Cusco is one of the destinations with a very changing geography. Its location within the Andes Mountains makes it an ideal space for thousands of activities. One of the activities that most tourists do is driving ATVs or four-wheelers. In Cusco and the Sacred Valley you can find different circuits where you can do it. Learn more about the ATV adventure within the Sacred Valley and other spaces in Cusco that will lead to truly beautiful destinations. Let’s get started!

• Is ATV riding for everyone?
• The routes that can be done in Cusco
• The routes that can be done in the Sacred Valley
• Other ATV routes near Cusco
• More adventure in other activities in Cusco
• Details to keep in mind
• Frequently Asked Questions

Touring the Sacred Valley of the Incas on an ATV

Is ATV riding for everyone?

Driving ATVs in the Sacred Valley or anywhere in Cusco will be an experience full of adventure, excitement and also accessible to many people. Most of them will only have to take into account the destination they want to visit and the date they want to do so.

In Cusco you can find different tours that are suitable for ATV tours. However, it is important to keep in mind some factors that must be taken into account so that the experience is comfortable and rewarding when doing it.

Girl pretending to drive a four-wheeler

The routes that can be done in Cusco

• ATV Tour to the Abode of the Gods

  • The activity begins very close to Tica Tica on the outskirts of the city of Cusco.
  • From the community of Sencca, the ATVs are boarded.
  • The tour lasts approximately 1 hour.
  • The sculptures of the Abode of the Gods can be appreciated.

• ATV Tour in Sacsayhuamán

  • The activity begins very close to Sacsayhuamán, more precisely near the car parking lot.
  • From the Sacsayhuamán parking lot, you can board the ATVs.
  • The tour lasts approximately 1 hour 1 hour and 30 minutes.
  • You can see the Inca buildings of Sacsayhuamán and you can also reach the Devil’s Balcony and the Temple of the Moon.

• ATV to Pumamarka

  • The activity begins in the mountains of the San Sebastián district, you must follow the route from the ENACO bus stop.
  • The ATVs are boarded from the community of Pumamarka.
  • The tour lasts approximately 3 hours.
  • You can see rural communities such as Pumamarka, Yuncaypata, the Pumamarka archaeological site and natural springs.

• ATV in Poroy

  • The activity begins very close to the district of Poroy, about 20 minutes from the city of Cusco.
  • From Poroy is where you board the ATVs.
  • The tour lasts approximately 2 hours.
  • This is an alternative to visiting the Abode of the Gods.

Tourist couple heading to the Abode of the Gods on a quad bike

Cusco, the starting point for the Inca adventure
From Cusco, you can do various activities, both adventure and traditional trips. One of the most visited destinations in Cusco is Machu Picchu, followed by the Rainbow Mountain of Vinincunca. Visitors also want to learn more about the Incas and take a tour of all the archaeological sites. From Cusco, you can practically visit several Inca spaces and remains.

The routes that can be done in the Sacred Valley

• ATV Tour Salineras de Maras

  • The activity begins very close to the Maras district in the heights of the Sacred Valley.
  • The ATVs are boarded from the community of Cruzpata.
  • The tour lasts approximately 1 hour.
  • You can see the Maras Salt Mines and if you take the complete tour, the Moray Circular Terraces.

• Chinchero ATV Tour

  • The activity begins near Chinchero. This is an optional activity.
  • The ATVs are boarded from the community of Cruzpata.
  • The tour lasts approximately 1 hour.
  • You can see the districts of Huarocondo, Chinchero and, if possible, even visit Maras.

• Cruzpata ATV Route

  • This is a strategic point from where most of the ATV routes begin.
  • From the community of Cruz, the ATVs are boarded.
  • More than 1 hour of driving is guaranteed as the routes can be different and varied.
  • Various Inca buildings can be seen, as well as modern-day districts.

• Huaypo Lagoon and Piuray

  • The activity begins very close to Chinchero in the heights of the Sacred Valley of Cusco.
  • The ATVs are boarded from the Cruz Pata community.
  • The tour lasts 2 hours of driving.
  • You will visit Laguna de Huaypo, Laguna Piuray and other places along the route. Don’t miss the opportunity to see the flora and fauna of the area.

Panoramic view of the salt ponds of Maras

Other ATV routes near Cusco

• ATV to Vinincunca

  • The activity begins passing through the district of Cusipata, located south of Cusco.
  • From the community of Kayhuari, is where the ATVs are boarded.
  • The tour lasts approximately 1 hour.
  • You will arrive at an area near Vinincunca.
  • To reach the mountain viewpoints you have to take a short hike.
  • Remember that Vinincunca is located more than 5,000 meters above sea level.

• South Valley on ATV

  • The activity begins in the Huasao district, where pre-training can be done.
  • The four-wheelers are boarded from the Casa Hacienda de Huasao.
  • The tour lasts approximately 2 hours.
  • You can see the district of Huasao and also the archaeological site of Tipón. You can also see beautiful landscapes typical of the South Valley of Cusco.

