ATV Abode of the Gods in Cusco From Cusco

Imagine flying along dirt trails, feeling the thrill of control under your hands, with the stunning backdrop of Cusco’s highlands unfolding around you. This ATV tour to the Abode of the Gods offers just that, starting from the bustling heart of Cusco and venturing into the scenic outskirts, about 13 kilometers away. For just $32 per person, you’ll get roughly two hours of adventure, which includes a 45-minute ATV ride and a 30-minute visit to the intricate stone sculptures that make the Abode of the Gods such a captivating site.

What we particularly like about this experience is its accessibility and focus on authentic landscapes — you’re not just riding in a parking lot but moving through natural terrain that highlights the area’s rugged beauty. Plus, the inclusion of safety gear and a brief training helps ensure even first-timers feel comfortable, which is essential when handling an ATV.

On the flip side, a note of caution: some reviews mention ATVs that aren’t in the best condition and a trail that is mainly dirt, which might not satisfy those expecting high-end equipment or a more polished experience. This tour appeals more to those looking for a budget-friendly, adventure-packed outing rather than a luxury experience. It’s perfect for travelers with moderate physical fitness who enjoy outdoor activities and are eager to explore beyond the city’s limits.

If you’re someone interested in exploring Peru’s lesser-known archaeological sites combined with a bit of adrenaline, this tour should definitely be on your list. It’s especially suited for those who want a straightforward, fun outing that offers a taste of local craftsmanship and outdoor adventure, all within a manageable timeframe.

Key Points

• Affordable Adventure: At $32, this tour provides a budget-friendly way to experience Cusco’s outskirts and culture.
• Authentic Landscape: The ride takes you through natural dirt trails, showcasing the rugged beauty of the highlands.
• Cultural Insight: The visit to the Abode of the Gods offers a glimpse into local stone carving traditions, with handmade sculptures that are both artistic and spiritual.
• Safety & Training: A brief safety and driving tutorial ensures most participants can handle the ATV, even if it’s your first time.
• Flexible Schedule: With multiple departure times, you can choose when to go, fitting the adventure into your day.
• Mixed Reviews on Equipment: Some travelers found the ATVs in less-than-perfect condition, so manage expectations accordingly.

Starting Point and Transportation

The tour kicks off with convenient pickup options at Plaza Regocijo or nearby hotels in Cusco, which is a real plus for travelers unfamiliar with local transport. The ride from the city to the base in Tica Tica takes about 15 minutes — a short trip that gets you out of the busy streets and into the scenic outskirts. Having an air-conditioned vehicle on hand adds comfort as you travel, and the group size is limited to a maximum of 10 travelers, making it a more intimate experience.

This small group setting means more personalized attention, which is especially helpful if it’s your first time handling an ATV. The pickup is seamless, and arriving at the base, you’ll find a straightforward setup with helmets and gloves ready for use. The ease of transportation and small group size make this accessible for most.

Safety Briefing & Training

Once at the base, your guide will provide a 5-minute safety briefing and a 10-minute driving training session. Even if you’re a seasoned rider, this step is crucial; it prepares you for the trail and ensures everyone feels comfortable before starting the adventure. The focus on safety reflects responsible tourism, prioritizing your well-being.

During the training, you’ll learn the basics of controlling the ATV, how to brake, accelerate, and handle turns. These few minutes of instruction significantly boost confidence, allowing you to enjoy the ride without worries. That said, some reviews mention the ATVs aren’t always in perfect condition, which might affect the smoothness of the ride.

The ATV Trail: What to Expect

After training, it’s time to gear up and start riding. The 45-minute route takes you through dirt trails that wind through natural landscapes. The trail’s main feature is its simplicity — a dirt path with little in the way of extraordinary technical challenges but enough to keep the ride fun and adventurous.

During the ride, you’ll pass through open areas that showcase the high-altitude scenery of Cusco’s outskirts, with views of rolling hills and rugged terrain. While some might wish for a more diverse or challenging trail, the ease of navigation means most riders, even beginners, can relax and enjoy the scenery.

Visiting the Abode of the Gods

Following the ride, the tour stops at the Abode of the Gods — a site famous for its handmade sculptures and stone carvings. This 30-minute visit is a real highlight, offering opportunities for photos and appreciation of local craftsmanship. The sculptures are carved from stone and reflect traditional designs, making it a fascinating insight into regional artistry and spiritual symbolism.

