Cusco: ATV Tour to Huaypo Lake and Maras Salt Mines

Lush, rolling hills and ancient Inca ruins await on this thrilling six-hour ATV adventure through the Sacred Valley, culminating at the stunning Huaypo Lake and historic Maras Salt Mines.

Cusco’s breathtaking landscapes offer a thrilling ATV adventure through the Sacred Valley. This six-hour tour combines adrenaline and cultural exploration as you navigate ancient Inca ruins and rolling hills, taking in panoramic views of snow-capped mountains. With expert guides providing insights, you’ll visit the stunning Huaypo Lake and the historic Maras Salt Mines, making this a must-do activity for any traveler seeking an unforgettable experience in the heart of Peru.

Key Points

  • 6-hour ATV tour exploring the Sacred Valley, including visits to Huaypo Lake and the Maras Salt Mines.
  • Thrilling 105-minute quad bike ride through scenic landscapes, passing ancient Inca ruins and rolling green hills.
  • Quick 15-minute stop at Huaypo Lake to admire its crystal-clear waters and surrounding snow-capped mountains.
  • Optional 40-minute visit to the historic Maras Salt Mines, offering insights into ancient salt harvesting techniques.
  • Expert guides provide commentary in English and Spanish, with hotel pickup, shared transportation, and entry fees included.
You can check availability for your dates here:

Overview of the Tour

This ATV tour offers participants the opportunity to explore the stunning landscapes of the Sacred Valley.

During the 6-hour excursion, guests will take a thrilling quad bike ride through the valley, stopping to visit the serene Huaypo Lake and the iconic Maras Salt Mines.

With expert English and Spanish-speaking guides, travelers will learn about the region’s rich history and cultural significance.

Travelers will learn about the region’s rich history and cultural significance from expert English and Spanish-speaking guides.

The tour includes hotel pickup, shared transportation, and all necessary entry fees, making it a convenient and hassle-free way to discover the natural wonders surrounding Cusco.

Whether you’re an adventure seeker or a nature enthusiast, this ATV tour promises an unforgettable experience.

Highlights of the Itinerary

The tour begins with a safety briefing, where participants learn the proper operation of the all-terrain vehicles (ATVs). Once ready, they’ll embark on a thrilling 105-minute quad bike ride through the Sacred Valley. Along the way, they’ll catch glimpses of snow-capped mountains. The tour makes a quick stop at the serene Huaypo Lake, where participants can take in the scenic views. Finally, they have the option to visit the mesmerizing Maras Salt Mines, spending around 40 minutes exploring the salt pans.

| Main Stops | Duration |

|————|———-|

| Safety Briefing | 15 minutes |

| Quad Bike Ride | 105 minutes |

| Visit Huaypo Lake | Quick visit |

| Optional Sightseeing at Maras Salt Mines | 40 minutes |

Quad Bike Ride Through the Sacred Valley

After the safety briefing, participants embark on a thrilling 105-minute quad bike ride through the picturesque Sacred Valley.

They’ll zip past ancient Inca ruins, rolling green hills, and stunning mountain vistas. The off-road adventure offers an exhilarating way to explore the region’s breathtaking landscapes.

Riders can control their own quad bikes or opt to share with a partner. The rugged terrain provides an adrenaline-pumping experience as guests navigate winding trails and steep inclines.

This portion of the tour allows visitors to enjoy the natural beauty of the Sacred Valley.

Visiting Huaypo Lake

Next, the tour group makes a quick visit to the stunning Huaypo Lake.

Located in the Sacred Valley, the lake’s crystal-clear waters offer breathtaking views of the surrounding snow-capped mountains. Guests have about 15 minutes to take in the serene atmosphere and snap some photos before continuing the adventure.

The guide provides information about the lake’s cultural and environmental significance.

Though the stop is brief, it’s a chance to appreciate the natural beauty of the region before moving on to the next destination – the Maras Salt Mines.

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Exploring the Maras Salt Mines

After leaving the serene Huaypo Lake, the tour group heads to the Maras Salt Mines.

An optional 40-minute stop at this historic site offers a fascinating glimpse into the ancient salt harvesting techniques. Visitors can wander through the thousands of salt ponds, each one meticulously maintained by local communities.

The glistening white salt ponds contrast beautifully against the rugged mountains in the background. Tour participants have the chance to learn about the rich cultural heritage and traditional salt production methods that have endured for centuries.

The glistening white salt ponds set against the rugged mountains offer a glimpse into centuries-old salt production methods.

This unique experience provides a memorable end to the ATV adventure.

Transportation and Inclusions

The tour includes hotel pickup for the morning departure, with participants being collected from their Cusco accommodations between 6:40 and 7:00 am.

Afternoon tour attendees meet at 1 PM in Plaza Regocijo.

The tour provides shared transportation from Cusco to Cruzpata, where the ATV ride begins. An English and Spanish-speaking guide accompanies the group.

Admission fees for Huaypo Lake, Maras Salt Mines, and community fees are included.

After the tour, participants are dropped off in the city center, not at their hotels.

Quad bikes are for 1 person or shared by 2, but can’t accommodate 3 riders.

Participant Requirements and Restrictions

Participants must meet certain requirements to join the ATV tour. The minimum age is 16 years, and a valid ID is required on the day of the activity.

The tour isn’t suitable for pregnant women or individuals with back problems. Smoking isn’t allowed during the tour. Participants should wear comfortable clothes and closed-toe shoes for the ATV ride.

Meeting the stated requirements ensures everyone’s safety and enjoyment throughout the excursion. The guide will call participants by name at the designated meeting point, Plaza Regocijo, before the tour departs.

What to Bring and Important Information

Though the tour itinerary may change, participants should come prepared with a hat, sunscreen, water, and comfortable, closed-toe shoes.

Be prepared with a hat, sunscreen, water, and comfortable shoes for the changing tour itinerary.

Smoking isn’t allowed during the excursion. It’s important to bring a valid ID on the day of the activity.

Pregnant women and individuals with back problems are advised not to participate as the ATV ride may be unsuitable for them.

While the tour guide will provide essential information, participants should review the provided details in advance.

Meeting at Plaza Regocijo, the guide will call out participants’ names before departure.

Things To Know

Can I Request a Private Tour Instead of a Shared Tour?

Yes, you can request a private ATV tour instead of a shared tour. This will provide a more personalized experience, but it will cost more than the shared tour option.

Is There an Option to Extend the Tour Duration?

Yes, there’s an option to extend the tour duration. Customers can request a longer ATV tour that visits additional sites for an extra fee. The tour operator offers this flexibility to accommodate individual preferences.

Can I Bring My Own Quad Bike Instead of Renting One?

No, you can’t bring your own quad bike. The tour package includes a rented quad bike, and you’re not allowed to use your own. This is to ensure the safety and consistency of the tour experience.

Do I Need to Purchase the Entry Fees in Advance?

The entry fees for Huaypo Lake (7 soles), Maras (20 soles), and the community fee (5 soles) are included in the tour price. There’s no need to purchase them separately in advance.

Is There a Discount Available for Group Bookings?

According to the tour information, there’s no mention of a group booking discount. The price is listed as a per person rate, so it’s likely the same cost regardless of group size.

Sum Up

This ATV tour through the Sacred Valley offers an exhilarating blend of adventure and cultural discovery. Riders will navigate ancient Inca ruins, sweeping vistas, and the iconic Maras Salt Mines, all while enjoying the thrilling quad bike experience. With expert guides, this tour provides an unforgettable way to explore the natural and historical wonders of the Cusco region.

You can check availability for your dates here: