Sacred Valley by Bike

Exploring the Sacred Valley of Peru on a bicycle is a thrilling way to take in the region’s rich history and stunning natural beauty. This guided tour takes adventurous travelers on a winding journey through picturesque landscapes, offering up-close encounters with Inca ruins and salt mines. Whether you’re seeking an adrenaline-fueled adventure or a chance to appreciate the serenity of the Andes, this experience promises an unforgettable day that will leave you eager to discover more about the captivating culture and geography of this remarkable part of the world.

Key Points

• Tour covers 17 km of cycling through the scenic Sacred Valley, including visits to the Inca archaeological site of Moray and the ancient Maras salt mines.
• Includes pickup from Cusco, bike and safety gear preparation, and a picnic lunch amid the breathtaking Andean landscapes.
• Guides provide instructions on bike operation, braking, and maintenance to ensure a comfortable and safe cycling experience.
• Cycling journey offers opportunities to observe traditional Andean villages, as well as the Laguna de Huaypo lake.
• Tour concludes with a private bus transfer back to Cusco, providing a convenient and hassle-free end to the day’s activities.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Tour Overview

The Sacred Valley by Bike tour typically features a rundown of the key attractions in this iconic region of Peru. Priced from $351 per person, the 7-hour adventure takes cyclists through the stunning landscapes of Moray and Maras.

With tours available in Spanish and English, the tour provides free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. After pickup from Cusco, riders receive safety instructions before embarking on a 12km ride to the Inca archaeological site of Moray.

Following a picnic lunch, the journey continues to the ancient salt mines of Maras before a private bus transfer back to Cusco.

Itinerary Highlights

The Sacred Valley by Bike tour begins with a pickup from your Cusco hotel at 9:00 am.

After receiving your bicycle and safety instructions in Chequerek, you’ll embark on a picturesque 12 km ride to the Inca site of Moray, known for its concentric terraces used as a botanical laboratory.

The journey then continues 5 km to the ancient Maras salt mines.

Here, you’ll enjoy a picnic lunch before descending to Pichingoto, crossing the Urubamba River.

Your private bus will then transfer you back to Cusco, departing at 4:00 pm.

The highlights of this tour include:

1. Cycling through the scenic Sacred Valley
2. Exploring the Inca sites of Moray and Maras
3. Enjoying a picnic lunch amid the stunning landscapes
4. Crossing the Urubamba River during your return journey

Bike Preparation

Upon arrival at the starting point in Chequerek, participants receive their bicycle and safety instructions.

The guides provide a thorough overview of how to operate the bikes, which are equipped with front suspension for a comfortable ride. Participants learn proper braking techniques, gear shifting, and basic maintenance in case of minor issues during the tour.

Safety is a top priority, so the guides ensure everyone is wearing a protective helmet and gloves before setting off.

With the necessary preparations complete, the group is ready to embark on their cycling adventure through the stunning Sacred Valley landscape.

Ride to Moray

With the bicycles and safety gear ready, the group sets off on the ride to the Moray archaeological site.

The 12 km journey takes approximately 80 minutes, providing the cyclists with scenic views of the Sacred Valley.

Along the way, they encounter:

1. Breathtaking landscapes, including the Laguna de Huaypo.
2. Traditional Andean villages, offering a glimpse into the local way of life.
3. The Moray ruins, a remarkable Inca archaeological site known for its concentric terraces that were used as a botanical laboratory.
4. The opportunity to pedal through the heart of the Sacred Valley, immersed in the region’s rich history and natural beauty.

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Lunch Break

As the cycling portion of the tour concludes, it’s time for a well-earned lunch break.

At 12:00 pm, the group gathers for a picnic lunch. The box lunch includes local and regional delicacies, providing an authentic taste of Peruvian cuisine.

Participants can enjoy their meal while taking in the breathtaking views of the Andes mountains surrounding the Moray archaeological site.

This pause in the tour allows the cyclists to refuel and rest before continuing on to the next destination.

The lunch break offers a chance to recharge and reflect on the morning’s adventurous ride through the Sacred Valley.

Continue to Maras

After the lunch break, the cyclists leave Moray and continue their journey towards Maras. The distance from Moray to Maras is approximately 5 km.

Along the way, the group will:

1. Admire the stunning landscapes and mountain vistas that surround them.
2. Learn about the ancient salt mines of Maras, which have been in operation for centuries.
3. Observe the local people harvesting salt from the intricate network of evaporation ponds.
4. Explore the historic site and gain a deeper understanding of this unique and sustainable salt production process.

The cycling route offers a chance to take in the culture and natural beauty of the Sacred Valley.

Return Journey

Descending from Maras, the cyclists cross the Urubamba River, offering stunning views of the surrounding landscape.

They then board a private bus for the return journey to Cusco, departing at 4:00 p.m. The bus transfer provides a comfortable and convenient way to end the day’s adventure.

Throughout the tour, the support team ensures the smooth operation, providing assistance and a repair kit as needed.

The return journey caps off a remarkable day of exploring the Sacred Valley’s highlights through an engaging and adventurous cycling experience.

Inclusions and Exclusions

The tour includes a range of services to ensure a seamless and enjoyable experience for participants. These include:

1. Transportation to and from Cusco, providing convenient pick-up and drop-off at the start and end of the tour.

2. A professional bilingual guide who’ll provide support and expertise throughout the route.

3. All necessary equipment, such as bicycles with front suspension, protective helmets and gloves, and a repair and first aid kit.

4. A box lunch to refuel during the midday break.

The tour excludes any additional food, drinks, or personal expenses, allowing participants to customize their experience as desired.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Bring My Own Bicycle?

No, you can’t bring your own bicycle. The tour provides bicycles with front suspension, helmets, and gloves as part of the included equipment. This ensures proper fit and safety throughout the cycling experience.

Is There a Minimum Age Requirement?

The tour doesn’t specify a minimum age requirement. However, it’s recommended that participants be comfortable riding a bicycle and have a moderate fitness level to fully enjoy the 7-hour cycling experience through the Sacred Valley.

What Kind of Weather Can I Expect?

Travelers can expect a variety of weather conditions in the Sacred Valley. Daytime temperatures are typically mild and dry, but the region’s high elevation means cooler temperatures, especially in the mornings and evenings. It’s advisable to pack layers for changing weather.

Can I Extend the Tour to Visit Additional Sites?

Yes, you can extend the tour to visit additional sites. The tour operator offers customization options, allowing you to add more stops or tailor the itinerary to your interests for an additional cost.

Is There an Option to Customize the Itinerary?

Yes, the tour operator generally allows travelers to customize the itinerary. Guests can request to visit additional sites or spend more time at certain locations based on their interests and preferences.

Recap

The Sacred Valley by Bike tour offers an unforgettable adventure through Peru’s stunning landscapes. Participants embark on an exhilarating 12 km ride to Moray and the Maras salt mines, enjoy a picnic lunch, and are transferred back to Cusco, making it an unforgettable experience. The tour provides a perfect blend of history, nature, and outdoor activities, ensuring a memorable journey for adventurous travelers.

You can check if your dates are available here: