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Experience the beauty of the Andes on an unforgettable 3-day horseback riding adventure through the Sacred Valley of the Incas. Ride along ancient Inca trails, explore breathtaking landscapes, and discover the rich culture and traditions of local communities.
Whether you are a beginner or an experienced rider, this journey offers the perfect balance of adventure, comfort, and authentic cultural experiences. Join us and enjoy a memorable 3-day horseback riding experience in one of Peru’s most spectacular regions.
3 Days 2 Nights
45 km
Moderate
3600 m.a.s.l
Horseback Riding, Nature & Culture
Group Service
Embark on an unforgettable 3-day horseback riding adventure through the heart of the Sacred Valley of the Incas, where history, culture, and breathtaking natural beauty come together in one extraordinary journey. This immersive experience takes you across spectacular Andean landscapes, from the peaceful shores of Huaypo Lake to the fascinating circular terraces of Moray, offering the perfect blend of adventure, serenity, and authentic cultural encounters.
As you saddle up on the smooth and elegant Peruvian Paso horses, you will ride across rolling hills, fertile farmlands, and traditional Andean villages, surrounded by towering snow-capped peaks and panoramic mountain views. The steady rhythm of your horse allows you to fully connect with the landscape, creating a peaceful yet exciting way to explore one of Peru’s most iconic regions.
One of the major highlights of the journey is the visit to Moray, an impressive Inca archaeological complex featuring concentric circular terraces believed to have served as an agricultural experimentation center. Here, you will learn about the ingenuity of the Inca civilization and the advanced engineering techniques that made this site one of the most unique agricultural laboratories of the ancient world.
Your adventure also includes a scenic ride to the tranquil Huaypo Lake, a beautiful high-altitude lagoon surrounded by rolling hills and distant snow-capped mountains. This peaceful setting provides the perfect opportunity to relax, enjoy a picnic meal, and take in the natural beauty of the Sacred Valley.
Throughout the journey, you will experience the rich living culture of the Andes by visiting traditional communities such as Misminay, where local families warmly welcome visitors. Here, you will gain insight into ancestral traditions, including textile weaving techniques, local cuisine, and daily agricultural life that continues to preserve centuries-old customs.
This carefully designed horseback riding program also includes visits to remarkable sites such as the Maras Salt Mines, still in use since pre-Inca times, and the historic Sanctuary of Tiobamba, offering unique glimpses into the region’s cultural and historical heritage.
Whether you are an experienced rider or a beginner, this Maras Moray Horseback Riding 3 Days tour offers a memorable and authentic way to explore the Sacred Valley. Combining stunning landscapes, archaeological wonders, and meaningful cultural experiences, this journey promises an adventure that will remain in your memories long after the ride ends.
On the first day, we will pick you up from your hotel at 9:00 am in our private transportation and drive toward the colonial village of Maras, located at 3,300 meters above sea level, where our horses will be waiting for us. The journey by vehicle takes approximately 1 hour and 20 minutes from the city of Cusco.
Upon arrival at the meeting point, you will receive a comprehensive introduction to Peruvian horseback riding, including a demonstration on how to safely handle and guide the renowned Peruvian Paso horse, followed by time to become familiar and comfortable with your horse.
We will then begin our horseback riding adventure toward Huaypo Lagoon. Along the route, you will enjoy breathtaking cultural landscapes featuring traditional agricultural fields of corn, potatoes, and Andean grains. We will pass through the rural community of Muyupampa, where you will observe traditional homes and ancestral farming practices that continue to sustain local families.
Upon arrival at Huaypo Lagoon, we will enjoy a picnic lunch surrounded by eucalyptus forests and pristine nature, with beautiful views overlooking the tranquil waters of the lagoon.
After lunch, we will continue riding toward the Misminay Community, located at 3,500 meters above sea level. Here, local residents will warmly welcome us, offering a unique opportunity to interact with the community, share traditional meals, and experience their living culture, customs, and daily life.
Following a memorable evening with our hosts and a delicious dinner prepared with locally sourced ingredients, we will retire to our accommodations to rest and spend the night in the community.
