Sacred Valley: Private MTB Maras & Moray Bike Tour

Picture pedaling through the lush Sacred Valley of the Incas, surrounded by striking mountain vistas and ancient archaeological sites—without the crowds. This private biking experience offers a perfect blend of adventure, culture, and scenery. For $170 per person, you’ll spend about five and a half hours exploring two of the valley’s highlights: the fascinating circular terraces of Moray and the intricate salt pans of Maras, all with a knowledgeable bilingual guide.

What we really love about this tour is how it combines adrenaline and education—riding through stunning landscapes while uncovering the stories behind these archaeological wonders. Plus, the small group setting means personalized attention and a relaxed pace. The only thing to keep in mind? It’s not suited for young children under 7 or those with certain health issues, so it’s best for active, adventurous travelers.

This tour is ideal for travelers who enjoy outdoor adventures with cultural depth—especially those who want to see the Sacred Valley from an up-close perspective on two wheels. If you’re comfortable on a bike and eager to explore beyond the typical tourist spots, this adventure offers both thrill and insight in equal measure.

Key Points

• Private Tour ensures personalized attention and flexible timing.
• Stunning Views of mountains, terraced landscapes, and rural villages.
• Cultural Highlights include Moray’s circular terraces and Maras salt mines.
• Balanced Activity suitable for active travelers; not for very young children or those with health issues.
• All-Inclusive Experience with bicycles, safety gear, and a boxed lunch.
• Convenient Pickup from Cusco hotels simplifies logistics.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Sacred Valley MTB Tour

Starting Point and Logistics

The experience kicks off with a pickup from your Cusco hotel, which is a big plus for travelers wanting to avoid navigating local transportation. From there, you’ll hop into a private vehicle, heading into the Sacred Valley with a comfortable, flexible schedule (check availability for exact start times). This setup guarantees a smooth beginning and the comfort of door-to-door service.

The tour is led by a bilingual guide—usually Spanish and English—which makes the cultural explanations accessible for many travelers. They’ll equip you with high-quality bicycles and safety gear, ensuring you’re prepared whether you’re an experienced rider or just a bit rusty.

The Biking Itinerary: Maras and Moray

The ride begins with an energetic pedal through the verdant landscape of the Sacred Valley. As you cycle along quiet rural roads, you’ll get a sense of local life—villagers tending fields, llamas grazing, and distant mountains framing your journey. The landscape alone makes this a memorable experience.

Moray is your first major stop. This archaeological site is renowned for its circular terraces arranged in concentric rings. It’s believed that the Incas used Moray for agricultural experimentation, and its unique design makes for fantastic photos. Expect to spend about 45 minutes exploring the site with your guide, who will explain its significance and the engineering marvels behind those terraces.

Next, you’ll ride toward the Maras salt mines, a marvel of natural and cultural ingenuity. You’ll have about an hour here to walk among the thousands of ponds that produce salt using traditional methods dating back centuries. The guides typically share insights into the economic and cultural importance of salt extraction for local communities, making this stop both visually impressive and educational.

Breathtaking Vistas and Rest Stops

Throughout the ride, you’ll enjoy panoramic views of the Sacred Valley’s lush fields and distant mountains. Several viewpoints are included where you can stop for photos, maybe even catch a glimpse of Laguna de Huaypo—a tranquil lagoon that offers a peaceful respite from cycling.

A brief 15-minute stop at Laguna de Huaypo gives you a chance to breathe, take photos, or just soak in the scenery. It’s a perfect moment to appreciate the landscape and the fact that you’re cycling through a landscape that feels both remote and historically significant.

More Great Tours Nearby

Practical Details and What’s Included

The tour package covers private transport, bicycles, safety gear, and a boxed lunch, which is handy after a morning of riding. The inclusion of a guide fluent in both English and Spanish helps translate the culture and history behind what you see, enriching the experience.

Not included are the archeological site entry fees, which are paid separately if you choose to explore Moray more extensively. Remember, the tour is not suitable for children under 7, pregnant women, or anyone with back or heart problems, so it’s best suited for physically active travelers.

The Experience: Authenticity and Adventure

Many reviews highlight the stunning views as a standout feature, confirming that the landscapes alone are worth the trip. One traveler remarked, “The scenery was breathtaking, and the guide made it all so informative and fun.” The chance to capture the valley from unique viewpoints is a real bonus—perfect for those Instagram moments or just soaking in the natural beauty.

The balance of adventure and culture makes this tour particularly engaging. It’s not just about riding bikes; it’s about connecting with the landscape and understanding its significance. The fact that your guide is bilingual ensures you’ll get meaningful explanations without feeling rushed or lost in translation.

Considerations and Tips

While the tour offers great value for what’s included, it’s worth noting that the duration and activity level mean it’s best for travelers who are comfortable cycling for several hours. The terrain is mainly gentle, but some parts may be uneven or slightly challenging for less experienced riders.

Also, you may find that the entry fees for the archaeological sites are additional, so budget accordingly if you want to explore Moray more deeply. It’s a good idea to bring sunscreen and a hat, as parts of the ride are exposed to the sun.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect for adventurous travelers who want a more active way to see the Sacred Valley. If you’re seeking authentic cultural insights combined with a scenic ride, this tour ticks all those boxes. It also suits those who prefer a private group setting over large tours, ensuring flexibility and personalized attention.

Final Thoughts

The Sacred Valley: Private MTB Maras & Moray Bike Tour offers a well-rounded experience combining adventure, culture, and stunning views. It’s especially suited for those looking to escape the crowds and explore at a more personal pace. The breathtaking landscapes and archaeological wonders make it a memorable way to see some of the most iconic sites in the Sacred Valley—on your own terms.

While it’s not for complete beginners or those with mobility issues, active travelers will find plenty to love here. The combination of beautiful scenery, historical sites, and a relaxed, private experience makes this tour a great value for an immersive day in the Andes.

FAQs

Is transportation included?
Yes, the tour provides private transport from your Cusco hotel, making logistics straightforward and hassle-free.

What should I wear or bring?
Wear comfortable clothes suitable for cycling and bring sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses for protection. The tour provides safety gear, but it’s wise to bring a small bottle of water and any personal essentials.

Are there any additional costs?
Entry fees for archaeological sites are not included and must be paid separately if you want to explore Moray in more detail. The tour itself covers bicycles, safety gear, and a boxed lunch.

Is this tour suitable for children?
It’s recommended for travelers over 7 years old who are comfortable on a bike. It’s not suitable for very young children or those with health issues.

How challenging is the biking?
The ride is generally gentle but involves some uneven terrain, so it’s best for those who are comfortable cycling for several hours. The pace is flexible and driven by the group.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexible planning in case of unforeseen changes.

To sum it up, if you’re craving an active day combining spectacular scenery and cultural discovery, this private Sacred Valley bike tour delivers. It’s an ideal choice for travelers who want to go beyond the typical sightseeing and experience the valley from a fresh perspective—on two wheels, surrounded by stunning mountain vistas and ancient terraces.

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