From Cusco: Half Day ATV Tour to Maras and Moray

Exploring the breathtaking landscapes of the Sacred Valley has never been more thrilling. Set out on a half-day ATV adventure from Cusco, where you’ll uncover the ancient wonders of Maras and Moray. This guided tour promises to immerse you in the rich cultural heritage of the region, from the captivating circular terraces of Moray to the historic salt mines that have sustained local communities for centuries. With the wind in your hair and the Andean peaks as your backdrop, you’ll discover why this expedition is a must-do for adventure-seekers and history buffs alike.

This experience made our list of the 4 Best Quad Bike And ATV Tours In Maras.

Key Points

• This half-day ATV tour from Cusco takes participants to the Sacred Valley destinations of Maras and Moray.
• The tour includes hotel pickup, ATV training, guided visits to Moray’s circular terraces and Maras’ salt mines, and a breakfast and lunch.
• The tour duration is approximately 6 hours and is limited to a maximum of 10 participants.
• Entrance fees, safety equipment, and transportation are all included in the package price, which starts from $46 per person.
• Certain restrictions apply, such as age, health, and mobility requirements, as well as prohibitions on pets, smoking, alcohol, drugs, and explosives.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Tour Overview

This half-day ATV tour takes participants from Cusco to the sacred sites of Maras and Moray in the heart of the Sacred Valley.

The tour lasts 6 hours and is limited to 10 people, with pickup included from Cusco hotels.

After an ATV training session, riders will travel through Andean landscapes to Moray, an ancient Inca agricultural site.

A guided tour of Moray is followed by a stop in Maras, where you will explore the town’s historic salt mines.

The tour includes all necessary equipment, entrance fees, and a hearty breakfast and lunch.

With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, this ATV adventure is an ideal way to experience the highlights of the Sacred Valley.

Itinerary Highlights

The ATV tour begins with pickup from participants’ hotels in Cusco, followed by a journey to the Sacred Valley. Upon arrival, guests receive a training session to familiarize themselves with the ATVs. The tour then heads to Huaypo Lagoon, a scenic spot surrounded by Andean peaks. Next, riders make their way to the archaeological center of Moray, where they’ll embark on a guided tour of the site’s unique circular terraces.

Destination	Key Highlights
Huaypo Lagoon	Surrounded by Andean landscapes
Moray	Guided tour of the circular terraces
Maras	Visit the town square and the famous salt mines

The tour concludes with a stop in the town of Maras, where participants explore the historic salt mines before returning to the ATV base and Cusco.

Inclusions and Costs

The tour includes pickup from hotels in Cusco and tourist transportation to the ATV base.

Once there, participants receive a tour guide, personal ATVs, and basic equipment like helmets.

Driving lessons are provided if needed, along with a first aid kit.

Entrance fees to Moray (S/. 70.00 for foreigners, S/. 40.00 for nationals) and the Maras salt mines (S/. 15.00) are covered.

Breakfast and lunch are also included in the package price, which starts from $46.00 per person.

The tour lasts around 6 hours, with a group size limited to 10 participants, available in Spanish and English.

Important Information

Free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance is available for a full refund. Guests can also reserve now and pay later. To ensure a comfortable experience, it’s recommended to bring a passport or ID, comfortable shoes, sunglasses, a sun hat, sunscreen, water, and comfortable clothes. However, this tour is not suitable for pregnant women, individuals with heart problems, wheelchair users, those with vertigo, recent surgeries, or those over 95 years old. Plus, pets, smoking, alcohol, drugs, and explosive substances are not allowed on the tour.

Important Information
Passport or ID	✓
Comfortable shoes	✓
Sunglasses	✓
Sun hat	✓
Sunscreen	✓
Water	✓
Comfortable clothes	✓

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Restrictions

The tour’s restrictions prohibit the presence of pets, smoking, alcohol, drugs, and explosive substances. Participants must be aware of these guidelines to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.

Some additional restrictions include:

• Not suitable for pregnant women, individuals with heart problems, wheelchair users, those with vertigo, recent surgeries, or over 95 years old.
• Entrance tickets for Maras and Moray can be purchased on-site.
• Participants must bring their passport or ID, comfortable shoes, sunglasses, sun hat, sunscreen, and water.
• The tour isn’t recommended for those who don’t meet the age, health, or mobility requirements.

ATV Training Session

Before participants embark on the ATV adventure, they’ll receive a comprehensive training session at the base.

Here, trained instructors will provide a thorough overview of the ATV’s features and proper handling techniques. Participants will learn how to safely start, accelerate, brake, and maneuver the vehicles.

They’ll also practice navigating through various terrain, including hills and sharp turns, to ensure they’re comfortable and confident before hitting the trails.

This training session is essential to preparing participants for the exhilarating Maras and Moray excursion, where they’ll traverse picturesque Andean landscapes and explore the remarkable archaeological sites.

Guided Tour of Moray

After the ATV training session, participants embark on their journey to the archaeological site of Moray.

Here, they’ll explore this unique and fascinating Inca complex:

• Moray features a series of concentric circular terraces, descending 490 feet into the earth.

• Archaeologists believe these terraces were used as an agricultural laboratory to test different crop varieties and microclimates.

• The intricate design and engineering of the site are a testament to the Inca’s advanced understanding of agriculture and environmental adaptation.

• Knowledgeable guides provide insights into the site’s history and purpose, leaving visitors with a deeper appreciation for Inca ingenuity.

Guided Tour of Maras Salt Mines

From Moray, the tour proceeds to the historic town of Maras, where participants explore the remarkable Maras salt mines.

These salt mines have been in operation since the time of the Incas. Guests will marvel at the thousands of salt evaporation ponds, each meticulously maintained by local families.

The guide provides insights into the ancient salt harvesting techniques still used today. Visitors can even purchase some of the locally-produced salt as a memento of their visit.

The Maras salt mines offer a unique glimpse into the region’s rich cultural heritage and the resilience of traditional practices in the face of modernity.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Bring My Own ATV Equipment?

Unfortunately, you cannot bring your own ATV equipment on this tour. The tour includes personal ATVs and basic equipment like helmets provided by the tour operator. Using your own gear is not permitted.

Is There a Minimum Age Requirement for Participants?

The tour has no stated minimum age requirement. However, it’s not suitable for children or elderly participants over 95 years old, as specified in the important information section. The activity is geared towards able-bodied adults.

Are There Any Special Requirements for Medical Conditions?

The tour has certain medical restrictions. Pregnant women, individuals with heart problems, wheelchair users, those with vertigo, and those who’ve had recent surgeries are not allowed to participate. Participants over 95 years old are also ineligible.

Can I Extend the Tour Duration for an Additional Fee?

The tour operator does not offer an option to extend the tour duration for an additional fee. The tour is a fixed 6-hour experience and cannot be customized beyond the standard itinerary and inclusions.

Is There a Weight Limit for ATV Riders?

There’s no specific weight limit mentioned, but the tour operator advises riders to be within a reasonable weight range to ensure safe operation of the ATVs. Heavier riders may need to choose a different transportation option.

Recap

This thrilling half-day ATV tour from Cusco offers a unique opportunity to explore the stunning sites of Maras and Moray in the Sacred Valley. With an ATV training session, scenic stops, and guided tours, participants can enjoy the breathtaking Andean landscapes and rich cultural heritage of the region. The tour’s inclusions and small group size ensure a memorable and hassle-free experience.

You can check if your dates are available here: