Horseback Riding Plus Tour to Sacsayhuaman, Quenqo, Puka Pucara and Tambomachay

Discovering Cusco’s Inca Heritage on Horseback

This horseback riding tour near Cusco offers a unique way to explore four renowned Inca sites—Sacsayhuaman, Qenqo, Puka Pucara, and Tambomachay—in about four hours. Priced at $90 per person, it’s a surprisingly good value considering the mix of cultural insight, scenic landscapes, and the sheer fun of riding Peruvian horses through mountain trails. The tour includes hotel pickup, guidance, riding gear, snacks, bottled water, and round-trip transport—making it a seamless experience from start to finish.

What we really love about this trip is how it combines learning with adventure. The knowledgeable guides don’t just point out the ruins; they share stories and insights that bring Inca history alive. Plus, the beautiful mountain views and lush, green countryside make every moment feel special. The horses themselves are gentle and comfortable, making this accessible even for beginners or those with little riding experience.

A possible consideration is that the entrance fee to the archaeological sites (~$20) isn’t included in the tour price. It’s an extra expense, but one that’s worth it to see these important remnants of Inca civilization firsthand. Also, the ride itself lasts about an hour, so if you’re expecting to spend most of your time on horseback, this might be a surprise. But the balance of riding and exploring makes for a well-rounded morning in Cusco’s surroundings.

This tour is perfect for travelers who want a blend of culture, nature, and a bit of adventure—especially if you enjoy scenic outdoor activities and are comfortable with a gentle ride through mountain trails. Families with children as young as six will find it suitable, and even seasoned riders say the experience is enjoyable.

Key Points

• Scenic horseback ride passing four major Inca sites near Cusco
• Expert guides share engaging stories about Inca history and customs
• Beautiful mountain and countryside views enhance the experience
• All necessary gear provided including helmets and saddle
• Round-trip hotel pickup and transport make logistics simple
• Extra archaeological entrance fee (~$20) not included but easily paid on site

Exploring Cusco’s Inca Ruins on Horseback

When we first considered this tour, the idea of combining horseback riding with visits to archaeological sites immediately appealed. It’s a respectful nod to the Inca’s own reliance on animals for transportation and labor, making this a meaningful way to connect with the past. The scenery alone is worth the trip, as you ride through lush valleys and hillside trails with sweeping views of Cusco’s surrounding mountains.

What’s Included and How It Works

The tour begins with hotel pickup—a convenience that cuts out the hassle of finding your way to the ranch. Once there, you’re fitted with a helmet and saddle, and your guide explains the basics of riding, even if you’re a beginner. The group size is limited to 15, creating an intimate atmosphere where guides can tailor their commentary and attend to everyone’s safety.

The four-hour duration includes about an hour of actual riding, with the rest spent traveling between sites by private transportation. This setup is smart because it allows for more time at each archaeological site than many other tours offer, plus the riding is spread out comfortably across the landscape.

Visiting the Inca Sites

Each stop offers something special:

• Sacsayhuaman: Known for its massive stone walls that fit together so tightly, you’ll marvel at the Inca engineering skills. According to reviews, guides share details about their construction and purpose, making the site much more engaging than just wandering through ruins. Many travelers mention feeling like they’re stepping into a movie set amidst these giant stones.

• Qenqo: This site features carved rocks and tunnels, believed to have been a religious or ceremonial center. The guide’s storytelling makes the complex carvings easier to understand, adding depth to your visit.

• Puka Pucara: Often overlooked, this red-rock fortress offers scenic views and a chance to learn about Inca military architecture. The name means “Red Fort,” and the vibrant hues pop against the green backdrop—a favorite among reviewers for its photogenic qualities.

• Tambomachay: Known as the Inca water temple, this site includes aqueducts and water channels. Our guides emphasize its spiritual significance and engineering marvels, adding a layer of appreciation for this tranquil spot.

Authentic Experiences and Expert Guidance

Multiple reviews praise guides such as Benny and Hogler for their wealth of knowledge and friendly approach. They don’t just recite facts—they share stories that make the ruins come alive, making the experience educational and fun. One reviewer noted, “The guide knew sooo much information,” highlighting how important expert narration is to this trip.