We will wake up to a beautiful sunrise with stunning panoramic views of the mountains of the Sacred Valley of the Incas. Breakfast will be served at the time arranged the previous evening, followed by a traditional textile demonstration led by local women from the community. During this experience, you will learn about the ancestral techniques of spinning, natural dyeing, and weaving, as well as the symbolic meanings behind traditional Andean iconography.
After bidding farewell to our welcoming hosts, we will continue our journey and remount our horses to ride toward the archaeological complex of Moray, an important Inca agricultural experimentation center. Upon arrival, we will explore the site and receive a detailed archaeological and historical explanation about its significance and innovative design.
Following the visit, we will begin our descent into the heart of the Sacred Valley, enjoying spectacular panoramic views of the Vilcanota mountain range, as well as the snow-capped peaks of Chicón and Verónica.
Midway through the descent, we will stop at a scenic location to enjoy a picnic lunch, with time to take memorable photographs of the Sacred Valley landscapes.
After lunch, we will continue riding through the village of Pachar and cross the Vilcanota River, considered the longest tributary of the Amazon River, before arriving at our hotel, where we will enjoy dinner and spend our second night.
On our final day, we will wake up in the heart of the Sacred Valley of the Incas, at an altitude of 2,780 meters above sea level. After enjoying breakfast at the hotel, we will continue our horseback journey along the banks of the Vilcanota River, taking in the valley’s pleasant climate as we pass through fertile fields of vegetables and local fruit crops.
After crossing the river once again via a suspension bridge, leading our horses by hand, we will begin our ascent toward the renowned Maras Salt Mines, which date back to pre-Inca times. Upon arrival, we will have time to explore the salt terraces and receive a detailed explanation of the traditional salt production process, including its geological origin, chemical composition, medicinal properties, and the community-based organization of the salt producers who maintain this ancestral practice.
After completing our visit, we will continue ascending toward the Maras plateau, arriving at the main square of Maras. Riding through its charming colonial streets and historic gateways, we will observe well-preserved heraldic shields belonging to religious congregations, construction dates, and in some cases, the initials of the families who once inhabited these remarkable homes.
After passing through the village of Maras, we will arrive at a local restaurant where we will enjoy a well-deserved lunch, while our horses take time to rest, drink water, and refresh after the morning’s journey.
Following lunch, we will continue toward the archaeological complex of Cheqoq, an important site where the Incas stored and preserved harvested products using natural conservation techniques. This location also offers beautiful panoramic views of the colonial village of Maras and the Urubamba mountain range.
We will then continue our final ride toward the Sanctuary of Tiobamba, a beautiful colonial temple set in an extraordinary location that historically served as a resting point for merchants traveling from the city of Cusco to the Sacred Valley. Here, we will conclude our horseback riding experience, bid farewell to our horses, and board our private transportation back to the hotel.
(Please, No hidden costs or surprises)
Availability: Daily Departures All Departures are 100% Guaranteed. If You’re Booked, You are Going, We won’t cancel your Trip !!!
How to Book?: Send us all Your Personal information, as well as a Deposit of 30%, and the Final Balance will be paid once you are in Cusco.
Group Service: Price per person: US$220
(You will be joined into a formed group of people who come from different countries/Nationalities)
If you are a group of 02 we depart (No matter if you have paid as GROUP SERVICE). We NEVER pass our people onto another operator as most agencies do here in Cusco.
Most people automatically assume that the weather is hot in South America, but because of the higher altitude in the Andes, the temperature can feel quite cold, especially at night. We recommend the use of a duffel bag or backpack, whichever is easiest for you to carry. A good size daypack is also essential.
List of things you must bring:
Important Information & Recommendations
1. What is horseback riding around Huaypo Lake and Moray?
Horseback riding around Huaypo Lake and Moray is a scenic outdoor adventure where you ride through the beautiful Sacred Valley of the Incas. You will explore traditional Andean villages, the unique Inca terraces of Moray, and enjoy the tranquil beauty of Huaypo Lake, all while experiencing the region on horseback.
