Cusco: Horseback Riding Temple of the Moon & Chacan Mountain

Summary

Ride ancient Inca trails to Temple of the Moon & Chacan Mountain with local guide

You’ll ride gentle horses from Cusco’s edge up ancient Inca paths with a bilingual local guide, exploring the mysterious Temple of the Moon and pausing atop Chacan Mountain for sweeping city views. Expect hotel pickup, snacks along the way, and small moments—like touching cool stone or catching a whiff of palo santo—that stay with you long after you return.

What’s the experience like?

I didn’t really know what to expect when we got picked up in Cusco—maybe just a quiet ride, but it was more alive than that. The van wound through narrow streets, and by the time we reached the ranch, there was this faint smell of eucalyptus in the air. Our guide, Diego, handed out helmets and gave us a quick rundown in both Spanish and English (I caught maybe half in Spanish). The horses looked calm but alert—mine was called Sol, which felt kind of lucky.

We set off along these old Inca trails that felt way older than any road I’ve ever walked. Sometimes you’d hear nothing but hoofbeats and birds flicking through the brush. Diego told us stories about the Temple of the Moon—how locals still leave little offerings there. When we got close, he pointed out carvings I never would’ve noticed. Someone nearby was burning palo santo; it drifted over while I touched one of the cool stones. I tried to say “thank you” in Quechua—Diego grinned but didn’t correct me.

The climb up Chacan Mountain wasn’t hard for Sol (me, I just hung on), but you could feel how high we’d gone when Cusco suddenly appeared below—all patchwork roofs and blue haze. We stopped for a snack—some fruit and bread—and I remember thinking how quiet it was except for a couple dogs barking somewhere far off. My hands smelled like leather from the reins. We took photos but honestly, I keep replaying that view in my head instead.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Horseback tour to Temple and mountain

• Pick up at hotel at 9:00 am or 1:00 pm
• Meet horses at the ranch
• Receive informative briefing
• Ride to Temple of the Moon
• Explore Temple of the Moon with explanation
• Break at Chacan Mountain viewpoint
• Return to ranch
• Transport back to hotel

Top questions

How long does the horseback riding tour last?

The tour lasts about 3.5 hours from pickup to drop-off.

Is hotel pickup included in this day trip?

Yes, pickup from your hotel in Cusco is included as well as return transport.

Are snacks provided during the horseback riding tour?

Yes, snacks are included during your ride.

What language does the guide speak?

The professional guide speaks both English and Spanish.

Is this horseback riding tour suitable for beginners?

Yes, all fitness levels are welcome and instructions are provided before starting.

What should I bring on this day trip to Machu Picchu from Cusco?

You should bring sunscreen, a waterproof jacket, water bottle, some extra money, and a camera.

Are children allowed on this horseback riding tour?

Yes, children can join but must be accompanied by an adult.

Does this tour operate in bad weather?

Yes, it operates rain or shine; dress appropriately for conditions.

What’s included

Your experience includes roundtrip hotel transfers between Cusco and the ranch, use of protective equipment like helmets, gentle horses suited to all levels, guidance from a bilingual expert throughout your journey to Temple of the Moon and Chacan Mountain, plus snacks during your ride before returning comfortably to your hotel at the end.