CUSCO MOUNTAIN BIKE 1 DAY

DETAILED TOUR ITINERARY

Embark on the Cusco Mountain Bike journey, where the adventure kicks off with a friendly pickup from your hotel at 8:00 a.m. We begin with a picturesque 45-minute drive to the breathtaking Chinchero Pass, sitting majestically at 4,000 masl. As you settle in, take advantage of our photo stops along the way to capture the awe-inspiring Vilcanota Mountain range, adorned with dazzling snow-capped peaks that reach beyond 5,000 masl.

Once we’ve reached our starting point, get ready to pedal downhill through the stunning Andean vistas that envelope Huaypo Lagoon. It’s an invigorating ride set against a backdrop of natural splendor.

Approximately an hour into the journey, we’ll arrive at Moray, where the fascinating Inca ruins await your exploration. Our adventure continues to the charming village of Maras, where you’ll find colonial-era architecture that whispers tales from the past. Here, we’ll pause for a delicious lunch and a well-earned rest before heading onward to the famous Maras salt mines. Marvel at the sight of over 4,000 small salt pools, a testament to the region’s rich history. Our ride concludes as we descend towards Tarabamba, where a comfortable ride back to Cusco awaits. Expect to arrive back in the city around 4:00 p.m., your spirits lifted by the day’s discoveries.

• Total Time: Approximately 7 hours, with 4.5 hours of exhilarating biking.
• Mountain Biking Difficulty in Cusco: Moderately challenging, with dirt roads and trails, plus sophisticated routes for seasoned riders.
• This captivating experience begins and ends in Cusco.

Must-See Stops:

CHINCHERO:

Chinchero is a lively and colorful village located 28 kilometers from Cusco, enveloped by vibrant fields that paint a picturesque landscape. Known for its significant role in Incan agriculture during the Tawantinsuyo era, this enchanting town showcases colonial-style architecture and remarkable stone walls with trapezoidal niches. Dive into the local culture with a visit to its traditional market, where bartering is still alive, and recognize the local women by their unique clothing and braided hairstyles. Note that the church and archaeological site here require a tourist ticket.

MORAY:

Venture beyond Maras to Moray, a captivating Incan site that resembles an ancient agricultural lab. Framed by the stunning snow-draped peaks of Chicon and La Veronica in the Vilcanota range, Moray’s amphitheater-style terraces plunge 150 meters deep, forming concentric circles that served as an experimental ground for acclimatizing crops to various climates.

MARAS / SALINERAS:

Just 7 miles from Moray lies the quaint village of Maras, designed like a petite city. It’s famous for its historical salt mines, which include roughly 3,000 small wells, each about 5 m². These mines have been tapped for economic exchanges since the time of the Incas, offering a unique glimpse into traditional salt extraction methods and the lives of the dedicated workers.

IMPORTANT

Upon your arrival in Cusco, we’ll provide a comprehensive pre-travel briefing at your hotel, ensuring you’re well-prepared for an unforgettable adventure.

Tour Inclusions

The “Cusco Mountain Bike” tour includes:

• Round-trip transfers from Cusco
• Bilingual English-speaking guide
• Front-suspension mountain bike
• Helmet and gloves
• Support van accompanying riders
• Lunch and water
• Entrance fees
• First aid kit

Tour Exclusions

• The Entrance Fees: For all visited tourist sites: Chinchero, Moray, and the Salt Mines.

Cusco Mountain Bike Recommendations

• Water bottle
• Camera
• Sun hat/cream
• Sturdy shoes, runners, or biking shoes
• Long pants
• Rain poncho
• Warm fleece for the return