From Cusco: Quad Bike Adventure to Moray and Salineras

If you’re seeking an active way to explore some of the most iconic sites around Cusco, this Quad Bike Adventure to Moray and Salineras offers a memorable blend of adrenaline and cultural insight. For just $40 per person, you’ll spend about 5 to 6 hours navigating scenic countryside on super comfortable Honda ATVs of 250cc, 300cc, or 350cc. Your day begins with pickup from your hotel in Cusco and takes you through some of the most photogenic landscapes in the region.

What we love most about this experience are two key elements: First, the expert guides who enrich your journey with stories and details about the sites, making the entire ride both fun and educational. Second, the stunning scenery—driving through lush, open land with panoramic views of terraced mountains and salt pans is a real highlight.

One thing to consider is that admission fees for Moray and Salineras are not included, so you’ll need to budget extra if you want to explore these sites thoroughly. This tour is best suited for those who enjoy a mix of outdoor adventure and cultural exploration, and who are comfortable on an ATV and in a group setting. If you’re after a unique, active way to connect with Cusco’s heritage, this is a perfect fit.

Key Points

• Affordable adventure combining culture and outdoor fun for just $40.
• Expert guides provide engaging insights into the region’s history and significance.
• Scenic drive through beautiful landscapes, with stops at iconic archaeological sites.
• Flexible group size limited to 15 travelers, offering a personalized experience.
• Not included: site entrance fees, which you’ll want to plan for.
• Suitable for most travelers, with most people able to participate.

Starting Point and Transportation

From your hotel in Cusco, you’ll be picked up in a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle, setting a relaxed tone for the day. The journey to the starting point is smooth, giving you a chance to chat with your guide and get excited for what’s ahead. The group is capped at 15, meaning you’ll get a more intimate feel than a big, impersonal tour bus.

The Quad Biking Adventure

The real thrill begins as you hop onto your Honda ATV—chosen for its comfort and reliability—ready for a ride lasting around 45 minutes to an hour before reaching the first stop, Moray. The scenic drive takes you along rural roads flanked by terraced hills and open fields, giving you a taste of local life and wild landscapes.

Driving these ATVs is accessible for most — whether you’re a seasoned rider or a beginner, the guides ensure everyone feels safe and confident. The powerful engines of 250cc, 300cc, or 350cc make it easy to enjoy the ride, and the open-air feel amplifies the sense of adventure.

Visiting Moray: The Ancient Ancestral Farm

Moray is best known for its astonishing agricultural terraces, which seem to cascade into the earth like giant amphitheaters. These terraces, dating back hundreds of years, served as experimental farms for the Incas, allowing them to study different microclimates and crops at various elevations.

Our guide, Felipe (or another knowledgeable local), will share stories about how these terraces were used and their significance. We loved the way he animated history with real enthusiasm, making the site come alive. You’ll have roughly 45 minutes here to walk around, explore, and snap photos—although note that admission tickets are not included, so plan to purchase tickets if you want full access.

What makes Moray special is its otherworldly appearance and the idea that ancient engineers created such a precise system for experimenting with crops. It’s a fascinating glimpse into Inca ingenuity.

The Salt Pans of Salineras de Maras

Next, your ATV ride takes you to Salinas de Maras, a surreal landscape of thousands of white salt pools that glisten under the sun. These salt pans have been in use since pre-Hispanic times, and salt extraction still occurs here using traditional methods, a tradition kept alive by local families.

The guide will explain the salt extraction process—how water from underground springs is channeled into these terraces and evaporates, leaving salt behind. It’s mesmerizing to see the geometric pattern of pools, which from a distance look like a snowfield or a giant circuit board.

We appreciated the detailed commentary, which added depth to what might otherwise be just a pretty landscape. You’ll have about 40 minutes here to walk around, photograph, and learn about this living tradition. Keep in mind that, as with Moray, admission is not included, so you may want to buy tickets if you wish to explore further.

The Return Journey and Flexibility

After visiting both sites, your guide will lead you back to Cusco, usually arriving around 5 to 6 hours after departure. The ride back offers a chance to reflect on what you’ve seen and experienced. The group size and guided approach mean you won’t feel rushed, and any questions are welcome.

Authenticity and Value

When you consider the $40 price tag, this tour offers excellent value for money. It combines adventure, cultural insight, and scenic beauty in a single half-day. Reviews are glowing: travelers mention “great value,” “knowledgeable guides,” and “stunning views”. One reviewer noted, “Even with heavy rain, the provided gear kept us dry, and the tour was the best with the best guides.”

However, since site entrance fees are not included, it’s wise to set aside a few extra soles for tickets—roughly a few dollars per site. Also, the tour is most suitable for those comfortable on ATVs and in group settings, but the guides do their best to make it accessible for most.

This experience is ideal for travelers who love adventure with a cultural twist. If you’re excited by the idea of zooming across countryside landscapes on a powerful ATV, this tour will satisfy that craving. It’s also perfect if you want to visit Moray and Salineras without the hassle of organizing transport or guides on your own.

It’s particularly well-suited for those who enjoy stunning scenery and authentic local sites—you’ll be able to see the ingenuity of the Incas firsthand, all while enjoying the thrill of riding an ATV. If you’re traveling with family, friends, or even solo, the small group size ensures a friendly, personalized experience.

For just $40, this tour delivers a balanced mix of adventure, cultural education, and scenic beauty. The guided explanation enhances the experience, making it more meaningful than just a scenic drive. The quality of the ATVs and the professional guides guarantee a safe, enjoyable ride, even if you’re new to riding.

This experience best suits those looking for a lively, active way to explore Cusco’s surroundings, especially if they appreciate authentic sites like Moray and Salineras. The fact that many travelers describe it as a “great value” and highlight the knowledge of guides indicates it’s a dependable choice for an immersive day out.

While you’ll need to budget extra for entrance fees, the overall package offers a memorable combination of adventure, culture, and natural beauty—a genuine highlight for those willing to hop on an ATV and explore beyond the usual tourist spots.

Are pickup and transportation included? Yes, your tour includes pickup from your hotel in Cusco and transportation to the sites in an air-conditioned vehicle.

How long is the ATV ride? The drive to Moray is approximately 45 minutes, and the entire tour lasts about 5 to 6 hours, including site visits and travel time.

Do I need previous ATV experience? No, most people can participate. The guides ensure safety and provide instructions, making it accessible for beginners.

Are entrance fees for Moray and Salineras included? No, they are not included in the $40 price, so plan to buy tickets separately if you want full access.

What should I bring? Comfortable clothes, sunscreen, a hat, and possibly a raincoat if the weather is uncertain. The guides provide rain gear if needed, as one reviewer noted.

Is the tour suitable for families? It’s suitable for most travelers, but children or those uncomfortable on ATVs should consider their comfort level.

What’s the group size? The tour limits groups to 15 travelers, ensuring a more personal experience.

Can I cancel? Yes, you can cancel for free up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

This ATV tour balances adventure, history, and scenic beauty, making it a standout way to see Cusco’s surrounding highlights. Whether you’re craving an active day or eager to learn about Inca ingenuity, this experience is well worth considering.