Horseback riding in Cusco: routes, what to expect and choosing responsibly

Exploring Cusco's surroundings on horseback is a calm, different way to see little-visited archaeological sites, Andean pastures and rural communities, with views over the city and mountains. The most common rides need no experience and suit families. This guide covers the usual routes, what to expect and how to choose an operator that cares for its animals.

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Popular routes

Temple of the Moon and around Sacsayhuamán

The classic ride from Cusco. It starts on the outskirts above the city and follows trails through eucalyptus and meadows to places such as the Temple of the Moon (Amaru Marka Wasi), a rock outcrop with caves and Inca carvings, Zona X or the "Temple of the Monkeys", and sometimes the Devil's Balcony, a cave with a natural arch. Many rides pass near Q'enqo, Puka Pukara or Sacsayhuamán. It usually takes two to four hours in total.

• Sacsayhuamán: how to visit, tickets, history and tips
• Qenqo, Puka Pukara and Tambomachay: the Inca sites above Cusco and how to visit them

Sacred Valley

In the Sacred Valley there are rides around Urubamba, Ollantaytambo or the Maras and Moray area, among fields with snowy peaks in view. Some haciendas offer shows of the Peruvian Paso horse, a breed famous for its smooth gait.

• Sacred Valley of the Incas: what to see and how to visit
• Moray and the Maras salt mines: how to visit from Cusco or the Sacred Valley

Horses at Rainbow Mountain and Humantay

At Rainbow Mountain and Humantay Lake, locals rent horses for part of the climb. It's not a leisure ride but help for those struggling with altitude. You usually pay cash by section, and the last stretch is normally on foot.

• Rainbow Mountain (Vinicunca): a practical guide to visiting
• Humantay Lake: how to get there, the hike and tips

What to expect

• Pick-up from your lodging or a meeting point above Cusco, depending on the tour.
• A short briefing on riding and steering.
• Small criollo horses used to mountain trails; a guide on foot often leads beginners' horses.
• Stops at archaeological sites to dismount and explore.
• A gentle walking pace; galloping isn't usually part of tourist rides.

Requirements and who it suits

• No experience needed for basic rides.
• There's usually a rider weight limit to protect the animals; ask when booking.
• Children: many operators accept kids from a certain age, sometimes with an adult.
• Pregnancy, back problems or recent injuries: check with your doctor.

• Cusco with kids: altitude, itinerary and family activities

Animal welfare: how to choose

• Check the horses: healthy weight, no sores on the back or mouth, cared-for hooves.
• Choose operators that limit working hours and rider weight.
• Avoid very cheap offers, which often mean overworked animals.
• If you see mistreatment or a lame horse, ask for another or end the ride.
• At Rainbow Mountain, consider whether you really need a horse or can walk slowly.

Altitude and weather

Rides around Cusco are above 3,500 m. Even though the horse does the work, you'll feel the altitude: do this after a day or two of acclimatisation. Mornings tend to be clearer, especially in the rainy season when afternoons bring showers.

• Altitude sickness in Cusco: how to prevent it and what to do
• Best time to visit Cusco and what to pack

What to bring

• Long, comfortable trousers to avoid chafing.
• Closed shoes with a slight heel; no sandals.
• A windbreaker and layers: it's cold and windy up high.
• Sunscreen, sunglasses and a hat with a strap.
• Water and some cash for entrances or tips.
• Your Tourist Ticket if you visit sites it covers.

• Cusco Tourist Ticket (Boleto Turístico): what's included and is it worth it

How to book

Book through agencies in Cusco or online platforms, usually with transport and guide. Check what's included: pick-up, actual riding time, sites visited, entrances and insurance. Travel insurance covering adventure activities is recommended.

• How to choose a tour agency in Cusco: a checklist to get it right

How to combine it

A half-day ride pairs well with other activities:

• Ride in the morning and visit Sacsayhuamán, Q'enqo or Tambomachay with the Tourist Ticket in the afternoon.
• In the Sacred Valley, combine it with Maras and Moray or an ATV route.
• With kids, it's a calmer alternative to long hikes.

• ATV tour to Maras and Moray: what the quad-bike trip from Cusco is like
• Cusco with kids: altitude, itinerary and family activities

Notice: This guide shares advice and recommendations based on research and local experience. Prices, opening hours and rules may change: always check with official sources and operators. Cusco Tips is not responsible for third-party services, bookings or decisions made using these guides; some links are affiliate links (see our affiliate policy).