Moray & Maras: Half-Day ATV and Zipline Adventure from Cusco
Split a half-day between throttle, terraces, and aerial runs: a quad-ride into the Sacred Valley’s Moray terraces, a quick visit to the Maras salt pans, then four ziplines that finish with long, birdlike flights. Practical for travelers acclimatizing in Cusco and eager for highland adrenaline.
The Experience
Before You Go
Acclimatize first
Spend at least 24 hours in Cusco (3,300 m) before the tour to reduce altitude sickness risk; hydrate and avoid heavy exertion beforehand.
Wear sturdy closed-toe shoes
ATV trails can be rocky and dusty and ziplines require stable footing at launch and landing points.
Bring layered sun protection
High-elevation sun is intense—use sunscreen, sunglasses, and a light windproof jacket for chilly starts and exposed ridgelines.
Secure cameras and valuables
Use wrist or chest straps for action cameras and phones to avoid drops on fast sections and at heights.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •East rim viewpoint at Moray for less-crowded terrace photos
- •Small artisan market near Maras where families sell unrefined salt and textiles
Wildlife
- •Andean condor (occasional thermaling above ridgelines)
- •Vizcacha (rock-dwelling lagomorphs that dart among boulders)
Conservation Note
Salt pans are fragile—stay on designated paths and support local cooperatives; operators limit ATV access to protect archaeological and salt-harvesting areas.
Moray’s concentric depressions functioned as Inca experimental plots testing crops at different microclimates; Maras salt pans date to pre-Inca salt extraction traditions.
What to Bring
Closed-toe hiking shoes or trail sneakersEssential
Protects feet on rocky ATV trails and offers grip when boarding ziplines.
Layered jacket (windproof)Essential
High-elevation mornings are cold; a light shell blocks wind at zipline launch points.
Hydration bladder or 1L water bottleEssential
Altitude increases dehydration—operator provides water, but carry your own for continuous sipping.
Sunscreen and sunglassesEssential
Strong UV at altitude makes protection essential for exposed sections of the tour.
Common Questions
Do I need previous ATV experience?
No—guides provide a safety briefing and basic instruction; a little practice in a parking area precedes the route, but confident balance and comfort with throttle/brake control help.
Are the ATVs single-rider or allow passengers?
Operators typically assign one rider per quad for safety and insurance reasons; rules on tandem riding vary—confirm at booking if you need a child seat or passenger option.
Is altitude a concern on this trip?
Yes—the Sacred Valley sits around 3,000–3,600 m; acclimatize in Cusco, hydrate, avoid alcohol before the tour, and inform guides of any health issues.
Are children allowed on ziplines and ATVs?
Children as young as six may use the zipline with operator approval and proper harnessing; ATV age/weight restrictions vary—check the booking questions and confirm minimum ages before travel.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
6–7 hours
Location
Maras, Cusco Region
Difficulty
moderate
Fitness Level
Suitable for travelers in reasonable health; short bursts of balance and control needed for ATV handling and hiking to zipline platforms—altitude increases effort.
Ready to Explore Maras?
Book your guided walking tour and discover the hidden stories of this historic mountain city.
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