The hills above Cusco are riding country, and a horseback ride is a refreshing alternative to walking the ruins on foot. This tour is a small-group ride of about three and a half hours that visits the Temple of the Moon, an Inca shrine carved into a limestone outcrop near Sacsayhuaman, and then climbs to Chacan Mountain for views down over the city. The booking page describes a small group, a bilingual guide and pickup from the city, and a closely related option on the same operator's profile also includes a ride toward the Devil's Balcony viewpoint. Free cancellation is offered. With more than three hundred reviews at a rating of five stars it is one of the best-reviewed outdoor experiences in the region. You ride through eucalyptus groves, open pasture and Inca terraces at an unhurried pace, which makes it accessible to beginners, and the horses are described as well cared for. Protective equipment, snacks and drinks are listed with a related option from the same operator, so confirm exactly what your booking includes.
The Temple of the Moon, known in Quechua as Quillarumiyoc, is a small, atmospheric site compared with Sacsayhuaman. A narrow cave with carved niches and a stepped altar is cut into a rock face, the kind of place where the Inca engineers worked with the natural stone rather than against it.
Approaching it on horseback through the trees gives a sense of how the sacred landscape of Cusco was meant to be experienced, as a series of shrines in the hills rather than a single monument. You can combine it with a visit to the main archaeological park nearby.
The ride itself is gentle, but you are at roughly 3,500 meters, so you will notice effort on the climb to the viewpoint and the wind and sun can be strong. Wear long trousers, closed shoes with a small heel, a warm layer, sunglasses and sun cream, and bring a hat; helmets are normally provided.
The operator's page for a related option notes that the tour is not recommended for travelers with heart problems or other serious medical conditions, back problems or pregnancy. Ask about weight limits and the minimum age when you book. The start time on a related listing is early afternoon, so check yours.
When to go
The afternoon light over the city is lovely, and the dry months from May to September give the clearest views, though November to March brings green hills and rain showers. It suits couples, solo travelers and families with older children who want a calmer day after a trek or Machu Picchu, and it is an easy way to see a different side of Cusco. If you prefer a guided walking route, the Sacsayhuaman and Qenqo entries in this guide cover the same hillside on foot.
What to expect
The experience
A guided horseback ride from a ranch above Cusco to the Temple of the Moon and up to a viewpoint on Chacan Mountain, in a small group with a bilingual guide.
Best time
Afternoon light for city views; May to September is driest, with rain showers more likely from November.
How long
About three and a half hours.
Tips
Wear long trousers and closed shoes, bring layers and sun protection, and ask about weight limits and minimum age. Check your start time and pickup arrangements.
Quick picks
- Best for
- Travelers who want a gentle, scenic way to see the hills above Cusco after days on foot.
- Families
- Suitable for older children who can sit a horse; confirm minimum age with the operator.
- Couples
- A relaxed ride with city views, especially in the late afternoon.
- Pair with
- Sacsayhuaman, Qenqo and Tambomachay on foot, or an evening in San Blas.
- Time needed
- Half a day.
Good questions
Do I need riding experience?+
No. The pace is gentle and the guide leads the group, so beginners can take part.
What will we see?+
The Temple of the Moon, an Inca shrine carved into rock, and the viewpoint on Chacan Mountain with views of Cusco.
How long is the tour?+
About three and a half hours.
Can I cancel?+
Free cancellation is listed. Check the terms for your chosen date.
Who should avoid it?+
A related option from the same operator is not recommended for travelers with heart problems or serious medical conditions, back problems or pregnancy.