2. Do I need prior horseback riding experience?
No, you don’t need prior horseback riding experience. The horses are well-trained and gentle, making the ride suitable for both beginners and experienced riders. Guides will provide instructions and ensure your safety throughout the ride.
3. How long is the horseback riding trip?
The horseback riding tour typically lasts around 4 to 5 hours. This includes time spent riding through the Sacred Valley, visiting the Moray terraces, and exploring the surroundings of Huaypo Lake, with breaks for resting and taking in the scenery.
4. What type of terrain will I be riding on?
You will ride on a variety of terrains, including dirt roads, grassy fields, and some slightly hilly areas. The ride is moderate in difficulty, and the pace will be relaxed, allowing you to enjoy the beautiful surroundings without feeling rushed.
5. What should I wear for horseback riding?
Wear comfortable clothing such as long pants, sturdy shoes, and a hat. You may also want to bring a light jacket in case of cooler weather. It’s a good idea to wear sunscreen and sunglasses, as the sun can be strong in the high-altitude region.
6. Will there be a guide with us?
Yes, an experienced guide will accompany you throughout the ride. The guide will lead the group, provide information about the area’s history and culture, and ensure your safety. They will also help with any riding questions or concerns.
7. How physically demanding is the horseback ride?
The horseback ride is relatively easy and suitable for most people, even those with no previous riding experience. The pace is relaxed, and the terrain is manageable. However, it does involve some moderate physical activity, especially if you are not used to being on horseback.
8. Is the ride safe?
Yes, the ride is safe. The horses are well-trained and accustomed to the terrain, and your guide will ensure you have all the necessary safety equipment, including helmets. The routes are chosen carefully to minimize risk, but it’s always important to follow the guide’s instructions for safety.
9. Can I take photos during the ride?
Yes, you’re encouraged to take photos during the ride. The landscapes around Moray and Huaypo Lake are stunning, and there will be plenty of opportunities to stop and capture the beauty of the scenery and your horseback riding experience.
10. How do I book a horseback riding tour to Huaypo Lake and Moray?
You can book a horseback riding tour through local tour operators in Cusco or your hotel. Be sure to confirm details such as the route, duration, and what’s included (e.g., horses, helmets, guide) before booking your tour.
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Posted on Sara DVerified 10/10 Experience - Would Recommend! We had an amazing time on the Salkantay 5 Day Trek. Before the trip started, Quechuas had great communication and was very accommodating to our travel schedule, including adjusting our briefing time with our guide.The skydome accomodations were great (all fairly spacious, with exception of night 2, which was fine as we didn’t spend much time there), the food was delicious (a great variety and always more than enough to go around) and the trek itself was beautiful. Our guide Steven, as well as second guide Jorge, were very patient, knowledgeable and kind to us and the others in our group - not only did we get to see incredible scenery but we also learned a lot about the local landscape and culture.We rented sleeping bags, which we would highly recommend. We brought our own hiking poles but would recommend renting if you don’t bring your own.Overall, an amazing experience and we would highly recommend this company.Posted on Matthew WVerified Seamless and Supportive Inca Trail Experience – Highly Recommend We recently completed the 4-day Classic Inca Trail trek with Quechuas Expeditions in June 2025, and overall had a fantastic experience that struck the perfect balance between physical challenge and logistical ease.Our guide, Fernando (“Nando”), was outstanding—passionate, deeply knowledgeable about the trail’s rich history, and highly supportive throughout. He kept our group motivated and informed, and managed different paces and needs with professionalism and care. His English was great, and he always made time to answer questions or share interesting stories along the way.The porter and chef team were phenomenal. Every meal was different, delicious, and plentiful—we were never hungry, and dietary needs (including vegan and vegetarian) were handled without issue. They even baked a custom cake on the trail for a couple’s anniversary, which speaks volumes about their care and capability. The porters themselves were friendly, warm, and constantly going above and beyond to support us.Quechuas provided tents, sleeping bags, a toilet tent, and hot water for face washing each morning, plus