Exploring Cusco often means walking through ancient ruins or wandering bustling markets, but for those craving a different kind of adventure, the Abode of the Gods ATV Tour offers a unique blend of thrill and culture. For $115 per person, you’ll spend around six hours soaking in iconic Andean scenery, exploring fascinating Inca rock sculptures, and cruising through mountain landscapes that seem to stretch endlessly.

The tour begins with a convenient hotel pickup in downtown Cusco, making it easy to start your day stress-free. From there, it’s a scenic drive of about an hour to the “Abode of the Gods”—a site famous for its intricate stone carvings and views that make you feel like you’re on the edge of the world. We love how this experience combines adventure and cultural discovery in a way that’s accessible to most travelers, with professional guides ensuring safety and adding historical context.

Two standout features are the stunning rock sculptures—some towering over 2 meters—and the scenic ATV ride through the lush, rugged terrain. These elements make the tour memorable, especially if you enjoy striking vistas and a touch of Inca history. One possible consideration is that the entrance fee of S/. 10 per person is not included, so budget that into your day. This experience is perfect for travelers who want a fun, outdoor activity that’s both scenic and culturally engaging—particularly if you’re comfortable on an ATV and looking for a more active day outside Cusco’s city center.

Key Points

Adventure and Culture: Combines an exhilarating ATV ride with insights into Inca stone sculptures.
Stunning Landscapes: Enjoy panoramic views of the Andean mountains and the unique carvings on the site.
Convenient Pickup: Hotel pickup in Cusco city center simplifies logistics.
Safety and Comfort: Includes safety equipment, a first aid kit, and an oxygen tank for peace of mind.
Flexible Booking: Cancel up to 24 hours in advance or reserve now and pay later for added flexibility.
Suitable for most travelers: Not recommended for pregnant women or those with back problems.

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An In-Depth Look at the Experience

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The Pickup and Transit

The tour kicks off around 9:00 am with a pickup from your hotel in Cusco’s historic center. This is a major plus—no need to worry about finding a meeting point after a long travel day or navigating local transport. The vehicle then takes you on a roughly one-hour scenic drive through the vibrant Peruvian countryside. The ride itself offers a taste of local life, with glimpses of terraced fields and mountain vistas flashing past the window.

Arrival at the Abode of the Gods

Once at the site, you’ll be greeted by a guide who explains the significance of this Inca archaeological site, known locally as Inca Apukunaq Tianan Cusco. It features remarkable stone sculptures carved directly into the mountainside, some over 2 meters high. These sculptures are not only impressive for their craftsmanship but also invite questions about their purpose—are they religious symbols, territorial markings, or something else? Your guide will share their insights, adding a layer of understanding that elevates the experience beyond just taking photos.

Safety Briefing and ATV Ride

Before hitting the trails, you’ll receive safety instructions and gear up with helmets, gloves, and other protective equipment. This emphasis on safety is reassuring, especially for those new to ATV riding. The guides are professional and multilingual (Spanish and English), making sure everyone feels comfortable before starting the ride.

The ATV journey takes you through a landscape dotted with rock sculptures, lush vegetation, and panoramic views of the surrounding mountains. As one reviewer noted, “We loved the way the landscape unfolded during the ride, with the sculptures providing an almost mystical backdrop,” which makes the activity both physically exhilarating and visually captivating.

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Exploring the Sculptures and Hidden Spots

The main site showcases intricate carvings, some nearly 2 meters tall, carved into the rocks. The guide explains their likely cultural significance, and if you’re willing to pay an extra fee, you can explore the Heart of the Mountain—a hidden area with even more mysterious sculptures. This optional part adds an extra layer of intrigue for those interested in Inca mysteries.

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Return Journey and Final Views

After about an hour of riding and exploring, you’ll return to the starting point on your ATV. Then, a comfortable van takes you back for a scenic drive of roughly 1.5 hours, with a photo stop along the way to capture the majestic mountain landscape and the site’s surroundings. The tour concludes at Plaza Regocijo, near Cusco’s historic center, around 2:00 pm.

What We Loved About This Tour

The scenic views are undoubtedly its star. The combination of mountain vistas and ancient sculptures creates a setting that’s both awe-inspiring and photographically rewarding. Plus, the guides’ local knowledge adds depth, turning a simple ATV ride into a mini cultural lesson—without it feeling heavy or overly academic.

Another thing we appreciated was the convenience—hotel pickup, all necessary safety gear, and the small group size make it feel personal and manageable, especially for those who aren’t seasoned ATV riders.

Possible Drawback

A consideration worth noting is the additional entrance fee of S/. 10, which isn’t included in the tour price. While this is a modest fee, it’s an extra expense to keep in mind. Also, since the tour involves riding ATV over uneven terrain, it’s best suited for those comfortable with outdoor adventure activities.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This tour is ideal for adventure-loving travelers who want to experience the scenic beauty and archaeological intrigue of the Cusco region without the lengthy commitment of a full-day hike or tour. It’s perfect for those who seek a fun, active day that balances outdoor excitement with cultural insights—especially if you’re comfortable on an ATV.

It’s also well-suited for families with older children, couples, or small groups looking for a memorable way to see the rugged landscape surrounding Cusco. However, this experience might not be suitable for pregnant women or anyone with back problems, given the nature of ATV riding.

Final Thoughts

For travelers eager to combine adventure and culture, the Cusco Abode of the Gods ATV Tour offers a compelling option. It delivers rich scenic views of the Andean landscape, intriguing rock sculptures that spark curiosity, and a touch of adrenaline—all wrapped into a manageable half-day activity. The professional guides and safety precautions ensure a smooth experience, making it accessible to most.

While it’s a bit of a splurge compared to local transport or self-guided excursions, the value lies in the combination of scenery, history, and thrill. It’s especially suitable for those who appreciate outdoor adventures with a dash of cultural storytelling, providing a well-rounded outdoor experience near Cusco.

FAQ

How early do I need to be ready for pickup?
You should be prepared by around 9:00 am for hotel pickup, which is included if you’re staying in Cusco’s city center. If not, the meeting point will be the Main Square.

What is included in the tour?
The tour includes hotel pickup, transportation, a professional guide, ATVs, safety equipment, a first aid kit, and an oxygen tank.

Are there additional costs?
Yes. The entrance fee to the site is S/. 10 per person, which is not included in the tour price.

How long is the ATV ride?
The ATV portion lasts approximately 1 hour, during which you explore the site and enjoy the scenery.

Can I explore more beyond the main site?
Yes. For an extra fee, you can visit the Heart of the Mountain, with more sculptures and mystery.

Is the tour suitable for children?
While the tour is generally suitable for most travelers, it’s best for those comfortable on an ATV. It’s not recommended for pregnant women or those with back problems.

What should I bring?
Bring sunglasses, a sun hat, camera, sunscreen, cash for optional expenses, and your passport or ID.

How do I cancel or reschedule?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Reservations can be made now with pay later options for flexibility.

This ATV tour to the Abode of the Gods offers a lively, engaging way to see some of the most striking landscapes and mysterious sculptures outside Cusco. It rewards those who like their adventures with stunning views, a touch of history, and a good dose of outdoor fun. Perfect for active travelers, families, or anyone seeking a memorable, off-the-beaten-path experience in Peru.