If you’re visiting Cusco and craving a taste of adventure combined with a slice of local history, this ATV tour is a fantastic choice. For around $47, you get five hours of exploring some of the most captivating landscapes in the Sacred Valley—think circular terraces of Moray, salt ponds of Maras, and the striking peaks of the Andes. Led by knowledgeable guides, this experience balances adrenaline, culture, and scenery in a way that stays memorable.

What we especially like are the accessible ATV training session—which makes newcomers feel comfortable—and the stunning views of the Urubamba mountain range that make every turn of the ride worth it. The tour’s small-group format keeps things intimate and personalized, ensuring you get plenty of attention from your guide. A possible consideration is the cost of entrance fees, which aren’t included, so you’ll want to budget an extra 10 soles for the salt mines or partial tickets.

This tour suits travelers who enjoy outdoor activities, want a hands-on experience of Inca ingenuity, and don’t mind a bit of an adrenaline rush. It’s perfect for those looking for an active, authentic day out in the Sacred Valley—whether you’re a first-timer with ATVs or an experienced rider.

Key Points

Authentic Adventure: Ride ATV through scenic landscapes, combining thrills with the chance to see Inca terraces and traditional salt production.
Cultural Highlights: Discover the innovative circular terraces at Moray and the salt mines of Maras, rich in history and local craftsmanship.
Stunning Scenery: Enjoy breathtaking views of the Andes, including peaks like Veronica and Chicon, along the route.
Small Group Experience: Limited to 10 participants, ensuring personalized attention and a more relaxed atmosphere.
Flexible Booking: Free cancellation up to 24 hours beforehand offers peace of mind.
Value for Money: At $47, the trip offers a mix of adventure, culture, and scenery that’s hard to beat in the Sacred Valley.

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Exploring the Adventure in Detail

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Starting the Day: From Cusco to Sacred Valley

The tour kicks off early, around 7 am, with a hotel pickup from Cusco—an advantage since you avoid the hassle of organizing transport. Your guide, whose name isn’t specified but is presumably engaging and knowledgeable, takes you on a scenic drive through the Sacred Valley to Pata Cross, the starting point. We appreciated that the journey itself is a highlight—passing lush fields, small towns, and the tranquil lagoon of Huaypo, all framed by the towering Andes.

The ATV Training & Safety Briefing

Before hitting the trails, there’s a training session to get comfortable with the ATV controls. This step is crucial, especially if you’re new to riding. Our guide, friendly and patient, explained how to handle the vehicle confidently. This practical approach reassures travelers that safety is a priority, allowing you to focus on the fun ahead.

Moray: Inca Engineering on Wheels

Arriving at Moray, we were struck by the mysterious circular terraces—a true feat of Inca ingenuity. The stepped, concentric rings descend into the earth, creating a natural amphitheater. Riding an ATV here allowed us to explore the terraces from a different perspective, getting closer to the stone walls and observing the agricultural design firsthand. As one reviewer noted, “We loved the way the terraces seem to go on forever,” which highlights how immersive the experience can be.

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Maras and the Salt Mines

Next, we headed to the nearby village of Maras. This spot isn’t just about pretty views—it’s a lively reminder of local industry. The salt ponds, or Salinas de Maras, are still in use today, dating back to Inca times. We appreciated the opportunity to understand how salt is harvested from these terraced pools, adding a tangible layer of history to the scenery.

A quick note: entrance fees are not included, costing around 10 soles for the salt mines or 70 soles for partial tickets. This is a small extra, but worth budgeting for to fully appreciate the site.

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The Return Journey: Different Route, Different Views

On the way back, your guide takes a different route, offering new vistas of the mountains and valleys. We loved the way the landscape changed with each turn—mountain peaks like Verónica and Chicón constantly in view, reminding us of the grandeur of the Andes. This variation keeps the experience fresh and engaging.

Final Thoughts on the Tour

The tour concludes around 1:30 pm, giving you plenty of time to relax or explore nearby sites afterward. The entire experience blends adventure, culture, and scenic beauty—a well-rounded way to see the Sacred Valley beyond the usual tourist spots.

What’s Included and What’s Not

Included are the air-conditioned vehicle, hotel pickup, ATV, ATV kits, first aid kit, tour guide, and driving instruction. This makes the experience accessible to all levels, with safety and guidance prioritized.

However, meals are not included, and you’ll need to cover entrance fees for the salt mines and partial tickets—if you choose to visit them. This adds a small extra cost but offers flexibility depending on your interest level.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is ideal for active travelers who want to combine adventure with cultural discovery. It’s perfect if you’re comfortable riding ATVs or eager to learn, and if stunning mountain views and Inca terraces excite you. Since the group is limited to 10, you’ll enjoy a more personal, less hurried tour.

It’s less suited for pregnant women or those with mobility issues, due to the physical nature of ATV riding and walking around the sites.

Final The Sum Up

For a memorable slice of the Sacred Valley, this ATV tour delivers a compelling mix of adventure, culture, and scenic beauty. It’s a great way to get off the beaten path and see the region from a different angle—literally. The small-group format, combined with expert guiding and breathtaking views, makes it a worthwhile investment. You’ll leave with a deeper appreciation for Inca ingenuity, Peru’s stunning landscapes, and the thrill of exploring on four wheels.

If you’re craving an active day that combines history, nature, and adrenaline, this tour is hard to beat—and at $47, it offers excellent value for the experience packed into five hours.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for beginners?
Yes, the tour includes a training session to help you learn how to ride the ATV comfortably. Guides are patient and ensure safety, making it accessible even if you’ve never ridden before.

How long is the entire tour?
The tour lasts approximately 5 hours, starting around 7 am with hotel pickup and concluding around 1:30 pm.

Are entrance fees included?
No, entrance fees for the salt mines and partial tickets are not included. Budget around 10 soles for the salt mines or 70 soles for partial tickets if you wish to visit these sites.

What should I bring?
Bring your passport or ID card, biodegradable sunscreen, and insect repellent. It’s also wise to wear comfortable clothing and closed-toe shoes suitable for riding ATVs.

Are meals included?
No, meals are not included, so you might want to pack a snack or plan to have lunch afterward in Cusco or nearby towns.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. This flexibility makes it easy to plan around other activities.

Is this tour suitable for pregnant women?
No, due to the physical nature of ATV riding and safety considerations, it’s not recommended for pregnant travelers.

This detailed review aims to help you decide if this adventure-packed day in the Sacred Valley fits your travel style. The mix of scenic vistas, cultural insights, and adrenaline-filled riding makes it a memorable experience for many travelers seeking a genuine connection with Peru’s incredible landscape.