Horses, ruins, and views above Cusco. This half-day ride mixes trained horses with a real sense of getting out of the traffic and into the countryside, then landing at Devil’s Balcony (Chacán) for a dramatic, rock-window view over a chasm. Two things I’d put at the top of the list are how easy it is to hop on (thanks to brief instruction and well-handled mounts) and how spectacular Chacán feels in person. One heads-up: this route is short, so if you’re expecting the full Temple of the Moon experience, you may be disappointed—this ride is mainly about Devil’s Balcony and nearby stops.

I also like that the operator builds safety and comfort into the format: hotel pickup and drop-off, a bilingual guide (English/Spanish), saddle and helmets, plus a muleteer along for support. Guides such as Ogir, Benny, Holger, and Galán are known for patient coaching and clear explanations at the viewpoints, which makes the stops feel like more than photo breaks. The duration is approximate, since the pace depends on your riding comfort and the horses chosen for you.

Key Highlights You’ll Actually Feel

• Well-matched horses for beginners and first-timers: horses are selected based on experience and mood, and you get a short safety induction before setting off.
• Devil’s Balcony (Chacán) on horseback: the timing puts you at the site when the views are at their best, and you’re guided through what you’re seeing.
• Panoramic Cusco views from the mountains: farms, herds, and open sightlines make it feel less like a city tour and more like an Andean morning (even if it’s afternoon).
• Inca sites off the main circuit: stops like Lanlakuyoc add meaning beyond the headline attraction.
• Simple, guided pacing: built-in breaks help if you’re not used to riding for long stretches.
• Skip-the-line entry: a separate entrance helps you spend more time out in the open and less time waiting.

Horsepower Near Sacsayhuamán: What Happens Before You Ride

Your day starts in central Cusco with pickup from your hotel, then a drive out toward the stables near Sacsayhuamán. This matters more than it sounds: being based near the fortress zone keeps the ride from feeling too long on transport, and it also positions you for that quick jump from city altitude bustle to mountain air.

At the ranch, you’ll meet your muleteers and your horses. Before anyone goes anywhere, the guide gives a short induction—think practical “how to control the horse, how to move safely” guidance—so you’re not guessing once the trail begins. Then the horses get selected for you. That detail is huge. If you’re a total beginner, you don’t want a “technically possible” horse. You want a steady one. And this tour is built around choosing mounts based on your experience and mood.

You’ll also be fitted with a saddle and safety helmet. Helmets aren’t glamorous, but they’re smart, and they signal that this is a working ranch operation, not a casual backyard stunt.

The Ride Feels Manageable Because They Teach You Real Basics

Horseback riding in the Andes can sound intimidating. It doesn’t have to be. What I like about this setup is that the coaching comes early, before you’re on a moving trail, and it’s tailored to your level.

The guide helps you get comfortable leading and mounting, then gives you the cues you’ll need once you’re out on the path. You won’t spend the whole ride thinking about your hands and legs. You’ll learn them. That’s why first-timers often describe it as surprisingly easy.

There’s also a muleteer on hand, which adds an extra layer of calm. You’re not alone in the process. And since the tour duration is only about four hours total, the whole experience stays focused—more “ride and see” than “ride forever.”

One tip: wear long pants and sturdy hiking shoes. You’re not just staying warm. You’re also protecting your legs and feet during mounting, dismounting, and the inevitable moments when you shift in the saddle.

Panoramic Cusco Views: Farms, Animals, and a Quiet Escape

Once you’re mounted, the trail takes you off the usual tourist routes. Along the way, you pass farms and herds of local animals, plus you’ll get sweeping views of Cusco and the surrounding hills. This is the part that turns the ride into more than an “excursion to a ruin.”

You’ll notice how the terrain changes as you move outward: open angles to the city, then more sheltered stretches where the guide can point out what’s growing and living around you. Even when you’re not riding fast, you’re still seeing. And that’s the secret formula for value here: the ride is not filler between stops. It’s part of the show.

This is also where the guide’s style matters. Some guides are “talkers.” Good ones are translators—turning what you see into something you understand. People often highlight guides who explain animals, vegetation, and local history at the viewpoints, which makes those scenic moments feel like you’re learning, not just looking.

Balcón del Diablo (Chacán): The Rock That Looks Like It Was Designed for Awe

Chacán (also called Balcón del Diablo or Devil’s Balcony) is the main headline stop, and it earns it.

Located on the backside of Sacsayhuamán, Chacán is both archaeological and natural—basically a large rock formation with a spectacular view down into a chasm. The famous feature is a window/balcony overlooking a river that runs underneath the rock. From there, the river continues through a huge cave toward the other end of the rock.

This isn’t just a view. You’re standing near a natural cave formed thousands of years ago, and it was used as an Inca shrine. That detail is what makes your photos feel a bit more meaningful. You’re not only capturing a dramatic frame—you’re looking at a place with a long story layered into the geography.

Your guide will stop at key spots around the site and explain what you’re seeing each time. Plan on slow moments for photos. The best shots happen when you stop rushing and let the scene settle.

Two practical notes:

• It’s a stop you’ll want to dress for—cooler mountain air can sneak up on you as you pause.
• The tour includes skip-the-line entry with a separate entrance, which usually helps you spend less time waiting and more time looking around at your pace.

Lanlakuyoc and the Breaks That Keep It Comfortable

After Devil’s Balcony, you head back toward the ranch area with more time in the saddle and additional stops—often including Lanlakuyoc. This is where the tour becomes more than a single-attraction checklist.

Lanlakuyoc is typically described as another set of Inca sites you don’t always hear about from the standard big-name circuits. Even if you’re not a hardcore ruins person, it’s worth it because it gives you contrast: you see how Inca architecture worked in different locations, not just the most famous viewpoint.

There’s also a scheduled break (around 20 minutes). That’s not just downtime. It’s a smart reset. If you’re riding for the first time, your body needs little recovery gaps. If you’re returning sore somewhere you didn’t expect (usually thighs or calves), breaks help you enjoy the next stretch instead of white-knuckling it until the end.

If you’re into photos, use that break time to hydrate and step back into the open air. Cusco altitude is real, even when you feel fine at first.

Who This Horseback Ride Is Best For (And Who Should Skip It)

This tour is a good fit if you want:

• Horseback riding without a steep learning curve
• Views over Cusco from higher ground
• A guided explanation of what you’re seeing, including the Inca use of places like Chacán
• A half-day escape that doesn’t eat your whole itinerary

It’s also a strong option if you’re traveling with someone who has never ridden. The induction and the careful matching of horses makes it possible for mixed experience levels. People commonly mention feeling safe even when riding is new.

But you should not book if:

• You’re pregnant
• You weigh over 200 lbs (91 kg)

That’s not a “comfort” note. It’s a rider safety constraint, and you should respect it.

Also be honest with yourself about motion: if you’re dealing with balance issues or serious back/knee problems, this won’t be the gentle walking pace you might expect. The ride can include ups and downs, and the tour pace depends on your riding skills.

Price and Value: Is $85 Reasonable?

At $85 per person for about four hours, the value comes from what’s included, not just the fact that it’s half a day.

You get:

• Hotel pickup and drop-off from central Cusco
• Bilingual guide (English/Spanish)
• Saddle and safety helmets
• Muleteer support

For many people, the biggest value isn’t the ruins. It’s the logistics and the safety setup around horseback riding. Getting a guided ride out to Chacán with proper coordination costs money because someone has to handle horses, trails, and risk.

There’s also private group availability, which can turn it into a more comfortable, flexible experience if you’re traveling with friends or a small family and want less waiting around.

Could you do a cheaper taxi-and-walk plan? Sure. But you’d lose the horse element and the “off the usual tourist trail” feeling that makes this tour different.

Practical Tips for Your 4 Hours in Cusco’s Mountains

Here’s what will make your day smoother:

• Wear hiking shoes with grip. You’re walking sometimes, and you’ll want stable footing around the ranch and ruins stops.
• Long pants help with comfort in the saddle and protection during mounting/dismounting.
• Bring a daypack for water and a layer. Even in Peru, mountain temps can shift quickly while you’re stopped for photos.
• Expect the duration to be approximate. If you ride slower (or you’re extra cautious), the timing can stretch. If you’re comfortable on horseback, things may move at a quicker pace.

One more thing: bring patience about the horse experience. You might start thinking you’ll be “just cruising.” Then you realize the guide is actually watching your control and comfort. That’s good. It’s how you end up safe.

Should You Book This Devil’s Balcony Horse Ride?

I’d book this if you want a break from the busiest Cusco rhythm and you like the idea of seeing the Inca world from a different angle—literally, from higher ground and from horseback. The combination of well-handled horses, guided stops at Chacán, and additional sites like Lanlakuyoc makes it feel like a full experience, not a quick photo stop.

Skip it if your priority is a specific long list like the Temple of the Moon as a centerpiece. This is a half-day format focused on Devil’s Balcony and nearby viewpoints.

If you’re unsure, decide based on your comfort level with riding. If you’re new, this tour is built for that. If you’re expecting a strenuous endurance ride, it’s not really that vibe either. It’s more thoughtful, scenic, and guided—plus you’ll have the satisfaction of having done something genuinely different around Cusco.

FAQ

How long is the horseback riding experience?

The total duration is about 4 hours, but it’s approximate and depends on your experience and riding skills.

What is included in the price?

The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off from central Cusco, a bilingual English/Spanish guide, saddle, safety helmets, and a muleteer.

Do I need to buy tickets for the sites separately?

The experience includes skip-the-line entry through a separate entrance.

What should I bring for the tour?

Bring hiking shoes, long pants, and a daypack.

What languages are the guides?

Guides speak English and Spanish.

Who should not join this tour?

It’s not suitable for pregnant women and for people over 200 lbs (91 kg).

You Might Also Enjoy

Lima City Tour. Pre-Hispanic, Colonial and Modern Tour.Magic Water & Laser Light Show Including Pickup And Drop-OffFrom Arequipa: Colca Canyon Day Trip with Transfer to PunoAdventure Day in Arequipa: Pillones Waterfall + Rock Forest