Full Day Horseback Riding Tour to Maras and Moray

Discover the Full Day Horseback Riding Tour to Maras and Moray

This 7-hour horseback riding experience in Cusco offers a fantastic way to explore some of the region’s most iconic archaeological sites, including Moray and the salt mines of Maras. Led by knowledgeable guides, you’ll start with a pickup in Cusco and head out to the rural community of Cruzpata, where your adventure begins. From there, it’s a scenic ride through farmland, snowy mountains, and ancient Inca terraces.

What we really loved about this tour is the combination of authentic cultural sites and stunning natural scenery. Visiting Moray, the Incas’ agricultural laboratory, gives you a tangible sense of their ingenuity, while the salt mines of Maras showcase ancient ingenuity still in use today. Plus, riding horses through the countryside provides a relaxed pace that allows you to soak in the views and learn from your guide.

A potential consideration is the price point—at $320 per person, this experience isn’t cheap, but it aims to combine horseback riding with guided archaeological insights and local visits, which enhances its value. The tour is best suited for travelers who enjoy outdoor activities, want to see less-touristed sites, and are comfortable riding horses in a scenic, rural setting.

If you’re seeking an activity that balances adventure, culture, and a touch of Inca history with personalized attention, this tour could be just the ticket. It’s especially ideal if you appreciate guided experiences that emphasize authentic interactions and smaller group sizes.

Key Points

• Cultural immersion: Visit lesser-known parts of Sacsayhuaman and learn about Inca innovations.
• Scenic landscapes: Ride through farmland and snowy mountain vistas.
• Expert guides: Knowledgeable guides like Holger enhance the experience with engaging commentary.
• Authentic experiences: See traditional salt mines and ancient terraces.
• All-inclusive: Snacks, a box lunch, and helmets are provided, making it convenient.
• Limited group size: Small, personalized tours mean more attention and fewer crowds.

A Deep Dive into the Cusco Horseback Riding Tour

This full day horseback riding adventure from Cusco combines culture, history, and natural beauty in a way that few other tours do. It’s designed to give travelers a well-rounded glimpse of Inca ingenuity and local life, with the added benefit of riding some well-trained horses along the way.

The Itinerary: More Than Just Riding

Your day begins with a pickup in Cusco at 9:00 am, a comfortable start that allows travelers to avoid early morning rush. The private transportation whisks you away to Cruzpata, a rural community that serves as the staging ground for your riding adventure. This initial drive is part of the appeal, offering glimpses of Cusco’s outskirts—lush farmland, patches of snow-capped mountains, and traditional homes.

Once there, your guides will hook you up with well-trained Paso horses—famous for their smooth gait—so you can enjoy a comfortable ride. The first stop is Moray, an astonishing archaeological site where the Incas experimented with crop cultivation at different altitudes. As one reviewer pointed out, “In Moray, the terraces can have up to 15 degrees difference in temperature,” which highlights why this site is so unique.

Your guide will explain the importance of Moray, emphasizing how the Incas worked with plants and foods to adapt to various environments. This is not just about looking at ruins; it’s about understanding Inca ingenuity firsthand. We loved the way the guide shared stories and scientific insights, making the site come alive.

After exploring Moray, you’ll saddle up again to head to Maras, a picturesque Andean village with a 400-year-old church. Here, you’ll enjoy a short tour of the town, soaking in local life and architecture. The highlight, of course, is the salt mines, a stunning landscape of thousands of salt pools still harvested traditionally. The contrast of the white salt against the vivid green terraces is a sight to behold.

The Riding Experience

The horses are described as well-trained and cared for—a big plus for those who might be nervous about riding. The gait, Paso Llano, is known for its smoothness, making the journey comfortable even for beginners. The riding portion offers views of farmland, mountains, and traditional villages, providing a laid-back yet immersive way to see the landscape.

