The Moray Salt Mines ATV Tour from Cusco begins with pick-up from the Machu Picchu Team office or a previously confirmed meeting point in central Cusco. Morning departures generally begin at approximately 7:00 AM, although the exact time will be confirmed before the tour. We will travel by tourist transportation toward the Sacred Valley, passing through scenic Andean landscapes and enjoying views of agricultural fields, traditional communities, and snow-capped mountains such as Verónica and Chicón.

Arrival at the Cruzpata ATV Base

After approximately one to one and a half hours of driving, we will arrive at the ATV base in Cruzpata.

Before beginning the route, the guide will provide a complete safety briefing and explain how to operate the ATV. Each traveler will receive a helmet and participate in a short practice session to become familiar with the controls. No previous ATV experience is required, but all participants must follow the guide’s safety instructions throughout the activity.

ATV Ride to Moray

Once the group is ready, we will begin an approximately 40-minute ATV ride toward the Moray Archaeological Site. The route follows rural roads and dirt trails surrounded by farmland, Andean communities, mountain scenery, and panoramic views of the Sacred Valley. The exact duration may vary depending on the pace of the group and trail conditions.

Guided Visit to Moray

At Moray, we will park the ATVs in the designated area and continue the visit on foot. Your guide will explain the importance of Moray and its impressive circular terraces, which are believed to have been used by the Incas to study agricultural conditions and different microclimates.

You will have approximately 20 to 30 minutes to explore the site, take photographs, and enjoy the surrounding landscape. The entrance ticket to Moray is not included unless specifically stated in your reservation.

Return Ride to Cruzpata

After visiting Moray, we will return to the ATV base along a scenic route. Depending on weather, visibility, and operational conditions, we may stop at a panoramic viewpoint overlooking the surrounding valleys and snow-capped mountains. The return ATV ride takes approximately 40 minutes.

Transfer to the Maras Salt Mines

Upon arriving back at Cruzpata, we will leave the ATVs and continue by tourist vehicle toward the Maras Salt Mines. The final road to the salt mines includes steep slopes, narrow sections, and sharp curves. For safety reasons and according to local regulations, this part of the tour is completed by vehicle rather than ATV.

Visit to the Maras Salt Mines

At the Salineras de Maras, you will see thousands of salt pools arranged across the mountainside and supplied by a natural saltwater spring.

Local families have managed these pools for generations using traditional salt-harvesting methods. Your guide will explain how the salt is collected, processed, and distributed, as well as the cultural and economic importance of the site. You will have time to take photographs and purchase locally produced salt or other regional products. Admission to the Maras Salt Mines is not included unless stated in your booking confirmation.

Return to Cusco

After the visit, we will return to Cusco by tourist transportation. Arrival is expected at approximately 1:30 PM to 2:00 PM, depending on traffic, weather, trail conditions, and the pace of the group. Drop-off is generally provided near Plaza Regocijo or another central location in Cusco.

Tour Summary

• Departure time: Approximately 7:00 AM
• Route: Cusco → Cruzpata → Moray → Cruzpata → Maras Salt Mines → Cusco
• Tour duration: Approximately 6 to 7 hours
• ATV riding time: Approximately 1 hour and 20 minutes in total
• Difficulty: Easy to moderate
• Experience required: No previous ATV experience required
• Main attractions: Moray Archaeological Site, Maras Salt Mines, Sacred Valley landscapes, and views of Andean mountains
• Return time: Approximately 1:30 PM to 2:00 PM
• Important: The visit to the Maras Salt Mines is completed by tourist vehicle, not by ATV, for safety and operational reasons.