ATV Tour to Moray, Maras and Salt Flat in the Sacred Valley from Cusco

Exploring Cusco’s Sacred Valley on an ATV: Moray, Maras, and Salt Flats

When you think of exploring the Sacred Valley, chances are you picture quiet villages, Inca ruins, and lush mountain scenery. This ATV tour offers a different way to see these sights—fast, fun, and a little dusty. Priced at just $40 per person, it lasts about five hours, including pickup from your Cusco hotel, and takes you to places many standard tours simply don’t reach.

What we love about this experience is how it combines adventure with authentic sights — driving through rugged trails past traditional Andean villages, and getting close to archaeological sites like Moray and the Salt Mines of Maras. Plus, the guides are praised for their knowledge, making the journey both fun and educational. The option to upgrade with ziplining adds even more excitement for thrill-seekers.

One consideration to keep in mind: you’ll get dusty and possibly a little cold, especially if the weather turns dry and breezy. This isn’t a tour for those looking for a luxury experience or a completely relaxed day. It’s best suited for active travelers seeking a unique, hands-on way to connect with local culture and stunning landscape — especially those who don’t mind dirt under their nails and a bit of adrenaline.

If you enjoy off-the-beaten-path adventures, love historical sites, and want value for money, this tour hits the sweet spot. It’s perfect for travelers eager to see more than just the usual photo stops, with the added thrill of driving your own ATV.

Key Points

• Authentic access to the Sacred Valley’s hidden gems via rugged trails
• Knowledgeable guides who share insights and help you feel safe during the ride
• Affordable price with a full five-hour adventure including hotel pickup
• Multiple stops at Moray, Maras salt flats, and traditional villages
• Opportunity to upgrade with ziplining for extra fun
• Active, interactive experience suitable for most travelers with no prior ATV experience

A Deeper Look at the ATV Tour Experience

The adventure begins with an easy hotel pickup within central Cusco, making logistics straightforward. From there, a comfortable transfer takes you to the Cruz Pata base camp, where your guides prepare you for the ride. According to reviews, the guides — particularly one named Alex — are friendly, knowledgeable, and skilled photographers, who take the time to show you how to operate the ATV and give you some practice on a dirt track before hitting the trail. This attention to safety and instruction is a major plus, especially for first-timers.

Driving an ATV through the Sacred Valley is a chance to access areas that larger tour buses just can’t reach. The rugged trail takes you past traditional Andean villages with rustic homes, old churches, and local life humming along at a different pace. As one reviewer noted, “Layer up as it may be chilly once you get going,” because even in dry weather, the wind and dust can make it feel cool and a bit gritty.

The first major stop is Salinas de Maras, a striking landscape of salt evaporation ponds that cascade down the hillside. Here, you’ll get a chance to appreciate the traditional salt mining methods still used by locals. The salt flats are photogenic, with their contrasting white salt against the lush mountain backdrop, and many reviewers highlight this as a favorite part of the trip.

Next, you’ll head to the Moray archaeological site. This Inca site comprises concentric agricultural terraces, which are thought to have been used for crop experimentation. The views from Moray are impressive, and guides like Edgar are praised for their knowledge and photography skills, capturing great shots of your group amid the ruins. It’s a rare chance to stand on an ancient Inca site that’s both beautiful and insightful.

The third highlight is the Salt Mines of Maras, an open-air complex of thousands of salt pans that have been worked for centuries. Visitors often comment on how spectacular the scenery is, and how the local guides bring the history alive with stories and explanations. As one review states, “It’s a must if you want a short trip to the salt mines with a view of the town.”

Throughout the tour, the guides are noted for their warmth and expertise — sharing cultural insights, offering tips for taking photos, and ensuring safety. They also provide helmets and gloves, which are essential for the dusty ride and added safety.

The ATV experience itself is described as very accessible — even those with little or no experience find it manageable, thanks to the thorough instructions. One reviewer pointed out that “ATVs were easy to drive,” which encourages those who may be hesitant at first to give it a try.

