Horseback Riding: 4 Archaeological Sites

Exploring Cusco’s ancient ruins by horseback offers a different lens on the city’s history—and it’s not your average tour. For $75 per person, you’ll spend about 3.5 hours riding through stunning Andean landscapes, visiting four of the most famous archaeological sites: Saqsaywaman, Qenqo, Tambomachay, and Puka Pukara. The tour includes pickup from your hotel in Cusco, the chance to ride Peruvian Paso horses, and the company of a bilingual guide.

What we really like about this experience is the way it combines natural beauty with cultural insight. Riding on gentle, well-behaved horses gives a sense of freedom and connection to the land, while the guiding commentary helps you understand the significance of each site. It’s also a fantastic way to avoid the crowds and see the outskirts of Cusco from a different perspective. On the downside, some may find the requirement to purchase additional tickets to access certain sites a little inconvenient—though the guides often go out of their way to make it worthwhile.

This tour appeals most to travelers who enjoy outdoor activities, appreciate history, and want an intimate experience away from large groups. It’s perfect if you’re looking for a balance of adventure and education, with the flexibility of a half-day outing that leaves your afternoon free to explore more on your own.

Key Points

• Unique perspective on Cusco’s archaeological sites through horseback riding.
• All-inclusive pickup and transportation make it easy to focus on the experience.
• Expert bilingual guides enhance understanding of the sites’ history and significance.
• Well-behaved Peruvian Paso horses ensure a smooth, enjoyable ride, suitable for most skill levels.
• Flexible timing with two departure options (9 am or 1 pm) fits different schedules.
• Cost-effective group sizes (max 20) allow for personalized attention and interaction.

Riding through Cusco’s outskirts on a Peruvian Paso horse is a remarkably memorable way to connect with the region’s rich history and natural beauty. This tour takes you past four key sites—Saqsaywaman, Qenqo, Tambomachay, and Puka Pukara—each revealing different facets of Incan and pre-Incan civilizations. The combination of scenic landscapes, cultural relics, and the gentle rhythm of horse riding creates a balanced, immersive experience.

The Itinerary: What to Expect

The tour begins with hotel pickup—a small detail that makes all the difference, especially in a city where transportation options can be tricky. Once aboard the comfortable bus, you’ll be taken to the start point, where you’ll meet your Peruvian Paso horse and your bilingual guide, who will be with you throughout.

The journey starts with riding up to Saqsaywaman, a fortress and ceremonial complex perched on a hilltop. Here, you’ll enjoy panoramic views of Cusco and learn about its strategic importance. As Bryce W. noted, “My guide took us on his own time back to see Saqsaywaman after I missed it,” showing the guides’ dedication to making sure you see the highlights—even if your entry tickets weren’t initially arranged.

Next, you’ll visit Qenqo, a site famous for its carved stone amphitheater and labyrinthine tunnels. Your guide will explain its possible ceremonial functions, helping you picture ancient rituals performed there.

Tambomachay offers a peaceful moment with its aqueducts and water features, believed to be associated with Incan water rituals. The lush surroundings and the soothing sound of flowing water make this site especially charming on horseback.

Finally, you’ll stop at Puka Pukara, a red fortress that once served as a military and administrative center. The vivid red stone contrasts beautifully with the green landscape, providing fantastic photo opportunities.

The Ride and the Guides

What makes this tour stand out is the quality of the horses and the guidance. As Jamie B. shared, “The horses were well-behaved, and because we had more experience, we could trot and canter instead of just walking.” The Peruvian Paso horses are known for their smooth gait, making even the less experienced riders comfortable.

The guides, often praised for their kindness and knowledge, enrich the experience with engaging stories and historical context. From the reviews, it’s clear that they genuinely care about both their horses and visitors, often going above and beyond—like loaning jackets for cold weather or adjusting rides to suit different experience levels.

Practical Details and Value

At $75 per person, this tour offers excellent value when you consider the transportation, guides, and access to multiple sites in just a few hours. The inclusion of snacks adds a thoughtful touch, keeping you energized for the ride. However, you’ll need to budget separately for the archaeological site tickets, as these are not included.

Booking in advance (about 19 days on average) is recommended, especially during peak season, to secure your spot. The small group size—up to 20 travelers—ensures a more personalized, relaxed atmosphere, perfect for absorbing the sights and sounds of the Andean landscape.

Weather and Clothing

Since the tour operates in all weather conditions, it’s wise to dress in layers and bring rain gear if needed—just like the reviewers who appreciated guides loaning jackets on cold, wet days. The tour’s flexible schedule also means you can choose between the morning or afternoon departure to suit your plans.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is ideal for history buffs who want to see Cusco’s ruins from a different perspective, outdoor lovers eager to combine riding with sightseeing, and families looking for a safe, engaging activity. The relaxed pace and the focus on natural landscapes make it accessible even for those new to horseback riding.

Final Thoughts

This horseback tour near Cusco offers more than just a ride—it’s an opportunity to connect with the landscape and history in a way that few other experiences can match. The combination of expert guides, well-behaved horses, and access to four major archaeological sites makes it a solid choice for travelers seeking a meaningful and memorable half-day adventure.

If you’re after a balanced mix of culture, scenery, and activity, this tour will not disappoint. It’s best suited for those who value authentic experiences and are comfortable in a group setting, ready to explore both the ancient ruins and the beautiful Andean environment.

Frequently Asked Questions

• What is the duration of the tour?
  Approximately 3.5 hours, including transport, riding, and visits to four archaeological sites.

• Are transportation and pickup included?
  Yes, hotel pickup and drop-off are included for convenience.

• What are the sites visited?
  Saqsaywaman, Qenqo, Tambomachay, and Puka Pukara.

• Is prior horseback riding experience necessary?
  Not necessarily. The horses are well-behaved, and guides can accommodate different levels, but some reviews mention being able to trot or canter if experienced.

• Do I need to buy tickets to visit the archaeological sites?
  Yes, tickets are not included in the tour price, so plan to purchase them separately.

• What should I wear?
  Dress in layers, and bring rain gear if needed, as the tour operates in all weather conditions.

• Is this tour suitable for children?
  Yes, children must be accompanied by an adult, and most travelers of all ages can participate.

• How many people are in each group?
  A maximum of 20 travelers, ensuring a comfortable experience.

• Can I cancel if my plans change?
  Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the tour starts.

• What if I don’t want to ride the whole time?
  The guide will help you adjust your pace, and you can opt for a more relaxed ride if preferred.

For those eager to combine a touch of adventure with cultural discovery, this horseback riding tour near Cusco offers a memorable way to experience the area’s ancient sites and stunning scenery—on horseback, no less. It balances a well-organized itinerary with genuine moments of connection to the landscape and history.