Two days of highland adrenaline and ancient stone: ATV across the Sacred Valley’s terraces and salt pans, then travel by train and stand inside Machu Picchu’s extraordinary ruins. This compact itinerary blends hands-on riding with cultural context and expert guiding.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
The morning air bites with altitude as you leave Cusco’s stone streets and climb into the Sacred Valley. Your ATV kicks up dust on high, stony tracks while terraced hills lean into the skyline like pages of an old map. By mid-morning the engine hushes and the landscape takes over — concentric Inca terraces at Moray rotating through microclimates, then the geometric salt pans of Maras glittering like a patchwork of tiny mirrors.
Difficulty
moderate
Duration
2 days
Fitness Level
Light-to-moderate fitness recommended; able to handle short hikes on uneven stone and several hours on an ATV while managing altitude.
Wildlife
History
The Sacred Valley supported Inca agricultural innovation—sites like Moray functioned as experimental terraces creating stepped microclimates for crops; Ollantaytambo was a strategic stronghold during the Spanish conquest.
Conservation
Machu Picchu is part of a protected sanctuary with visitor limits to reduce erosion and cultural impact; stick to marked trails, avoid single-use plastics, and respect local guidelines.
Reserve your spot on the 2-Day Tour Adventure Tour: Sacred Valley by ATV and Machu Picchu today and enjoy a trusted, highly rated experience designed to help you make the most of your adventure.
Acclimatize before you ride
Spend at least one full day in Cusco to reduce altitude effects; drink water and avoid heavy exertion on arrival.
Wear closed-toe shoes
ATV sections and stone streets at Ollantaytambo/Machu Picchu require sturdy soles for traction on gravel and wet stone.
Protect against sun and rain
High-altitude sun is strong and weather can shift quickly — carry SPF, sunglasses and a lightweight rain shell.
Keep a small daypack
Bring snacks, refillable water, camera, and basic first-aid; lockers in Aguas Calientes are limited.
Closed-toe trail shoes
Grip and protection for ATV controls and the uneven stonework at archaeological sites.
Layered clothing (base, insulating, shell)
Rapid weather shifts and temperature swings from morning to afternoon make layering essential.
Hydration system or refillable bottle
Altitude increases dehydration risk — carry 1–2 liters and refill when possible.
Sun protection (sunglasses, SPF 30+, hat)
High-elevation UV is intense even on cool days; protect skin and eyes during exposed ATV sections.