ATV Cusco - Moray and Salt Mines half Day Tour
- Cusco
- Cruzpata
- Moray
- Salineras
- Cusco
Moderate
Diary
Group/ private
All years
Bus
Overview
Experience the thrill of riding ATVs through the breathtaking landscapes of the Sacred Valley on this half-day adventure to Moray and the Maras Salt Mines. This action-packed tour is perfect for those looking to add adrenaline to their cultural journey in Cusco.
Departing from Cusco, you’ll drive your own ATV through picturesque Andean villages, rolling farmland, and scenic mountain views. Along the way, explore the fascinating circular terraces of Moray, an ancient Inca agricultural laboratory, and the stunning Salt Mines of Maras, where thousands of salt pools glisten on a hillside.
With the guidance of expert local guides and well-maintained vehicles, this tour offers the perfect balance of excitement, history, and natural beauty—all in just half a day.
Tour Summary –ATV Cusco - Moray and Salt Mines
Get ready for an exhilarating half-day adventure through the stunning countryside of Cusco on our ATV Tour to Moray and the Maras Salt Mines. This experience is perfect for travelers looking to combine adrenaline with breathtaking landscapes and ancient Inca heritage.
Ride your own quad bike across scenic dirt roads, pass traditional Andean villages, and take in panoramic views of the Sacred Valley. Explore the mysterious circular terraces of Moray, once used by the Incas for agricultural experiments, and visit the impressive Salt Mines of Maras, where thousands of salt pools are still harvested by hand today. Led by a professional guide, this tour offers a unique way to experience the beauty and culture of the Andes—without needing a full day.
Tour Details:
- Tour Name: ATV Cusco – Moray and Salt Mines Half Day Tour
- Duration: Half Day (approx. 5 hours)
- Departure: Daily departures from Cusco
- Start Time: 7:00 AM or 12:30 PM (choose your preferred schedule)
- Tour Type: Adventure / Cultural Experience
- Difficulty Level: Easy to Moderate
- Group Size: Small groups for a more personalized experience
- Minimum Age: 12 years old (with adult supervision)
- Available for: Solo travelers, couples, friends, and families
- Main Attractions: ATV ride through the Andes, Moray circular terraces, Maras Salt Mines
- Start/End Location: Cusco
Highlights
- Ride your own ATV through the stunning Andean countryside, surrounded by snow-capped peaks, farmlands, and traditional villages.
- Explore the fascinating circular terraces of Moray, an ancient Inca agricultural site with mysterious design and purpose.
- Visit the Maras Salt Mines, a spectacular patchwork of thousands of salt pools that have been used since pre-Inca times.
- Capture breathtaking photos of the Sacred Valley’s landscapes and local culture along the route.
- Guided by local experts, ensuring safety, insight, and an unforgettable cultural experience.
- Efficient half-day tour—perfect for travelers with limited time who still want adventure and history.
Itinerary at a Glance
- 07:00 AM – Pick-up from your hotel in Cusco
- 08:00 AM – Safety briefing and ATV practice
- 08:30 AM – ATV ride to Moray archaeological site
- 10:30 AM – Return to the ATV base
- 10:30 AM – Continue to Maras Salt Mines
- 11:30 AM – Transfer back to Cusco
Moray and Salt Mines Day Itinerary
07:00 AM – Hotel Pick-Up in Cusco
Your adventure begins early with pick-up from your hotel in Cusco. Enjoy a scenic drive through the highlands as you make your way to the ATV base located in the community of Cruzpata, near Chinchero.
08:00 AM – Safety Briefing and ATV Practice
Upon arrival, receive a full safety briefing and a short driving lesson from your guide. You’ll have time to practice on flat terrain to get comfortable operating the ATV before starting the tour.
08:30 AM – ATV Ride to Moray Archaeological Site
Begin your ride across scenic dirt roads, surrounded by panoramic views of the Andes. Arrive at the impressive Inca site of Moray, known for its massive circular agricultural terraces. Explore the area on foot as your guide explains its history and possible uses during Inca times.
10:30 AM – Return to the ATV Base
After exploring Moray, ride back to the base through more stunning Andean landscapes, passing by farmlands, traditional villages, and grazing animals along the way.