Tourists before starting the tour to the Rainbow Mountain

What is the best time of year to take an ATV tour in Cusco and the Sacred Valley?
The best season will be during the dry season. This season starts in April and lasts until the last week of October. Of course, you can find some occasional rains before then. So the best season will be in the months of June, July and August.

More adventure in other activities in Cusco

• Cycling in the Sacred Valley

  • The different geographical settings of the Sacred Valley also allow for activities such as cycling.
  • To do this, contact reputable adventure tourism agencies to ensure equipment in perfect condition.
  • Some of these activities follow descending trails on varying sections of dirt road and trail.
  • Some of the places where you can do it are Písac, Urubamba and Ollantaytambo.

• Canoeing on the Vilcanota River

  • The Vilcanota River is the source of water that gives shape and life to the Sacred Valley. Its waters can be used to grow various crops.
  • Some seasons, especially during the months of December to March, its waters are very strong offering one of the best experiences for canoeing.
  • The currents of the Vilcanota River are ideal for this activity, which can be done all year round.
  • While for the less experienced during the dry season.
  • While for the less experienced during the dry season.
  • Some of the places where you can go canoeing are in Cusipata and also near Santa María and Santa Teresa in the Cusco jungle.

• Zipline

  • Zipline across two high-altitude points while enjoying beautiful views of the Sacred Valley.
  • There is a special place in the Sacred Valley where this activity can be done.
  • Near the community of Racchi this activity can be carried out in complete safety.
  • You will find all the safety equipment necessary to carry out the activity.
  • The entire activity lasts approximately 4 hours.
  • If you contact the operators you can find transportation from Cusco to travel to the Sacred Valley and do the activity.

• Hiking trails

  • The different geographical settings of the Sacred Valley and Cusco also allow for hiking routes.
  • In ancient times, the Inca civilization laid out several roads to connect all the citadels and sacred sites.
  • From Cusco you can take the route along these routes, such as the route to Huchuy Qosqo.
  • This route begins from Tambomachay and arrives at Huchuy Qosqo, which is located in the Sacred Valley, precisely in Lamay.
  • If you do the hike with a travel agency you will be able to purchase all the necessary equipment for the route.
  • The route to Huchuy Qosqo is done in 2 days, but there is also the option of doing it in just one day.

View of the circular platforms of Moray

Details to keep in mind

• Safety and protection

  • Make sure that the activity you will be doing and the travel agency offer all the necessary safety equipment.
  • Remember that it is the guide’s duty to instruct tourists before doing the activity. Furthermore, prior experience should be offered.
  • It is important to discuss any questions with the instructor as many will be driving these vehicles for the first time.

• Tour Conditions

  • Please check the weather conditions for this activity on your own.
  • Remember that Cusco has two well-defined seasons. The first is the rainy season (from November to March) and the dry season (from April to October).
  • You should also check the total duration of the tour, but also placing emphasis on the duration of the activity directly under the control of the ATV.
  • The terrain can be varied so you will need to drive carefully. In some cases you may encounter muddy areas, trails and roads.

• What to bring

  • Dress in comfortable clothing according to the weather or place you are visiting. Long pants and a down jacket are usually the best option.
  • Ideally, wear comfortable, closed-toe, sturdy and safe footwear.
  • Even if you wear a helmet or hat, don’t forget to bring sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat or cap.
  • It is advisable to carry a small backpack, with snacks and drinks.
  • If you require medication, don’t forget to bring it.

Frequently Asked Questions

• 1) What are the most popular ATV routes in the Sacred Valley?

  The most polar routes for quad biking in the Sacred Valley are Maras – Moray and also the routes that can be taken towards the district of Chinchero.

• 2) What kind of scenery can I expect to see during the ATV tour?

  The Andean landscapes of Cusco offer panoramic views as well as views of the mountains that give life to the valley. In addition, you can appreciate a great amount of biodiversity native to the area.

• 3) Is it necessary to have previous experience to drive an ATV?

  No, before starting the activity you will have instructional classes, which in most cases are necessary to start driving an ATV. However, if you have previous experience it will be important so that you can share your experience with your new companions.

• 4) What kind of security is offered during the ATV tour?

  Make sure that the agency you contact offers you all the necessary safety equipment. Essentially gloves, helmets and knee pads. This equipment will be essential in case of falls or similar.

• 5) What kind of clothing and equipment should I bring for the ATV tour?

  Wear light and comfortable clothing, and wear protective equipment over your clothes. Also remember to wear sturdy footwear that is ideal for mountain areas.

• 6) What archaeological or cultural sites can be visited during the ATV tour?

  The routes and views will depend on the activities you wish to do. Normally you can visit the Circular Terraces of Moray, the archaeological site of Tipón, Sacsayhuamán and other sites close to the latter.

Advice from people who have been there

Sacred Valley

By: Jazar N.

“Incredible“

“I went quad biking through the Sacred Valley with friends. We left at the agreed time and arrived at Cruzpata where the tour begins. The quad bikes are almost new and in perfect condition. The guides are very good. The whole tour was incredible and the view is a dream. I recommend it!“

By Ticket Machu Picchu – Last updated, January 28, 2025