ATVs Tour in Moray and Maras, Salt Mines From Cusco

Experience the Best of Cusco’s Sacred Valley with an ATV Adventure in Moray and Maras Salt Mines

If you’re looking for an activity that combines adventure, culture, and jaw-dropping landscapes, this ATV tour in Cusco’s Sacred Valley might just be what you need. Priced at $46 per person, it offers approximately five hours of fun, exploring iconic sites like the Salinas de Maras and Moray. With a start time early in the morning, you’ll be picked up from your Cusco hotel, making the experience convenient and hassle-free.

What really makes this tour stand out for us is how it offers a personalized experience with a small group of up to two travelers, ensuring plenty of attention from your guide. The opportunity to learn to drive an ATV before heading out adds an extra layer of confidence and fun. Plus, the scenery is nothing short of spectacular — rolling mountains, ancient terraces, and salt flats that seem to stretch forever.

One thing to keep in mind is that admission to the Salt Mines isn’t included, so you’ll need to budget a small extra for that. The tour is best suited for those who enjoy adventure activities with an authentic local flavor. If you’re craving a mix of excitement and culture, this trip hits the sweet spot.

Key Points

• Authentic Experience: Combines rugged ATV riding with visits to iconic Sacred Valley sites.
• Stunning Views: Offers spectacular vistas of mountains, terraces, and salt flats.
• Inclusive & Practical: Includes vehicle, guide, and safety instructions, making it accessible for most travelers.
• Small Group: Limited to two travelers, ensuring personalized attention.
• Flexibility & Convenience: Hotel pickup and drop-off included, saving you time.
• Extra Costs: Entrance to Salt Mines is not included, so plan accordingly.

An In-Depth Look at the Itinerary

Starting Out: Cusco Hotel Pickup & Training

Your adventure kicks off early in the morning with a hotel pickup in Cusco. We loved how the guide took time for a comprehensive training session on ATV operation — very reassuring, especially if riding personal vehicles isn’t something you do daily. After this, you’ll get a quick overview of safety and driving tips, setting the stage for a confident and enjoyable ride.

The ride begins as you leave Cusco behind, heading into the heart of the Sacred Valley. Along the way, you’ll pass through the charming town of Pata Cross, where you can take in rustic buildings and a local church. This is a good chance to observe everyday life, a reminder that you’re not just sightseeing but experiencing local culture.

Moray: An Agricultural Marvel

The first major stop is Moray, famous for its astonishing circular terraces that resemble an ancient amphitheater. These terraces are believed to have been used for agricultural experiments by the Incas, and their design is both functional and visually captivating. Expect to spend about three hours here, including time to walk around and take in the panoramic views.

According to reviewer feedback, the views at Moray are truly incredible, making it a highlight of the tour. We also appreciated how the guide pointed out details about the terraces’ purpose, giving insight into Inca ingenuity. We loved the way the site blends archaeological wonder with natural beauty, especially with the backdrop of the Andes.

Continuing to Salinas de Maras: Salt Production with a View

Next, you’ll ride to the Salinas de Maras, a set of thousands of salt evaporation ponds dating back to pre-Inca times. As you approach, the sight of these circular salt flats arranged like giant patchwork quilts against the mountains is breathtaking.

At the site, you’ll learn about the ingenious Inca method of salt extraction. The terraces are still in use today, providing salt to local communities. While the admission fee to the Salt Mines isn’t included, most visitors agree that the spectacular scenery and historic significance make it worth a small extra expense.

A notable feature of this tour is that you’ll take a different route back, giving you new perspectives on the same stunning landscape. Travelers often comment on the peaceful beauty of the salt flats, which create a surreal, almost otherworldly atmosphere.

The ATV Ride: The Heart of the Experience

The real thrill comes with the ATV ride itself. After the initial safety briefing, you’ll be riding through diverse terrain — mountains, dirt tracks, and scenic overlooks. The guides make sure you’re comfortable, and the small group size means plenty of personalized instruction and support.

The stunning mountain views are a constant backdrop, with peaks like Verónica and Chicón providing a dramatic outline. Many reviews highlight how the ride offers a perfect balance of adventure and scenic beauty, with some describing it as a “unique experience” that’s suitable for families or couples seeking something different from the usual sightseeing.

