Easy Ride | 1 Day | 35km Downhill | Small Group 8 | Cusco Favorite
Mountain Bike tour to Moray and Maras Salt Mines Day Tour
Mountain Bike Tour to Moray and Maras Salt Mines Day Tour
Experience the Sacred Valley the way the locals do, on two wheels and off the paved road.
This is not a van tour with a bike photo stop. From Cruz Pata at 3,400 meters, you ride mostly downhill through Quechua farmland with the snow-capped Andes in front of you. You will freewheel past alpaca herds, adobe villages and ancient irrigation channels before reaching two of Peru’s most unique sites in one morning.
First, Moray. The Incas carved giant circular terraces into a natural bowl to create more than 15 different microclimates. Your guide will show you how they used this agricultural laboratory to test over 250 crops, from potatoes to quinoa, long before modern greenhouses existed.
Then, descend to Maras. More than 3,000 bright white salt ponds spill down the hillside like a staircase. A natural hot spring feeds them with salty water, a method used since pre-Inca times that still produces 90 percent of Peru’s salt today. You will park your bike at the viewpoint, walk the edge of the pans, and see families harvesting salt by hand.
From $57 USD per person when you book as part of a multi-day trek. Private van, top-quality mountain bikes, helmet and gloves included. No experience needed, just basic bike balance. The route is 70 percent downhill on dirt tracks and quiet valley roads.
Duration: 1 day, 8:00 am to 4:00 pm
Start and End: Cusco hotel pick-up and drop-off
Max Altitude: 3,500 m at Cruz Pata, riding down to 2,900 m in Maras
Group Size: Maximum 8 riders for safety and personal attention
Difficulty: Easy to moderate, mostly downhill
Highlights for the Moray and Maras Bike Tour
- True Downhill Riding
Start high at Cruz Pata and ride almost entirely downhill. No big climbs, just flowing dirt tracks through farmland with views of the Vilcanota mountain range. - Moray, the Inca Greenhouse
Explore the famous circular terraces with your guide. Learn how each level creates a different temperature, allowing the Incas to experiment with crops from jungle to highlands in one place. - Maras Salt Mines Up Close
Visit the 3,000-plus salt ponds still worked by local families. See the salty spring water evaporate in the sun and taste the pink Maras salt fresh from the pan. - Off the Beaten Track
Ride through working Quechua communities, not tourist highways. Stop for photos with farmers, adobe houses and herds of sheep, away from the bus crowds. - All Equipment Included
We provide quality Trek or Specialized mountain bikes with front suspension, helmet, gloves and a support van that follows the group. You just pedal. - Local Expert Guides
Ride with a Cusco-born bike guide who is also a certified tourism professional. Small groups mean time for stories, photos and a safe pace for everyone. - Half-Day Adventure, Back for Dinner
Pick-up at 8:00 am, back in Cusco by 3:30 to 4:00 pm. Perfect as an acclimatization day before your Inca Trail or as an active rest day after Machu Picchu. - Great Value Add-On
From $57 per person for groups of five or more when booked with any multi-day tour. Entrance fees to Moray (Boleto Turistico) and Maras (20 soles) are paid locally in cash.
Our Approach
Engineered for Fun, Not Suffering
Some agencies drive you to Moray, walk you around, then drive to Maras. We ride. You start at Cruz Pata at 3,500 meters and roll almost entirely downhill for 35 kilometers. You get the views, the fresh air and the adrenaline without a brutal climb at altitude. The route follows quiet farm tracks used by local Quechua farmers, not the tourist bus highway.
We designed this as the perfect first full day in Cusco. You are active, but you are descending into richer air in the Sacred Valley. By the time you reach Maras at 2,900 meters, breathing is easier and your legs are warmed up for a trek the next day.
Bikes That Actually Work
We provide Trek Marlin or Specialized Rockhopper mountain bikes with front suspension, hydraulic disc brakes and 29 inch wheels. Every bike is serviced after each tour. We carry your size from XS to XL, and we fit you at Cruz Pata before we start. Helmet and gloves are included and mandatory.
Local Bike Guides
Our guides are from Cusco and ride this valley every week. They are licensed tourism professionals with wilderness first aid, not just drivers with a bike rack. Groups are capped at eight riders so you get real instruction on the dirt sections and time for photos without being rushed.
At A Glance
The only true downhill mountain bike day in the Sacred Valley, linking Moray’s agricultural circles and Maras’ 3,000 salt ponds in one ride.
