Cuzco: Visit to the Temple of the Moon – Horseback ride

Imagine setting off from your Cusco hotel, saddle in hand, ready to explore some of the most striking landscapes in the Peruvian highlands on horseback. For three hours, this tour takes you beyond the busy city streets into serene mountains, culminating in a visit to the Temple of the Moon. Priced at $90 per person, it offers a blend of adventure, cultural discovery, and natural beauty, making it a compelling choice for travelers seeking an active yet relaxed experience.

What makes this tour stand out is the chance to learn to ride in a safe and supportive environment and to indulge in stunning panoramic views. Add to that the opportunity to visit a lesser-known archaeological site—the Temple of the Moon—and you’ve got a memorable day plan. Two particular aspects we love: the personalized small group setting (limited to just 10 participants), which fosters a more intimate experience, and the spectacular mountain vistas that make every moment picture-perfect.

A possible consideration is that the tour isn’t suitable for everyone—pregnant women or wheelchair users might need to look elsewhere. Also, since the activity involves horseback riding, those with no riding experience or discomfort around horses might want to consider their comfort level beforehand. Still, for anyone with a sense of adventure or an interest in authentic landscapes, this tour hits the sweet spot.

This experience is perfect for travelers who enjoy a blend of outdoor activity, scenic beauty, and cultural sites. It suits those eager to try horseback riding, appreciate spectacular mountain scenery, and visit an archaeological complex off the usual tourist trail. If you’re looking for a relaxed but active excursion that offers extraordinary views and an authentic touch of local adventure, this is worth considering.

Key Points

• Beautiful landscapes: Expect vistas of mountains and valleys that are truly unforgettable.
• Learning to ride: Includes a demonstration, making it accessible even for beginners.
• Small group size: Limited to 10 participants, ensuring personalized attention.
• Visit to the Temple of the Moon: A less-visited archaeological site with a mystical ambiance.
• Round-trip transportation: Convenient hotel pickup and drop-off included.
• Duration: A manageable 3-hour experience, perfect for a morning activity.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring the Details of the Tour

Starting Point and Logistics

Your day begins early, with a pickup from your hotel at 9:00 a.m. (check actual availability for precise times). From there, you’re driven to a ranch near Sacsayhuaman, a site already steeped in history and just a short ride from Cusco’s bustling center. This proximity means you’re not spending hours in transit, allowing more time to enjoy the ride itself.

Meeting Your Horses and Guides

Once at the ranch, you’ll meet your horse and the muleteers who will accompany you. The guide, whose expertise is clearly valued by past reviews, will give you a quick demonstration on controlling your horse—perfect for beginners or those a little rusty. The safety equipment provided helps keep the experience enjoyable and secure.

The Ride to the Temple of the Moon

The journey to the Temple of the Moon is what everyone comes for. As you follow your guide along mountain trails, you’ll have ample opportunities to admire the natural beauty—towering peaks, lush valleys, and dramatic rock formations. Past participants have shared how “the views are simply stunning,” and we agree that the scenery alone makes this worth the ride.

More Great Tours Nearby

Rest Stops and Highlights

There’s a rest break en route, giving you a chance to soak in the views, take photos, and perhaps even chat with fellow travelers. The ride continues until reaching the Temple of the Moon, an archaeological site known for its mysterious stone structures and serene atmosphere. While not as famous as Machu Picchu, it’s a special spot that adds an off-the-beaten-path flavor to your day.

What’s Included and What’s Not

Practically, the tour offers a professional guide, horses, safety equipment, and round-trip transportation—a package that simplifies logistics and ensures you’re well cared for. The only notable exclusion is lunch, so plan to bring snacks or a light meal if desired.

The Experience with Real Travelers

Many reviewers have praised the tour for its stunning mountain views and the friendly, knowledgeable guides. One said, “We loved the way the guide explained the history and pointed out every mountain and plant.” Others appreciated the personalized service in a small group, noting that it created a more relaxed environment where questions were welcomed.

Considerations and Tips

• Bring a sun hat, sunscreen, and snacks; the high mountain sun can be intense, and you’ll want to stay comfortable.
• The tour is not suitable for pregnant women or wheelchair users, so plan accordingly.
• Check availability ahead of booking, especially during peak seasons, to reserve your preferred start time.
• Since it’s a horseback ride, some riding experience helps, but the guide’s demonstration makes it manageable for beginners.

Why This Tour Offers Great Value

At $90, this experience packs a lot into a three-hour window. You’re not just paying for a horseback ride but for an immersive nature experience combined with cultural discovery. The inclusion of transportation and safety gear adds convenience, making it easier for travelers to enjoy without extra fuss. Plus, visiting a less-frequented site like the Temple of the Moon makes it a more meaningful day, avoiding the crowds often found at more popular destinations.

The Importance of Scenery and Authenticity

The views from this ride are consistently praised for their stunning vistas, and that’s no exaggeration. The rugged mountains and lush valleys provide a genuine sense of the Peruvian highlands. Past travelers mention how these landscapes create a “feeling of stepping back in time,” which enhances the cultural significance of the site.

A Unique Cultural Experience

While small in size, the Temple of the Moon is a fascinating archaeological site that many visitors overlook. Visiting it via horseback adds an authentic, almost mystical quality that makes the experience more memorable than a typical bus tour. It’s not just about sightseeing but about connecting with the landscape and history in a more personal way.

Final Thoughts

This tour offers an excellent combination of adventure, culture, and spectacular scenery. It’s especially suited for travelers who enjoy being outdoors, want to try horseback riding, and are looking for something a little different from the usual sightseeing circuit. The small group size and knowledgeable guide help create an intimate, relaxed setting—perfect for soaking in the environment and asking questions.

While it’s not for everyone—particularly those with mobility concerns or discomfort around horses—it remains a standout option for those eager to explore the Peruvian countryside actively. The visit to the Temple of the Moon adds a layer of intrigue and authenticity that elevates this experience beyond mere riding.

If you’re after breathtaking mountain vistas, a touch of adventure, and a peaceful archaeological site, this tour is a solid choice that will leave you with lasting impressions of Cusco’s natural and cultural wonders.

FAQs

Is transportation included in the tour? Yes, round-trip transportation from your Cusco hotel is included, making the logistics simple and stress-free.

Can I participate if I have no horseback riding experience? Absolutely. The guide provides a demonstration on controlling the horse, so beginners can feel confident.

How long is the horseback ride? The ride lasts approximately three hours, including stops and the journey to and from the Temple of the Moon.

What should I bring? It’s recommended to bring a sun hat, snacks, and sunscreen to stay comfortable during the ride.

Is the tour suitable for children? The information provided doesn’t specify age restrictions, but since it involves horseback riding, it’s best for older children comfortable around horses.

Can I cancel if my plans change? Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility for your travel plans.

This horseback tour near Cusco offers a charming mix of landscapes, history, and active exploration. For those eager to see a less-visited archaeological site while enjoying the thrill of riding through stunning mountains, it’s a day well spent.

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