While the riding itself is a highlight, the real value is the combination of outdoor activity and cultural learning. As one reviewer shared, “Holger went above and beyond, explaining the history of Cuzco and Peru,” which added depth to the trip.

The Food & Comfort

Snacks and a box lunch are included, allowing you to stay energized during the day’s activities. This is especially appreciated after a morning of riding and exploring. The tour ends with private transportation back to Cusco around 4:30 pm, giving you plenty of time to relax or continue exploring the city.

Authenticity & Personal Touch

What sets this tour apart is its small group size, limited to about 15 travelers, which ensures a more intimate experience. The guides’ professionalism and friendliness are often noted—one reviewer even stated, “Holger responded promptly via WhatsApp and made sure everything went smoothly.” This personal attention adds value, especially when navigating rural sites and maintaining a relaxed pace.

The Cost and Value

At $320 per person, this tour isn’t the most budget-friendly option, but it packs in a lot: guided archaeological explanations, horseback riding, visits to Moray and Maras, snacks, and transportation. For travelers who want a combination of adventure and cultural insight without the hassle of planning multiple excursions, it’s a solid investment.

Considerations for Travelers

• Ride comfort: While the horses are praised for their training, the terrain may be uneven, so good footwear and some riding experience help.
• Weather preparedness: Prepare for possible changes in weather, as mountain climates can be unpredictable.
• Booking in advance: Given the limited group size and popularity, booking about 18 days ahead is wise.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect for those who enjoy outdoor activities combined with cultural and historical insights. If you like riding horses and want an authentic way to see Moray and Maras, this tour offers both adventure and education. It’s especially suited for travelers who value small-group tours and appreciate knowledgeable guides who share stories beyond the standard script.

While it’s not ideal for travelers on a tight budget, the inclusion of snacks, a box lunch, and personalized attention makes it a decent value for those seeking a memorable, all-inclusive day out. Active travelers, history buffs, and anyone craving a more genuine experience beyond just sightseeing will find this tour rewarding.

FAQs

Is the tour suitable for all riding levels?
The tour uses well-trained Paso horses, known for their smooth gait, making it comfortable for most riders, including beginners. However, some riding experience is recommended for a more relaxed experience.

What time does the tour start?
The tour begins at 9:00 am with a pickup from your Cusco hotel or designated meeting point.

Is transportation included?
Yes, private transportation is included for both the trip from Cusco to Cruzpata and the return journey.

Are meals provided?
Snacks and a box lunch are included, giving you enough sustenance for a full day of activities.

What sites will I visit?
You will visit Moray, an ancient Inca agricultural experimental site, and the salt mines of Maras, plus a small tour of the village of Maras.

How long is the horseback riding portion?
While the exact riding time isn’t specified, the full day includes enough riding to enjoy the scenery and explore the sites comfortably.

Can I cancel or reschedule?
Yes, cancellations are free up to 24 hours before the scheduled start. Cancellations less than 24 hours in advance are non-refundable.

What is the maximum group size?
The tour limits guests to about 15, ensuring a small-group experience with more personalized attention.

Are helmets provided?
Yes, official horseback riding helmets are included for safety.

What should I bring?
Comfortable clothes suitable for riding, weather-appropriate gear, and a sense of adventure.

Final Thoughts

This horseback riding tour from Cusco offers a distinctive way to experience Inca history and Andean landscapes without the usual crowds. The combination of riding through farmland, exploring Moray’s terraces, and visiting the salt mines creates a well-rounded, engaging day for active travelers and culture seekers alike.

While the price might be higher than some other excursions, the personalized service, knowledgeable guides (like Holger), and authentic sites make it worth considering if you want to see beyond the typical tourist trail. It’s especially suited for those who appreciate a relaxed pace, stunning scenery, and meaningful cultural encounters.

If your idea of a perfect day involves horses, history, and mountain views, this tour is a strong contender on your Cusco itinerary. Just remember to book early—these intimate experiences fill up fast!