New attraction Abode of the Gods on quad bikes

Experience the Abode of the Gods on Quad Bikes: An Authentic Adventure Near Cusco

If you’re looking to mix a bit of Inca history with the thrill of off-road riding, the new attraction called Abode of the Gods on quad bikes could be just the ticket. Located in the Cusco Region, this 3-hour tour offers a unique peek at impressive stone sculptures that reach up to 8 meters high, along with the excitement of riding ATVs through scenic landscape. At just $35 per person, it provides a surprisingly good balance of adventure and cultural insight.

What makes this experience especially appealing is the chance to see detailed sculptures dedicated to Inca and Andean gods and get a sense of their spiritual significance. We love the personal guided tour, which helps decode the meaning behind each sculpture, and the adrenalin-pumping ATV ride that takes us right to the site. However, potential travelers should be aware that entrance fees to the site are not included in the tour price, and the tour isn’t suited for pregnant women or those with mobility restrictions.

This tour is ideal for adventure seekers who enjoy cultural sites, as well as travelers keen to explore beyond Cusco’s typical tourist spots. It’s perfect if you’re looking for a half-day excursion that combines history, nature, and adrenaline in one package.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Unique blend of adventure and culture: Quad biking combined with seeing ancient Inca sculptures.
• Affordable price point: Only $35 per person for a 3-hour experience.
• Guided explanations: Knowledgeable guides reveal the meaning behind the sculptures, enriching the visit.
• Scenic route: The ride covers about 13 kilometers, offering lovely views of the landscape.
• Flexible schedule: Different departure times available; check for your preferred slot.
• Not suitable for everyone: No wheelchair access or pregnant women allowed.

A Deep Dive into the Abode of the Gods Tour

What the Experience Looks Like

The journey begins with hotel pickup near or within Cusco’s historic center, which is a real plus—no need to navigate unfamiliar transportation on your own. From there, you’ll hop onto a comfortable tourist bus for about 30 minutes to reach the Tica Tica sector, the starting point of your adventure. Once there, you’ll get a brief safety and riding practice session—crucial for those new to ATVs—before heading out on your 13-kilometer ride.

The ride takes you through various terrains, offering a mix of open fields and rugged paths, perfect for experiencing Peru’s diverse landscape. We loved how the guides kept the group informed and secure, making sure everyone felt comfortable before heading up to the Abode of the Gods.

What You’ll See at the Site

The Abode of the Gods, or Apukunaq Tianan, is a newly developed tourist site that features stone sculptures reminiscent of Inca artistry. These sculptures include a puma, a three-dimensional door, and several figures associated with Inca and Andean gods. Some sculptures reach up to 8 meters high, showcasing impressive craftsmanship and scale.

A brief tour of the sculptures allows us to appreciate their symbolic meaning—though the guides’ explanations are especially valuable here, helping decipher the spiritual significance of each figure. We found the puma sculpture, often linked to power and agility, particularly striking, and appreciated the insight into Inca religious beliefs.

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The Practical Side

After our brief exploration, we retrace our steps via ATV back to the base, then hop back onto the bus for the return trip to Cusco. The entire experience lasts about 3 hours, making it a manageable half-day activity for most travelers.

The cost includes hotel pickup, transportation, a professional guide, safety equipment, and your ATV ride. It’s a package that emphasizes value, especially considering the inclusion of guided interpretation and scenic riding.

What to Expect from the Tour

The Itinerary in Detail

• Hotel pickup near or inside Cusco’s historic center, easing logistics.
• Transport to Tica Tica, a scenic 30-minute drive through beautiful Peruvian landscapes.
• Initial practice session on the ATVs—important if you’re new to riding.
• ATV ride through rural paths to the Abode of the Gods.
• Brief sightseeing and explanation of stone sculptures and their meanings.
• Return trip via ATV back to the base, then back to Cusco.

The Ride

The ATV journey is the highlight for thrill-seekers—cruising over uneven terrain, feeling the wind, and getting close to the stone sculptures up close. Since the ride covers 13 kilometers, you’ll want to be comfortable on the vehicle, but guides are attentive and ensure safety.

Cultural Significance

While the site is relatively new for travelers, the sculptures connect to Inca mythology and Andean spiritual traditions, making it more than just a photo opportunity. As one reviewer notes, “The guides help you understand the meaning of each sculpture, which adds depth to the experience.” It’s a chance to appreciate the Inca’s artistic and religious worldview.

Practical Considerations

Pricing and Value

At $35, this tour offers a very reasonable price for both adventure and cultural insight. With included transportation, safety gear, and a guide, most of your expenses are covered. Entrance to the Abode of the Gods is not included, so you’ll need to pay that separately if you want to explore further on your own.

What to Bring

Pack sunglasses, a hat, sunscreen, sports shoes, and some cash for additional expenses like the entrance fee or snacks. Since you’ll be outdoors, light clothing and water are advisable, especially if it’s a sunny day.

Restrictions

Note that this tour is not suitable for pregnant women or individuals in wheelchairs due to terrain and safety reasons. Also, alcohol and drugs are not allowed, fitting with the focus on safety and respect for the site.

Why This Tour Is Worth Considering

Adventure and history combine in a way that appeals to many travelers. If you enjoy off-road rides, discovering hidden or less-touristy sites, or want to deepen your understanding of Inca culture, this trip delivers. The guides’ knowledge is consistently praised, making the experience both fun and educational.

The tour’s flexible schedule and affordable price make it accessible, especially if you’re looking for a half-day activity that’s different from the typical archaeological sites or city tours in Cusco.

Who Will Love This Experience

This tour suits adventurous travelers who like active experiences and are eager to see Inca sculptures up close. It’s also ideal for families with older children, or groups of friends seeking a memorable outing. Those who value expert guidance and want a break from traditional sightseeing will find this particularly rewarding.

However, travelers with mobility restrictions or pregnancy should consider other options, as the terrain and activities are physically demanding.

FAQs

Q: How long is the ATV ride?
A: The ATV ride covers about 13 kilometers, lasting roughly the duration of the tour (around 3 hours).

Q: Do I need to have riding experience?
A: No, but you will have a practice session before starting the ride, and guides are there to assist you.

Q: Is the entrance fee to the Abode of the Gods included?
A: No, the tour price does not include the entrance fee, which you may need to pay separately.

Q: What should I bring?
A: Sunglasses, a hat, sunscreen, sports shoes, food, drinks, and cash for extra expenses.

Q: Is this tour suitable for children?
A: It depends on age and comfort with ATV riding; check with the provider for specific age restrictions.

Q: How accessible is this tour?
A: Not suitable for wheelchair users or pregnant women, due to terrain and safety concerns.

Q: Do guides speak English?
A: The tour is offered in Sesotho and Spanish; check if English is available if needed.

Final Thoughts

The Abode of the Gods on quad bikes near Cusco offers a refreshing blend of adventure and archaeology. It’s a chance to see impressive Inca sculptures, learn about their spiritual significance, and have fun on an ATV—all in a manageable, memorable package.

While it’s not a traditional archaeological tour, the guides’ insights add a valuable layer of understanding, making the experience more meaningful. The cost is reasonable, especially considering the scenic ride and guided explanations.

This tour is best suited for adventure lovers and those curious about Inca culture who want a hands-on experience away from the usual tourist crowds. If you’re after something active, educational, and fun, it’s worth considering during your time in Cusco.

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