10:30 AM – Visit to Maras Salt Mines (by vehicle)
Leave the ATVs behind and continue by vehicle to the nearby Maras Salt Mines, one of the most unique and photogenic sites in the Sacred Valley. Discover how locals have harvested salt here for centuries from thousands of shallow pools carved into the hillside.
11:30 AM – Return to Cusco
After your visit to the salt mines, enjoy a relaxing drive back to Cusco. You’ll be dropped off at your hotel around midday, with the rest of the day free to continue exploring the city. Arrive at 12:30 to 1:00 pm aprox.
What’s Included
- Hotel pick-up and drop-off in Cusco
- Round-trip transportation in tourist vehicle
- Professional English/Spanish-speaking guide
- ATV (quad bike) rental
- Safety equipment: helmet and gloves
- Briefing and practice session before the ride
- Guided visit to Moray archaeological site
- Visit to the Maras Salt Mines (by vehicle)
- First aid kit and oxygen (carried by the guide)
What’s Not Included
- Entrance fee to Moray (S/. 70 – included in the Boleto Turístico)
- Entrance fee to Maras Salt Mines (S/. 10 per person)
- Meals and snacks
- Travel insurance
Recommendations
- Small daypack – To carry your personal items comfortably
- Windbreaker or light jacket – Weather can change quickly in the Andes
- Comfortable clothing – Long sleeves and pants recommended to protect from sun and dust
- Closed-toe shoes – Preferably hiking shoes or sturdy sneakers
- Light gloves (optional) – For extra grip and comfort during the ride
- Sunglasses – To protect your eyes from dust and sunlight
- Sunscreen – High UV protection (minimum SPF 30)
- Sun hat or cap – The sun at high altitude can be intense
- Water bottle – Stay hydrated throughout the tour
- Camera or smartphone – For capturing amazing landscapes
- Cash in soles – For entrance fees and optional purchases (small bills preferred)
Frequently Asked Questions – Moray and Salt Mines
Do I need previous ATV experience to join this tour?
No, you don’t need any prior ATV experience. Before the ride begins, your guide will give a full safety briefing and allow time to practice on flat terrain until you feel comfortable. The route is suitable for beginners and is designed to be both safe and fun.
Is this tour safe for children or beginners?
Yes, the tour is designed for all levels. Children aged 16 and older can drive their own ATV with parental permission. Passengers aged 12 and up can ride behind a driver. The pace is moderate, and your guide will prioritize safety at all times.
How long is the ATV ride, and how difficult is the route?
The ATV ride lasts about 2 hours in total, covering a mix of flat and slightly rugged terrain. The difficulty is rated easy to moderate, with no extreme inclines or technical sections. It’s a scenic and enjoyable ride suitable for most travelers in good health.
What is the altitude during the tour, and will I feel the effects?
The tour takes place at altitudes between 3,300 and 3,800 meters (10,800–12,500 ft). Some travelers may feel mild altitude symptoms like shortness of breath, especially during physical activity. We recommend spending at least a day or two in Cusco before the tour to acclimate.
Are entrance fees included in the tour price?
No, entrance fees to Moray (S/.70) and the Maras Salt Mines (S/.10) are not included in the tour price. These must be paid in cash at the entrance. The Boleto Turístico covers Moray and other sites around Cusco and the Sacred Valley.
Can I bring a backpack or camera during the ATV ride?
Yes, you can bring a small backpack with essentials like water, sunscreen, and a camera. However, we recommend securing your belongings well to avoid any damage or loss during the ride. For safety, it’s best to keep hands free while driving.
What happens if it rains or the weather is bad?
The tour operates in most weather conditions. In the case of heavy rain or unsafe terrain, the operator may modify the route or reschedule the tour. We recommend bringing a waterproof jacket and being prepared for sudden changes in Andean weather.
💲 Tour Prices – ATV Cusco - Moray and Salt Mines
- Single ATV Cusco Tour: 35 USD per person
- Double ATV Cusco Tour: 55 USD per person
Ideal for solo travelers or small groups who want to join others.
Important Notes:
- Minimum age to drive an ATV is 16 years old (with parental consent); passengers must be 12 years or older.
- Each ATV is shared by one driver, but a passenger option is available upon request.
- Entrance fees (to Moray and Maras) are not included and must be paid at the site in cash.
- Discounts available for groups of 4 or more—contact us for a custom quote.
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