Quad Tour to Moray and Maras, Salt Mines From Cusco

Embark on an exhilarating quad tour that takes you from Cusco to the stunning landscapes of Moray and Maras. Over 5 hours, you’ll traverse the Sacred Valley, marvel at ancient agricultural terraces, and explore historic salt mines. With hands-on training and breathtaking views, this adventure combines thrilling rides with rich cultural exploration. What secrets and surprises await as you discover these remarkable sites?

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Key Points

A 5-hour quad bike adventure exploring the Sacred Valley near Cusco, including visits to the Moray agricultural terraces and the Maras salt production site.
Priced from Kč 1,086 per person with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and a reserve now, pay later option.
Tour includes transportation, ATV equipment, a guide, and meals, with a pickup from Cusco at 7 a.m. and return around 1:30 p.m.
Comprehensive training session on proper quad bike operation upon arrival, ensuring a thrilling and safe experience.
Scenic views of the Huaypo Lagoon and the Andes Mountains throughout the journey, showcasing the agricultural beauty of the Sacred Valley.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview

The Quad Tour to Moray and Maras, Salt Mines from Cusco is a 5-hour adventure that takes visitors to explore the stunning landscape and historic sites of the Sacred Valley.

A 5-hour adventure exploring the stunning landscape and historic sites of the Sacred Valley near Cusco.

Priced from Kč 1,086 per person, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and a reserve now, pay later option.

Highlights include visiting the circular terraces of Moray, exploring the ancient salt production site in Maras, and enjoying scenic views of the Huaypo Lagoon and the Andes mountains.

The tour includes transportation, ATV equipment, a guide, and meals, making it a comprehensive and convenient way to discover these remarkable attractions.

Looking for more options in Cusco? We've reviewed plenty of other experiences.

Itinerary Highlights

The tour begins with pickup from your hotel in Cusco at 7 a.m., followed by a journey to Cruz de Pata in the Sacred Valley. There, you’ll receive training on how to operate the quad bikes. The scenic route takes you past the stunning Huaypo Lagoon and the majestic Andes mountains. Your first stop is Moray, where you’ll explore the unique circular terraces. Next, you’ll visit Maras to learn about its rich history of salt production. The tour returns via a different route, wrapping up around 1:30 p.m.

| Itinerary Highlights |

| — | — | — | — | — |

| Explore Maras and its salt production history | Return via a different route | Finish around 1:30 p.m. |

Quad Bike Operation Training

Once arriving at Cruz de Pata in the Sacred Valley, participants receive a thorough training session on how to properly operate the quad bikes.

An experienced guide demonstrates safe handling techniques, including accelerating, braking, and navigating turns. Participants then have the opportunity to practice driving the quads in a controlled environment, ensuring they feel comfortable and confident before setting out on the scenic tour.

The guide provides hands-on assistance and feedback to help each person master the basics. This preparatory phase sets the stage for a thrilling and safe adventure through the stunning landscapes of Moray and Maras.

Scenic Views and Landscape

After the training session, participants embark on the scenic journey, marveling at the stunning vistas that unfold before them. The quad bikes traverse the Sacred Valley, offering panoramic views of the Huaypo Lagoon and the majestic Andes mountain range. The landscape is a tapestry of vibrant greens, earthy browns, and snow-capped peaks, creating a breathtaking backdrop for the adventure.

| Scenic Highlight | Description |

| — | — |

| Huaypo Lagoon | A serene body of water nestled in the valley, reflecting the surrounding mountains |

| Andes Mountains | The iconic snow-capped peaks that dominate the horizon, a testament to the region’s natural grandeur |

| Sacred Valley | The lush, fertile valley that was once the heart of the Inca Empire, now a canvas of agricultural beauty |

| Winding Trails | The quad bikes navigate the twisting, rolling paths, offering thrilling rides and stunning vistas at every turn |

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Exploring Moray

As participants reach the archaeological site of Moray, they’re greeted by the mesmerizing circular terraces that once served as an Inca agricultural laboratory.

The multilevel depressions are believed to have been used for agricultural experimentation, as the temperature variation between the levels can be as much as 15°C.

Visitors can explore the different levels, marveling at the impressive engineering and the stunning natural setting.

The tour guide provides insights into the site’s history and its importance in Inca agricultural practices, enhancing the overall experience of this unique and captivating archaeological wonder.

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Exploring Maras Salt Mines

From the captivating Moray terraces, the tour heads to the historic Maras salt mines.

From the captivating Moray terraces, the tour heads to the historic Maras salt mines.

This ancient salt production site dates back to the Inca Empire, where local communities have sustainably harvested salt for centuries.

Visitors can explore:

Thousands of salt ponds carved into the mountainside
The traditional method of evaporation to extract salt crystals
The unique architecture and engineering of the salt works
The opportunity to purchase artisanal salt products directly from the source
The stunning views of the surrounding Andes mountains

The tour provides an immersive experience into Maras’ rich cultural heritage and salt-making legacy.

Return Journey

The tour then returns via a different route, allowing participants to take in additional scenic views of the Andes mountains.

The return journey offers a chance to see the countryside from a new perspective, with the ATVs navigating winding paths and rolling hills.

Along the way, the guide shares more insights about the region’s history and culture.

The tour wraps up around 1:30 p.m., providing ample time for participants to explore Cusco further or enjoy a well-earned lunch.

Included Services and Entrance Fees

The Quad Tour to Moray and Maras includes a comprehensive set of services to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable experience.

Participants will benefit from:

Air-conditioned vehicle transportation
All-terrain vehicles (ATVs) and necessary equipment
First-aid kit for safety
Knowledgeable live tour guides in English and Spanish
Hands-on driving instruction prior to the tour

Plus, entrance fees are covered for the Maras salt mines (10 soles) and partial tickets (70 soles) to access the various sites.

This all-inclusive package provides excellent value, allowing visitors to focus on the highlights of the tour without additional out-of-pocket expenses.

Since You Asked

What Should I Bring for the Tour?

For this tour, it’s recommended to bring sunscreen, a hat, sunglasses, comfortable clothes and shoes, a camera, and any personal medication. Participants should also ensure they have a valid driver’s license if they plan to operate the quad bikes.

Is There a Minimum Age Requirement to Participate?

The minimum age to participate in the quad tour is 16 years old. Participants under 18 must be accompanied by an adult. This is to ensure the safety and enjoyment of all guests on the excursion.

Can I Customize the Tour Itinerary?

The tour itinerary can’t be customized, as it’s a pre-set group experience. However, participants can discuss any special needs or requests with the tour operator before booking to see if accommodations can be made.

Are There Any Additional Costs Not Mentioned?

The tour description doesn’t mention any additional costs, but travelers should be aware that personal expenses like photos, tips, and souvenirs may incur extra fees not included in the tour price.

How Experienced Do I Need to Be in Riding Quads?

No prior quad riding experience is required. The tour includes a training session to get you comfortable operating the quad bikes. As long as you follow the instructor’s guidance, you’ll be ready to explore the scenic landscapes.

The Sum Up

This quad tour offers an exhilarating adventure through the Sacred Valley, showcasing the stunning landscapes and rich history of Moray and Maras. With hands-on training and expert guidance, travelers can safely navigate the rugged terrain while marveling at the unique circular terraces and the captivating salt mines. It’s an unforgettable experience that combines stunning views, cultural exploration, and thrilling outdoor activities.