Quick Picks for Your Cuzco Ride

Need a fast recommendation for your trip? Here is a summary of our top picks for riders. These options cater to different interests and schedules.

• Best Overall: Temple of the Moon Trails for quiet paths.
• Best for Families: Lake Huaypo for flat, easy terrain.
• Best for History: Sacsayhuamán Perimeter for iconic Inca views.
• Best for Quick Trips: Sencca Ruins near the city center.

10 Best Spots for Beginner Horse Riding in the Cuzco Countryside

These selected spots offer the safest and most scenic experiences for novices. Every location is unique and showcases the beauty of the Inca heartland clearly.

1. Name: Sacsayhuamán Perimeter
   Type: sight|experience
   Why go: Ride near massive Inca walls without the crowds.
   Best for: History buffs.
   Where: Just north of Cuzco city.
   Time: 2–3 hours.
   Cost: $30–$50 USD.
   Getting there: 15-minute taxi from the Plaza de Armas.
   Tip: Wear sunblock as there is very little shade here.
2. Name: Temple of the Moon
   Type: experience|sight
   Why go: This is a spiritual site with soft, grassy paths for horses.
   Best for: Gentle beginners.
   Where: Near the San Blas heights.
   Time: 2 hours.
   Cost: $25–$40 USD.
   Getting there: Tour operators usually provide pickup from your hotel.
   Tip: Visit in the morning for the best light on the ruins.
3. Name: Devil's Balcony (Chacán)
   Type: viewpoint|activity
   Why go: Features a massive natural rock bridge and a shallow river.
   Best for: Scenic photography.
   Where: The hills above Sacsayhuamán.
   Time: 3–4 hours.
   Cost: $40–$60 USD.
   Getting there: Best reached via an organized tour from the city center.
   Tip: Hold the reins loosely while the horse crosses the small stream.
4. Name: Lake Huaypo
   Type: nature|day trip
   Why go: This flat area offers a peaceful ride near sparkling blue water.
   Best for: Relaxed afternoons.
   Where: Between Cuzco and Urubamba.
   Time: Half-day trip.
   Cost: $60–$80 USD.
   Getting there: Private transport is recommended for this 45-minute drive.
   Tip: Look for local birds like Andean gulls near the shore.
5. Name: X-Zone (Cusilluchayoc)
   Type: experience|sight
   Why go: Explore strange rock formations and small caves on horseback.
   Best for: Adventurous beginners.
   Where: Near the Temple of the Moon.
   Time: 2 hours.
   Cost: $30–$45 USD.
   Getting there: Many horse riding tours near Cuzco ruins include this stop.
   Tip: Wear boots as some parts of the trail can be muddy.
6. Name: Sencca (Apukunaq Tianan)
   Type: sight|experience
   Why go: See modern giant sculptures carved into the mountain side.
   Best for: Unique art lovers.
   Where: Northwest of the city.
   Time: 3 hours.
   Cost: $35–$50 USD.
   Getting there: Take a local bus or taxi to the Sencca district.
   Tip: Climb the sculptures for a view of the horses below.
7. Name: Maras Salt Mines Overlook
   Type: sight|day trip
   Why go: View thousands of ancient salt ponds from high trails.
   Best for: Seeing the Sacred Valley.
   Where: Maras plateau.
   Time: Full day.
   Cost: $70–$100 USD.
   Getting there: Book as part of Sacred Valley day trips for easy logistics.
   Tip: Check if your tour includes the entrance fee for the mines.
8. Name: Tambomachay Perimeter
   Type: sight|activity
   Why go: Ride through the high eucalyptus forests near water ruins.
   Best for: Nature and fresh air.
   Where: 8km from Cuzco center.
   Time: 3 hours.
   Cost: $40–$55 USD.
   Getting there: Most tours include transport to the starting ranch.
   Tip: It can be windy here, so bring a light jacket.
9. Name: Chinchero Plateaus
   Type: nature|day trip
   Why go: Ride across wide open fields with snow-capped mountain backdrops.
   Best for: Feeling the scale of the Andes.
   Where: Chinchero village area.
   Time: 4–5 hours.
   Cost: $65–$90 USD.
   Getting there: About 45 minutes by car from Cuzco city.
   Tip: Visit the local textile market after your ride ends.
10. Name: San Sebastian Foothills
    Type: experience
    Why go: A less touristy area where local farmers often work.
    Best for: Authentic local vibes.
    Where: East of the main city center.
    Time: 2 hours.
    Cost: $20–$35 USD.
    Getting there: Easily reached by a cheap taxi ride from downtown.
    Tip: Greet the local shepherds as you ride through the hills.

Essential Tips for Beginner Horse Riding in the Countryside

Safety is the most important part of your Andean adventure. The altitude in Cuzco is over 3,400 meters above sea level. You should spend at least two days in the city before riding. This helps prevent altitude sickness while you are on the horse. Make sure to drink plenty of water and eat light meals.

Always check your equipment before you start your ride. The stirrups should be at a comfortable length for your legs. Most guides use Western-style saddles which are easier for beginners. Wear long pants to avoid chafing against the saddle during the trip. Closed-toe shoes or hiking boots are mandatory for safety in the stirrups.

Listen carefully to your guide’s instructions at the ranch. They will show you how to signal the horse to turn or stop. Peruvian horses are often small but very sturdy and reliable. Do not make sudden movements or loud noises around the animals. Following these simple rules ensures a smooth and enjoyable trip for everyone.

Why Choose the Cuzco Countryside for Riding?

The landscape of Cuzco is unlike any other in the world. You move through high-altitude grasslands and eucalyptus forests in minutes. The views of the Vilcabamba mountain range are truly breathtaking from a saddle. Riding a horse allows you to reach places cars cannot go. You will find peace away from the busy city streets.

History is alive everywhere you look in the countryside. You might pass by ancient paths that the Incas used centuries ago. Many small ruins are scattered across the hills near top attractions near Cuzco. Seeing these sites from a horse feels more natural and traditional. It is a slow-paced way to soak in the incredible Peruvian culture.