From Cusco: ATV Quad Moray and Salar De Salinas Salt Flat Tour

Explore the awe-inspiring landscapes of Peru’s Sacred Valley on an exhilarating ATV quad tour from Cusco. This 6-hour adventure takes adventurers to the ancient archaeological site of Moray and the captivating Salar De Salinas salt flat. With professional guides, safety gear, and entrance fees included, thrill-seekers can enjoy the region’s rich cultural heritage and breathtaking vistas. What discoveries await as you traverse the rugged terrain of this remarkable destination?

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Key Points

Exciting 6-hour ATV tour exploring the Moray archaeological site and Maras salt mines in the Sacred Valley of the Incas, departing from Cusco.
Affordable pricing starting from $39 per person, with pickup in Cusco available.
Guided tour with professional guides, including transportation, ATV usage, and entrance fees.
Opportunity to experience breathtaking Andean landscapes and unique cultural/historical sites.
Comprehensive preparation guidance, ensuring a comfortable and safe off-road adventure.

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Tour Overview

The ATV Tour from Cusco is an exciting 6-hour adventure that takes participants on a journey through the Sacred Valley of the Incas.

Priced from $39 per person, the tour offers ATV quad biking around the Moray archaeological site and Maras salt mines.

Available in English and Spanish, the tour includes optional pickup in Cusco, transportation, ATV usage with safety gear, professional guides, and entrance fees.

Cancellation is free up to 24 hours in advance.

Travelers should bring essentials like ID, comfortable shoes, and rain gear, while avoiding prohibited items like drones and alcohol.

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Itinerary

Pickup location varies based on the selected tour option.

The tour begins with a 1-hour bus/coach transfer from Cusco to Cruzpata. In Cruzpata, participants receive a brief training on ATV handling and safety.

The group then rides ATVs for 1.5 hours along a compacted dirt road to the Moray archaeological site. After a short explanation, they return to Cruzpata via the same 1.5-hour ATV route.

Next, they travel 30 minutes by vehicle to the Maras salt mines, where they receive a brief adventure-focused overview.

Finally, the tour ends with a vehicle transfer back to Cusco, arriving near the Plaza de Armas around 1 PM or 7 PM.

Highlights

This tour offers an adventure-filled exploration of the Sacred Valley of the Incas on all-terrain vehicles (ATVs).

Riders will traverse scenic Andean landscapes, visiting the archaeological site of Moray and the Maras salt mines. The Moray terraces provide a brief yet engaging explanation, while the Maras salt mines offer another opportunity to experience the region’s unique natural wonders.

Throughout the excursion, participants can enjoy the off-road adventure, taking in the breathtaking vistas that define this remarkable part of Peru.

Inclusions

The tour includes transfers from Cusco to the ATV base, providing convenient transportation for participants. The package also includes the use of ATVs equipped with necessary safety gear. A professional tour guide accompanies the group, sharing information about the sites visited. Entrance tickets to Moray (s/70) and Maras (s/20) are covered, ensuring hassle-free access to these attractions. Plus, pre-tour information is provided to help participants prepare for the adventure.

| Inclusions |

|————|

| Transfers from Cusco to ATV base |

| ATV usage with security equipment |

| Professional tour guide service |

| Entrance tickets: Moray (s/70), Maras (s/20) |

| Information prior to the tour |

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Preparation

Participants are advised to bring a passport or ID, comfortable shoes, sunglasses, a sun hat, a camera, biodegradable sunscreen, rain gear, comfortable clothes, cash, a daypack, a headscarf, goggles, and biodegradable insect repellent.

Drones, non-folding wheelchairs, alcohol and drugs, fireworks, and explosive substances aren’t allowed.

The tour is an off-road adventure, so proper preparation is crucial. Wearing appropriate clothing and bringing necessary items will ensure a comfortable and safe experience while exploring the stunning landscapes of the Sacred Valley.

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ATV Training and Safety

Upon arrival at the Cruzpata base, participants undergo a brief training on ATV handling and safety. They learn proper techniques for starting, stopping, accelerating, and steering the ATVs.

An instructor demonstrates safe riding practices, such as maintaining control on slopes and navigating obstacles. Participants have the opportunity to practice on a designated training course before setting out on the tour.

Helmets, goggles, and other safety gear are provided and required throughout the excursion. The guide emphasizes the importance of following all instructions and riding responsibly to ensure an enjoyable and secure experience.

Exploring Moray

After the brief training session, the group sets out on their ATVs, traversing a compacted dirt road for approximately 1.5 hours to reach the archaeological site of Moray.

The guide leads the group through the terraced agricultural complex, providing a short explanation. The unusual concentric circular depressions were used by the Incas for agricultural experimentation, testing different crop varieties at various elevations.

The Inca used the terraced depressions at Moray to experimentally cultivate a variety of crops at different elevations.

Participants explore the site’s unique features, taking in the scenic Andean surroundings.

With the adventure-focused itinerary, the group spends only a limited time at Moray before returning to the ATV base in Cruzpata.

Visiting the Maras Salt Mines

From Cruzpata, the group travels by vehicle for around 30 minutes to reach the renowned Maras salt mines.

This historic site features thousands of small, terraced salt ponds that have been in use since the time of the Incas.

The tour provides a brief explanation of the salt extraction process, focusing on the adventure aspect.

Visitors have the opportunity to:

Witness the contrast between the bright white salt ponds and the surrounding green hills.
Explore the intricate network of salt ponds and learn about the local salt production methods.
Appreciate the stunning Andean scenery that frames this unique and captivating landscape.

Since You Asked

Can I Bring My Own ATV or UTV?

No, participants cannot bring their own ATVs or UTVs. The tour provides the vehicles and equipment for the activity, as part of the package. Bringing personal off-road vehicles is not permitted on this tour.

Is the Tour Suitable for Beginners or Only Experienced Riders?

The tour is suitable for both beginners and experienced riders. It includes a brief training session on ATV handling and safety, so even those new to ATVs can confidently participate in the adventure-filled exploration of the Sacred Valley sites.

How Is the Difficulty Level of the ATV Terrain?

The ATV terrain is a mix of compacted dirt roads and off-road tracks, making it suitable for both beginners and experienced riders. The tour provides training to ensure all participants can safely navigate the varied terrain.

Are There Any Age or Weight Restrictions for the ATV Ride?

There are no specific age or weight restrictions for the ATV ride. However, the tour operator may have guidelines in place to ensure the safety and comfort of all participants. Riders should be able to safely operate the ATVs.

Can I Stop and Take Photos During the ATV Ride?

Yes, participants can stop and take photos during the ATV ride. The tour allows for plenty of photo opportunities throughout the scenic journey to Moray and the Maras salt mines.

The Sum Up

This exhilarating ATV tour from Cusco offers an unforgettable adventure through the Sacred Valley. Visitors can explore the ancient Inca ruins of Moray, marvel at the stunning Salar de Salinas salt flat, and enjoy breathtaking Andean landscapes. With professional guides, safety gear, and convenient transportation, it’s a hassle-free way to discover the region’s rich cultural heritage and natural wonders.