While most travelers enjoy the adrenaline and scenery, some mention the dust and dirt — you’ll likely come back a bit dusty, so packing a change of clothes or preparing to get a little rugged is wise. The option to upgrade with ziplining adds an extra layer of fun, though this is an optional extra cost.

Group size is capped at 15, keeping the experience intimate and manageable. Many reviews mention the friendly guides and the small-group atmosphere, which makes it easier to ask questions and feel engaged.

The Value and Practicalities

At just $40 per person, this ATV tour offers excellent value. The price includes hotel pickup, round-trip transfer, ATV rental, guides, and safety equipment. Considering that many traditional tours might charge more for a similar length of time and fewer sites, this is a cost-effective way to maximize your day in Cusco.

The five-hour duration strikes a good balance—long enough to explore multiple sites without feeling rushed. The upgrades (ziplining, private tours) are available for those looking for a more personalized experience, though reviews suggest most travelers found the base package satisfying.

It’s worth noting that admission fees for Moray and the salt flats are not included, so budget accordingly — but the entrance costs are generally minimal compared to the overall value.

The group size and guided commentary mean you’ll learn about the sites while enjoying the freedom of the ATV. The guides are praised for their knowledge and photography skills, which add a lot of value, especially if you want quality pictures of your trip.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This adventure is best suited for active travelers who don’t mind getting a little dusty and enjoy hands-on experiences. It’s ideal if you’re looking for more than just sightseeing — this is a chance to drive yourself through parts of the Sacred Valley that are often skipped on regular tours.

Travelers who value local culture, stunning scenery, and a sense of adventure will find this tour rewarding. It’s also perfect for budget-conscious visitors eager to get their money’s worth while indulging in a fun outdoor activity.

Those with less experience on ATVs need not worry — the guides are attentive, and most find the experience manageable and enjoyable. If you’re traveling with others who want to drive, the option to double up or have individual drivers makes it flexible.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for beginners?
Yes, most reviewers say the ATVs are easy to drive, and guides provide clear instructions. First-timers often enjoy the experience with proper guidance.

What should I wear?
Layering is advised because it can be chilly once you start moving. Expect dust and dirt, so wear clothes you don’t mind getting dirty. Gloves and helmets are provided for safety.

Are there options to customize the tour?
Yes, you can upgrade to include ziplining or opt for a private tour, which some travelers found more personalized.

What are the main sites visited?
The tour visits Salinas de Maras salt ponds, Moray archaeological terraces, and traditional Andean villages, with scenic views and photo opportunities at each stop.

How long is the ride between sites?
Most of the riding is about two hours to Moray and back, with several stops along the way for sightseeing and photos.

Are entrance fees included?
No, the fees for Moray and the salt flats are paid separately at the sites. Budget a small amount for these.

Is hotel pickup available?
Yes, pickup within Cusco’s city center is included, making the experience convenient and hassle-free.

Final Thoughts

This ATV tour through the Sacred Valley combines adventure, culture, and stunning scenery into a package that’s hard to beat for value. You’ll get a hands-on experience that puts you in the driver’s seat, literally, allowing access to remote sites that many travelers never see. With knowledgeable guides, flexible options, and the chance to support local communities, it’s a memorable way to enhance your Cusco trip.

It’s perfect for active travelers, adventure enthusiasts, and anyone eager to connect with local landscapes in a lively, fun way. The mix of scenic vistas, cultural insights, and thrilling riding makes this a standout choice for those who want a day packed with discovery and excitement.

In Summary

This ATV tour in Cusco’s Sacred Valley offers an authentic, exhilarating experience that combines adventure with cultural exploration. The affordable price, combined with expert-guided visits to sites like Moray and the salt flats, makes it a great value for curious travelers. Expect to get dusty, exhilarated, and inspired by the stunning surroundings and the stories your guides share. It’s an engaging way to see parts of Peru that are often missed, especially if you want to get your hands dirty and really feel connected to the landscape.

Whether you’re a young adventurer, a family with active kids, or a solo traveler seeking a unique experience, this tour offers a memorable day out in the Sacred Valley — full of adventure, stunning views, and authentic sights. It’s not perfect for those seeking a relaxed, luxury tour, but for active explorers, it hits the mark beautifully.