The Ride and Scenery

You’ll love the way the Peruvian horses move—smooth, comfortable, and well-matched to rider experience levels. Several reviews mention how perceived as “easy” and “fun” even for beginners. The trails wind through sheep-filled fields, lush forests, and rocky outcrops, with breathtaking views at every turn.

One reviewer shared, “Riding the horse high in the mountains was fabulous. The views were so beautiful I almost cried.” Imagine trotting through a landscape that looks like a movie backdrop, with the ancient ruins adding a mystical touch.

Food, Water, and Comfort

The tour provides snacks and bottled water—welcome extras that keep you energized during the ride. The included gear—helmets and saddles—is well cared for, and safety is clearly a priority. The small group size allows guides to keep a close eye on everyone, which adds reassurance for those less experienced.

Considerations and Caveats

While this experience is largely positive, it’s worth noting the extra cost of the archaeological site tickets (~$20). These are paid directly to the government, not included in the $90 fee. If you’re on a tight budget, this adds to your overall expense but ensures access to the sites themselves.

Also, the horseback ride duration might be shorter than some expect—about an hour of riding, with the rest spent traveling by van. If you’re hoping for a full day on horseback, this might be a bit disappointing. But for most, the balance of riding, sightseeing, and traveling works well.

Who Should Book This Tour?

This adventure is ideal for families, couples, or solo travelers looking for a relaxed, scenic, and educational outing. It’s suitable for beginners and those with minimal riding experience, thanks to the gentle horses and attentive guides. It also appeals to history buffs eager to see important Inca sites with expert commentary.

Why This Tour Stands Out

What makes this horseback ride one of the best ways to explore Cusco’s surroundings? First, the combination of outdoor activity and cultural discovery creates a memorable experience. Second, the local guides—praised in reviews for their knowledge and friendliness—add personality and insight that elevate the tour beyond just sightseeing.

We loved the attention to safety and comfort, which makes it accessible for most travelers, even children aged six and up. The scenic trails and authentic archaeological sites deliver a genuine taste of Inca history, without feeling rushed or overly commercialized.

The Sum Up

This Horseback Riding Plus Tour offers a wonderful balance of adventure, history, and scenery. It’s especially well-suited for travelers who want a hands-on, authentic experience that takes them off the beaten path while still providing comfort and safety. The presence of knowledgeable guides, beautiful landscapes, and gentle horses make it a highlight for many visitors to Cusco.

If your ideal travel day includes a relaxed ride through mountain trails combined with awe-inspiring Inca ruins, this tour is likely to meet your expectations—and maybe even exceed them. It’s a thoughtful blend of education and fun, perfect for those craving a deeper connection to Peru’s past in a memorable outdoor setting.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the tour suitable for beginners?
Yes, the tour is suitable for those with little or no riding experience. The horses are gentle, and guides are attentive, making it safe and enjoyable for first-timers.

What’s included in the price?
The $90 fee covers hotel pickup, a guided horseback ride, riding gear (helmets and saddles), snacks, bottled water, and private transportation to and from the archaeological sites.

Are the entrance fees to the ruins included?
No, the approximately $20 archaeological site tickets are paid separately directly to the Peruvian government. They are not included in the tour price.

How long is the horseback riding portion?
The ride itself lasts about an hour, with the remaining time spent traveling by van between sites. The entire experience lasts around four hours.

What should I wear?
Long pants (preferably jeans), closed shoes with rubber soles or walking shoes, and a rain jacket if rain is forecast are recommended. Avoid jewelry or valuables for safety.

What’s the group size?
The tour typically accommodates up to 15 travelers, allowing for a more personalized experience with plenty of attention from guides.

Is hotel pickup available?
Yes, round-trip transport from your hotel in Cusco is included, making logistics straightforward.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour is weather-dependent, and if canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered a different date or full refund.

This horseback riding adventure near Cusco combines the thrill of riding with the discovery of ancient Inca sites. It’s an experience that balances education, scenery, and fun—perfect for travelers eager to connect with Peru’s past in a lively, outdoor setting.