Horseback Riding in Cusco

Horseback Riding in Cusco: A Genuine Journey Through Incan Heritage and Andean Landscapes

If you’re exploring Cusco and want to see the surrounding countryside in a way that’s both active and intimate, a horseback riding tour offers a perfect blend of adventure and education. For $75 per person, you’re in for a three-hour outdoor experience that takes you through stunning landscapes and archaeological sites seldom crowded with travelers. The tour is organized by Mallky Tours, and it features two route options—short and long—allowing some flexibility depending on your energy and interest levels.

What truly stands out about this experience are the views of the Andean scenery and the visit to significant Inca sites like the Temple of the Moon and the Chuspiyuq sector. We love how the tour combines a relaxed ride with a touch of history, giving you a chance to step back in time while enjoying the fresh mountain air. Another highlight is the chance to explore less touristy archaeological sites, which often feel more authentic.

A possible consideration is that the tour lasts about three hours, which might be a bit demanding if you aren’t accustomed to riding horses or have mobility concerns. The included transportation, guide, and equipment make this a value-packed option, especially since it’s a private group experience—meaning more personalized attention and flexibility.

This horseback riding tour suits travelers who appreciate outdoor adventures, culture, and scenic vistas. It’s an excellent choice for those looking to combine physical activity with meaningful visits to Inca relics, all while staying comfortably within a reasonable budget.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Authentic archaeological visits: Visit the Temple of the Moon, Kusilluchayuq, and Chuspiyuq, gaining insights into Inca traditions.
• Scenic landscapes: Enjoy horseback riding through lush Andean terrain with beautiful mountain views.
• Flexible routes: Choose between a short or longer ride, depending on your stamina and time.
• Private group experience: More personalized attention from guides and muleteers.
• All-inclusive price: Transportation, guide, horses, helmets, snacks, and entrance fees are covered.
• Suitable for active travelers: Not recommended for those over 230 lbs, babies under one year, or seniors over 95.

Exploring Cusco on Horseback: An Authentic, Active Adventure

We’ve always appreciated tours that go beyond the typical sightseeing bus or walking tour, and this horseback ride in Cusco offers just that. It’s a chance to enjoy the landscapes and history while engaging in a hands-on activity. While it’s not an equestrian competition, the experience is accessible enough for most first-timers, thanks to the presence of experienced muleteers and safety gear like helmets.

Transportation to the ranch is included, which is handy given Cusco’s hilly streets and varying traffic conditions. The pickup at your hotel means a stress-free start, and the round-trip transfer ensures you won’t need to worry about logistics. Once at the ranch, the guides walk you through safety instructions and provide horses that are well-suited for different levels of riding experience.

The routes are designed to take you through beautiful countryside, away from the bustling city center. The longer route visits the Temple of the Moon, a site dedicated to Mama Quilla, symbolizing feminine purity—an intriguing insight into Inca spirituality. You’ll also see Kusilluchayuq, the Temple of the Monkey, related to rain, which is a fascinating detail that many visitors overlook. The final stop, Chuspiyuq, offers an impressive Inca stonework carved into the mountain rock, with a profile of an Inca face clearly visible—an authentic reminder of the civilization’s craftsmanship.

The entire trip lasts about three hours, including transfers, which makes it a manageable half-day activity. The flexibility of choosing between a shorter or longer ride means you can tailor the experience to your comfort level. Many reviewers mention how “the views are stunning and the sites offer a peaceful glimpse into the Inca past,” making it a memorable part of a Cusco itinerary.

What’s included —transportation, horses, helmets, guide, snacks, and entrance fees—add up to a well-priced adventure that minimizes extra costs. You won’t need to worry about hidden expenses, and the private group setup ensures you get more personalized attention from your guide, who speaks both English and Spanish.

A few considerations: the tour is not suitable for those with mobility issues or very heavy riders over 230 lbs. Also, the three-hour ride may be tiring for some, especially if unaccustomed to horseback riding. Weather can be variable, so packing rain gear and sun protection is recommended, along with water to stay hydrated.

A Thorough Look at the Itinerary and Experience

Let’s walk through what a typical day on this tour looks like. After a convenient hotel pickup, you’re driven out to the ranch—an area surrounded by impressive farmland and mountain views. The journey sets a tranquil tone, allowing you to take in the lush rural landscape before mounting your horse.

