Full day horseback riding to Rumiwasi – Cusco

A horseback adventure off the beaten path in Cusco

If you’re visiting Cusco and craving something beyond the usual tourist trail, this full-day horseback riding tour to Rumiwasi offers a wonderful alternative. For $155 per person, you’ll spend about six hours exploring some of the city’s lesser-known Inca ruins, including Inkilltambo, Kallachaca, and Incawasi, all while riding through terrain inaccessible by regular vehicles. The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, which means no fuss about transportation—just show up ready for a day of discovery.

What we love about this tour is its blend of personalized attention—small groups limited to 15—and the chance to experience authentic Inca sites in a relaxed setting. The guides are skilled at giving context to each ruin, making history come alive, rather than just wandering through empty stones. Plus, the fact that you’re riding through rugged paths that typical tours can’t reach makes for a truly different perspective.

One thing to keep in mind is that this experience is weather-dependent—a good day will mean smooth riding and stunning views, but rain or poor weather could disrupt plans or cancel the ride. Plus, you should be comfortable on horseback, as the terrain can be uneven and adventurous.

This tour suits travelers who enjoy active, experiential outings and wish to see hidden corners of Cusco’s Inca past. If you’re looking for a blend of adventure, culture, and intimacy, this ride is likely to be a highlight of your visit.

Key Points

• Authentic Inca ruins: Explore sites like Inkilltambo and Kallachaca, rarely visited by travelers.
• Small group size: Limited to 15, ensuring a personalized experience with plenty of guide attention.
• Terrain adventure: Ride through rugged paths inaccessible by vehicles, offering unique views and a more immersive experience.
• Included transport: Stress-free hotel pickup and drop-off simplify logistics.
• Historical insights: Guides provide meaningful context about each site’s significance.
• Weather dependence: The ride is weather-dependent, so good conditions are a plus.

Detailed review of the horseback riding tour to Rumiwasi

Starting at Cusco: Setting the scene

You’ll begin your day at 9:00am with convenient hotel pickup, which is a real boon in a city where transport can sometimes be chaotic. The tour is organized by Vieja Estancia—an operator known for small, authentic experiences—and is priced at $155 per person. When you consider this includes admission tickets to some sites and transportation, it’s a solid value for travelers eager for more than just a quick visit.

The group size maxes out at 15, which means plenty of room for questions and personalized attention—something we always appreciate when exploring unfamiliar terrain or history.

Itinerary breakdown: What makes each stop worthwhile

Inkilltambo: The ceremonial and burial site

Your first stop is Inkilltambo, a site dating back to the reign of Inca Wiracocha. This site was an important ceremonial, burial, and messenger relay point, stirring images of the vast Inca empire’s communication network. As you walk through its narrow, maze-like passageways carved from elaborately shaped rocks, you’ll get a real sense of the Inca’s engineering prowess.

The guide’s commentary is invaluable here—putting the site into a broader context and explaining how it functioned within the empire. The highlight? Exploring the carved stones, canals, altars, and fountains that reveal the Inca’s sophisticated craftsmanship.

Riding to Kallachaca and Rumiwasi: Hidden gems

Next, you’ll ride through scenic terrain to reach Kallachaca and Rumiwasi, sites that are not yet overwhelmed by travelers. These unspoiled Inca ruins are off the beaten path, giving you a rare glimpse into sites that remain largely unexplored. You’ll appreciate the peaceful atmosphere and the chance to imagine what life was like at these remote locations.

The adventure of riding through these rugged, unpaved paths is a notable highlight. It’s a chance to see the landscape that shaped Inca life and to experience the terrain firsthand. The admission tickets are included, which simplifies the process and ensures you won’t be surprised by extra costs.

Inka site of Kallachaka: The cosmical bridge

The tour continues with a visit to Kallachaka, an ancient Inca ceremonial site associated with the Chakana, or the cosmic cross. Here, you’ll see how the Inca connected their spiritual beliefs with the landscape, especially through the symbolism of the Chakana. The guide will explain how this site relates to Inca cosmology, offering an enriching layer to your visit.

Incawasi: Administrative control point

Your final stop is Incawasi, an Inca administrative site that controlled traffic between Cusco’s valley and the Sacred Valley. Architecturally noteworthy, it’s a fine example of Inca “Pillow” style construction—large, rounded stones used for stable and durable buildings.

Note: While visiting Incawasi, you’ll need to consider that admission is not included in the tour price, so plan accordingly if you wish to explore further.

