This is the valley's most popular adventure, and it is simple to understand: you ride a quad bike with a small group and a guide across dirt tracks on the plateau above Maras. The route passes farms and open fields toward Moray and then the salt pans, with stops for photographs and short explanations. Helmets, gloves and a safety briefing are standard, and beginners pick it up quickly, because the machines are automatic and the pace is steady. It takes about six hours including transport, which is a big adventure in a short time. It suits groups, friends and families with confident teenagers, and it gives a different perspective on landscapes that most visitors see only through a bus window.
Wear long trousers, closed shoes and layers, and bring sunglasses, sunscreen and a buff or scarf for dust. Operators usually provide helmets and gloves. Most tours require a minimum age and want you to be comfortable with basic riding, so read the conditions on the booking page and tell the guide about any health concerns. Riding at around 3,500 metres is tiring, and the plateau is exposed, so carry water.
Entrance fees to Moray and the salt mines are normally not included in the tour price, so carry soles in cash. The Boleto Turistico covers Moray but not the salt mines, which are paid separately at the site. Check what your tour covers before you go, and note that some tours also stop at a viewpoint or a local home for a drink.
From November the rainy season begins and runs to March. Mud and puddles turn the tracks into a different kind of fun, but operators may change the route or cancel in heavy rain, and visibility can drop in cloud. Mornings are usually the best window for dry riding, so pick the earliest departure. Respect the farmland, slow down near people and animals and keep to the guide's line.
What to expect
The experience
A safety briefing, then a guided group ride on dirt tracks to Moray and the salt pans, with stops for photographs.
Best time
The earliest morning departure, for the driest tracks and clearest skies.
How long
About six hours including transport from the pickup point.
Tips
Wear closed shoes, long trousers and a scarf for dust, and carry soles for Moray and salt mine entry fees.
Quick picks
- Best for
- Thrill seekers and groups who want a fun, different way to see the plateau.
- Families
- Best for confident teenagers, since operators set minimum ages and the riding is hands-on.
- Couples
- Share the dust and the views, then reward yourselves with a long lunch in Urubamba.
- Pair with
- A relaxed afternoon in Urubamba, or a spa treatment at a valley lodge.
- Time needed
- Half a day.
Good questions
Do I need riding experience for the ATV tour?+
No, the machines are automatic and guides give a safety briefing first. You should be comfortable with basic riding and follow the guide's line.
Are entrance fees included?+
Fees for Moray and the salt mines are normally paid separately in cash. Check the details on the booking page before you go.
What should I wear?+
Closed shoes, long trousers, layers, sunglasses and a scarf for dust. Helmets and gloves are usually provided.
Is it safe in the rainy season?+
Operators may change routes or cancel in heavy rain. From November to March mornings are usually the best time to ride.
Is there an age limit?+
Operators set minimum ages and may restrict some health conditions. Read the conditions on the booking page before choosing.
