Half-Day Cycling Tour of Maras and Moray from Cusco

Exploring the Andean Highlands on Two Wheels: A Review of the Half-Day Cycling Tour of Maras and Moray from Cusco

Imagine cruising along winding mountain paths on a full-suspension bike, with the crisp air filling your lungs, and panoramic views of the Peruvian Andes unfolding before you. That’s exactly what awaits you on the Half-Day Cycling Tour of Maras and Moray from Cusco. Priced at $127.18 per person and lasting roughly 5 to 7 hours, this experience packs a punch—combining adventure, culture, and spectacular scenery in one memorable ride.

What makes this tour stand out? First, the professional bilingual guides—they’re not just technicians on bikes but storytellers who deepen your understanding of the sites. Second, the full-suspension Kona Stinky-Six bikes and safety gear ensure you feel secure whether you’re an avid cyclist or trying mountain biking for the first time.

A potential consideration? The altitude and varied terrain require a reasonable level of fitness and comfort with cycling, especially on bumpy paths. But if you’re up for a challenge and eager to see iconic sites, this tour is perfect. It’s especially suited for those who value authentic outdoor adventures and appreciate knowledgeable guides who enhance the experience with local insights.

Key Points

• Scenic Ride: 35 kilometers through the stunning Andean mountains, with breathtaking views.
• Cultural Highlights: Visit the salt ponds at Maras and the agricultural terraces of Moray.
• All-Inclusive: Equipment, transportation, and lunch are included—no hidden fees.
• Professional Guides: Bilingual guides provide safety tips and cultural context.
• Comfort and Safety: Full suspension bikes, helmets, pads, and rain jackets provided.
• Small Group: Up to 8 travelers, ensuring personalized attention.

The Details of the Cycling Experience

Starting Point and Logistics

The tour begins promptly at 8:30 am, with hotel pickup arranged from your accommodations in Cusco. This included pickup and drop-off make it easy to start your adventure without the hassle of finding your way to a meeting point. The private transportation throughout the tour means you’ll be comfortably shuttled between sites without worrying about navigation or logistics.

The Itinerary Breakdown

The ride kicks off heading toward Salinas de Maras, a striking collection of salt evaporation ponds dating back to pre-Inca times. We loved the way these pools, shimmering and patterned, merge natural beauty with human ingenuity—an incredible sight that combines history with active exploration. Keep in mind that admission tickets to Maras are not included, so plan accordingly if you wish to enter.

Next, the route takes us to Moray, an impressive archaeological site of circular terraces. These Inca terraces weren’t just agricultural—though they certainly served as experimental farming grounds—but also served as an Inca “greenhouse”, showing how the Incas adapted to their environment. As one reviewer noted, the large, circular terraces were a “place where the best seeds for agriculture were collected,” giving us insight into the ingenuity of Inca farming techniques.

Cycling Terrain and Experience

The 35-kilometer ride covers a variety of terrain, from smooth mountain roads to bumpy paths that require agility and balance. The full suspension bikes are designed to absorb shocks, making even rugged stretches comfortable. Whether it’s your first time on a mountain bike or you’re experienced, the guides are attentive—offering tips and support along the way.

We appreciated the professional safety equipment—helmets, knee and elbow pads, gloves, and goggles—making the ride less intimidating. The rain jacket provided is a thoughtful touch, given the unpredictable mountain weather.

Authentic and Educational Highlights

Beyond the physical activity, the guides enrich the experience with stories about the sites. They are fluent in both English and Spanish, ensuring a smooth and engaging commentary. As one reviewer shared, their guide “Armando” was “super helpful” and “learned a lot about mountain biking and the culture,” which added depth to the trip.

Lunch and Rest Breaks

After roughly half the tour, you’ll stop for a well-deserved lunch, included in the price. The meal offers a chance to relax, take in the surroundings, and share stories with your travel companions. Following lunch, there’s a walking tour of Moray, which allows you to stretch your legs and absorb the incredible Inca terraces.

The End of the Tour

The tour concludes with a drop-off back at your Cusco hotel, making it hassle-free to relax and reflect on your day. The small group size—up to 8 travelers—ensures personalized attention and a more intimate experience.

Authenticity and Value

This tour offers a fantastic balance between adventure and cultural discovery. For just over $100, you get a guided ride through some of the most iconic sites near Cusco, with all necessary equipment and support. The small group size contributes to a more engaging, less rushed experience, which many travelers value.

What makes the value especially good is the inclusion of equipment, transportation, and lunch—costs that often add up on their own. Plus, the knowledgeable guides elevate the experience, transforming a physical activity into a cultural story.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour?

If you’re someone who loves outdoor activities with a cultural twist, this tour is perfect. It suits travelers who appreciate stunning mountain scenery, are comfortable on a bike and at altitude, and enjoy learning about local history. Whether you’re a first-time biker or seasoned cyclist, you’ll find the ride rewarding—especially with the support of expert guides.

It’s also ideal for those who want a half-day adventure that combines physical activity with cultural insight, without the full commitment of a full-day trip. Family groups, couples, or solo travelers seeking a well-organized, authentic experience will all find something to enjoy here.

