, for the price, this tour offers a fantastic value—especially given the personalized attention from guides and the memorable scenery you’ll enjoy.

This adventure suits active travelers who appreciate a mix of scenery and culture, are comfortable on an ATV, and want a more authentic, off-the-beaten-path experience in Cusco. If you’re looking for a fun, moderately active day that combines nature, history, and a bit of adrenaline, you’ll find plenty to love here.

Key Points

• Authentic Experience: Combines adventure with cultural highlights like Moray and Maras Salt Mines.
• Flexible Routes: Choose from three different routes, each with unique scenic and cultural features.
• Guided Safety: Expert guides provide thorough safety instructions and support throughout.
• Inclusive & Sociable: Options for sharing ATVs or riding solo; transportation and gear included.
• Cost-Effective: At just $37, it offers a memorable, well-rounded half-day adventure.
• Ideal for Active Travelers: Suitable for those with moderate physical fitness who enjoy outdoor activities.

What’s Included and What’s Not

For $37, you get round-trip transportation from Cusco to the Sacred Valley, a comprehensive safety briefing, and helmets and gloves. The tour is led by an experienced guide fluent in both English and Spanish, which makes communication smooth. You’ll also have some time to practice on the ATV before hitting the varied terrain of the Sacred Valley, which is a real plus for beginners or those a bit rusty on their riding skills.

However, keep in mind that the entrance tickets to Moray and Maras Salt Mines are not included—costing around 20 soles—and you’ll need to purchase those separately if you wish to visit those highlights. Food and drinks aren’t covered either, so it’s wise to bring some snacks or plan to eat afterward in Cusco. Travel insurance is also not included, a standard note but worth remembering.

The tour is designed for small groups (maximum of 10 travelers), which fosters a friendly, personalized atmosphere—something many travelers appreciate. The entire experience lasts approximately 6 hours, with the actual riding and sightseeing taking about 3 hours 30 minutes, plus transportation and training.

The Route Options in Detail

Ruta Maras and Moray

This route combines the thrill of riding through scenic landscapes with the chance to explore Moray’s ancient agricultural terraces and the salt mines of Maras. You will be able to visit these cultural sites by car, as ATV access isn’t permitted there, but the ride through the valley to reach them is scenic enough to satisfy any adventure lover.

Ruta Maras and Lake

For those who prefer a mix of water and land, this route takes you to Huaypo Lake along with the salt mines. Expect sweeping views of the lush countryside, with the chance to appreciate the vibrant agricultural land of the Sacred Valley. The lake has a peaceful vibe that’s perfect for a short break or some photos.

Ruta Lakes of Cusco

This route takes you through the heart of the Sacred Valley to two important lakes—Huaypo and Piuray. Expect varied terrain, crossing ancient agricultural fields, with views of the surrounding mountains. It’s a balanced mix of nature and history, perfect for those who want a comprehensive snapshot of Cusco’s rural beauty.

What’s the Experience Like?

We loved the way the guides made us feel comfortable, especially during the safety briefing and practice round. Alex from a review described it as “exhilarating,” highlighting how the guides led them across different terrains, from flat fields to hilly sections, giving us a good sense of adventure and control. The guide’s local knowledge added depth, sharing insights about the landscape and local practices.

The scenery itself is a highlight—vistas of terraced fields, distant mountains, and peaceful lakes. The stops at lakes Huaypo and Piuray especially stood out, offering serene spots for photos and a break from the riding. The route to Maras Salt Mines by car is quick but provides a fascinating glimpse into the salt extraction process, which is a centuries-old tradition.

The Value of the Experience

At $37, this tour packs a lot of value. You get transportation, safety gear, instruction, and a guided ride through some of the most photogenic corners of the Sacred Valley—all in just half a day. The small group size means more personal attention, and the chance to share the experience with others adds a social element that many travelers enjoy.

While the extra costs for entrance tickets might seem like an added expense, they’re quite reasonable, and you’ll likely want to visit Moray and the salt mines anyway. The guides’ fluency in English and Spanish helps ensure questions are answered, making it easy to learn as you go.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This adventure suits travelers who enjoy outdoor activities, are comfortable on an ATV, and want to experience local culture without committing a full-day tour. It’s especially good for those with a moderate fitness level who appreciate scenic views, cultural insights, and a bit of adrenaline. If you’re traveling with friends, sharing an ATV can make it even more fun.

If you’re looking for a half-day adventure that combines stunning scenery, cultural highlights, and outdoor fun, this ATV tour is hard to beat at its price point. It offers a practical way to see the Sacred Valley beyond the typical bus tour, with expert guides ensuring safety and local insights that enrich the experience.

The flexibility of choosing different routes means you can tailor your day to your interests—whether that’s lakes, salt mines, or agricultural terraces. Plus, the small group setting keeps it intimate and friendly. The only drawback might be the extra cost for site entrances if you want to visit Moray or the salt mines, but those sites are worth the small additional expense.

This tour is ideal for active travelers seeking a memorable, authentic experience that combines adventure, culture, and some of Cusco’s most beautiful landscapes. It’s a smart choice for those who want to add a bit of thrill and local flavor to their Sacred Valley visit.

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

Do I need my own ATV experience?
No prior experience is necessary. Guides provide a safety briefing and a practice session to ensure you’re comfortable before riding.

Can I share an ATV with a friend?
Absolutely. You can choose to ride solo or share with a friend, which can be fun and more economical.

Are entrance tickets to Moray and Maras included?
No, those are paid separately—around 20 soles—and you’ll need to buy those if you wish to visit those sites.

What should I wear?
Comfortable clothing suitable for outdoor activity, plus closed-toe shoes and sunscreen. Helmets and gloves are provided.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience lasts approximately 6 hours, with about 3.5 hours of riding and sightseeing.

Is this suitable for children or less active travelers?
It’s best for those with moderate physical fitness who are comfortable on an ATV. Children should be prepared for some physical activity and safety instructions.

What is the maximum group size?
The tour accommodates up to 10 travelers, ensuring a more personalized experience.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour is weather-dependent. If canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

How do I book?
Bookings are typically made 16 days in advance. Contact the provider via the booking site or directly by phone or email listed.

Whether you’re an adventure seeker or simply want a different way to see the Sacred Valley, this ATV tour offers a fun, affordable, and authentic way to explore Cusco’s countryside.