- Duration: 1 day, 8:00 am to 3:30 pm
- Distance: 35 km total, 90 percent downhill
- Surface: dirt farm track, gravel, short paved road
- Max altitude: 3,500 m at Cruz Pata start, finish at 2,900 m in Maras
- Walking: minimal, short walks at Moray and Maras viewpoints
- Transport: private van Cusco to trailhead and return from Urubamba
- Start and end: hotel pick-up and drop-off in Cusco
- Best for: active travelers, families with teens, acclimatization day, photographers
- Minimum age: 12 years old with prior bike experience
- Fitness level: easy to moderate, you must be comfortable riding a bike on uneven ground
Bikes and Safety
- The bikes
We use hardtail mountain bikes with front suspension only, ideal for the Sacred Valley dirt roads. All bikes have Shimano 21 or 24 speed gearing and hydraulic disc brakes for reliable stopping on downhill sections. We adjust seat height and test brakes with you at the briefing.
What we provide
- Trek or specialized mountain bike sized to you
- Certified helmet
- Cycling gloves
- Support van with bike rack
- Basic tool kit, spare tubes and pump carried by guide
Safety on the trail
- Helmets are mandatory at all times while riding.
- Guide rides at the back to keep the group together, assistant driver stays in front in the van.
- We never ride on the main highway, only farm tracks and secondary roads.
- First aid kit and emergency oxygen are in the van.
- We ride rain or shine. In wet season we provide ponchos and ride slower on the dirt.
What to wear
Long pants are recommended, not shorts, to protect legs from sun and bike chain. Wear closed shoes with good grip, trainers or light hiking shoes are perfect. No sandals or flip flops allowed on bikes.
Not comfortable on a bike
You can ride in the support van between sites and still visit Moray and Maras with the guide. You pay the same price and still get the full cultural tour.
E-bikes
We do not offer e-bikes on this route to keep the group pace even and to support traditional biking. If you need assistance, the van is always available.
From
$57
/per person
Trip Details
Overview
Day 1: Cusco → Cruz Pata → Moray → Maras Village → Maras Salt Mines → Urubamba → Cusco
8:00 am hotel pick-up in Cusco, private van to Cruz Pata in the high Andes, about 90 minutes. At 3,500 meters your guide fits your Trek or Specialized mountain bike, helmet and gloves, then gives a safety briefing. Start riding on quiet dirt farm tracks with views of the snow-capped Vilcanota range. Pedal downhill through Quechua farmland to the archaeological site of Moray for a guided tour of the circular agricultural terraces, the Incas’ greenhouse laboratory. Continue riding to the colonial town of Maras, then descend to the Maras Salt Mines for time to walk the viewpoint above the 3,000 plus salt ponds still harvested by hand. Finish with a final downhill stretch to Urubamba in the Sacred Valley where our van meets you for the drive back to Cusco.
∼35 km riding, 4 to 5 hours on bike / 3,500 m max at Cruz Pata, finish at 2,900 m / 90 percent downhill on dirt and gravel / Return to Cusco ∼3:30 to 4:00 pm
Moray and Maras Tour Comparison
All three options visit Moray and the Salt Mines. Choose based on adventure level and physical effort.
- Mountain Bike Tour – Downhill Adventure
Duration 1 day.
Activity 35 km riding, mostly downhill, 4 to 5 hours on bike.
Transport Private van to trailhead, bike the rest, van back from Urubamba.
Sites Moray terraces, Maras town, Maras Salt Mines viewpoint.
Best for Active travelers, families with teens, cyclists and photographers who want off-road scenery and a fun acclimatization day.
Physical demand Easy to moderate, must be comfortable riding a bike.
Price From $57 USD per person. - ATV Quad Bike Tour – Motorized
Duration Half day, 4 to 5 hours total.
Activity Drive your own ATV on dirt roads, no pedaling required.
Transport Private van to Cruz Pata base, ATV to Moray and back, van to Maras.
Sites Moray terraces, Maras Salt Mines.
Best for Travelers who want speed and dust without physical effort, groups who prefer motors over pedals.
Physical demand Easy, valid driver’s license not required.
Price From $45 to $65 USD per person. - Classic Van Tour – Cultural
Duration Half day or full day with Chinchero.
Activity Minimal walking, van between sites with guided tours.
Transport Private or shared van all day.