Detailed Review of the Tour

The Scenic Ride Through the Andean Mountains

The 35 kilometers of cycling take you through a landscape that’s a visual feast—craggy peaks, terraced hills, and shimmering salt ponds. The altitude offers sweeping views that reward your effort. We loved the way the full suspension bikes handled uneven terrain, making the bumpy patches less daunting, especially for those unaccustomed to mountain biking.

Expect to traverse a mix of smooth mountain paths and rocky segments. The guides’ expertise ensures your safety, providing quick tips for handling tricky sections. The small group size creates a relaxed atmosphere, where the guide can keep an eye on everyone and adapt to your pacing.

Visiting Salinas de Maras

The salt ponds at Maras are a true marvel. The sight of thousands of shallow pools, meticulously arranged and shimmering under the Andean sun, is unforgettable. Since the salt has been harvested here since pre-Inca times, it’s a place where you can see centuries of tradition still alive. You might find it fascinating to learn how the salt is naturally evaporated and collected by local families—adding a genuine cultural layer to your visit.

While the admission fee is not included, the site itself is free to view and photograph, making it a worthwhile stop for its photographic appeal and historic significance.

Exploring Moray’s Agricultural Terraces

The circular terraces at Moray are a highlight of Inca engineering. Their concentric design is not just beautiful but functional—presumably designed to optimize agricultural experiments across various microclimates.

Walking through Moray, you’ll notice the terraced floors, each with its own unique microenvironment. Your guide will share stories about how the Incas used this site as a kind of agricultural laboratory, testing crops suited to different elevations. You’ll appreciate the scale and ingenuity of these terraces, which resemble a giant, circular amphitheater.

The Support and Comfort Features

Every aspect of this tour emphasizes safety and comfort. The full suspension Kona bikes are designed to absorb jolts and bumps, making longer rides more manageable. Safety gear—including helmets, gloves, knee and elbow pads—is provided, which is reassuring when tackling uneven terrain.

The rain jacket is a thoughtful addition, considering mountain weather can change suddenly. The professional bilingual guides are not only knowledgeable but also friendly, ensuring you feel supported whether you’re explaining your concerns or simply soaking in the scenery.

Lunch and Cultural Enrichment

After about two and a half hours of riding, you’ll take a break for lunch—an opportunity to rest, hydrate, and enjoy some local flavors. The included meal helps justify the cost, as many similar tours charge extra for food.

Following lunch, a walking tour of Moray allows you to stretch your legs and better appreciate the terraces. This combination of biking and walking is perfect for those who prefer a bit of variety in their outdoor adventures.

Authentic Feedback from Travelers

Many reviews highlight the knowledge and helpfulness of the guides. One traveler praised “Armando,” noting how he made the experience both safe and informative, adding cultural context along the way. Others appreciated how the guides supported new cyclists, giving tips for handling bumpy paths.

The stunning views of the snow-capped Andes and the unique sites of Maras and Moray consistently impress travelers. The small group size fosters a friendly and personalized atmosphere, ensuring everyone feels taken care of.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour Right for You?

This half-day cycling trip offers a wonderful combination of adventure, scenery, and cultural discovery. It’s especially suitable for active travelers who want to see some of the most iconic sites near Cusco without committing to a full-day activity. If you’re comfortable with biking and at high altitude, you’ll enjoy the challenge and the spectacular vistas.

Travelers who appreciate expert guidance and want to learn more about Inca engineering and traditions will find this tour enriching. The inclusion of equipment, transportation, and lunch means you won’t need to worry about extra costs or logistics—just come prepared for a day of discovery.

Given the glowing reviews about the guides’ knowledge and the breathtaking scenery, this tour is a solid choice for those seeking an off-the-beaten-path experience that combines outdoor activity with culture. It’s an excellent way to connect with Peru’s landscape and history in a fun, active way.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the starting time for the tour?
The tour begins at 8:30 am, with pickup from your Cusco hotel arranged beforehand, making it a hassle-free start to your day.

Is the tour suitable for beginners?
Yes, the guide’s support and quality bikes make this accessible even for those new to mountain biking, provided you’re comfortable at altitude and on uneven terrain.

Are helmets and safety gear included?
Absolutely. The tour provides helmets, knee and elbow pads, gloves, goggles, and a rain jacket to keep you safe and comfortable.

What should I bring on the tour?
Bring comfortable cycling clothes, a backpack, water, sunblock, and sunglasses. The weather can change, so being prepared is wise.

Are the entrance fees to Maras and Moray included?
No, admission tickets are not included, so you might want to budget extra for entrance fees if you wish to explore these sites more thoroughly.

How many people are in each group?
The tour caps at 8 travelers, ensuring a small, personalized experience.

What is the duration of the tour?
Expect about 5 to 7 hours from pickup to drop-off, with the cycling portion lasting roughly half that time, including stops.

Is transportation included?
Yes, private transportation takes you from Cusco to the sites and back, simplifying logistics and saving time.

Final Remarks

If you’re craving an outdoor adventure that combines spectacular scenery, cultural insight, and active exploration, this bike tour ticks all the boxes. It’s well-suited for those who want a small-group experience with knowledgeable guides, quality equipment, and memorable sites. The balance of physical activity and cultural education makes it a rewarding choice for most travelers visiting Cusco.

Whether you’re an experienced cyclist or a first-timer looking to try mountain biking in a safe environment, this tour promises an engaging, scenic, and educational journey. Just be prepared for altitude and some bumpy terrain—then enjoy the ride!