Quad bikes in Moray and Salineras and Picnic with llamas

Experience the Best of Cusco’s Sacred Valley with Quad Bikes, Salt Flats, and a Llama Picnic

This full-day adventure takes you through some of the most captivating sites in the Sacred Valley of the Incas — including the fascinating circular terraces of Moray, the intricate Salineras salt pools, and a charming picnic with llamas at Mountain View. For $140 per person, this roughly 9-hour tour offers a blend of thrilling ATV rides, cultural insights, and nature that feels more authentic than a typical sightseeing bus.

A couple of things we love? First, the personalized experience and knowledgeable guides like Felix or Celinda, who make every stop engaging and safe. Second, the chance to combine adventure and relaxation — zooming past ancient agricultural terraces and then settling in with a picnic surrounded by llamas.

The only consideration? The tour requires moderate physical activity and good mobility, which might not suit everyone. Also, entry fees for Moray (70 soles) and the salt pools (20 soles) aren’t included, so budget a little extra. Still, if you’re after an active, varied, and culturally rich day, this tour hits the mark. It’s especially well-suited for travelers who enjoy outdoor adventures and want to see the Inca ingenuity firsthand while enjoying some fun in the open air.

Key Points

• All-in-one experience blending ATV adventure, archaeological sites, and cultural activities
• Professional guides ensure safety, provide insights, and make the day more engaging
• Stunning views of the Sacred Valley, Moray’s terraces, and the salt flats
• Flexible schedule with stops that allow for photo opportunities and short walks
• Value for money considering the variety of experiences and included picnic
• Outdoor activity level requires good physical fitness and comfort with ATV riding

In-Depth Review of the Cusco Quad Bike and Salineras Tour

If you’re looking to see Cusco’s Sacred Valley in a fun, energetic way, this tour offers a rare mix of adventure, culture, and scenery. Starting early at 7:00 am, your day begins with a pickup at your accommodation in Cruzpata, giving you a comfortable start and a chance to enjoy the picturesque drive through the valley. The friendly, bilingual guides set the tone, explaining safety measures and giving tips for the ATV ride, which is designed to be accessible yet exhilarating.

The Itinerary and Highlights

Cruzpata: Your adventure kicks off with a 50-minute scenic drive through the Sacred Valley, a region that’s been cultivated since Inca times. This initial leg is a chance to soak in the landscape — terraced hillsides, traditional villages, and the majestic Andes in the distance.

Moray: Next, you’ll hop on your ATV for a 2-hour round-trip journey to the archaeological site of Moray. This place isn’t your average ruin — it’s an Inca agricultural experiment station. The circular terraces, with their varying microclimates, reveal how the Incas diversified crops. We loved the modern twist: zooming across the terraces on ATV, feeling the wind while learning about the ingenious farming techniques that have stood for centuries.

Salineras de Maras: After Moray, you’ll continue to the Salt Pools, a site that’s been exploited since Inca times. The over 3,000 artisanal pools carved into the mountainside create a surreal landscape, especially when filled with pinkish salt. Here, you can watch salt being harvested in the same traditional way the Incas did, which adds a really authentic touch. Keep in mind, entrance fees (20 soles) are extra, but the experience of seeing the pools up close is priceless.

Mountain View with a Picnic and Llamas: Once you’ve explored the archaeological and natural wonders, you’ll head to Mountain View, where a private picnic awaits amid stunning scenery and friendly llamas. This part is truly a highlight — a chance to relax, enjoy local snacks, and even get close to the llamas. One reviewer called this “unmatched,” and we agree: it’s a peaceful, memorable way to end a busy day.

What the Tour Includes and What to Expect

The tour’s price includes an air-conditioned vehicle, a professional guide who speaks both Spanish and English, and safety gear for ATV riding — helmet and gloves. The Honda TRX 250 ATVs are suitable for beginners and experienced riders alike, but riders should be comfortable with moderate physical activity and handling a 4-wheeler.

