From Cusco: ATV’s in Maras and Moray Half Day | Private Tour offers an exciting way to explore some of the most iconic sights in the Sacred Valley with the thrill of riding ATV bikes. For $129 per person, this 6-hour adventure takes you through high Andean landscapes, archaeological marvels, and local salt ponds, guided by knowledgeable hosts who make sure everyone feels comfortable behind the wheel.

What we appreciate most about this tour is how it balances adventure with education — you’re not just riding around but also learning about the history behind Moray’s terraces and the salt ponds of Maras. Plus, the opportunity to see these sites from the saddle adds a sense of freedom and excitement that’s hard to match. One thing to note: it’s a private group experience, which means more personalized attention and flexibility.

A potential consideration is the requirement for appropriate clothing and the fact that some visitors might find the physicality of ATV riding a bit challenging if they’re not used to outdoor activities. This tour is best suited for active travelers, those interested in archaeology, or anyone looking for a memorable and dynamic day outside of Cusco.

Key Points

Unique perspective: Riding ATVs through the Sacred Valley offers a different view of familiar sights.
Educational stops: Guided tours of Moray and Maras enrich the experience with historical insights.
All-inclusive safety gear: Helmets and basic equipment are provided, with driving lessons if needed.
Flexible booking: Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, making it a risk-free option.
Personalized experience: Private group setting allows for more tailored attention and pacing.
Value for money: Combining adventure, culture, and scenery in a half-day tour provides excellent value.

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Exploring the Sacred Valley on Four Wheels

The journey begins with hotel pickup in Cusco, a thoughtful touch that spares you the hassle of organizing transport. The drive to kilometer 39 of the Sacred Valley sets the tone for the day — scenic, peaceful, and full of anticipation. Our guide, whose name we wish we knew, provided friendly and clear instructions, ensuring everyone felt comfortable operating the ATVs. Whether you’re a seasoned rider or a complete beginner, the basic training and driving lessons make the experience accessible.

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First Stop: Huaypo Lagoon

Our first pause is at Huaypo Lagoon, a tranquil spot where you can stretch your legs and take in the stunning reflections of the surrounding mountains. It’s a perfect spot to snap some photos and breathe in the fresh mountain air. The quiet beauty of this lagoon stands in stark contrast to the adrenaline rush of the ATV ride, offering a peaceful moment early in the tour.

The Ride Through Andean Landscapes

Then, it’s time to hit the trails. We loved the way our guide framed the ride, pointing out different plants, small farms, and the rugged terrain of the Andes. The ride offers a mix of open fields, dirt paths, and gentle inclines — enough variety to keep things interesting without being intimidating.

Moray: An Archaeological Wonder

Next, we visited the famous site of Moray, with its concentric agricultural terraces that look like a giant, stepped amphitheater. Our guide explained how these terraces likely served as experimental agricultural plots, a clever way to study different crops and climate zones. The guided tour was informative and engaging, giving us context about how ancient Peruvians adapted to their environment. One traveler mentioned, “The terraces are incredible — you can feel the ingenuity of the ancient people just walking through them.”

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The Town of Maras and Its Salt Ponds

After Moray, we made a stop in the charming town of Maras, with its cobbled streets and lively square. Here, we learned about the salt ponds — a centuries-old operation still in use today. The guided tour of the salt mines was fascinating, revealing how locals harvest salt daily from these mineral-rich evaporation ponds. The visit is both educational and photogenic, especially from the vantage point overlooking the colorful pools. An earlier review noted, “Watching the salt miners work and seeing the different colors of the ponds was such a memorable sight.”

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Return and Reflection

Finally, we returned to the ATV base, feeling a mix of exhilaration and appreciation for what we’d seen and learned. The transport back to Cusco was comfortable, and the whole experience was well-organized.

What’s Included and What’s Not?

Included in the price are hotel pickup, transport, a knowledgeable guide, personal ATV bikes, helmets, basic safety equipment, and driving lessons if needed. The tour does not include entrance fees to Moray (S/.70 for foreigners, S/.40 for locals), the salt mine fee (S/.15), or meals. Keep in mind that you’ll want to budget approximately S/.70 for Moray and S/.15 for the salt ponds.

Practical Tips

Bring your passport or ID, wear comfortable shoes and clothes, and don’t forget sun protection — sunglasses, sun hat, sunscreen — plus snacks and water. The weather can change quickly at high altitude, so a light jacket is wise.

The Value of This Tour

For $129, this half-day adventure packs in scenery, culture, and adrenaline. The private setting means you won’t be crowded, and the guides’ knowledge adds depth to the experience. The combination of riding through stunning landscapes and learning about ancient agricultural techniques makes this more than just a thrill ride. It’s an authentic peek into Peruvian ingenuity, all wrapped in a fun package.

The activity is perfect for active travelers, outdoor enthusiasts, or families with older children comfortable on ATVs. It’s not suitable for pregnant women, people with heart problems, or those with mobility issues, given the physical and safety considerations.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

If you’re looking to explore the Sacred Valley from a different angle — literally — and enjoy a combination of adventure and culture, this tour hits the spot. It suits travelers who appreciate a hands-on experience and want to see off-the-beaten-path sites like Moray’s terraces and the salt ponds of Maras without the hassle of planning multiple visits.

It’s also ideal for those who want to keep active during their trip; the ride itself is fun and engaging, but it also offers a chance to appreciate the region’s natural beauty and historical significance. If you’re a first-timer to ATV riding, the drivers’ lessons provided will help you feel confident, making it accessible for most.

Final Thoughts

This ATV tour in Cusco’s Sacred Valley strikes a good balance between adventure, education, and scenic beauty. The knowledgeable guides and stunning views ensure that you’ll leave with a sense of accomplishment and a deeper appreciation of Andean ingenuity. The inclusion of cultural sites like Moray and Maras makes it more meaningful than a simple ride, turning it into a well-rounded day out.

If you’re after a memorable experience that combines outdoor fun with authentic learning, this tour fits the bill. It’s especially well-suited for travelers craving a bit of adrenaline alongside their cultural explorations. Just pack your sense of adventure and a camera — you’ll want to remember these views.

FAQ

Is the tour suitable for beginners?
Yes, the tour includes driving lessons and safety equipment, making it accessible even if you’ve never ridden an ATV before.

What should I wear?
Comfortable clothes that can get a little dirty, sturdy shoes, sun protection like sunglasses and sunscreen, and a light jacket are recommended.

How long does the tour last?
The full experience runs approximately 6 hours, including pickup, the ride, site visits, and return to Cusco.

Are the entrance fees included?
No, the entrance to Moray and the salt ponds are paid separately — expect to pay around S/.70 for Moray and S/.15 for the salt mines.

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

Is transportation included?
Yes, round-trip transport from your Cusco hotel is part of the package.

What languages do guides speak?
Guides are available in English, Spanish, French, and Portuguese, accommodating a diverse group of travelers.

Is the tour private or group?
This experience is conducted with a private group, ensuring more personalized attention and flexibility.

Are pets allowed?
No, pets are not permitted on this tour.

Is this activity suitable for pregnant women?
No, it is not recommended for pregnant women due to safety concerns associated with ATV riding.

This ATV adventure in the Sacred Valley offers a lively, engaging way to experience some of Peru’s most iconic sites with a bit of adrenaline. Whether you’re after stunning scenic views, cultural insights, or just a fun day out, it’s a memorable addition to your Cusco itinerary.