Moray and Maras are among the most photographed places in the Sacred Valley, and they are reached across a high plateau of potato fields, adobe hamlets and dirt tracks that suits quad bikes well. This tour leaves from Cusco, lasts about six hours and takes a small group, capped at fifteen, along those tracks to the circular terraces of Moray and the thousands of salt pans of Maras. The booking page states that the entrance fees to Moray and to the salt mines are not included, so budget for them separately. With over four hundred reviews and a rating of 4.8 it is one of the best-regarded adventure options in the area, and a comparable ride on the same plateau has a similar reputation. The experience gives you the landscape at an easy pace, with stops to look at the terraces, step into the salt works and enjoy the view down to the valley. It suits travelers who find the standard minibus circuit passive, and it is also an economical way to spend half a day. Check with the operator about the age and licence requirements and the safety gear provided.
Why the ride works
The terraces of Moray are a set of concentric circular pits that may have served as an Inca agricultural laboratory, with microclimates that differ by several degrees from top to bottom, and the salt pans of Maras have been worked by local families since before the Incas, with spring-fed pools stepping down a hillside in white and ochre. The tracks between them and the villages around Maras are the kind of rural roads on which a quad bike is both fun and useful, taking you to viewpoints that tour buses skip. For the full story of both sites, read the entry for Moray and Maras in this guide.
Practical points
The plateau sits well above Cusco at roughly 3,300 to 3,500 meters, so expect cold wind, strong sun and dust. Wear closed shoes, long trousers, a jacket you can layer, sunglasses and a scarf or buff, and bring cash for the entrance fees and the salt works. The ride is on dirt tracks, so conditions change after rain and the rainy season from November to March can turn parts muddy and cancel departures.
Ask about the length of any instruction before you set off and about what the operator provides, such as helmets and gloves. Ride at your own pace and keep a safe distance from the bike in front.
Who it suits
Adventurous couples, groups of friends and teenagers who would otherwise find the Sacred Valley a long bus day. It is less suitable for anyone with back problems, anyone who dislikes dust and anyone who wants detailed archaeology, since the tour's focus is the ride. If you want a guided, in-depth visit with history, the standard Moray and Maras day trip in this guide is the alternative.
What to expect
The experience
A guided quad bike ride from Cusco across the plateau tracks to Moray and the Maras salt pans, with stops for views and the sites. Groups are limited to fifteen.
Best time
The dry season from May to September for firm tracks; in the rainy season from November the ride is greener but muddier and may be cancelled.
How long
About six hours including transfers.
Tips
Bring cash for the Moray and salt mine entrance fees, which are not included. Wear closed shoes and layers, and ask about age limits and gear.
Quick picks
- Best for
- Active travelers who want to see Moray and Maras from the saddle of a quad bike rather than a minibus window.
- Families
- Teenagers who meet the operator's age and size rules will enjoy it; confirm limits before booking.
- Couples
- A fun, scenic half day with good photographs.
- Pair with
- A weaving visit in Chinchero or the Sacred Valley day trip in this guide.
- Time needed
- Half a day, or six hours.
Good questions
Are the entrance fees included?+
No. The booking page says the entrance fees to Moray and the salt mines are not included.
How big is the group?+
The group is limited to fifteen travelers.
How long is the tour?+
About six hours, according to the booking page.
What should I wear?+
Closed shoes, long trousers, layers, sunglasses and something to cover your nose and mouth against the dust.
Is it available in the rainy season?+
Departures run through the year, but wet tracks can be muddy between November and March, so expect weather-related changes.
