Throttle through Cusco’s highland roads to Huaypo Lagoon, descend into Moray’s circular terraces, and explore the salt pans at Maras on a half-day ATV route. This tour blends speed with stops at some of the Sacred Valley’s most striking landscapes.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
The morning air off the Cusco plain bites with sharp clarity as quad tires carve dust into the highland road. You feel the machine beneath you—throttle responsive, mirrors catching terraces and distant peaks—while Huaypo’s glassy water slides into view through scrub and reed. The route threads between agricultural fields, then opens to the stepped circles of Moray and finally the honeycomb of salt pans at Maras.
Difficulty
moderate
Duration
5–6 hours
Fitness Level
Moderate fitness; able to mount/dismount ATVs and tolerate a few hours seated on rough terrain. Acclimatization to 3,500–3,800 m recommended.
Wildlife
History
Moray’s concentric terraces are an Inca-era agricultural site thought to create microclimates for crop trials; Maras’ salt pans date to pre-Columbian and colonial salt-harvesting traditions.
Conservation
The salt pans and terraces are actively used by local families—stay on designated paths, avoid leaving waste, and respect community harvesting to minimize impact.
Reserve your spot on the Cusco Quad Bikes Half Day today and enjoy a trusted, highly rated experience designed to help you make the most of your adventure.
Acclimatize before you ride
Spend a day or two in Cusco to reduce altitude headaches; drink water and avoid overexertion on day one.
Wear protective clothing
Long pants and closed-toe shoes prevent scrapes from brush and protect from quad heat; operators provide helmets and gloves.
Pack for variable weather
Bring sunscreen and a light rain poncho—sun and sudden showers are both common at high elevation.
Carry small cash
Bring local currency for snacks, tips, or extra purchases at Maras; bigger bills aren’t always accepted.
Closed-toe hiking shoes
Protects feet from mud, rocks and the ATV’s heat shield.
Long pants
Shields legs from brush, sun and cold winds at elevation.
Light rain poncho
Useful during the wet season when showers can arrive suddenly.
summer
Sunscreen and brimmed hat
High-altitude sunlight is intense; protect skin and eyes between stops.