Final Drop-Off & Reflection

After a full day of exploring, the tour concludes with a smooth ride back to Cusco, where you’re dropped off at your hotel. Expect to finish around midday or early afternoon, leaving you plenty of time to relax or explore more of the city.

What Travelers Say: Authentic Feedback and Insights

The rave reviews cover the stunning views and overall organization. One reviewer enthusiastically states, “The view is incredible… I definitely recommend it to go as a family or as a couple, it is a unique experience.” Another mentions that the organization and service inspired confidence, which is important when trying adventure activities in unfamiliar territory.

A more recent review from February 2024 echoes this sentiment, emphasizing the spectacular scenery and describing the experience as “perfect.” The fact that the tour is limited to two travelers means you get more attention from your guide, which makes a difference, especially if you’re new to ATV driving.

Authenticity and Safety

Multiple reviews highlight the professionalism of the guides and the safety measures in place, including the first aid kit and thorough instruction. This focus on safety and personal attention is appreciated, making it accessible for a wide range of travelers.

Practical Considerations and Value

At $46, this tour offers a remarkable combination of adventure and cultural sights. When you factor in the hotel pickup, guide, ATV rental, and safety gear, the cost appears quite reasonable — especially considering the exclusivity of the small group size.

If you’re someone who values authentic experiences and is comfortable on an ATV, this tour provides a memorable way to see the Sacred Valley beyond typical bus routes. Keep in mind that you’ll need to budget separately for the Salt Mines entrance fee, but the overall experience is well worth it.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This adventure suits active travelers who are eager for a hands-on experience. It’s perfect for those who love scenic drives, outdoor activities, and cultural sites, but also appreciate some adrenaline rush. The small group size makes it ideal for couples or travelers seeking a more personalized, intimate experience.

It’s also great if you’re looking for a day trip that breaks away from traditional sightseeing and offers a fun, authentic perspective of the Sacred Valley. Families with older children should find it suitable, but younger kids might need to check if ATV driving is appropriate for them.

The Sum Up

This ATV tour in Cusco’s Sacred Valley offers a wonderful blend of adventure, culture, and stunning scenery. The well-organized itinerary covers key sites like Moray and the Salt Mines, but it’s the scenery and the thrill of riding through mountains and terraces that really make it shine.

For those who enjoy active experiences with a touch of history, the tour’s small group size ensures personalized attention, making the day more engaging and fun. The breathtaking views and the chance to learn about Inca innovations make it a valuable addition to any Cusco itinerary.

While the additional cost for Salt Mines admission is a consideration, most travelers find the overall experience exceptionally worthwhile. Whether you’re an adventure seeker or simply want a unique way to explore the Sacred Valley, this ATV tour delivers an authentic, memorable day.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is hotel pickup included in the tour?
Yes, the tour includes pickup from your hotel in the Cusco city center, making it easy to start your adventure without extra hassle.

How long is the ATV tour?
The tour lasts approximately five hours, which includes transportation, the ATV ride, and visits to Moray and Maras Salt Mines.

Are meals included?
No, meals are not included. You may want to bring snacks or plan for a meal afterward.

Do I need to pay extra for the Salt Mines?
Yes, the entrance fee to the Salt Mines is not included, so expect to pay a small additional amount on-site.

Is this experience suitable for beginners?
Yes, the tour includes a training session to learn how to drive the ATV, making it accessible for beginners with no prior experience.

What is the maximum group size?
The tour is limited to two travelers, allowing for a more personalized experience.

Is there a minimum age requirement?
While not explicitly stated, the focus on safety and the ATV experience suggests it’s best suited for travelers comfortable with riding motorized vehicles. Check with the provider if you have young children.

What should I wear?
Comfortable clothing suitable for outdoor activity, and possibly a hat and sunscreen for protection against the sun.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, cancellations are free up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Cancellations within 24 hours are not refunded.

In summary, this ATV tour in the Sacred Valley offers a fantastic way to combine adventure and sightseeing, with ample opportunities for authentic and breathtaking experiences. If you’re craving a day of scenic beauty, cultural insight, and a bit of adrenaline, it’s a well-priced option that won’t disappoint.