Sites Moray, Maras Salt Mines, often combined with Chinchero weaving center.
Best for Seniors, young children, photographers who want more time at sites, or rainy season travel.
Physical demand Very easy, short flat walks only.
Price From $35 USD per person plus entrances.
Full Itinerary
What Is Included for the Mountain Bike Tour
- Private Transport
Includes hotel pick-up in Cusco at 8:00 am, private van transfer to Cruz Pata trailhead, and return transfer from Urubamba to your Cusco hotel around 3:30 pm. - Mountain Biking Equipment
Includes a quality Trek or Specialized hardtail mountain bike sized to you, plus helmet and cycling gloves. All bikes have front suspension and hydraulic disc brakes and are serviced after every tour. - Expert Bike Guide
Includes an English-speaking, licensed professional guide who rides with the group the entire route. Our guides are Cusco locals with wilderness first aid certification and degrees in tourism or archaeology. - Support and Safety
Includes a support van that follows the group all day, carrying water, first-aid kit, emergency oxygen, spare tubes, tools and pump. If you get tired you can ride in the van at any time. - Guided Site Tours
Includes guided visits at Moray and the Maras Salt Mines viewpoint with full historical explanation of the Inca agricultural terraces and the pre-Inca salt ponds. - Taxes
All applicable Peruvian taxes and service fees are included.
What Is Not Included for the Mountain Bike Tour
- Entrance Fees
Entrance to Maras Salt Mines is 20 soles per person, paid in cash at the gate. Entrance to Moray requires the Boleto Turistico. The partial ticket costs 70 soles for one day, the general ticket costs 130 soles for ten days and covers 16 sites including Moray, Pisac, Ollantaytambo and Sacsayhuaman. You must pay in Peruvian soles, credit cards and US dollars are not accepted at the sites. - Meals
Lunch is not included. We finish in Urubamba around 2:30 pm where you can buy lunch on your own, or we can stop at a local restaurant on request. Bring snacks and at least 1.5 liters of water. - Accommodation
Hotel nights before or after the tour are not included. - Travel Insurance
Personal travel insurance covering mountain biking up to 3,500 meters is not included and remains the responsibility of the traveler. - Gratuities
Tips for your guide and driver are optional but greatly appreciated. Average is $10 to $15 USD total per group for a full day. - Personal Gear
Personal clothing, sun cream, insect repellent and other items from the packing list are not included.
Pricing
Small group departures require a minimum of 2 people and operate daily year-round.
2 people | $91 USD per person
3 to 4 people | $77 USD per person
5+ people | $57 USD per person
This price combines private hotel pick-up in Cusco, transfer to Cruz Pata, a full day of guided downhill mountain biking to Moray and the Maras Salt Mines, and return to Cusco by private van. By starting high at 3,500 meters you ride 35 kilometers of mostly downhill farm tracks, visit Moray’s circular agricultural terraces and the 3,000 plus salt ponds of Maras, and finish in Urubamba by mid-afternoon with no big climbs at altitude.
This tour operates daily March through January, and February subject to weather. We recommend dry season May to September for the best trail conditions.
Solo travelers | If you are traveling alone, please contact us for a private price or to join a confirmed group. Private departures available for $145 USD.
Included in the Price
- All Transport
Hotel pick-up and drop-off in Cusco, private van to Cruz Pata trailhead, support van following the group, and return transfer from Urubamba. - Bikes and Safety Gear
Trek or Specialized hardtail mountain bike sized to you, certified helmet, cycling gloves, plus on-trail tool kit, spare tubes and pump. - Professional Guide
English speaking licensed bike guide with wilderness first aid certification for the full day, plus guided tours at Moray and Maras. - Site Tours
Guided visit to Moray and guided viewpoint stop at Maras Salt Mines. - Support
First aid kit, emergency oxygen, pre-ride safety briefing, and 24/7 Cusco office support. - Taxes
All applicable Peruvian taxes included.
Not Included in the Price
Entrance fees paid in cash on the day: Maras Salt Mines 20 soles, Moray Boleto Turistico 70 soles for one day or 130 soles for ten days. Meals, snacks, water, travel insurance, and gratuities.
Packing List for Moray and Maras Mountain Bike Tour
The Moray and Maras ride starts at Cruz Pata at 3,500 m and descends 35 km on dirt farm tracks to the Sacred Valley at 2,900 m. Morning temperatures are 5 to 10°C with strong sun and wind, afternoon in Maras reaches 20 to 24°C. You ride 4 to 5 hours with minimal walking at the sites. Bring a small 15 to 20L daypack only. Your main luggage stays free at our Cusco office or hotel.
