ATV Quad Bike Tour to Maras and Moray from Cusco

Exploring the Cusco countryside by ATV offers a blend of adventure, culture, and breathtaking scenery. This full-day tour takes you off the beaten path to two iconic Inca sites—Moray, known for its mysterious circular terraces used for agricultural experiments, and Maras, home to centuries-old salt evaporation ponds still in use today. Priced at $60 per person, the tour lasts about seven hours and includes hotel pickup, making it a hassle-free way to see these fascinating sites with a dash of adrenaline.

What we particularly love about this experience is how it combines authentic exploration with adventurous fun. Riding an ATV gives you a closer connection to the landscape—no glass windows or bus windows to block the views—and allows you to access areas that might be tricky by car. Plus, the guides’ knowledge adds depth to each stop, helping you understand the significance of these ancient engineering marvels.

A possible consideration is the physical nature of the ride, which might not suit everyone, especially those with limited mobility or who prefer a more relaxed tour. Also, since the tour involves rugged terrain and a bit of getting dirty, it’s best suited for travelers in good health seeking an active day out.

This tour is ideal for adventurers or curious travelers who enjoy authentic experiences and want a different perspective of Cusco’s surroundings. If you’re eager to combine history, culture, and a bit of thrill, this could be one of the most memorable ways to spend a day.

Key Points

• Adventure-filled experience combining ATV riding and cultural exploration
• Visits two iconic sites: Moray’s agricultural terraces and Maras’ salt ponds
• Guides offer valuable insights into Inca engineering and local traditions
• Hassle-free logistics with hotel pickup and drop-off included
• Suitable for travelers aged 12+ with some physical activity involved
• Limited group size ensures personalized attention and safety

The Experience in Detail

This full-day ATV tour starts early, with pickup from your Cusco hotel—conveniently arranged by the provider. From there, you’re driven to Cruzpata, a small town that serves as the staging ground for your adventures. Once there, your guide equips you with a helmet, provides a brief safety tutorial, and checks that everyone is comfortable before the ride begins.

Riding an ATV across the Peruvian landscape offers a raw, immersive sense of adventure. You’ll be able to feel the dust and the wind as you cruise through open fields, climbing gentle hills, and passing through scattered small villages. The ride itself is approximately three hours, including stops, but what really makes it special is the scenery along the way.

First Stop: Moray

Your first major stop is Moray, renowned for its remarkable circular terraces carved into the hillside. This site is believed to have been an agricultural laboratory where the Incas experimented with different crop varieties. The terraces are arranged in concentric circles with irrigation channels, and the temperature difference between the top and bottom reaches up to 15°C, creating a natural environment for diverse crops—an impressive feat of Inca engineering.

Our guide will explain that Moray was used to test and adapt crops to different climates, which was vital for the Incas as they expanded their empire. The site’s unique design is both mysterious and awe-inspiring, and you’ll appreciate how the Incas mastered environmental control long before modern technology.

Next Stop: Maras Salt Ponds

From Moray, the ATV ride continues to the salt ponds of Maras, located about 7 km away. These terraced evaporation ponds have been used since Inca times, and locals still harvest salt here today. This striking landscape of thousands of small, rectangular pools creates a shimmering mosaic that looks surreal against the Andean backdrop.

Your guide may share insights into how local families have maintained this tradition for centuries, emphasizing the ongoing link between history and daily life. You’ll have a chance to walk around and observe the salt harvesting process—an authentic glimpse into rural Peruvian livelihood.

Practical Details and Logistics

The tour includes pickup and drop-off transportation, so you don’t need to worry about navigating the rural roads yourself. The professional guide will accompany you, offering explanations and ensuring safety throughout. The fuel surcharge, helmet, and ATV use are included, which saves you from additional costs or worries about equipment.

The minimum age of 12 years makes it suitable for teenagers and above, and most travelers in good health will find the ride manageable. The tour operates with a maximum of 12 travelers, providing a more intimate experience and personalized attention.

You’ll want to wear comfortable clothes suitable for outdoor activity, and don’t forget sunscreen and sunglasses—perched high in the mountains, UV exposure can be intense. The terrain can be uneven, so expect some dirt and dust, which adds to the sense of adventure but might be a consideration for those who prefer a cleaner experience.

Cost-Value Analysis

At $60, this tour offers excellent value considering the transportation, guide, and equipment included. Compared to standard bus tours, which often feel impersonal and limited in access, this ATV trip provides a more hands-on and memorable experience. Plus, the opportunity to see sites like Moray and Maras from close-up, with an expert guide enriching your understanding, justifies the price.

A Review from a Satisfied Traveler

One reviewer from Brazil called it “the best tour in Cusco,” praising the stunning landscapes and the well-organized, safe adventure. They mentioned that the guides’ knowledge made the experience even more rewarding. Such feedback highlights the importance of a good guide and the immersive quality of the tour.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

If you’re active, enjoy outdoor adventure, and want to see less touristy spots with a local flavor, this trip is perfect. It suits those who are curious about Inca engineering and local traditions, and prefer a fun, day-long activity over traditional sightseeing buses.

Travelers with a sense of humor about getting a little dusty and dirty will find this experience especially enjoyable. It’s also well-suited for families with teenagers or groups of friends looking for a shared adventure.

Final Thoughts

This ATV quad bike tour to Maras and Moray offers more than just sightseeing; it’s a chance to connect with the landscape and history in a direct, engaging way. The combination of adventure, cultural insight, and scenic beauty makes it stand out among Cusco excursions.

While it’s not a relaxed, sit-and-watch kind of experience, it is rich in authenticity and fun. The presence of knowledgeable guides and stunning viewpoints ensures you’ll leave with a deeper appreciation of Inca ingenuity and the beauty of the Peruvian highlands.

For adventurous travelers eager to combine history with outdoor fun, this tour offers a balanced, memorable day. Just prepare to get a little dusty—your story to tell will be worth it.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour offers pickup from your Cusco hotel or residence.

How long does the entire tour last?
The experience takes approximately 7 hours, including transportation, riding time, and visits.

What is the minimum age to participate?
Participants must be at least 12 years old.

Is the equipment provided safe?
Yes, the tour uses high-quality helmets and ATV equipment, with safety instructions provided.

Do I need previous ATV experience?
No, a short instruction lesson is included, suitable for beginners and experienced riders alike.

What sites will I visit?
You’ll visit Moray, an Inca testing and agricultural site, and the salt ponds of Maras, still used by locals today.

Is there an additional cost to enter Moray?
Yes, admission to Moray costs 10 soles and is paid separately.

Can I cancel the tour if my plans change?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance.

What should I wear?
Comfortable outdoor clothing, sunscreen, and sunglasses are recommended.

Will I get dirty?
Yes, expect some dust and dirt, which adds to the adventure and authenticity.

This ATV tour to Maras and Moray is a fantastic way to combine active exploration with cultural discovery. Whether you’re craving an adrenaline rush or simply want to see a different side of Cusco, it’s a memorable choice—especially if you appreciate guided insights and stunning vistas.