Once mounted, your guide leads you along two route options—shorter or longer. We loved how the longer route offers a more comprehensive exploration of the archaeological sites, giving you more time to soak in the scenery and ask questions about Inca history. The shorter route is perfect if you’re pressed for time or prefer a lighter ride, but both options share the same core elements.

As you ride, the landscape shifts from cultivated fields to rocky hills and lush valleys, providing fantastic photo opportunities. The Temple of the Moon is particularly evocative, with its stone walls and the quiet spirituality that still seems to linger. The Kusilluchayuq site, related to rain, offers a more natural setting, with the sound of mountain streams accompanying your ride.

The Chuspiyuq sector is the tour’s highlight—a significant Inca temple built into the mountain, with stone carvings and a carved Inca profile. One reviewer noted, “Seeing the carved face in the rock was like uncovering a secret from the past,” which captures the sense of discovery this experience offers.

After about an hour riding, you’ll return to the ranch for some snacks—typically local treats or fruit—before the transfer back to Cusco. The entire experience fits comfortably into a half-day, leaving plenty of time afterward for other exploration or a relaxed evening in the city.

Authentic insights from travelers include comments like “the guides were friendly and knowledgeable, making the experience both fun and educational,” and “the views of the mountains are breathtaking, especially when riding along the ridge.” These highlights underscore the tour’s appeal for those who want more than just a scenic ride—they want an educational, culturally meaningful experience.

Why This Tour Offers Real Value

At $75, this horseback riding tour provides a rich blend of adventure, culture, and scenery. Considering the cost, the inclusion of transportation, guide, gear, entrance fees, and snacks makes it an excellent value—especially given the personalized, private group nature. You’re not just paying for a ride; you’re paying for a guided journey into the heart of Inca sites, with the added benefit of beautiful landscapes.

The small-group format means you get more tailored explanations and the chance to ask questions about the sites, history, and local customs. The scenic vistas and less crowded archaeological sites make this a more intimate experience compared to larger, bus-based tours. It’s a fantastic way to combine physical activity with cultural enrichment, perfect for travelers who love hands-on history.

While it’s not suited for everyone—those with mobility issues, very young children, or heavy riders should consider other options—the majority of active travelers will find this a rewarding addition to their Cusco trip. It’s particularly appealing for those looking for an authentic, off-the-beaten-path experience that stands apart from typical city tours.

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Final Thoughts

This horseback riding adventure in Cusco offers a meaningful way to explore Inca sites while enjoying the natural beauty of the Andes. The combination of scenic landscapes, historical sites, and personal attention from guides creates a memorable, authentic experience that feels both fun and educational.

For travelers eager to engage actively with their surroundings, appreciate stunning mountain views, and learn about Inca history from a local perspective, this tour hits all the right notes. It’s especially well-suited for those who prefer small-group, private experiences rather than large tour buses, enhancing the sense of discovery and personal connection.

If you’re looking for an adventure that combines outdoor activity with cultural depth, this horseback ride is a highly worthwhile choice to include in your Cusco itinerary.

FAQ

Is transportation included in the tour?
Yes, pickup at your hotel in Cusco and return after the ride are included, making logistics straightforward.

How long is the horseback riding part of the tour?
The entire tour lasts about three hours, including transfers, with riding itself being approximately that duration.

What sites will I visit on this tour?
You’ll visit the Temple of the Moon, the Temple of the Monkey (Kusilluchayuq) related to rain, and the Chuspiyuq sector, an important Inca temple with carved rock features.

Is this tour suitable for beginners?
Yes, the tour is designed to be accessible to most riders, and guides, along with muleteers, assist throughout. Helmets are provided for safety.

Can I choose between different routes?
Yes, there are two route options—short and long—allowing some flexibility based on your preferences or stamina.

What should I bring?
Bring sun protection (hat, sunscreen), hiking shoes, water, rain gear if needed, and cash for extra expenses. Weather can change quickly in the mountains.

Is this tour suitable for children or seniors?
It’s not recommended for babies under 1 year or people over 95 years or over 230 lbs. The activity may be tiring for some older adults.

What is the price of the tour?
The cost is $75 per person, which includes all major expenses like entrance fees, snacks, and gear.

Are there any cancellation policies?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, giving you flexibility if your plans change.

This horseback riding tour in Cusco offers something genuinely different—an active, scenic, and culturally enriching experience that’s perfect for travelers who want to see the Inca sites without the crowds. It’s a memorable way to connect with the landscape and history of this incredible region, all while enjoying the simple pleasure of riding through the mountains.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby