Quick Picks for Riding in Cuzco

Choosing the right tour depends on your time and experience. Most rides start in the San Sebastian or Sacsayhuaman areas. Beginners should look for flat trails with calm horses. Experienced riders might prefer steep mountain paths with sweeping valley views.

• Best Overall: Temple of the Moon Ride
• Best for Kids: Saqsaywaman Perimeter Circuit
• Best for Solitude: Inkilltambo Valley Path
• Best Day Trip: Maras Salt Mines Trail

9 Best Horse Riding Tours Near Cuzco Ruins

The hills surrounding the city are filled with hidden archaeological sites. These top attractions near Cuzco are often connected by ancient trails. Riding a horse helps you cover more ground than walking alone. It is a relaxing way to experience the high-altitude environment of the Andes.

1. Name: Temple of the Moon (La Chincana)
   Type: Sight/Experience
   Why go: This site features unique carvings and a mystical cave atmosphere.
   Best for: Spiritual travelers and history lovers.
   Where: 15 minutes north of the city center.
   Time: 2-3 hours.
   Cost: $30 - $50.
   Getting there: Take a short taxi ride to the ranch area near Q’enco.
   Tip: Bring a small flash light to see the intricate carvings inside the caves.
2. Name: Devil's Balcony (Chacan)
   Type: Viewpoint/Nature
   Why go: It offers a massive natural rock arch and a river passing through a cave.
   Best for: Adventure seekers and photographers.
   Where: Behind the Saqsaywaman hills.
   Time: 4 hours.
   Cost: $40 - $60.
   Getting there: Most tours include pickup from your hotel in Cuzco.
   Tip: Hold on tight as the trail can be narrow near the cliff edge.
3. Name: Saqsaywaman Park Perimeter
   Type: Iconic Sight
   Why go: You see the massive limestone walls of the fortress from a distance.
   Best for: Families and first-time visitors.
   Where: Directly above the San Blas neighborhood.
   Time: 2 hours.
   Cost: $25 - $40.
   Getting there: Walk up from San Blas or take a 10-minute taxi.
   Tip: You do not need the full tourist ticket if you stay on the public paths outside the ruin gates.
4. Name: Puca Pucara Fortress Loop
   Type: Experience
   Why go: The "Red Fortress" looks stunning against the green Andean hills at sunset.
   Best for: Afternoon riders.
   Where: 7 kilometers from Cuzco.
   Time: 3 hours.
   Cost: $35 - $55.
   Getting there: Tour operators provide transport to the ranch near the site.
   Tip: Wear a warm jacket as the wind picks up late in the day.
5. Name: Tambomachay Water Temple Path
   Type: Experience
   Why go: Ride past ancient aqueducts and fountains still flowing today.
   Best for: Nature lovers interested in Incan engineering.
   Where: High altitude area near Puca Pucara.
   Time: 3-4 hours.
   Cost: $40 - $60.
   Getting there: Included in most combined ruin horse tours.
   Tip: Drink plenty of water as this area is higher than the city.
6. Name: Inkilltambo Hidden Trail
   Type: Museum/Indoor (Outdoor Ruins)
   Why go: It is a recently restored site with agricultural terraces and few tourists.
   Best for: Escaping the city crowds.
   Where: Near the San Sebastian district.
   Time: 4-5 hours.
   Cost: $50 - $70.
   Getting there: Local guides meet you at the trailhead in the valley.
   Tip: This site is part of the UNESCO World Heritage area, so stay on marked trails.
7. Name: The X-Zone Rock Formations
   Type: Unique Experience
   Why go: Features natural labyrinths and caves used for ancient ceremonies.
   Best for: Curious explorers.
   Where: Adjacent to the Temple of the Moon.
   Time: 2 hours.
   Cost: $30 - $45.
   Getting there: Walk or ride from the Q’enco area.
   Tip: Wear sturdy boots for the short walks off the horse to explore the rocks.
8. Name: Maras Salt Mines Trail
   Type: Day Trip
   Why go: Dramatic views of thousands of ancient salt ponds in a canyon.
   Best for: Full-day adventures.
   Where: Sacred Valley, about 1 hour from Cuzco.
   Time: 6-8 hours.
   Cost: $80 - $120.
   Getting there: Van transport from Cuzco is usually required.
   Tip: Visit during the dry season (May-September) to see the salt pans at their whitest.
9. Name: Pisac South Valley Ride
   Type: Day Trip
   Why go: Ride through traditional villages and see the famous Pisac terraces.
   Best for: Cultural immersion.
   Where: 45 minutes south of Cuzco.
   Time: 5 hours.
   Cost: $70 - $100.
   Getting there: Organized tours provide private transport to the valley floor.
   Tip: Visit on a Sunday to catch the local market after your ride.

Planning Your Cuzco Countryside Horse Riding Trip

Riding in the Andes requires some preparation. The sun is very strong at this altitude. Always wear sunscreen and a wide-brimmed hat. If you are new to horses, try beginner horse riding in the Cuzco countryside for a safer start. Check the official Peru Travel site for current weather updates. Most tours provide helmets, but check with your operator first. It is best to ride in the morning to avoid rain.