Cusco: Full-Day Horseback Riding Tour to Maras & Moray

Exploring the Sacred Valley of the Incas by horseback is a captivating way to experience Cusco’s rich history and stunning landscapes. This full-day tour takes adventurers on a scenic journey through the region, highlighting the ancient agricultural site of Moray and the iconic Maras salt mines. With a knowledgeable guide, small group size, and a hearty lunch included, this excursion promises an unforgettable glimpse into the heart of Peru’s cultural heritage. But the real question is – what secrets might the valley reveal to those daring enough to venture forth on horseback?

Key Points

• A full-day adventure exploring the Sacred Valley of the Incas, including horseback riding to the archaeological site of Moray and a visit to the Maras salt mines.
• Priced from $320 per person, with hotel pickup, free cancellation, and a maximum group size of 10 for a personalized experience.
• Highlights include panoramic valley views, learning about Inca farming techniques at Moray, and discovering the traditional salt-harvesting methods at Maras.
• Includes a buffet lunch, snacks, water, and a knowledgeable bilingual guide who provides insights into Inca heritage.
• Participants must meet weight and health requirements, with a "reserve now & pay later" option available.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview

The Cusco Horseback Riding Tour offers a full-day adventure exploring the stunning landscapes of the Sacred Valley of the Incas.

Priced from $320 per person, the tour lasts 8 hours and is limited to just 10 participants.

English and Spanish-speaking guides lead the journey, which includes hotel pickup and free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.

Travelers will ride horses for 2.5 hours to the archaeological site of Moray, then visit the picturesque village of Maras and the historic Maras salt mines.

A buffet lunch, snacks, and all necessary equipment are provided.

Itinerary

The tour kicks off with pickup locations in Cusco and Urubamba, followed by a 70-minute bus/coach ride to the ranch.

The tour begins with pickups in Cusco and Urubamba, followed by a 70-minute bus/coach ride to the ranch.

Once there, guests will enjoy:

1. 2.5 hours of guided horse riding towards the archaeological site of Moray.

2. A 45-minute guided tour of Moray, exploring Inca farming techniques.

3. 45 minutes of horse riding to the picturesque village of Maras, home to a 400-year-old church.

4. A 25-minute bus/coach ride to the famous Maras salt mines, with a 30-minute guided tour.

Finally, the tour returns to Cusco in 1.5 hours.

Highlights

Panoramic views of the Sacred Valley of the Incas captivate visitors throughout the tour.

At the archaeological site of Moray, guests discover the Inca’s advanced farming techniques, marveling at the unique concentric terraces.

The picturesque village of Maras, with its 400-year-old church, offers a glimpse into the region’s rich history.

The highlight of the tour is the famous Maras salt mines, which have been significant since pre-Incan times.

Guests have the opportunity to explore the salt ponds and learn about the traditional salt-harvesting methods still used today.

Inclusions

The Cusco Horseback Riding Tour includes a range of services to ensure a hassle-free and enjoyable experience.

The package includes:

1. Hotel pickup and drop-off, so you don’t have to worry about transportation.

2. A delicious buffet lunch with vegetarian options, as well as snacks and water to keep you fueled throughout the day.

3. A knowledgeable bilingual guide to provide insights into the Inca heritage and local culture.

4. Saddles, safety helmets, and muleteer assistance to make your horseback riding experience comfortable and secure.

The tour also covers entry fees to the Cusco Tourist Ticket Site Pass, ensuring you have access to all the attractions.

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Participant Information

What’re the participant requirements for this Cusco Horseback Riding Tour?

There’s a weight limit of 90 kg (200 lbs). It’s not suitable for pregnant women or individuals over 200 lbs (91 kg).

The tour operator reserves the right to refuse participation if any health or safety concerns arise.

They offer a "reserve now & pay later" option, allowing you to book without upfront payment.

With a maximum group size of 10, you’ll enjoy a personalized experience exploring Moray and Maras.

Be prepared for an unforgettable day immersed in the stunning Sacred Valley of the Incas.

Getting to the Ranch

Guests begin their Cusco Horseback Riding Tour adventure by hopping aboard a bus or coach for the 70-minute journey to the ranch. This transfer provides:

1. Panoramic views of the stunning Sacred Valley of the Incas.

2. A chance to relax and prepare for the upcoming horseback riding experience.

3. An opportunity to get to know the other participants in the small group.

4. A smooth transition from the bustling city of Cusco to the tranquil countryside.

Once at the ranch, the tour guides equip guests with the necessary gear and introduce them to their trusty steeds, ready to explore the Inca sites of Moray and Maras.

Exploring Moray

After the transfer to the ranch, guests mount their horses and embark on the 2.5-hour ride towards the archaeological site of Moray.

Guests mount their horses and embark on a 2.5-hour ride to the archaeological site of Moray.

This Inca agricultural experiment features a series of circular terraces, each at a different elevation. The guide explains how the Incas used this unique system to study the effects of temperature on crops.

Visitors can wander the site and admire the impressive architecture and engineering. The vibrant green terraces provide a stunning contrast against the arid landscape.

After the guided tour, guests remount their horses and continue their journey towards the picturesque village of Maras.

Visiting Maras and the Salt Mines

Riding for about 45 minutes, the group arrives at the picturesque village of Maras.

The tour explores this historic town, including:

1. A 400-year-old church known for its beautiful colonial architecture.

2. The nearby Maras salt mines, an ancient salt production site that has operated since pre-Incan times.

3. Stunning views of the surrounding mountains and the Sacred Valley of the Incas.

4. Opportunities to interact with local artisans and purchase traditional Andean handicrafts.

After the visit, the group travels by bus to the Maras salt mines for a guided tour, learning about the unique salt-harvesting process that has sustained the community for centuries.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Average Group Size for This Tour?

The tour group size is limited to 10 participants, allowing for a more intimate and personalized experience during the full-day horseback riding excursion.

Can I Bring My Own Horse on the Tour?

No, participants can’t bring their own horses on this tour. The tour operator provides the horses and riding equipment. The group size is limited to 10 participants for a more personalized experience.

Is There an Option to Customize the Tour Itinerary?

The tour has a pre-set itinerary and doesn’t offer customization options. However, travelers can request special accommodations or modifications by contacting the tour provider in advance, though additional fees may apply.

What Should I Bring to Stay Comfortable During the Ride?

To stay comfortable during the ride, wear sturdy, closed-toe shoes, long pants, and layers to adjust to changing weather. Bring sun protection like a hat and sunscreen, and carry a small backpack for snacks and water.

Are There Any Age Restrictions for Participants?

The tour is not suitable for pregnant women or individuals over 200 lbs (91 kg). However, there are no specific age restrictions; participants of all ages can join the tour as long as they meet the weight limit.

The Sum Up

This full-day horseback riding tour in Cusco’s Sacred Valley offers an unparalleled opportunity to take in the region’s rich Inca heritage. From the ancient agricultural site of Moray to the iconic Maras salt mines, this personalized experience showcases the breathtaking landscapes and hidden gems that make this destination truly remarkable. With a knowledgeable guide, delectable lunch, and small group size, it’s an unforgettable adventure that shouldn’t be missed.

You can check availability for your dates here: