Three Day Two Night Horseback Ride
SACSAYHUAMAN-CHINCHERO-MARAS-MORAY-SALINERAS-OLLANTAYTAMBO
Infomation
Guide: Bilingual.
Route: Sacsahuaman - Chinchero – Maras – Moray - Ollantaytambo.
Distance: 45 km.
Time: 5 hours of interspersed riding the first day - 4 hours of interspersed riding the second day.
Features:The first stage is completely ascending (it is necessary to walk regular stretches to conserve the physical conditions of the horses and riders). Then, the terrain is pretty stable, perfect for galloping.
Environment: Panoramic landscape, you can see the breathtaking mountain ranges of Vilcanota and Vilcabamba and beautiful high plateau valleys like Pampas of Maras, the lakes Piuray and Huaypo, the colonial village of Maras and its ancient salt mines, as well as the interesting archeological complex of Moray, the Sacred Valley of the Incas, finishing in Ollantaytambo.
Difficulty: Advanced.
Description
Day 01 Sacsayhuaman to Chinchero
From Sacsayhuaman (3450m), the impressive Inca legacy overlooking Cusco, we begin our ride of approximately 3 hours northwest towards the beautiful town of Chinchero (4060m). In the journey, ascending in its main part, our trail presents some light obstacles including regular steepness. We will have to walk at times to help our horses to maintain their good physical condition.During the ride enjoy superb Andean landscapes and observe the rural Andean life while passing through small communities and towns.
Upon reaching the summit of Piuray, we will be able to appreciate the panoramic views of the mountain ranges of Vilcanota and Vilcabamba merging with lakes and high plateau landscapes. Next, we will descend to lake Piuray, surrounded by agricultural communities. Having now traveled approximately one hour and a distance of 6 km., riders and horses will stop for a brief rest. After a picnic we continue through very stable lands along the lake Piuray and can take in the fascinating scene that will surround us. Continuing, the landscape opens up to a colorful farmland patchwork. After a few kilometers we reach Chinchero.
The fusion of cultures that exists in Chinchero is clearly perceivable. Chinchero is known as the rainbow town and is known for its textile tradition that uses natural dyes and fibers, to produce mantles, hats, ponchos, and other woven goods. The surrounding local communities following a long time tradition gather to trade and barter products in the Chinchero market on Sundays. There will be a guided tour. Transfer or hotel.
Day 02 Chinchero to Moray, Maras and salt mines
The first part of this day’s journey will be about 2.5 hours and cover approximately 12k. We will ride through a scenic landscape that will take us through farms and villages surrounding lake Piuray until we reach Maras. Enjoy the majestic view of the snowcapped Vilcanota mountain range towering over the Sacred Valley below. Then we go on another 4k, about an hour’s ride, to the archaeological site of Moray – with its round agricultural terracing -- that still is an enigma with interesting theories of the great Inca agriculture. From Moray we ride to the Salineras – pre-Inca salt mines that are still being milled by local families. The ride finishes up at the shores of the Urubamba River in the Sacred Valley. Transfer to hotel.
Day 03 Sacred Valley to Ollantaytambo
From the Urubamba Sacred Valley, we travel a distance of 12k in the direction of Macchu Picchu to the village of Ollantaytambo (2700m). On a fairly stable terrain, we ride along the river for about 2 hours. Our journey will take us to the Inca Bridge which we will cross to reach the town of Ollantaytambo. This picturesque town, the resting place for the Inca general Ollantay, has been continuously inhabited since pre-Inca times. There will be time to roam its streets and visit the archaeological site that sits above the town. End of trip.
Recommended Seasons:
Cusco has two basic seasons. Either one offers its own unique benefits with stunning scenery and views to the traveler and rider.
April to November:
Dry and sunny days with golden fields. At night the temperatures can be below freezing.
December to March:
Summer with constant rainfall. The sky is usually overcast, but the fields are always rich and green.
Special Products Donations / Non profit activities / Horses / Amaru Express
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Copyright 2006 Land of the Inkas