If you’re looking for a way to combine adventure, culture, and spectacular scenery, this half-day ATV tour from Cusco offers something special. For just $35 per person, you’ll spend around 12 hours exploring the iconic Moray terraces and salt mines of Maras, all while riding lively ATVs through some of the most striking rural landscapes in the Cusco region. Led by friendly guides, this tour is perfect for those who want an active experience that also gives them a taste of local history and natural beauty.

Two things really stand out: first, the guided tour of Moray’s archaeological terraces provides a fascinating glimpse into ancient agricultural experimentation—imagine standing amidst terraces that look like giant natural amphitheaters. Second, the salt mines of Maras offer a truly unique sight, with thousands of glistening salt pools carved into the mountainside, a picture-perfect moment you won’t forget.

A possible consideration is the duration and physical activity involved—if you’re not comfortable on ATVs or prefer more leisurely sightseeing, this might feel a bit intense. Still, for those craving an active day outdoors, the combination of scenic landscapes and authentic local sites makes this tour worthwhile.

This experience suits travelers who love adventure, want an off-the-beaten-path perspective, and enjoy guided explanations of historical sites. If you’re looking to combine physical activity with cultural exploration, this tour offers real value.

Key Points

Adventure on Wheels: Ride ATV bikes across scenic rural routes and get a sense of the landscape beyond standard tours.
Cultural Insights: Learn about the Moray terraces, an archaeological site used by the Incas for agricultural experiments.
Spectacular Salt Mines: Discover the Maras salt pools, a stunning patchwork of thousands of small salt evaporation ponds.
Professional Guides: Enjoy guided commentary in both English and Spanish that enhances the experience.
All-in-One Day: With transportation, equipment, and guides included, the tour offers a hassle-free way to explore.
Flexible Cancellation & Payment: Book confidently with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and the option to reserve now and pay later.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Deep Dive into the ATV Tour Experience

Starting bright and early, this tour begins with a hotel pickup in Cusco, setting the stage for a full day of exploration. After roughly 50 minutes of comfortable transport, you’ll arrive in Cruzpata, a small town that acts as the gateway to your adventure. Here, the guides will provide a 15-minute practice session—a helpful time to get comfortable on the ATVs if you’re new to riding.

Once everyone is ready, the real fun begins. The first major stop is the Moray archaeological site, where you’ll spend about 40 minutes on a guided tour. These terraces are more than just steps carved into the earth—they represent an ancient agricultural laboratory where Incas tested crop varieties at different climate levels. We loved the way guides explained how these terraces mimic natural conditions, offering a glimpse into Inca ingenuity. The terraces are striking, with concentric circles descending into the earth, creating a natural amphitheater.

Riding the ATVs through the surrounding landscapes takes approximately 2 hours, during which we observed a variety of lush fields, rocky outcrops, and distant mountain views. The guides emphasize that the route is designed to showcase the region’s natural beauty, so expect plenty of photo opportunities. The ride is suitable for most skill levels, but beginners should pay close attention during the practice session. The guides are attentive and often offer tips to keep everyone safe and comfortable.

Next up is Maras, home to the famous salt mines. To ensure safety and prevent accidents, transportation from Cruzpata is arranged for this part of the tour. The salt pools are a surreal sight—thousands of small, rectangular ponds shimmering in the sun, each one carefully maintained by local families. The 10 soles entrance fee for the salt mines is a small extra, but well worth it for the chance to see one of Peru’s most iconic sights up close. Visitors have commented that the salt pools are a “photographer’s paradise,” and that walking among the pools gives a real sense of local tradition.

The tour wraps up with the return trip to Cusco, arriving around 2:40 pm on Plateros Street. The entire experience is long but well-paced, giving you a full day of activity, learning, and stunning scenery.

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What’s Included and What’s Not

The price of $35 covers all the essentials: transportation, ATVs, fuel, helmets, gloves, and a professional guide fluent in both English and Spanish. The guides are often praised for their knowledge and friendliness, making the experience more engaging. A first aid kit provides peace of mind, especially when riding on uneven terrain.

However, the tour does not include entrance tickets to the sites or the partial tourist ticket—costing 40 soles for locals or 70 soles for foreigners—so budget for that if you want to explore the sites more thoroughly. The salt mine entrance is a modest 10 soles, and any additional souvenirs or snacks are your responsibility.

What Makes it Special

The real appeal of this tour lies in the combination of adventure and authenticity. Riding ATVs over rugged terrain provides a rush of adrenaline, especially when you reach viewpoints overlooking the vast valleys and distant mountains. Our guides’ insightful commentary on the Incan agricultural experiments at Moray added depth, making the ruins much more meaningful than just another archaeological site.

The salt mines offer a different kind of awe—seeing the intricate network of pools and understanding how salt is harvested in such a traditional manner makes you appreciate the local community’s resilience and ingenuity.

Practical Tips for Travelers

Wear comfortable clothes and closed-toe shoes suited for riding and walking.
Bring sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat—the sun can be intense during the day.
Carry some cash for optional entrance fees or souvenirs.
Be prepared for the possibility of dust or mud, depending on weather.
If you’re new to ATV riding, take advantage of the practice session—guides are patient and helpful.
Book in advance, especially during peak seasons, to secure your spot.

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Who Should Consider This Tour?

This adventure appeals most to travelers who enjoy active experiences and want an authentic look into local sites beyond the usual tourist path. It’s ideal for those with a sense of adventure or interest in ancient agriculture and traditional salt harvesting. If you’re traveling with family or friends who are comfortable on ATVs, this is a fun way to bond over a shared exploration.

However, if you prefer more relaxed sightseeing or are uncomfortable on motorized bikes, this might not suit your pace. The tour’s length and physical component are significant factors to consider.

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Final Thoughts

This Cusco ATV tour to Moray and Maras strikes a nice balance between adventure, culture, and scenery. For just $35, you get an active day that includes guided insights into some of the most visually stunning and historically significant sites in the region. The professional guides, well-organized transport, and variety of landscapes make for a memorable experience that cuts through the usual tourist crowds.

It’s especially perfect for those seeking a fun, hands-on way to experience the diverse environment around Cusco. Whether you’re riding through terraced agricultural experiments or marveling at the patchwork salt pools, this tour offers a chance to see the land with a local’s perspective and an adventurer’s spirit.

FAQs

How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts approximately 12 hours, with pickups and drop-offs included, ending around 2:40 pm in Cusco.

What is included in the price?
Price includes transportation, ATVs, fuel, helmets, gloves, a professional bilingual guide, and a first aid kit.

Do I need to pay extra for entrance fees?
Yes, you’ll need to pay for site entry tickets—40 soles for locals or 70 soles for foreigners—and 10 soles for the salt mines. These are paid separately.

Is the tour suitable for beginners?
Yes, the tour includes a 15-minute practice session to get familiar with ATV riding. Guides are helpful and attentive to beginners.

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.

What should I bring?
Bring comfortable clothes, sunscreen, sunglasses, a hat, and some cash. Wear sturdy shoes suitable for riding and walking.

Are guides available in English?
Yes, guides speak both English and Spanish, making it accessible for most travelers.

Is this tour physically demanding?
It involves riding ATV bikes and walking around sites, so a reasonable level of fitness is recommended, but it’s manageable for most with proper preparation.

This tour offers a genuinely engaging way to connect with Peruvian history and landscape, blending physical activity with cultural insights. Whether you’re an adventure seeker or a curious traveler, it’s a memorable addition to your Cusco itinerary.