Horseback Riding thru the Mountains of Cusco

Horseback Riding thru the Mountains of Cusco: A Practical and Authentic Adventure

Picture yourself in the midst of spectacular mountain scenery, with rugged trails winding through the open wilderness just outside Cusco. For about four hours, you’ll be swapping your walking shoes for a saddle, guided by knowledgeable locals like Holger, who ensures safety and fun. This tour, priced at $75 per person, includes round-trip transportation, helmets, snacks, and an intimate look at both natural and archaeological sites such as Devil’s Balcony and the Temple of the Moon.

What we love about this experience is how it balances adventure and education—you’re not just riding, but also exploring some of the hidden temples and unique natural features that many visitors miss. The care taken with the horses makes this a comfortable ride, even for those new to horseback riding. The second highlight is the personalized nature of the tour; some reviews mention private guides and exclusive access to special spots.

The only thing to keep in mind is that the tour has a weight limit of 200 pounds (90 kilos), so it might not suit everyone. But for most travelers, especially those eager to see more of Cusco’s surroundings in a fun and relaxed way, this tour hits just the right note.

If you enjoy outdoor activities with a mix of natural beauty and ancient history, and you’re comfortable on a horse, this tour is a fantastic choice. It’s especially suitable for those wanting a half-day adventure, family groups, or travelers seeking a more authentic outdoor experience outside the usual tourist routes.

Key Points

• Authentic horseback riding through scenic mountain trails outside Cusco.
• Includes transportation, helmets, snacks, and professional guides for a safe experience.
• Highlights include visiting Incan ruins like Devil’s Balcony and the Temple of the Moon.
• Suitable for most travelers, with a maximum weight of 200 pounds, and children must be accompanied by adults.
• Personalized tours often mean private guides and special local access.
• A great way to combine adventure, history, and natural beauty in a half-day outing.

A Deep Dive into the Cusco Horseback Riding Experience

When we think about exploring Cusco, most travelers focus on city tours, museums, and perhaps a trip to Machu Picchu. However, venturing into the countryside on horseback offers a different perspective—less crowded, more personal, and beautifully scenic. This tour takes you deep into the mountains, where you’ll discover natural features like Devil’s Balcony, a natural rock formation with spectacular views, and the Temple of the Moon, a sacred site hidden away from the hustle.

Duration-wise, it’s designed as a half-day activity, around four hours total, which makes it easy to slot into a busy itinerary. The round-trip transportation is a real bonus—no need to worry about arranging your own ride or navigating unfamiliar roads. The journey begins at your hotel or a local travel agency, and the private car whisks you out to the ranch, where the adventure starts.

The tour’s guides, like Holger, receive high praise for their knowledge and friendliness. They are there to ensure your safety, help you with the saddle, and point out interesting sights along the way. One reviewer mentioned having a private tour, which allowed for exploring special local spots in the canyons—a real highlight for those wanting a more intimate experience.

The horses themselves are well cared for, and the tour maintains a focus on safety, with helmets provided. Even if you’re a first-time rider, the level of care and guidance makes this accessible. For those with some riding experience, it offers enough flexibility to enjoy the scenery at your own pace.

Itinerary Breakdown: What You Can Expect

Starting Point & Transportation
Your adventure begins with private transportation from your hotel or local agency, taking you approximately 30-45 minutes out of Cusco to the riding ranch. This comfortable transfer sets the tone for a hassle-free experience, allowing you to relax and enjoy the scenery on the way.

Initial Orientation & Riding
Once at the ranch, you’ll meet your guide and your well-fed, well-trained horse. The guides are attentive and professional, ensuring everyone is comfortable and prepared. Expect a brief safety orientation, including helmet fitting and saddle adjustment.

Trail Riding & Key Stops
The ride takes you deep into the mountain landscape, where you’ll pass rugged trails and natural features like Devil’s Balcony, a natural rock formation that offers incredible vistas. The scenery here is a mixture of lush greenery and sweeping mountain views, perfect for photos or simply soaking it all in.

