ATV Tour to Maras and Laguna Huaypo in Cusco

Experience an experience full of excitement, culture, and unforgettable landscapes with the Huaypo Lagoon – Maras ATV Tour | Adrenaline and Culture, a perfect adventure for those looking to combine the adrenaline rush of riding an ATV in Cusco with the discovery of the natural and cultural treasures of the Sacred Valley of the Incas. The tour begins with a transfer to the base of operations in Cruzpata, where you’ll receive a brief driving instruction before beginning your journey along rural roads surrounded by snow-capped mountains, Andean crops, and traditional villages.

The first stop is the impressive Huaypo Lagoon, a natural mirror of crystal-clear waters that reflects the snowy peaks of Cusco and offers an atmosphere of absolute peace. You’ll then continue to the charming colonial town of Maras, known for its adobe streets and its history linked to the ancient Inca trails. During the journey, you can enjoy panoramic views, take photographs, and connect with the rural life of the valley. Optionally, the tour can be extended to the Maras Salt Mines or the Moray archaeological complex, two jewels of Andean heritage. This tour is ideal for those seeking an authentic adventure tourism experience and living culture, where the energy of the Andes, the freedom of the road, and ancestral history come together in an unforgettable day trip from Cusco.

🕓 Detailed Itinerary – ATV Huaypo Lagoon – Maras | Adrenaline and Culture

🚐 Pickup from your hotel in Cusco

Our team will pick you up at your hotel in Cusco to begin the adventure. During the transfer to the Sacred Valley of the Incas, you’ll enjoy Andean landscapes, verdant valleys, and a panoramic view of the snow-capped mountains of the Urubamba mountain range.

🏁 Arrival at the starting point and ATV practice

Upon arrival at the base located in the community of Cruzpata, you’ll receive a brief safety briefing and driving instructions from our specialized guides. If this is your first time riding, you’ll be able to do a short practice session on flat terrain before beginning the route. You’ll be provided with all protective equipment (helmet, gloves, and goggles).

🏔️ Start of the ATV tour

Begin the journey on your ATV (personal or shared ATV), crossing rural roads surrounded by mountains, quinoa, barley, and potato fields, and Andean villages where life unfolds with authenticity. You’ll feel the adrenaline rush as you delve into the unique natural surroundings of the Sacred Valley.

🌊 Stop at Laguna de Huaypo

You’ll arrive at the beautiful Laguna de Huaypo, located at over 3,500 meters above sea level. m., a magical place where the waters reflect the snow-capped mountains of Chicón and Verónica. Here you can rest, take photographs, and enjoy the silence and harmony of the Andes. Many travelers take advantage of this moment for a brief meditation or simply to contemplate the landscape.

🏡 Visit to the village of Maras

Continuing the route, you will drive to the village of Maras, famous for its colonial charm, carved stone doorways, and panoramic views of the Sacred Valley mountains. Our guide will share historical information about the importance of the site during the colonial period and its connection to the Inca trade routes.

🧂 (Optional) Visit to the Maras Salt Mines or the Moray Archaeological Site

Depending on the itinerary you book, you can extend your route to one of these iconic destinations:

• Maras Salt Mines: a group of more than 3,000 salt pools used since pre-Inca times, where salt is still extracted by hand.
• Moray: An archaeological complex with circular terraces that the Incas used as an agricultural experimentation center.

Both sites offer unique views and a deep connection with Andean history.

📸 Return to base and short break

After the adventure, you’ll return to the Cruzpata base. There you can rest, hydrate, and share photos of the experience with your group.

🚐 Return to Cusco

You’ll begin the return trip to Cusco, enjoying the valley’s rural landscape once again.
Approximate arrival time: between 1:30 p.m. and 2:00 p.m.

💫 End of the experience

A day full of adventure, culture, and unforgettable landscapes concludes, where you’ll feel the power of the Andes, the energy of the Sacred Valley, and the freedom of traveling ancient trails on an ATV.

✅ Includes

🚐 Round-trip sightseeing transfer from Cusco: Pickup from your hotel (located in the historic center) and return at the end of the tour.

🏍️ Individual or shared ATV: Semi-automatic and automatic models, inspected before each departure.

🧤 Full safety equipment: Helmet, gloves, and protective goggles to ensure a safe experience.

👨‍🏫 Professional bilingual guide (Spanish/English): Specialized accompaniment throughout the tour.

🧃 Bottle of mineral water or Andean infusion: To keep you hydrated during the route.

💊 First aid kit: Available at all times.

📋 Induction talk and driving practice: Before starting the adventure, personalized instruction is provided to help you drive with confidence.

❌ Not Included

🎟️ Entrance fees to Maras or Moray Salt Mines (optional): Paid directly on-site (approx. S/10 – S/70).

🍴 Additional food or snacks: The tour includes only basic drinks; you may bring your own.

💸 Tips and personal expenses: Volunteers.

📸 Personal travel or accident insurance: Recommended for all adventure activities.

🧭 Recommendations

• Wear comfortable, warm, layered clothing, as the Andean climate can fluctuate between sun and wind.
• Bring sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat or cap, even on cloudy days.
• Wear closed-toe, non-slip shoes for added safety while riding.
• Bring a bottle of water and light snacks (fruit or energy bars).
• Avoid consuming alcohol before the tour, and driving under the influence is prohibited.
• If you’re traveling to Cusco for the first time, do this activity after your second day to acclimatize.
• Remember to bring cash in soles for optional entrance tickets or local purchases.
• If you wish to take photographs, be sure to keep both hands free while driving and only do so at designated points.

💬 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

❓Is previous ATV experience necessary?

No. Before the tour begins, you’ll receive a full induction and guided practice, so anyone can participate, even without prior experience.

❓What is the minimum age to drive an ATV?

Participants must be at least 18 years old to drive. Minors (12 and older) can participate as companions with a responsible adult.

❓Is there full driving or are there stops?

The tour combines driving and photo stops, especially at Laguna Huaypo and the town of Maras, where you can rest, walk, and enjoy the natural surroundings.

❓Is the activity safe?

Yes. The tour is operated with protective equipment, specialized guides, and vehicles in excellent mechanical condition. The route is designed to offer adventure without extreme risks.

❓What is the difficulty level of the tour?

The tour has a moderate level of difficulty. Basic physical fitness and comfort driving on dirt or gravel roads are required.

❓What time of year is best to take this tour?

You can take this tour year-round, although the dry season (April to October) offers the best scenery and optimal road conditions. During the rainy season (November to March), waterproof clothing is recommended.

❓Can I combine this tour with other activities?

Yes, many travelers combine this adventure with visits to the Sacred Valley, Chinchero, or Moray, depending on their itinerary in Cusco. It’s also ideal for those who have a free half-day before or after visiting Machu Picchu.

❓What should I bring on the tour?

Comfortable, windproof clothing.
Closed-toe, sturdy shoes.
Sunscreen and UV protection.
Water and light snacks.
Camera or cell phone (optional, with security).

❓What makes this tour unique?

The Maras ATV and Huaypo Lagoon Tour combines the best of outdoor adventure with the cultural charm of the Sacred Valley, offering a tour full of adrenaline, nature, and an authentic connection with Andean life. It’s one of the most exciting and comprehensive activities you can do near Cusco.