Cusco: ATVs on Lake Huaypo and Maras Salt Mines

Cusco: ATVs on Lake Huaypo and Maras Salt Mines
Location: Cusco Region, Peru
Price: $59 per person
Duration: About 5 hours
Supplier: XPLORA AMERICA

If you’re craving a different way to experience Cusco — away from the crowded ruins and city streets — this ATV tour might be just the ticket. For $59, you’ll spend about five hours weaving through beautiful landscapes, visiting a tranquil lake, and marveling at the famous Maras Salt Mines. The tour is perfect for families and groups of friends looking for a bit of adrenaline and authentic scenery.

What we love about this experience is the opportunity to see stunning mountain views while riding an all-terrain vehicle — a real thrill that gets you closer to nature than most typical tours. Plus, the visit to the Salineras, with its labyrinth of salt pools, offers a glimpse into a traditional industry still thriving today.

One potential consideration is that the tour involves some slopes and uneven terrain, so it’s best suited for those comfortable with outdoor activities and physical movement. Also, the cost excludes the S/.10 entrance fee to Salineras, so budget accordingly if you want to fully explore this site.

This tour is ideal for adventure-seeking travelers who want an active day out that combines natural beauty with a unique cultural experience. It’s especially suited for those who enjoy scenic views and don’t mind a bit of bumpy fun on the trails.

Key Points

• Unique adventure: Combines ATV riding with visits to iconic Cusco sites.
• Stunning scenery: Offers incredible mountain views and lush landscapes.
• Authentic experience: Visit local communities and learn about traditional salt mining.
• Well-organized: Includes transportation, safety gear, and a professional guide.
• Flexible booking: Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
• Small group: Limited to 10 participants for a more personalized experience.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An Authentic Off-the-Beaten-Path Adventure

Riding an ATV across the rugged terrains surrounding Cusco opens up a different perspective on the highlands. The tour begins from San José – Sector Bajo, and pretty quickly, you’re whisked away from the city’s hustle. The first stop, the San José viewpoint, offers a quick photo op of the valley below — a perfect way to stretch your legs and get a panoramic shot of the landscape.

From there, the journey takes you to Lake Huaypo, a peaceful spot that’s ideal for birdwatching and soaking in the natural tranquility. The guide, whose name you might not get but who will be friendly and informative, explains the flora and fauna of the area. We loved the way the guide pointed out the mountains of Verónica, Chicón, and Pumahuanca while highlighting the importance of agriculture and livestock in the region.

What makes this part of the tour memorable is the chance to see locals going about their daily routines around the lake — a reminder of the rural roots that still shape the landscape. The views of mountains reflected in the water are beautiful enough to make anyone pause for a moment of appreciation.

Thrilling ATV Ride through the Countryside

Next, it’s time to hit the trails. The ATV ride from Tiobamba is a highlight, especially for those who enjoy a bit of off-road adventure. The route is described as consisting of many slopes, which means you’ll be climbing, descending, and maneuvering through a variety of terrains — all under the careful eye of your guide.

The scenery here is diverse: lush greenery, rocky outcrops, and sweeping views of the Sacred Valley. The fun and adrenaline come from navigating these slopes, with many travelers noting the beautiful landscapes they encounter along the way. One reviewer said, “We loved the way the ATV route took us through so many different types of terrain — it’s a real blast.”

The photo opportunities are plentiful, especially when you pause at viewpoints like Mahuaypampa, where you can take in views of the mountains and the local farms below. It’s a rather active way to connect with the environment, and most participants find the ride to be safe and well-guided, with helmets and gloves provided.

Visiting the Maras Salt Mines

The salt mines, or Salineras, are a fascinating piece of local industry. The salt pools have been in use since Inca times, and today visitors can walk among the terraced pools, observing how salt is harvested from the mineral-rich water. The 25-minute guided tour offers insights into traditional salt production methods, which are surprisingly still very much alive.

The pools glitter in the sunlight, and the intricate network of channels and terraces creates a beautiful geometric pattern. It’s a photographer’s dream, and many visitors find it a highlight of the tour. The entry fee to Salineras is not included in the overall price, but it’s a modest S/.10, and well worth the additional cost for the full experience.

From there, you’ll get an overview of the Sacred Valley and the Vilcanota River, adding a layer of cultural context to the visit. It’s an opportunity to see a living tradition that’s been part of this landscape for centuries.

Practical Details and Value

This tour offers great value considering what’s included. For $59, you get pick-up at your hotel, transportation throughout the day, a professional guide, safety equipment, and the ATV experience itself. The small group size, limited to just ten participants, means you’re not lost in a crowd, and the guide can tailor the experience a bit to your interests.

The fact that you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance and pay later provides flexibility, which is especially helpful if you’re trying to coordinate with other activities. The tour lasts about five hours, making it a substantial half-day outing.

Keep in mind, the entrance fee to Salineras is extra, so budget around S/.10 if you want to explore the salt pools thoroughly. Also, the terrain can be rough and steep in parts, so this tour is best suited for those comfortable with physical activity and outdoor adventures.

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Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is ideal for adventure lovers who want to spice up their Cusco itinerary without leaving the region’s natural beauty behind. It’s perfect for families with older children or teenagers who are comfortable on ATVs, as well as groups of friends seeking fun and stunning scenery. If you’re eager for a more active and authentic experience, rather than just sightseeing from buses or footpaths, this is an excellent choice.

Those seeking a relaxing cultural tour might prefer more traditional visits, but if you want to combine a bit of adrenaline with scenic views and local insights, this tour hits the spot.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the cost of this ATV tour?
It costs $59 per person, which includes transportation, safety gear, and a guide.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience takes about five hours, with the actual ATV riding and site visits included.

Is transportation included?
Yes, transportation to and from your hotel in Cusco is included in the price.

Do I need to bring my own safety equipment?
No, helmets and gloves are provided as part of the tour.

Are there any additional costs?
Yes, the S/.10 entry fee to Salineras is not included and must be paid on site if you wish to visit.

Is this tour suitable for children?
It’s best for families with older children or teenagers comfortable with ATV riding and outdoor activities.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

What languages are available for the guide?
The guides speak English and Spanish, ensuring clear communication for most travelers.

Final Thoughts

This ATV adventure around Cusco offers a lively, scenic, and authentic way to explore the region’s natural beauty and cultural heritage. It balances thrilling outdoor activity with relaxing moments at lakes and salt pools, making it a well-rounded outing for those eager to get off the beaten path.

The combination of stunning mountain vistas, local industry, and a small-group setting makes it a memorable experience. It’s especially suited for travelers looking for a more active day that still offers plenty of opportunities for great photos and cultural insights.

If you’re after a fun, engaging, and scenic adventure, this tour delivers on all counts. Just remember to wear comfortable clothing, be ready for some slopes and uneven terrain, and enjoy a day of exploring the stunning landscapes that make Cusco so unique.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby