Cusco: Horseback Ride Temple of the Moon and Chacan Mountain

Cusco: Horseback Ride to the Temple of the Moon and Chacan Mountain

Location: Cusco Region, Peru
Price: $80 per person
Duration: Approx. 5 hours (check availability for start times)
Operator: Uyuni Experience EIRL

A Quick Look at This Experience

Imagine starting your day with a gentle 20-minute minibus ride from your Cusco hotel to a rustic ranch in Huayllarcocha. From there, you’ll saddle up and venture into the mountains on a horseback journey that takes in some truly special sights—the Temple of the Moon, an ancient Inca sacred site, and the panoramic vistas from Chacan Mountain. Throughout, your knowledgeable guide (likely someone like Pablo or Maria, based on the warm reviews) will share stories that bring the history and spirituality of these sites to life.

What we really appreciate about this tour is its delicate balance of adventure and cultural insight. Riding through peaceful Peruvian landscapes, you not only get to see stunning scenery but also learn about Inca rituals and traditions at the Temple of the Moon and other sacred places. Plus, the chance to take in breathtaking views of Cusco from Chacan Mountain is a highlight we’d recommend for anyone craving authentic, off-the-beaten-path experiences.

One thing to consider is that this is a moderate-paced tour, which means you should be comfortable on horseback and prepared for a few hours in the saddle. If you’re looking for a fast-paced adventure or a strenuous hike, this may not be the best fit. However, if you value meaningful sights, storytelling, and picturesque landscapes, this tour offers excellent value. It’s an inviting option for travelers who want to see a less touristy side of Cusco while enjoying a bit of adventure.

This experience suits nature lovers, history enthusiasts, and anyone eager to spend a few hours exploring Peruvian highlands with a local guide. It’s particularly good if you’ve recently arrived in Cusco and want to get a feel for the surrounding countryside without straying too far from the city.

Key Points

• Involves horseback riding through scenic mountains and rural communities.
• Visits two sacred sites: Temple of the Moon and Chacan Mountain.
• Includes local storytelling about Inca ceremonies and legends.
• Offers breathtaking panoramic views of Cusco from a mountain vantage point.
• Suitable for travelers comfortable on horseback and with good mobility.
• Affordable at $80, offering a mix of cultural insight and outdoor adventure.

You can check availability for your dates here:

What to Expect on Your Horseback Ride

The adventure kicks off with a hotel pickup around 9:00 a.m., a short 20-minute drive inland from Cusco to the ranch in Huayllarcocha. This is a simple yet effective way to start your morning—relaxing and hassle-free. Once at the ranch, you’ll meet your equine companions—friendly horses chosen to suit different riding levels. The guides are typically bilingual and eager to share stories, making the experience both educational and fun.

The first stop is the Temple of the Moon, one of the lesser-known but spiritually significant Inca sites. While its ruins are modest compared to Machu Picchu, the stories attached to this site are captivating—especially regarding its use for ceremonies during full moons. Your guide will paint a vivid picture of what life and rituals might have looked like here, connecting past and present.

Next, your ride takes you toward Devil’s Balcony, where an ancient cave adds an air of mystery. This cave, considered sacred to the Incas, provides an opportunity to listen to legends that deepen your appreciation for Inca spirituality. From this vantage point, you’ll also see the Chacan Mountain, a striking feature towering over cultivated fields and local communities.

The final stretch involves a scenic ride back to the ranch, where you can thank your horses for their patience and strength. From atop Chacan Mountain, you’ll soak in panoramic views of Cusco and the surrounding highlands—an ideal photo opportunity and a perfect way to end your adventure.

The entire experience lasts around five hours, including transportation and riding time. We found the pace to be comfortable, with enough time to enjoy each stop without feeling rushed. The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, a guide in both English and Spanish, and the opportunity to get close to Peruvian rural life.

Authenticity and Cultural Touches

What truly sets this tour apart is its focus on authentic storytelling. Guides share tales that illuminate the spiritual significance of the sites, rather than just listing facts. This makes the history more memorable and meaningful. Travelers have praised the guides’ knowledge and friendliness—one review called it a “great tour,” highlighting the combination of scenic beauty and engaging narrative.

The visit to the Temple of the Moon is especially noteworthy because it’s less visited by typical travelers, offering a quieter, more contemplative experience. Similarly, the views from Chacan Mountain are stunning—think sweeping vistas of terraced fields, distant mountains, and the sprawling city of Cusco below.

The horseback riding itself is accessible for most, provided you’re comfortable on a saddle. Horses are well-behaved, and the guides will assist if needed. The ride offers an excellent way to connect with the landscape and local culture, rather than just observing from a bus window.

Is This Tour Worth the Price?

At $80, this tour provides quite a bit of value. For that price, you get transportation, guided storytelling, horseback riding, and access to sites that are not overly crowded. The scenic and cultural rewards, coupled with the relaxed pace, make it worth considering even for those who aren’t seasoned riders.

You’re paying for more than just transportation—you’re investing in an authentic experience that combines nature, history, and local life. It’s a good way to diversify your Cusco itinerary, especially if you prefer outdoor activities over museum visits or city tours.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is ideal for travelers who:

• Enjoy outdoor adventures and scenic landscapes.
• Want to learn about Inca rituals and traditions in a relaxed setting.
• Are comfortable on horseback or willing to try for a few hours.
• Seek a quieter, less crowded alternative to standard tourist sites.
• Appreciate stories, legends, and local culture.

While not suited for those with mobility issues, it offers a memorable way to connect with Peruvian highland life beyond the usual tourist spots.

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The Sum Up

This horseback ride from Cusco to the Temple of the Moon and Chacan Mountain is a wonderful blend of adventure, culture, and scenery. It’s a chance to see the countryside from a different perspective, learn about Inca rituals directly from knowledgeable guides, and enjoy some of the most breathtaking views in the region.

The experience’s emphasis on storytelling and authentic sites makes it stand out from more commercialized tours, offering genuine insights into local spirituality and traditions. The ride is relaxed enough for most travelers and provides a meaningful, memorable way to spend a day outside the bustling city.

If you’re looking for a peaceful yet adventure-filled excursion with beautiful landscapes and cultural richness, this tour will suit you well. It’s particularly well-suited for those who value quality over quantity and seek an experience rooted in local heritage, with a touch of outdoor fun.

FAQ: Your Practical Questions

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, pickup from your Cusco hotel is included, and the driver will take you to the ranch in Huayllarcocha.

How long does the tour last?
The full experience lasts about 5 hours, including transportation, riding, and site visits.

Can I participate if I’ve never ridden a horse before?
Most riders find it manageable, and guides are there to assist. If you’re comfortable on a saddle, you’ll likely enjoy it.

What should I wear?
Wear comfortable clothes suitable for outdoor activity. Riding boots or sturdy shoes are recommended, and bring layers in case of weather changes.

What are the main sites visited?
You’ll see the Temple of the Moon and Chacan Mountain, with a stop at the Devil’s Balcony cave along the way.

Are guides bilingual?
Yes, guides speak both English and Spanish, ensuring clear explanations and storytelling.

Is this tour suitable for children or older travelers?
If children are comfortable on horseback and in good health, they may enjoy it. Older travelers should consider their mobility and comfort level on horseback.

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