Cuatrimotos – Maras Moray Tour

Discovering the Sacred Valley on an ATV: The Maras Moray Tour

If you’re seeking an adventure that combines thrilling rides, stunning scenery, and authentic Incan sites, the Cuatrimotos – Maras Moray Tour in Cusco might just become a highlight of your trip. Priced at $69 per person and lasting around 5 to 6 hours, this tour offers a chance to explore two iconic locations—Moray’s ancient terraces and the Maras salt mines—on a powerful ATV. Led by friendly guides like Rómulo, who gets glowing reviews, you’ll experience the Sacred Valley from a new perspective, zooming through fields and mountains that most visitors only admire from afar.

What we love most about this tour is how it combines active exploration with cultural discovery. Riding the ATV allows you to access areas that are otherwise hard to reach or time-consuming to explore on foot. Plus, both stops are visually striking: Moray’s concentric terraces look like an alien landscape, and the salt pans of Maras shimmer in the sun—a photographer’s dream. The second highlight? The personalized attention from guides like Rómulo, who make the journey smooth and enjoyable.

One potential drawback is that the tour does not include entrance fees to Moray or Maras, meaning you’ll need to budget extra for admission. Also, the activity isn’t suited for travelers with respiratory issues, given the outdoor riding and potential dust.

Designed for those who love adventure with an authentic flavor, this tour appeals especially to travelers eager to combine physical activity with cultural sights. It’s perfect if you appreciate stunning landscapes and want to avoid overly commercialized tourist experiences.

Key Points

• Adventure and scenery combine in this 5-6 hour ATV tour through the Sacred Valley.
• Includes visits to two must-see sites: Moray’s agricultural terraces and the salt mines of Maras.
• Guided by personable guides like Rómulo, who earn high praise for their professionalism and safety.
• Cost-effective at $69, especially considering the included equipment and personal attention.
• Admission fees are extra, so budget accordingly.
• Not suitable for travelers with respiratory problems or those seeking a relaxed, sit-down tour.

Exploring Cusco’s Sacred Valley by ATV

The Cuatrimotos – Maras Moray Tour is a fantastic way to see some of the most captivating sights in the Sacred Valley without spending hours on foot or in a car. At just $69 per person, it offers a reasonable price for a memorable half-day adventure that’s as much about the ride as it is about the sites. The fact that pickup is offered adds to the convenience, making it easier to fit into your Cusco itinerary.

The Itinerary in Detail

Stop 1: Moray – An Incan Agricultural Experiment

Our journey begins with a visit to Moray, a site often likened to a giant, mysterious amphitheater. These concentric terraces served as agricultural laboratories for the Incas, allowing them to test different crops at various elevations. The terraces are terrifically photogenic, their shape creating an otherworldly scene that’s both fascinating and slightly surreal.

While the site doesn’t include the entrance fee in the tour price, it’s worth noting that many travelers find Moray’s terraces to be the highlight for their intriguing design and historical significance. If you’re into archaeology or agriculture, this is a spot that sparks curiosity and offers a chance for great photos.

Stop 2: Maras Salt Mines – A Bright and Historic Site

Next, we head to the Salinas de Maras, a series of thousands of salt pans fed by a natural mountain spring. These shimmering, terraced pools have been used since Incan times, and watching local workers harvest salt using traditional methods is pretty special.

The salt pans are a photographer’s paradise, especially on sunny days when the contrast of white salt against the mountains makes for striking images. Spending about 30 minutes here, you’ll get a good look at how centuries-old techniques are still in use, and you can even buy some salt to take home.

Riding the ATV – What to Expect

The ATV ride itself is the real draw. With a helmet and gloves provided, you’ll cover more ground than walking, zipping through dirt paths, mountain trails, and open fields with ease. The routes are designed to showcase the landscapes and the sites, with enough twists and turns to keep the adrenaline flowing but not so rugged as to be intimidating—most travelers can participate.

Guides like Rómulo are praised not only for their safety protocols but also for their patience and friendly demeanor. This personal touch makes the experience more relaxed and enjoyable, especially if it’s your first time on an ATV.

Practical Considerations

Remember, admission to Moray and Maras is not included, so plan to pay these fees separately. The tour’s duration of about 5 to 6 hours gives ample time for the stops, riding, and some free exploration. If you’re on a tight schedule or prefer a more relaxed pace, keep in mind that this is an active tour—so good mobility and a sense of adventure are key.

The tour is limited to 15 travelers, keeping it intimate and allowing for personalized attention. It’s suitable for most travelers, except those with respiratory issues or who prefer less physical activity.

Authenticity and High-Quality Experience

Travelers often mention guides like Rómulo as a major positive, citing their professionalism, punctuality, and safety awareness. These personal touches elevate the experience beyond just riding an ATV—they truly help you connect with the sites and the landscape.

The reviews speak volumes: one traveler described it as “Inolvidable” (unforgettable) after a full week of exploring Cusco, and another called it “El mejor viaje” (the best trip), praising the guide’s patience and safety protocols.

Value for Money

At $69, this tour offers excellent value for the combination of adventure, cultural insights, and photo opportunities. Remember, the price includes a high-quality ATV, helmets, and gloves—things that can easily add up if rented separately. The extra cost for site admissions isn’t included, but that’s typical for such tours, and it gives you flexibility in choosing how to experience each site.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This adventure is best suited for active travelers who crave a mix of outdoor fun and cultural sights. It’s ideal if you want to avoid crowded buses and prefer a more hands-on approach to exploring the Sacred Valley. Perfect for those comfortable on an ATV or ready for a slight adrenaline rush, it appeals to families, groups, or solo travelers eager to add some sparkle to their Cusco trip.

If you appreciate stunning views, authentic sites, and a personal guide, this tour checks all those boxes. Just be prepared for a bit of physical activity and to manage your own entrance fees for the sites.

FAQs

Is the tour suitable for beginners?
Yes, most travelers can participate, especially with provided helmets and gloves. Guides are experienced and prioritize safety.

How long does the tour last?
Approximately 5 to 6 hours, including stops and riding time.

Are entrance fees included?
No, the prices for admission to Moray and Maras are not included and must be paid separately.

What should I bring?
Comfortable clothing, sun protection, cash for entrance fees, and a camera. The tour provides helmets and gloves.

Can I ride the ATV alone?
Yes, one ATV per person is included in the price.

Is the tour family-friendly?
Most travelers can participate; however, it’s not recommended for those with respiratory issues or limited mobility.

What is the maximum group size?
Up to 15 travelers, making it a fairly intimate experience.

What is the cancellation policy?
You can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours before the tour for a full refund.

How does the guide enhance the experience?
Guides like Rómulo are praised for their patience, safety focus, and local knowledge, making the trip both fun and informative.

Is there transportation included?
Pickup is offered, simplifying logistics and ensuring you’re ready to start your adventure on time.

To sum it up, this ATV tour of Moray and Maras offers a unique blend of adventure, stunning scenery, and cultural discovery. It’s perfect for travelers who want to see iconic sites from a different angle and enjoy some outdoor fun. While it requires a bit of physical activity and budget management for entrance fees, the personal guides, scenic landscapes, and exhilarating rides make it well worth considering for your Cusco itinerary.

Whether you’re a seasoned adventurer or a curious traveler eager to experience the Sacred Valley in a memorable way, this tour provides a lively, authentic, and engaging experience that will leave you with fantastic photos and stories to tell.