The riding experience: Why terrain matters

The terrain is rugged, and the paths are narrow and uneven—part of what makes this tour so special. We loved the way riding through these less accessible paths allowed us to see the landscape from a different perspective. It’s not just about the ruins but also about connecting with the land and experiencing the challenge and thrill of navigating through the Inca terrain.

For those who enjoy horseback riding, this tour offers a good balance—not overly strenuous but enough to feel the adventure. If you’re new to riding or prefer smoother roads, this could be a consideration, as the terrain is definitely more rustic.

The guides: Knowledgeable and engaging

The guides are key to making this experience memorable. From the reviews, we gather that they’re extraordinarily knowledgeable and skilled at making history understandable and engaging. Their storytelling adds depth to the ruins and helps you visualize their past significance.

What travelers say

A Tripadvisor reviewer calls it a “magnifique” ride and highlights the guide as “extraordinaire”. They mention it as a “horseshoe ride off the tourist trail,” emphasizing the authentic and peaceful nature of the experience.

Practicalities and considerations

• Weather: Since the experience is weather-dependent, check the forecast before booking. Rain can make riding more difficult and may lead to cancellations or rescheduling.
• Preparation: Be comfortable on horseback and prepared for some physical activity. The terrain can be uneven, so sturdy shoes and a cautious approach are recommended.
• Timing: Starting at 9:00am allows you to beat the crowds and enjoy cooler temperatures in the morning.
• Cost and value: At $155, including tickets and transport, the price reflects a comprehensive, personalized experience. It’s a good deal for travelers seeking something more unique than traditional tours.

Who will love this tour?

This horseback riding trip is perfect for adventurous travelers who want to see hidden Inca sites without the crowds. It’s also ideal for those who appreciate small-group tours and personalized storytelling. If you’re comfortable on horseback and eager to explore terrains inaccessible by vehicle, you’ll find this a rewarding experience.

It’s not suited for travelers seeking a luxurious, passive tour or those with mobility issues, given the rugged paths and outdoor nature of the ride. But if you love history, nature, and a touch of adventure, this is a fantastic way to see a different side of Cusco.

The Sum Up

This full-day horseback riding tour to Rumiwasi offers a rare opportunity to explore lesser-known Inca ruins while enjoying the scenic, rugged landscapes of Cusco’s surroundings. The small-group format ensures personalized attention, and the inclusion of transport and tickets makes planning straightforward.

The experience balances adventure with education, as knowledgeable guides contextualize each site, enriching your understanding of Inca civilization. The terrain challenge adds a memorable dimension—riding through narrow paths, passing ancient stonework, and connecting with the land in a way that vehicle tours simply can’t match.

For those seeking a unique, authentic experience away from typical crowds, this tour provides genuine insight and adventure. It’s especially suited for active travelers, history buffs, and anyone craving a more intimate connection with Cusco’s ancient past.

If you’re prepared for the weather and comfortable on horseback, you’ll find this ride an unforgettable highlight of your visit, offering insights and vistas that few other tours can match.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour offers stress-free hotel pickup and drop-off, making it easy to start and end the day without transportation worries.

How long does the tour last?
It lasts approximately 6 hours, starting at 9:00am, with time allocated for stops, riding, and exploration.

What sites are visited during the tour?
You’ll visit Inkilltambo, Kallachaca, Rumiwasi, Kallachaka, and Incawasi, all lesser-known but significant Inca sites.

Are tickets to the sites included?
Yes, tickets to Inkilltambo, Kallachaca, and Rumiwasi are included; Incawasi’s entrance fee is not included.

Is this suitable for beginners?
The terrain is rugged, so some riding experience or comfort on horseback is recommended. If you’re familiar with riding, you’ll enjoy the adventure; beginners should consider their comfort level.

What is the maximum group size?
Small groups are limited to 15 travelers, ensuring personalized attention.

Can service animals participate?
Yes, service animals are allowed on this tour.

What is the cancellation policy?
You can cancel for free up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Cancellations made less than 24 hours before may not be refunded.

What should I wear or bring?
Weather-appropriate clothing, sturdy shoes, and a hat are wise. Rain gear might be needed depending on the forecast.

Is the tour weather-dependent?
Yes, bad weather can cause cancellations. In case of poor conditions, you’ll be offered a different date or full refund.

This horseback riding tour blends adventure, history, and a touch of the wild Cusco landscape. It’s a fantastic way to see hidden Inca sites and connect with the land in a way that’s both educational and physically engaging. If you’re eager for a meaningful, personalized experience that takes you beyond the usual tourist spots, this is well worth considering.