The sculptures are the focus, and many travelers find them intriguing, especially as they contrast man-made art against the natural landscape. The site’s peaceful atmosphere provides a welcome pause to appreciate these ancient stones that carry cultural significance.

Authenticity and Cultural Context

Though not a full archaeological site like Machu Picchu, the Abode of the Gods offers a meaningful glimpse into Peruvian stone carving traditions. Your guide may share some background, but as some reviews noted, not much information was provided. That’s a minor drawback if you’re eager for detailed history, but if you’re content with a scenic and artistic stop, it works well.

Return and Practical Details

After the visit, you’ll return to the base, where your vehicle awaits to take you back to Cusco. The tour usually ends around 11:30 am or 3:30 pm, depending on your chosen departure time, which provides flexibility for the rest of your day.

The tour includes essentials like helmets, gloves, and fuel for the ATV, but extras like feeding, entry into other sites, or tips are not included, which keeps the price low and straightforward. The free cancellation policy — allowing full refunds if canceled 24 hours in advance — adds a layer of reassurance.

What the Reviews Say

While the overall rating is impeccably high at 5.0/5, a closer look reveals some mixed opinions. Nuria_N, in May 2025, found it “a little average,” citing ATVs in poor condition and a trail that was just dirt with limited information. Her experience underscores that equipment quality can vary, and expectations should be adjusted accordingly.

Most travelers appreciate the affordability and the chance to explore outside Cusco, especially if they’re seeking an active, outdoor experience that includes cultural elements. The small group size and straightforward itinerary make it accessible, even for beginners.

This ATV tour is best suited for budget-conscious travelers who want a fun outdoor activity with a cultural twist. It’s ideal if you enjoy moderate physical activity, scenic landscapes, and learning a bit about local artistry. Adventure seekers will find the ride manageable but enjoyable, while those looking for an easy, half-day outing will appreciate the streamlined schedule.

However, if you’re expecting high-end equipment or a highly technical trail, this might not meet those expectations. It’s more about the experience and the cultural stop than adrenaline-fueled racing or luxury comfort.

For a cost-effective, authentic, and scenic escape from Cusco, this ATV tour hits the mark. It offers a chance to see a different side of the region—natural landscapes paired with local stone carvings—while enjoying some outdoor fun. The relatively short duration makes it perfect for travelers with limited time or those wanting a quick adrenaline fix.

If you’re after a relaxed, affordable adventure that combines nature and culture without breaking the bank, this tour is a solid choice. Just keep in mind the equipment quality may vary, and don’t expect a high-tech experience. It’s about having fun, appreciating local craftsmanship, and enjoying the thrill of riding through Peru’s beautiful terrain.

This tour appeals most to adventure-loving, budget-minded travelers eager to add a bit of excitement and authenticity to their Cusco trip. It’s a delightful way to explore beyond the city while indulging in a little adrenaline—an experience that’s memorable without being overwhelming.

FAQ

Is transportation provided to the ATV base?
Yes, the tour includes pickup from Plaza Regocijo or nearby hotels, making it easy to start without organizing your own transport.

How long does the entire tour last?
The whole experience takes approximately 2 hours, including pickup, safety briefing, ATV ride, visit to the Abode of the Gods, and return.

What should I wear?
Comfortable clothing suitable for outdoor activities, with sturdy shoes. The tour provides helmets and gloves for safety.

Can I participate if I’ve never ridden an ATV?
Absolutely. The guide offers a short driving training to ensure everyone is comfortable before starting.

Is this suitable for children or only adults?
The tour is designed for travelers with moderate physical fitness and a minimum age limit (not specified but generally suitable for teens and adults). Small children are not mentioned as participants.

What’s the scenery like?
Expect dirt trails winding through natural landscapes, with views of the countryside and highland terrain. It’s not a trail for technical challenges but great for scenery.

Are there any hidden costs?
The price covers ATV fuel, safety gear, and transportation. Extras like feeding or additional entry fees are not included.

What happens if the weather is bad?
The tour requires good weather; if canceled due to rain or poor conditions, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Whether you’re after a quick dose of adrenaline or a cultural detour, this ATV adventure to the Abode of the Gods offers a practical, fun, and affordable glimpse into the landscapes and artistry near Cusco.