Ancient Ruins & Hidden Temples
One of the real charms of this tour is the opportunity to see Incan relics, including the Temple of the Moon, a small but significant archaeological site perched in the mountains. The guide will share insights into the history and significance of these places, making it a blend of outdoor adventure and cultural discovery.

Return & Relaxation
After roughly two hours of riding, the group heads back to the ranch for a quick refreshment and a relaxed ride back to Cusco, arriving within the four-hour window. The return journey is a good time to reflect on the experience and enjoy the countryside views.

What We Love and What to Consider

What stands out? Firstly, the personalized guidance and well-cared-for horses make this tour accessible for various skill levels. We also appreciate how the stunning scenery and ancient ruins combine to give you a true sense of Cusco’s natural and cultural landscape.

One thing to keep in mind is the weight limit of 200 pounds, which is important for safety and comfort. Also, since the tour involves riding on uneven terrain, those with mobility issues or very young children should consider whether this is suitable.

This experience is best suited for travelers who enjoy outdoor activities, are comfortable on horseback, and want to escape the city for a few hours. It’s perfect for families, solo adventurers, or couples seeking a relaxed, authentic outing. For those looking for a more intimate, off-the-beaten-path experience, this tour delivers.

Why This Horseback Ride Offers Great Value

At $75 per person, the tour provides a lot of bang for your buck. It includes transport, helmets, snacks, and a knowledgeable guide—all essential ingredients for a safe and enjoyable ride. The small group size (max 15 travelers) helps keep the experience personalized and flexible.

Compared to other outdoor excursions in Cusco, this one strikes a nice balance between adventure and cultural insight. You’re not just riding in a parade; you’re visiting sites of historical importance and taking in breathtaking scenery. Plus, the reviews consistently praise the guides’ professionalism and the overall fun, memorable atmosphere.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Do I need riding experience to join this tour?
Not necessarily. The tour is suitable for most travelers, and guides help with safety and comfort. If you’re new to horseback riding, don’t worry—they take care to ensure everyone is comfortable before starting.

Is transportation included?
Yes, round-trip private transportation from your hotel or local agency is included, making logistics simple and stress-free.

What should I wear and bring?
Wear comfortable clothes suitable for outdoor activity and bring a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen. The tour provides helmets and snacks, plus a bottle of water.

How long is the ride?
The entire experience lasts approximately four hours, with about two hours of riding on varied trails.

Are there age restrictions?
Children must be accompanied by an adult, and most travelers can participate. However, the tour has a maximum weight limit of 200 pounds (90 kilos).

What if I want a private tour?
Some reviews mention private guiding, which can be arranged. It’s best to inquire directly with the provider.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, with a full refund.

Is tipping expected?
While not included, tipping for guides and staff is customary if you feel they provided excellent service.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

If you’re looking for a relaxed outdoor adventure that combines horseback riding with stunning scenery and archaeological sites, this tour is hard to beat. It’s ideal for families, solo travelers, or couples wanting a taste of authentic Cusco countryside without a full day commitment.

Travelers who appreciate guided insight into local history and natural features will find this experience especially rewarding. It’s also perfect if you want a memorable, photo-worthy activity that offers a break from city sightseeing.

However, those with mobility issues or who prefer not to ride may want to consider other options, as this experience involves uneven terrain and horseback riding.

Final Thoughts

This horseback riding tour outside Cusco offers an authentic, scenic, and educational experience in just a few hours. The combination of stunning mountain views, ancient ruins, and well-cared-for horses make it a standout activity for those eager to connect with Cusco’s natural beauty in a fun way.

With professional guides, round-trip transportation, and the chance to explore hidden temples, this tour provides great value for the price. Whether you’re a seasoned rider or a complete beginner, you’ll likely find it to be a memorable highlight of your trip.

Overall, if you love outdoor adventures, are curious about Inca history, and want to escape the city, this horseback ride through the mountains of Cusco is a smart choice. It’s relaxed, informative, and offers a genuine taste of the region’s natural and historical charm.