From Cusco: ATV´s Tour Huaypo Lagoon & Salt Mines of Maras
If you’re looking for a daytime escape from the bustling streets of Cusco, this ATV tour to Huaypo Lake and Maras Salt Mines offers a perfect blend of adventure, scenery, and cultural insight. For just $37 per person, you get about 6 hours of exploration, including transportation, safety gear, and a knowledgeable guide — all manageable for most travelers, with some minor considerations.
What we really love about this experience is how it combines thrilling riding with spectacular landscapes. You’ll ride an ATV through lush scenery, then pause at the shimmering waters of Huaypo Lake, set against snow-capped peaks — a view that makes every bump worth it. Later, exploring the ancient salt terraces of Maras offers a glimpse into local traditions that have persisted for centuries.
One small consideration: the tour is outdoors in varying weather, so expect to get dusty or wet depending on the season. Also, since the tour involves off-road riding, it’s best suited for those comfortable with a bit of adventure on two wheels. This tour is ideal for travelers who want a balanced mix of adrenaline, nature, and culture—especially if you enjoy scenic views and learning about local customs.
You can check availability for your dates here:Key Points
- Scenic landscapes: Ride through stunning areas with views of snow-capped mountains and crystal-clear lakes.
- Authentic cultural experience: Visit the ancient Maras Salt Mines and learn about traditional salt extraction.
- Expert guides: Knowledgeable guides provide safety briefings and share insightful stories.
- Active adventure: Two hours of ATV riding offer a fun, energetic way to explore.
- All-season gear: Rain ponchos are provided if needed, but expect to get a little dirty or wet.
- Small group atmosphere: Tours are limited to 12 participants, ensuring personal attention.
A Close Look at the Tour Experience
Starting with the Pickup and Transportation
The adventure begins early in the morning or around midday, depending on your chosen schedule. Expect a hotel pickup in Cusco, with a brief one-hour van ride that transports you out of the city’s congestion into the countryside. This transition alone is enjoyable, as the scenery shifts from urban to rural, hinting at the adventure ahead.
Safety and Preparation
Before hitting the trails, you’ll receive a comprehensive safety briefing. The guides emphasize how to handle the Honda TRX 250 ATV, ensuring even newcomers feel confident. A practice session follows, which is perfect for those worried about balancing or riding skills. The guides’ friendly, professional approach helps ease any nerves.
More Great Tours NearbyExploring Huaypo Lake
The first highlight is Huaypo Lagoon, a peaceful stretch of water surrounded by towering peaks. The two-hour ATV ride here is the core of the tour, taking you along winding dirt paths that showcase the area’s natural beauty. The crystal waters of Huaypo are especially photogenic, with reflections of snow-dusted mountains.
During the ride, we loved how the guide shared details about the landscape’s geology and local flora, making it more than just a ride — it’s an eco-educational experience. This is a chance to connect with the environment while having fun on wheels.
Visiting the Maras Salt Mines
After a quick van ride, we arrive at the Maras Salt Mines, where terraced pools have been used for salt extraction since Incan times. The photo stop allows you to capture the terraced hillsides, which are visually striking. You can also browse local shops selling salt products, giving you a chance to support the community.
The 45-minute sightseeing walk here reveals the significance of salt for local livelihoods and culture. Guides often share stories about the traditional salt harvesting process, making this stop both educational and visually captivating.
Returning to Cusco
The tour winds down with a scenic drive back, where you can relax, review your photos, or chat about your favorite moments. The total duration of 6 hours makes this a full but manageable day trip, especially if you’re eager to combine adventure with cultural discovery.
What Makes This Tour Stand Out?
The quality of guides is consistently praised — they are described as knowledgeable, friendly, and attentive, which greatly enhances the experience. The views at Huaypo Lake and the salt terraces are genuinely breathtaking, providing plenty of opportunities for memorable photos. Participants also appreciate the small group size for a more personalized, relaxed atmosphere.
The tour’s value is notable: at $37, it includes transportation, guide, ATV rental, and safety gear. While entrance fees to the lagoon and salt mines are extra, the overall cost remains reasonable given the full-day experience and scenic rewards.
A Few Considerations
Expect to get dusty or wet, especially during rainy seasons, so packing rain gear and long pants is wise. The tour is not suitable for young children under 12, pregnant women, or those with mobility issues. Also, bring local cash for entrance fees and souvenirs, as card payments at the salt mines are only accepted there.
Who Should Consider This Tour?
This adventure appeals most to active travelers who enjoy outdoor activities and scenic drives. It’s perfect if you want a fun, hands-on experience that combines adventure with cultural insight. It’s also suited for those who appreciate small group intimacy and prefer a more personal touch from guides.
If your idea of travel involves thrilling rides, stunning views, and learning about local traditions, this ATV tour is a fantastic choice. Conversely, if you’re more interested in museums or historical sites, you might prefer other options. But for a day filled with fresh air, beautiful scenery, and a bit of adrenaline, this trip hits the mark.
The Sum Up
This ATV tour from Cusco to Huaypo Lake and Maras Salt Mines offers a lively mix of nature, culture, and adventure at an affordable price. The guides’ expertise and the stunning scenery they lead you through create a memorable experience, especially for those who love outdoor activities. The tour’s structure, with manageable timing and small-group intimacy, makes it accessible for many travelers.
You’ll really value the way the tour combines active fun with cultural learning — you get to zoom through landscapes that would be hard to reach otherwise, and see a piece of ancient salt harvesting preserved to this day. The experience is a great way to break from traditional sightseeing and truly engage with the region’s natural beauty.
If you’re after a full-day adventure that’s both exciting and educational, and you don’t mind a little dirt and rain, this tour is an excellent pick. It’s especially suited for travelers seeking an authentic, hands-on way to experience the stunning outdoors around Cusco.
FAQ
Is transportation included?
Yes, the tour includes pickup from your hotel in Cusco and private transport for the entire day.
How long is the ATV ride?
You will ride for approximately 2 hours across Huaypo Lake and surrounding areas.
Do I need prior experience riding ATVs?
No, beginners are welcome. The tour begins with a safety briefing and practice session to ensure you feel comfortable.
Are the entrance fees included?
No, entrance to Huaypo Lagoon costs S/. 5.00 and to the Salt Mines S/. 20.00, which are paid on-site.
What should I bring?
Bring your passport or ID, sunglasses, sunscreen, rain gear if needed, long pants, a small daypack, and winter sports gear if necessary.
Is this tour suitable for children?
It’s not recommended for children under 12, pregnant women, or individuals with mobility issues.
This ATV tour offers an engaging way to see some of the most beautiful and culturally significant sites near Cusco. With knowledgeable guides, stunning landscapes, and a dash of adventure, it’s a memorable experience worth considering for your trip.
You can check availability for your dates here: