ATVs in Sacred Valley cusco (Maras Moray Tour) half day

Exploring the Sacred Valley with ATVs: Moray and Maras Half-Day Tour

If you’re visiting Cusco and craving a mix of adventure, history, and breathtaking landscapes, this half-day ATV tour through the Sacred Valley is a fantastic choice. For around $48 per person, you’ll spend about 5 to 6 hours on a guided trip that whisks you from your hotel in Cusco to the incredible archaeological site of Moray and the ancient Salineras de Maras salt mines. With round-trip transportation, professional guides, and all safety gear included, this tour offers a well-rounded taste of the area’s highlights—all from the seat of an ATV.

What we love about this experience is how it combines thrilling off-road riding with educational insights. The lush scenery and historical sites make it feel like a mini adventure that’s both fun and meaningful. Plus, the flexibility of choosing morning or afternoon slots helps fit this activity into most travel schedules.

The only consideration? This activity involves riding a semi-automatic ATV, so some comfort with off-road driving and moderate physical activity is necessary. It’s best suited for those who enjoy a bit of adventure but also want to learn more about the local culture and landscape. Whether you’re an adrenaline junkie or a curious traveler eager for a different perspective of the Sacred Valley, this tour could be a highlight of your Cusco stay.

Key Points

• Unique combination of adventure, archaeology, and local culture.
• Stunning scenery along dirt roads and natural springs.
• Professional guides offering safety instructions and cultural commentary.
• Affordable price considering transport, guides, and entry fees.
• Moderate physical activity suitable for most travelers with decent fitness.
• Limited group size (max 10), ensuring personalized attention.

The Itinerary in Detail: What to Expect

Starting Point: From Cusco to Cruzpata

The tour kicks off with a hotel pickup in Cusco, making it hassle-free for travelers. A comfortable bus ride of about 40 minutes takes you to Cruzpata, near Chincheros. This transfer is smooth and provides a chance to get excited about the adventure ahead, especially as you see the scenery change from the city into the open fields of the Sacred Valley.

First Stop: Moray – The Inca Agricultural Laboratory

Once at Cruzpata, your guide—who seems to blend professionalism with a friendly attitude—will give a quick safety briefing and explain how to operate the semi-automatic ATV. They will provide a helmet and gloves, which is reassuring, especially for those new to ATV riding.

The highlight here is the visit to Moray, an archaeological site famous for its concentric terraces arranged in circular formations. These terraces served as an Inca agricultural experiment station, where different crops were tested at various microclimates. As you zoom around the terraces, you’ll get a sense of the ingenuity of Inca engineering and farming practices. The guide’s explanations will deepen your understanding of why this site was so crucial—an ancient test farm that allowed the Incas to optimize crop production across different altitudes.

We loved the way the guide emphasized the site’s importance without overwhelming us with information. The natural springs nearby add to the sense of peacefulness and connection to nature. Remember, admission to Moray isn’t included in the tour fee, so you’ll need your tourist ticket or pay S/70 at the entrance.

Second Stop: Salineras de Maras – Salt Mines and Scenic Views

Next, the adventure continues on ATV towards the picturesque town of Maras. Once there, you’ll leave the bikes and take a short van ride to the Salt Mines—a fascinating spectacle of thousands of salt pans that have been exploited since Inca times.

Here, you’ll learn about the traditional process of salt production. It’s impressive how these handmade salt pools are still harvested today, providing a tangible link to ancient practices. You may also have the chance to buy products made with salt, supporting local communities.

The route to Maras offers beautiful views of the surrounding green landscapes, dotted with rural homes and mountains. The guide might point out local flora and fauna, and share stories about community life in the area. After exploring the salt pans, you’ll hop back on your ATV for the final stretch before heading back to Cusco.

Return Journey: Wrapping Up the Experience

The tour concludes with the return trip to your hotel in Cusco, typically arriving around 1:30 PM or 6:30 PM depending on your chosen time slot. This schedule allows you to fit in other activities or rest after your adventure.