The timing is well-paced, with enough time at each site for photos, short walks, and soaking in the surroundings. The total duration is about 9 hours, with the return to Cusco around 4:00 pm, which leaves plenty of time for a relaxed evening.

Authenticity and Traveler Feedback

Multiple reviews mention how helpful, friendly, and knowledgeable the guides are. Felix, for example, is praised for his security-conscious guidance and engaging explanations — “Felix has been super friendly and explained very well,” one review states. Travelers consistently highlight the spectacular views and the fun of riding ATV in such a beautiful setting.

The value for money is one of the tour’s biggest selling points. For $140, you’re getting a full day of activities, including a private picnic, ATV fun, and visits to incredible sites. While entrée fees for Moray and salt pools are not included, they are relatively modest and well worth the added expense for the experience they offer.

Practical Tips for Travelers

• Physical fitness: Be prepared for some moderate activity, especially the ATV ride and walking at the sites.
• Clothing: Dress in comfortable outdoor clothes, and bring layers as conditions can change quickly in the mountains.
• Extra expenses: Budget approximately 90 soles (around $25) for entrance fees if you want to visit Moray and the salt pools.
• Safety: Guides prioritize safety, but if you’re nervous about riding, communicate your comfort level beforehand.
• Photography: The scenic stops are perfect for photos — bring your camera or phone with plenty of battery.

Who Should Book This Tour?

This tour suits travelers who want to combine adventure with cultural sights. If you love outdoor activities and are comfortable on a quad bike, you’ll find the ATV portion exhilarating and safe, thanks to attentive guides. It’s ideal for those eager to see Inca engineering at Moray, witness the artisanal salt pools, and enjoy a beautiful picnic in nature.

Families with older children or teenagers will appreciate the fun and educational value, especially since reviews mention the tour is suitable for all ages. It’s also a great choice for photo enthusiasts wanting to capture stunning views across the Sacred Valley.

For travelers seeking a more relaxed experience, this might still be appealing because of the picnic and the opportunity to connect with animals like llamas in a peaceful setting. Conversely, if you’re not comfortable with physical activity or riding ATVs, this might not be the best fit.

The Sum Up

This Quad Bike Adventure and Salineras Tour offers a unique way to explore the Sacred Valley beyond typical bus tours. It provides a balance of adrenaline, history, and natural beauty, all led by guides who clearly care about safety and sharing their knowledge. The inclusion of a picnic with llamas adds a serene, memorable touch that elevates the experience.

The value is excellent considering the variety of activities and sites visited, especially given the positive reviews about the spectacular views and friendly guides. It’s especially perfect for those who enjoy outdoor pursuits and want a more hands-on experience in the Andes.

This tour is best suited for adventure-minded travelers who want to see the Inca terraces, salt flats, and beautiful landscapes with a bit of thrill and a lot of authenticity. If you’re after a well-organized, engaging, and fun-filled day, this could be one of your highlights in Cusco.

FAQ

Is transportation included?
Yes, the tour includes an air-conditioned vehicle that picks you up from your accommodation in Cruzpata and returns you to Cusco.

What’s the start time?
The tour begins at 7:00 am, giving you a full day of exploration.

Are entrance fees included?
No, the fees for Moray (70 soles) and the salt pools (20 soles) are extra and payable on-site.

Is the ATV ride suitable for beginners?
Yes, the guides give instructions and ensure safety, making it suitable for most levels of experience.

How long is the ATV ride?
The ATV riding portion in Moray lasts approximately 1 hour and 40 minutes round trip.

Can I bring my children?
Yes, reviews indicate the tour is suitable for all ages, including children, provided they are comfortable riding.

What should I wear?
Outdoor, comfortable clothing suitable for mountain weather, and layers in case temperatures change.

This tour combines the thrill of off-road riding with the chance to witness Inca engineering marvels and the simple pleasure of a picnic with llamas. It’s a lively, authentic way to experience Cusco’s Sacred Valley beyond the usual crowds.