From Cusco: Tour Private – ATV´s Apukunaq Tianan

From Cusco: Tour Private – ATV´s Apukunaq Tianan
Location: Cusco Region, Peru
Country: Peru
Rating: 5
Price: $46 per person
Supplier Name: Uyuni Experience EIRL
Similar Experiences: Rainbow Mountain & Red Valley, Humantay Lake, Sacred Valley & Moray

Meta Description: Discover Cusco’s Apukunaq Tianan with a private ATV tour. Experience stunning sculptures, breathtaking landscapes, and learn about Andean culture in just 3 hours.

Getting a Taste of Cusco’s Hidden Gem
Imagine zipping across rugged terrain on a sturdy ATV, your guide leading you through one of the most intriguing archaeological sites near Cusco. For $46, you get a three-hour private adventure that combines off-road excitement with a deep dive into Andean artistry and culture. Starting from Cusco’s main square, this tour takes you to Tica Tica-Sencca, a scenic 30-minute drive through the Peruvian landscape before you even get on your ATV.

What we love about this experience is how accessible it makes exploring cultural sites. The tour’s highlight, the Abode of the Gods (Apukunaq Tianan), features impressive stone sculptures carved directly into the landscape – a tribute to ancient traditions. We also appreciate how the tour balances adventure with education; your guide will explain the representations of Andean culture embedded in these stone figures.

A potential consideration is the need for basic handling skills—the practical test and instructions are about 15 minutes, so if you’re new to ATVs, this prep is essential. Also, the entrance fee of 15 Peruvian soles isn’t included, so budget accordingly.

This tour suits adventurous travelers with an interest in culture, especially those who enjoy a mix of outdoor activity and learning about local customs. It’s ideal for those who want an authentic, hands-on experience rather than just sightseeing from a bus.

Key Points

• Cultural & Scenic Combo: Combines a visit to ancient sculptures with spectacular landscapes.
• Accessible for Beginners: Includes safety equipment and a practical handling test before the tour begins.
• Small Group & Private: Limited to 15 participants, ensuring a personalized experience.
• Affordable & Value-Focused: At $46, offers a unique combination of adventure and culture for the price.
• Flexible Scheduling: Multiple departure times morning and afternoon to fit your itinerary.
• Includes Return Transportation: Private transport back to Cusco keeps the experience hassle-free.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring the Highlights of the ATV Tour

Starting from Cusco’s Main Square, we’re picked up and driven to Tica Tica-Sencca, a scenic 30-minute ride that already sets the tone for the adventure. The landscape is filled with rolling hills and small farms, giving a glimpse of rural life in the Peruvian highlands. Once at the base, your guide introduces safety protocols and provides a 15-minute practical test. This is crucial because riding an ATV over uneven terrain requires a bit of confidence, but the instructions are clear and designed to make you comfortable.

What makes this stand out is the way the tour combines fun and safety; after all, if you’re not confident, the pleasure of zooming across the landscape diminishes. The small group setting ensures you receive personalized guidance, and you’re encouraged to ask questions throughout.

Once briefed, the tour begins, and the real fun kicks in. You’ll carve your way through some of the most scenic parts of the area, with panoramic views of Andean mountains, lush valleys, and open plains. The terrain varies from rocky paths to smoother stretches, making it suitable for most levels of experience. The guide often points out interesting flora and fauna, adding an educational layer to the ride.

The main attraction is reaching the Abode of the Gods, an archaeological site that features remarkable stone sculptures carved into large rocks. These are thought to be representations of deities or mythological figures, reflecting the deep spiritual connection between the Andean people and nature. It’s a place that feels both sacred and timeless.

Visitors have noted the opportunity to take impressive photos here, with some describing the sculptures as “truly fascinating” and “a unique glimpse into ancient beliefs.” The site isn’t overly crowded, allowing for a quiet moment to absorb the atmosphere and appreciate the craftsmanship.

After the visit, you’ll hop back on the ATV for the ride to the base, then enjoy a comfortable private transport back to Cusco. The entire experience is about 3 hours, which is enough time to enjoy the highlights without feeling rushed.

What to Expect & Practical Tips

The tour schedule offers flexibility with departure times at 8:00, 11:00, 13:00, and 15:00, accommodating different travel plans. We recommend choosing a morning or early afternoon slot for the best lighting and cooler temperatures, especially if you plan to take photos.

Included in the price are safety equipment—helmets, gloves, and protective gear—and a guided tour of the Apukunaq Tianan site. The entrance fee of 15 soles per person isn’t included, so bring cash to avoid delays. Snacks and mineral water aren’t part of the package, so consider bringing your own if you’re a bit peckish after the ride.

Group size is limited to 15 participants, which means you’ll get more personalized attention from your guide, making for a more comfortable and engaging experience. The tour is conducted in both English and Spanish, so language isn’t a barrier.

A word of caution: if you’re not comfortable on an ATV or have mobility issues, this might not be the best fit. Also, weather can influence the experience—rainy or muddy conditions can make riding trickier, and the landscape more challenging but also more beautiful.

The Authentic Experience: Why It Matters

What sets this tour apart is not just the adventure but the authenticity. You’re not just rushing past on a bus, but actively engaging with the land and its history. The sculptures themselves are a direct link to Andean spiritual beliefs and prehistoric artistry, making this more than a sightseeing stop—it’s a culture.

Reviewers have praised the knowledgeable guides who “explained the carvings and the significance of the sculptures,” adding depth to the experience. The chance to capture stunning photographs of both sculptures and sweeping landscapes** leaves many travelers with lasting memories.

The price point of $46 offers solid value, considering the inclusion of safety gear, instruction, transportation, and personalized guidance. It’s an experience that fits well into a broader itinerary, especially for those keen on outdoor activities combined with cultural discovery.

The Sum Up: Who Will Appreciate This Tour?

This ATV tour to Apukunaq Tianan is perfect for adventurous spirits who want a hands-on cultural experience. If you enjoy a bit of thrill and are curious about Andean traditions, you’ll find this tour both engaging and rewarding. It’s especially suited for those who prefer small group settings for a more intimate connection with guides and sites.

While it’s accessible to beginners due to the safety briefing and practice, confident riders will appreciate the scenic ride and exploration of ancient sculptures. It’s an excellent choice for travelers seeking a short, meaningful activity that combines nature, history, and fun—all within a manageable 3-hour window.

For those with limited time in Cusco or looking for a different way to connect with the local culture, this ATV adventure offers a memorable blend of landscape and legend that’s well worth considering.

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FAQ

Is the tour suitable for beginners?
Yes, the tour includes safety equipment, a practical handling test, and instructions, making it accessible even for those with little ATV experience.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience lasts approximately 3 hours, including transportation, instructions, and the actual ATV ride.

Are meals or snacks included?
No, snacks and mineral water are not included, so it’s wise to bring some along if you need a boost during the ride.

What is the cost of entrance to the site?
The entrance fee to Apukunaq Tianan is 15 Peruvian soles per person and is not included in the tour price.

Can I book last-minute?
Yes, but it’s recommended to check availability with the supplier via email, especially for last-minute reservations.

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour includes pickup at Cusco’s main square and private transportation back after the visit.

What languages are available for the guided tour?
Guides speak both English and Spanish, ensuring clear communication regardless of your language preference.

This ATV tour to Apukunaq Tianan offers an energetic, culturally enriching experience that blends adventure with history. It’s a distinctive way to explore the ancient Andean world while enjoying the natural beauty of the Cusco region—all for a fair price and with plenty of opportunities for memorable photos. Whether you’re a thrill-seeker or a curious traveler, this tour promises a lively, authentic slice of Peruvian heritage.