coca tea as a wake-up touch. The duffel service was useful, though we did find the weight limits a bit tighter than expected once you factor in the sleeping bag. In the end, we paid for an extra porter—which was easy to arrange but worth noting for those planning their packing. One thing we didn’t know in advance: the porter bags aren’t waterproof, so future trekkers may want to use dry bags or line the inside with plastic.Another small consideration: due to how campsites are assigned (by the government, not the tour company), some days ended up being longer than the traditional day-by-day breakdown you might read online. While not Quechuas’ fault, for myself, as much heads-up as possible would’ve helped with my own mental preparation.All said, Quechuas Expeditions delivered where it mattered most. The logistics were smooth, the staff was superb, and their support allowed us to focus on enjoying the trail and the breathtaking views without worrying about the rest. This is a company that knows what it’s doing.Would I recommend them? Absolutely—whether you’re a first-time trekker or experienced hiker, they make an unforgettable journey that much more seamless and enjoyable. If I ever do this again, I would book with them without question, and if possible, request the exact same team. Thank you Fernando and team for a trip of a lifetime and memories that will stay with me forever 🙏Posted on Arianna OVerified Amazing trip on the Inca Trail with Quechuas Expeditions I never imagined that the Inca Trail could be so transformative. My partner and I decided to do the classic 4-day trek with Quechuas Expeditions and, honestly, it exceeded all our expectations. From the very first moment we felt very welcome. The service was impeccable, they were always attentive to our needs, solving all our doubts before and during the trek.The hike was not easy, but the views, the fresh mountain air and the energy of the group kept us going without thinking about how tiring it was. The meals at the campsites surprised us pleasantly, we really did not expect so much variety and flavor in the middle of the mountain. And the end, reaching Machu Picchu through the sun gate (Inti Punku) was simply magical, there are no words to describe that moment. It is definitely a unique experience that connects you with the history, culture and nature of Peru. Thank you Quechuas Expeditions for making this trip so special!Posted on naomiammarVerified Hardest challenge of my life but worth it One of the hardest things I have ever done (definitely underestimate the difficulty level), and I don’t know if I would have made it if it wasn’t for our awesome guide Frenando and all the amazing staff we had. What a fantastic group of people. The porters are so hard working, it’s so humbling. The chef Taco was fantastic! I am vegan and he made me the most amazing food the entire time. I couldn’t believe it. And then our guide Fernando topped it all. Knowledgeable, professional yet fun, very personable, very patient (we were slow!) and very encouraging. If you are considering taking on this challenge, I highly recommend Quechua’s Expeditions and if you can request Fernando. E sure to do so. He’s been doing this for 19yrs!Posted on cade cVerified Awesome trek We really enjoyed our trip. It was challenging and also rewarding. Beautiful views and even better food. I can’t rave enough about our cook Santiago! Food was unbelievable. Jose did a fantastic job leading us along the way. He did a good job of explaining what we are seeing! Looking for a physical challenge with beautiful views this is the trek for you.Posted on Lola UVerified Demanding, enriching and unforgettable thanks to the human team I will always be grateful to the rich food and attentions of Santiago, the cook, the professionalism and good advice of José, the guide, the kindness of the helpers, who have made it possible to improve the experience.Posted on Julia C.Verified Amazing trek, amazing guide and staff The Salkantay Trek was absolutely stunning, domes and the views were great with hot water available. What the trek made very special was our guide Nildo. Also, the chef Julian, horseman and second guide were incredible too. Nildo was knowledgeable, caring and passionate about everything he shared. I cannot imagine a better guide :-) Everything was very well organized.Posted on Emelie AVerified Hike of a lifetime! We had the most amazing time! The different sceneries along the trek are just unbelievable and although being two fairly unfit persons we could enjoy it all the way. Fernando and Steven are terrific guides making sure we were all comfortable and happy at all times. The food and accommodations along the way were also a lot more luxurious than what we’d expected. Would 100% recommend this to anyone who’s up for a hike!!
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