Sacred Valley: Maras & Moray by Quad Bike from Cusco

Experience the Sacred Valley: Maras & Moray by Quad Bike from Cusco

Starting at just $39 per person for a full six-hour adventure, this tour offers a fantastic way to explore the Sacred Valley beyond the usual bus tours. You’ll be riding quad bikes through scenic villages and rugged terrain, with visits to the Inca terraces of Moray and the famous salt mines of Maras. Your journey begins with hotel pickup in Cusco’s historic center, followed by a scenic drive into the heart of the Sacred Valley, where the real fun begins.

What makes this experience stand out? First, the guided quad biking adds a sense of adventure and freedom to the day, giving you the chance to see sights at your own pace while enjoying the landscape. Second, the knowledgeable guides, like Floyd, Alex, and Edgar, are frequently praised for their friendly demeanor and depth of historical insights, which enrich the visit beyond just pretty views.

One point to consider is that the tour’s timing at Moray can be a bit brief—around 15 minutes—so if you love exploring every corner, you might wish for more time there. Also, since the tour includes outside visits to the salt mines, you won’t be riding into the mines themselves, which some might find a little limiting. Still, this tour is perfect for those seeking a fun, active day in the Sacred Valley that combines adventure, culture, and scenic beauty.

This adventure suits travelers who enjoy outdoor activities, want to see iconic Inca sites with a twist, and appreciate expert guidance. If you’re comfortable on a quad bike and looking for a balanced mix of thrill and cultural insight, this tour will likely hit the spot.

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Key Points

• Affordable Price: At $39, it offers excellent value for a full-day adventure.
• Guided Experience: Knowledgeable guides enhance the visit with stories and safety instructions.
• Scenic Highlights: Stunning views of the Urubamba Mountains and iconic sites like Moray and Maras.
• Active Tour: Enjoy 1.5 hours of quad biking, suitable for beginners with training provided.
• Limited Moray Time: Expect around 15 minutes at the archaeological site, which may feel short.
• Flexible Options: Choose between single or double-rider quad bikes; safety gear included.

A Full Breakdown of the Experience

The Itinerary and What to Expect

Your day kicks off early with hotel pickup in Cusco’s historic center, making it convenient to start without hassle. From there, a roughly one-hour van ride takes you into the Sacred Valley, a valley full of terraced landscapes, traditional villages, and ancient Inca sites. Once you arrive at Cruz Pata, your guide provides a brief safety and operation tutorial on the quad bikes—this takes about 15 minutes but ensures everyone feels confident before hitting the trail.

The quad biking segment lasts approximately 1.5 hours, during which you’ll traverse dirt roads, small villages, and open fields. The tour route is designed to showcase the diverse landscape, with plenty of opportunities to stop and admire panoramic views of the Urubamba Mountain range. Many reviewers highlight how the scenery is breathtaking, with some describing it as a perfect blend of natural beauty and Inca agriculture.

Visiting Moray: The Inca Agricultural Terraces

Next, you’ll arrive at the archaeological site of Moray, famous for its circular terraces that served as experimental agricultural terraces by the Incas. Here, you’ll get a chance to walk around the terraces and listen to your guide’s explanations about Inca farming innovations. Several reviewers express that Moray is a highlight, with one noting that their guide, Edgar, “did a great job explaining the history of the terraces.” However, some mention that the 15-minute stop feels brief, especially if you want to explore more thoroughly.

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The Salt Mines of Maras

The tour then moves on to the Maras salt mines, located just outside the town. Although you won’t be riding the quad bikes inside the mines, you’ll enjoy spectacular views from a viewpoint, and you’ll have time to take photos and browse local products made from the salt. These salt pools are a striking sight—thousands of small, terraced ponds that shimmer in the sun—something many visitors find truly memorable.

A common theme in reviews is how beautiful and unique the salt pans are, with some visitors mentioning they arrived just before sunset for particularly stunning photos. While admission to Moray is not included and costs about 70 soles, the salt mine viewing is included with the tour.

The Return Trip and Overall Atmosphere

After the salt mines, the journey back to Cusco takes a different route through the countryside, providing more scenic views and a relaxed end to a busy day. Many rave about the friendly guides, who are fluent in both Spanish and English, making the information accessible and engaging. The entire tour lasts about six hours, balancing adventure with manageable pacing.

Why This Tour Is a Great Choice

The value for money is significant, considering the inclusion of transport, guides, quad bike rental, and safety equipment. The adventure aspect makes it especially appealing for active travelers, while the cultural and scenic elements appeal to those interested in Andean history and landscapes.

However, this tour may not suit everyone. If you prefer more time at each site or want to explore inside the salt mines, you might find the stops somewhat rushed. Also, those with mobility issues or pregnant women should note that riding a quad bike might not be suitable, and some physical activity is involved.

Despite these considerations, if you’re after a fun, scenic, and authentic way to experience the Sacred Valley, this quad bike tour hits many of the right notes.

The Sum Up

This tour offers a dynamic combination of adventure, culture, and natural beauty for an affordable price. With guides praised for their knowledge and friendliness, you’ll get more than just a photo opportunity—you’ll learn about Inca innovations and local practices. The stunning mountain views and iconic sites of Moray and Maras make it a memorable experience.

Ideal for active travelers, families with older children, or anyone eager to add some adrenaline to their Cusco trip, this tour provides a nice balance of fun and insight. It’s particularly suitable if you value guidance, scenic vistas, and a well-organized itinerary that keeps things moving without feeling rushed.

If you’re looking for a cost-effective way to see key Sacred Valley sights while enjoying an outdoor adventure, this quad bike tour is worth considering. Just pack your sunglasses, wear comfortable clothes, and be prepared to get a little dusty!

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, pickup from your hotel in Cusco’s historic center is included, making it easy to start your day without additional transport worries.

How long is the tour?
The entire experience lasts about six hours, including transportation, safety briefings, sightseeing, and breaks.

What are the differences between single and double rider quad bikes?
You can choose to drive solo or share a quad with a partner. Both options include safety gear and instruction.

What should I bring?
Bring your passport or ID, comfortable shoes, sunglasses, sun hat, sunscreen, rain gear, long pants, and a small daypack. Expect dirt and dust, so dress accordingly.

Are there any age or health restrictions?
Yes, the tour is not suitable for children under 2, pregnant women, or people with back problems, mobility issues, or wheelchair users.

Is the salt mine visit inside the mines?
No, you view the salt pools from outside; you do not ride the quad inside the mines.

Do I need to buy tickets separately?
Yes, you need to purchase tickets to attractions like Moray separately (about 70 soles), but salt mine viewing is included.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

What language is the guide?
Guides speak both Spanish and English, making explanations accessible for most travelers.

Is this tour suitable for beginners?
Absolutely—guides provide thorough instruction, and the route is designed for a range of skill levels, with safety a priority.

This quad bike adventure in the Sacred Valley combines thrilling outdoor activity with cultural discovery—a memorable way to see some of the most iconic sites near Cusco. Whether you’re a history buff, an outdoor enthusiast, or simply curious about the region, you’ll find plenty to love in this well-organized, friendly tour.

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