Cusco: Half-day excursion by Quad to the Abode of the Gods

Cusco: Half-day Excursion by Quad to the Abode of the Gods offers an adventurous introduction to the sacred sites and landscapes surrounding Cusco. For just $33 per person, you’ll spend around 4 hours exploring stone sculptures at the Abode of the Gods (Apukunaq Tianan), with a mix of adrenaline-filled riding and cultural sights. Your journey begins with pick-up from your hotel, followed by a drive to the base camp where you’ll get a quick safety briefing and practice run before heading out.

Two things we love about this experience are the chance to enjoy Cusco’s scenic vistas on an ATV—imagine zipping along mountain trails with panoramic views—and the visit to the carved stone sculptures that pay homage to Andean traditions. These sculptures are a highlight, providing both a photo opportunity and a chance to connect with ancient cultural symbols.

A couple of considerations are worth noting: the age and condition of the ATVs can impact your ride, as some reviewers mention the vehicles are quite old and hard to start. Also, the actual duration of the activity appears shorter than advertised, with some travelers noting only about 1.5 hours of riding time and limited stops at the sculptures.

This tour suits travelers looking for a mix of adventure and cultural insight, especially those eager to see less-touristed sites like the Abode of the Gods. It’s ideal for active visitors who don’t mind a bit of rough-and-tumble equipment, but it might not be the best fit for those seeking a leisurely or longer exploration.

Key Points

• Scenic adventure: Enjoy an adrenaline rush while taking in stunning landscapes around Cusco.
• Cultural highlight: Visit the stone sculptures of the Abode of the Gods, a site that offers insight into ancient Andean culture.
• Practical info: Includes safety gear, instructions, and transportation—making it straightforward for first-timers.
• Time and value: Some reviews suggest the ride lasts less than the advertised four hours, so expectations for duration should be tempered.
• Vehicle condition: Older ATVs might make starting and riding a bit challenging.
• Suitability: Not recommended for pregnant women, people with vertigo, recent surgeries, or those over 70.

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An In-depth Look at the Experience

Starting the Adventure: Pickup and Drive to the Base

Your day begins with hotel pickup, typically within Cusco’s historic center. As you settle into the transport, you might notice the scenic drive through local neighborhoods and rural landscapes on the way to Tica Tica – Sencca. This part of the journey sets the tone, offering glimpses of the Andean countryside that will be part of your ride.

Once at the base camp, you’ll meet your guide—who is bilingual in Spanish and English—and receive a brief safety talk. We appreciated that the guide takes about 15 minutes for a practice run, ensuring everyone understands how to control the ATV before hitting the trails. This is crucial, especially for beginners or those unfamiliar with off-road vehicles.

The ATV Ride: Navigating the Mountain Trails

After the practice, the real fun begins. Expect a mix of uphill and downhill sections, with sweeping views of the mountainous landscape. The tour’s description highlights “spectacular views”, and you’ll love the way the rugged terrain offers a sense of adventure that’s hard to match in more organized, tame tours.

However, some reviews point out that the ATVs are quite old, and some are hard to ignite. This could mean additional delays or frustration, especially if you’re eager to get going. The vehicles’ condition influences the overall experience, and it’s worth considering whether you enjoy a more polished ride or are comfortable with a bit of rustic charm.

Visiting the Abode of the Gods: Sculptures and Cultural Insights

The highlight of the tour is the visit to the stone sculptures carved into the landscape. These carvings are believed to be sacred and pay homage to Andean deities and culture. As you walk around, take your time to admire the craftsmanship and the symbolic representations embedded in the stone.

One reviewer, Karsten, mentions that “the trip only lasted 1.5 hours, including the drive,” which suggests that the actual sightseeing portion might be quite brief. Still, the sculptures offer a meaningful glimpse into ancient beliefs, making them worth the visit despite limited time.

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Return Journey and Reflection

After exploring the sculptures, you’ll retrace your route back to the base camp via ATV. The return trip provides another chance to enjoy the landscape and perhaps chat with fellow riders about the experience. The transport then takes you back to Cusco, concluding your half-day adventure.

Considerations on Duration and Value

While the tour advertises a 4-hour duration, some travelers report the actual riding time is significantly less. For instance, one review notes only about 1.5 hours of ride time, which might leave you feeling the activity is somewhat overhyped in terms of length. The drive to and from the site, along with safety briefings and breaks, eat into the schedule.

The cost of $33 provides access to the activity itself, but remember to budget an additional 15 soles for entrance fees. Snacks and drinks are not included, so bringing water and a small snack is advisable, especially if you’re eager to maximize your time outdoors.

Practical Tips and What to Bring

To get the most out of this tour, dress appropriately. Wear comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing and bring sunglasses, a sun hat, and sunscreen—the high-altitude sun can be intense. Don’t forget your passport or ID card for check-in.

Since the activity is outdoors and involves off-road riding, avoid alcohol or drugs, and be prepared for the possibility of dusty or uneven terrain. The tour isn’t suitable for pregnant travelers, people with vertigo, recent surgeries, or those over 70.

Final thoughts on the experience

Although some reviews highlight concerns with vehicle condition and tour length, others appreciate the unique opportunity to combine adventure with cultural exploration. If you’re looking for a quick, energetic outing that lets you see some of Cusco’s surrounding landscapes and ancient carvings, this might fit the bill.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This ATV excursion is best suited for adventurous travelers eager for a short but active excursion. It appeals particularly to those who don’t mind older vehicles and are content with limited ride time in exchange for a glimpse of ancient sculptures and panoramic views. It’s also good for families or groups who want a fun outdoor activity that’s easy to book and includes all necessary safety equipment.

However, if you’re looking for a longer, more polished, or deeply cultural experience, you might find this tour a bit underwhelming. It is not ideal for anyone seeking a leisurely pace or more comfort during their outing.

FAQ

Is transportation included in the tour?
Yes, pickup from your hotel and transfer back to Cusco are included, making logistics stress-free.

How long does the tour actually last?
While advertised as four hours, some travelers report only about 1.5 hours of riding, with the rest taken up by driving, safety briefings, and the visit to the sculptures.

Are the ATVs safe and easy to handle?
Safety equipment is provided, and a brief instructional practice is included. However, some ATVs are quite old and may be harder to start or control, which can impact the experience.

Do I need prior experience riding ATVs?
No, the instructor provides a practice session to get everyone comfortable, but minimal experience is fine.

What should I bring?
Bring passport or ID, sunglasses, sun hat, sunscreen, comfortable clothes, and weather-appropriate gear. Prepare for dusty conditions.

Is this tour suitable for everyone?
Not recommended for pregnant women, those with vertigo, recent surgeries, or over 70. It’s best for active travelers comfortable with outdoor adventures.

This Quad to the Abode of the Gods offers a quick, energetic way to see some of Cusco’s rugged beauty and ancient carvings. While vehicle condition and tour length might not meet all expectations, the views and cultural sights make it a worthwhile option for those craving a bit of adventure on their trip. Just go with an open mind, dress well, and enjoy the ride—and the chance to stand amidst the stones that once honored Andean gods.

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