Essentials, Carry in Your Daypack
Documents
- Original passport, required if you need to buy the Boleto Turistico for Moray.
- Cash in Peruvian soles, 90 to 150 soles for entrances, snacks and tips. No credit cards or dollars accepted at sites.
Water and Hydration
- Reusable water bottle or hydration bladder, 1.5 to 2L total. No disposable plastic bottles on the trail.
Clothing for Riding
- 1 moisture wicking t-shirt, synthetic or merino, no cotton.
- 1 long sleeve shirt for sun protection.
- 1 fleece or light insulated jacket for the cold 8 am start at Cruz Pata.
- 1 pair quick dry long pants, recommended not shorts, to protect legs from sun and bike chain.
- Under layers as needed, it is windy at the start.
Rain Protection
- Waterproof jacket with hood, essential year round.
- Rain poncho, we provide one if needed November to March.
Sun and Altitude Protection
- Sun hat or cap with brim.
- Sunglasses with UV protection.
- High SPF sunscreen and lip balm.
- Insect repellent, minimal bugs but useful in valley.
Footwear
- Closed comfortable shoes with good grip, trainers or light hiking shoes. No sandals, flip flops or road cycling shoes.
Bike Essentials
- Small daypack to carry layers.
- Camera or phone.
- Snacks, chocolate bars, cereal bars or dried fruit, lunch is not included.
- Personal medications.
What NOT to Bring
- Large backpacks over 20L, you do not need them.
- Cotton jeans or heavy cotton shirts, they stay cold and wet.
- Sandals or open shoes, not allowed on bikes.
- Drones, prohibited at Moray and Maras.
- Valuables or jewelry you do not need.
Top 10 FAQs for the Mountain Bike tour to Moray and Maras Salt Mines Day Tour
- Do I need to be an expert mountain biker?
No. This is 90 percent downhill on wide dirt farm tracks, not technical singletrack. If you can ride a bike on a gravel path and use brakes, you can do this. We ride as a group, stop often for photos, and the support van is behind you the whole way if you want a break.
- What if I get tired or feel the altitude?
You get in the van. No penalty, no pressure. Most people ride about 70 percent and van the rest. Starting at 3,500m and descending to 2,900m actually helps acclimatization because you are moving into richer air.
- Is it safe? What about the bikes?
We use Trek Marlin and Specialized Rockhopper hardtails with hydraulic disc brakes, serviced after every tour. Helmets and gloves are mandatory and included. Guides carry a full tool kit, spare tubes, first aid and emergency oxygen. We never ride on the main highway, only quiet farm roads.
- How fit do I need to be?
Easy to moderate. The ride is 35 km over 4 to 5 hours but it is mostly coasting downhill. You need basic bike balance and reasonable knees. It is harder than sitting on a bus, easier than the Inca Trail.
- What happens if it rains?
We ride year round. In wet season, November to March, we provide a rain poncho and ride slower on the dirt. Trails are still rideable, just muddier. In heavy rain we can shorten the ride and drive more. Ponchos are included.
- Can kids do it?
Yes, minimum age is 12 with previous bike experience. We have XS frames for shorter riders. For families with younger kids we recommend the classic van tour instead.
- Do you offer e-bikes?
No. We keep the group pace even with standard bikes. The route is designed to be easy without a motor, and the van is always available if you need help. This also reduces impact on the farming communities we pass through.
- What is not included in the price?
Entrance fees paid in cash on the day: Maras Salt Mines 20 soles, Moray 70 soles for the one day Boleto Turistico or 130 soles for the 10 day ticket. Lunch is not included, we finish in Urubamba where you can buy food. Bring soles, they do not take cards or dollars at the sites.
- What should I wear?
Long pants, not shorts, to protect from sun and the bike chain. Closed shoes, trainers are perfect. Layers for the cold 8 am start at Cruz Pata, it warms up fast. We provide helmet and gloves.
- Why book this instead of the ATV or van tour?
The bike tour is the only way to actually experience the landscape between the sites, not just drive past it. You get exercise without suffering, better photos, no engine noise or dust from ATVs, and you support a low impact tour. It is also the best first day in Cusco for acclimatization before a trek.