What Travelers Say: Authentic Perspectives

Two reviews really capture what makes this tour worthwhile. One traveler described it as an “unforgettable experience,” praising the professionalism, friendly guide, and exciting routes. They appreciated feeling safe throughout and mentioned how the scenic views made the trip extra special.

Another reviewer highlighted the spectacular mountain scenery and punctuality, calling the entire experience “very, very punctual with everything” and “highly recommended.” Both reviews reinforce that this tour combines adventure with authentic cultural sights.

Why the Reviews Matter

These comments show that the tour is well-organized and offers a safe environment for both beginners and experienced ATV riders. The positive feedback on scenery and the knowledgeable guides suggest you’ll get a memorable, educational experience—without sacrificing fun.

Practical Details and Considerations

Duration and Schedule

You can choose between morning (07:00 – 13:30) and afternoon (13:00 – 18:30). This flexibility is helpful to plan around other Cusco activities.

Cost and Value

At $48 per person, this tour offers good value, especially considering the included transport, guide, ATV rental, helmets, gloves, and salt mine entrance. Remember, the Moray entrance fee is extra unless you have a tourist ticket, so budget accordingly.

Group Size and Safety

Limited to a maximum of 10 travelers, the small group size means more personalized attention. The safety gear and instructions make it suitable for those with moderate physical fitness, but be prepared for some light riding effort.

What’s Not Included

Meals and drinks are not included, so plan to bring snacks or enjoy a meal after the tour. Also, the Moray entrance fee isn’t included—bring your ticket or be ready to pay S/70.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This ATV trip is perfect if you’re seeking a balance of adventure and culture. It’s well-suited for travelers who enjoy outdoor activities but also want to learn about Inca agricultural innovations and see iconic sites. It’s a great choice for small groups and those who appreciate scenic landscapes and a bit of rural charm.

If you’re after a fun, safe, and authentic way to see the Sacred Valley’s highlights, this tour delivers—plus, it’s a memorable story to tell back home.

The Sum Up

This half-day ATV adventure in the Sacred Valley ticks many boxes: adrenaline, natural beauty, cultural insight, and small-group intimacy. It offers a value-packed way to explore two of the valley’s most iconic sites—Moray and the Maras Salt Mines—without the hassle of organizing multiple excursions.

The scenic routes, friendly guides, and the chance to ride through history make it a standout option for those who enjoy outdoor activities with a cultural twist. It’s particularly suited for travelers looking for a more active, engaging day away from typical sightseeing crowds.

While the tour does involve moderate physical activity and some extra costs (Moray entrance), those who appreciate a mix of adventure and learning will find this experience well worth the price. Expect stunning vistas, fun rides, and a chance to connect with local traditions—all in a half-day of memorable exploration.

FAQ

Is transportation included?
Yes, round-trip transport from your Cusco hotel to Cruzpata and back is included, making logistics simple.

What do I need to bring?
Wear comfortable clothing and closed shoes suitable for riding. The guide provides helmets and gloves, but bringing sunglasses and sunscreen is recommended.

Do I need prior experience riding ATVs?
Not necessarily. The guide will give instructions, and the semi-automatic bikes are manageable for most, but moderate physical fitness is advised.

Is there an extra cost at the sites?
Yes, the entrance to Moray isn’t included in the tour fee. You’ll need your tourist ticket or pay S/70 at the entrance.

Can I choose between morning and afternoon tours?
Absolutely, both time slots are available and flexible based on your schedule.

How long does the tour last?
Approximately 5 to 6 hours, including transport, riding, and site visits.

What if I want to do this tour with a larger group?
The group size is limited to 10, ensuring a more personalized experience, but larger groups can often be accommodated with prior notice.

If you’re ready to combine adventure, history, and stunning scenery in a few hours, this Sacred Valley ATV tour could be just what you’re looking for. It delivers a genuine taste of the region’s landscape and culture, all while having a blast on an ATV.