Cusco from a saddle feels different. This half-day ride takes you off the main tourist lanes, up toward Devil’s Balcony (Chacan), with stops that connect the views to Inca-era use of the area.

I especially love two things: the horses are well trained (a real confidence boost even if it’s your first time), and the viewpoints are right above Cusco so you get a big, clear sense of where you are in the Andes. The one drawback to plan around is that not every version of this experience includes the same extra sites, so if Temple of the Moon is a must, you should confirm that with the operator before you go.

Pick-up and timing run on mountain logistics, not city precision. And if you’re over 200 lbs (91 kg) or pregnant, this ride won’t be the right fit.

Key points before you book

• Trained horses for beginners: you get basic guidance and safe mounts picked to your experience level.
• Devil’s Balcony is the showpiece: a rock formation with a balcony view over a canyon and cave area tied to Inca use.
• Scenic riding without a long day: about four hours total, with breaks built in so it doesn’t turn into a grind.
• Stops beyond the usual photos: you’ll also visit spots like Lanlakuyoc (and viewpoint pauses) that feel less crowded.
• Helmets and a muleteer included: this is a practical safety setup, not a casual “good luck” situation.
• Expect route variation: some people report extra stops like the Temple of the Moon, but it can depend on what you booked.

Why Devil’s Balcony (Chacan) is worth riding for

Devil’s Balcony, also called Chacan, sits behind Sacsayhuaman. What makes it special is the contrast: you’re on horseback in the hills, then you reach an archaeological/natural formation where the view is framed like it was designed for the human eye.

The canyon scene is the big moment. You look out over a chasm area, and there’s a window/balcony view over a river running underneath the rock. Below that balcony, the river channels through a huge cave system—one of the reasons guides connect this place to Inca ritual use over thousands of years.

I like that the site isn’t presented as a “random viewpoint.” Your guide stops at the key spots and explains what you’re seeing in plain language, so you’re not just clicking photos—you’re building a mental map of how the Inca landscape worked.

Getting there: Cusco pickup to the ranch by Sacsayhuaman

Your day starts with hotel pickup from central Cusco. After a briefing, you ride out toward the ranch near Sacsayhuaman where the horses and muleteers are based.

This part matters more than you might think. You’ll feel the difference between Cusco’s city bustle and the quieter edges of town. Once you’re at the ranch, you get oriented before anyone tosses you in the saddle.

In a couple of cases, pickup confusion popped up when guests waited at one hostel location but the driver tried another. So do yourself a favor: make sure your driver can identify you fast (clear location, name on the booking, and be ready at the lobby entrance).

The horse briefing: how you’re matched and taught

Before you head out, your guide gives a short induction on controlling the horses safely. Then the team selects your horse based on experience and mood, which is how they keep the ride feeling relaxed instead of chaotic.

This is the part many people remember most. First-timers often report that the horses handle the trail confidently, and guides help with mounting, dismounting, and basic riding technique. Names that came up in guide feedback include Galan, Ogir, Benny, and Holger/Holgar/Olgar—and the common theme is patience during the learning phase.

You’ll also notice that the guides tend to manage the pace. Some stops include breaks, so you’re not stuck going full throttle for four hours.

Riding the trails above Cusco: farms, animals, and canyon air

Once you’re mounted, you follow a trail toward Devil’s Balcony. Along the way, you pass farms and local herds, plus you get repeated views back toward Cusco and the surrounding areas.

This is where the experience earns its value as more than a sightseeing detour. You’re moving through real working countryside, not just walking between ruins on a paved path. Even if you’ve seen panoramic views before, it hits different when you’re riding above the city—slower than a car, faster than a trek, and somehow more personal.

One practical point: shoes matter. You’ll want hiking shoes, long pants, and a daypack. The tour depends on your riding comfort, so you don’t want to be thinking about sore feet or loose laces halfway through.

Balcon del Diablo: the window view and the Inca shrine story

This is the stop you came for. You’ll reach Devil’s Balcony (Chacan) and spend time at the formation while your guide explains what you’re looking at.

Here’s what to expect in the simplest terms:

• A rock formation behind Sacsayhuaman with a spectacular view over a chasm.
• A window/balcony perspective overlooking a river below the rock.
• A natural cave area where the river continues through a large underground route.

Guides connect the site to Inca shrine use in this naturally formed setting. Whether you’re into archaeology or just into good stories, this is one of those places where the scenery and the explanation match each other.

If you’re the kind of person who likes good photos, bring your phone/camera ready for pauses. The best shots usually come when you stop, breathe, and let the view settle in.

Lanlakuyoc and the side-sites that make it feel off the radar

After Devil’s Balcony, you ride back with additional stops. One stop that shows up in the experience plan is Lanlakuyoc, where you’ll get more guided time on the horse and on foot (depending on what the guide has you do at that moment).

Why this is worth your attention: it breaks the pattern of Cusco as just Plaza de Armas, churches, and a single “big ticket” ruin day. These side-sites help you see how the area functions beyond the main routes, and they fit well into a half-day format because they don’t require a full day trek.

One more thing: some guides/routes also mention the Temple of the Moon. A few people reported it as part of the experience, while another guest expected it and found it was reserved for full-day tours. If the Temple of the Moon is a priority for you, confirm that detail before you book so your expectations line up with the actual itinerary.

How long is the ride, really? Pace and breaks that keep it enjoyable

The tour runs about four hours total, but that’s approximate. Your riding speed, comfort level, and the time spent at each stop can shift the schedule a bit.

The good news: the ride is built for real humans, not just strong riders. Reviews mention clever breaks in between so the horses keep moving at a manageable effort level. For beginners, that’s a big deal. It means you’ll be able to focus on learning and enjoying the views instead of surviving the ride.

Safety setup you should care about (especially on horseback)

This isn’t a bare-minimum operation. The tour includes a saddle, safety helmets, and a muleteer. You also get a guide briefing before riding, plus on-the-ground help for getting on and off the horse.

That safety structure shows up in the feedback too. Many guests explicitly say they felt safe even if they were new to horses, and that the animals were sure-footed on uneven ground.

You’ll still want to ride with common sense:

• Wear long pants and sturdy shoes.
• Follow your guide’s instructions about posture and where to look.
• Don’t try to push speed if you’re still getting comfortable controlling your horse.

Price and value: is $85 fair for a half-day in Cusco?

At $85 per person for about four hours, this sits in the mid-range for Cusco excursions that combine transport, guided interpretation, and horse handling. The value depends on what you want out of the day.

Here’s what you’re paying for, in practical terms:

• Hotel pickup/drop-off from central Cusco.
• A bilingual guide (English/Spanish).
• Horse time plus basic riding instruction.
• Helmets and a muleteer for safer operations.
• A guided visit to Devil’s Balcony and additional stops like Lanlakuyoc.

If you compare it to a walking tour plus a separate activity, you’re effectively bundling transport, horses, and guided site stops into one ticket. For first-timers, the horse training and selection alone can be worth it, because you’re not stuck figuring things out by yourself at altitude.

Who this tour suits best (and who should skip it)

This is a great fit if you want:

• A break from the typical Cusco walking circuit.
• Panoramic views with real countryside riding.
• A guided explanation of sites like Chacan/Devil’s Balcony.
• An activity that still works for first-time riders.

It’s not for everyone. The experience notes it’s not suitable for pregnant women and for people over 200 lbs (91 kg). If you’re near either limit, check with the provider before you book.

Also consider your comfort level with heights. The viewpoints are spectacular, and parts of Devil’s Balcony are on uneven rock. You can still enjoy it if you’re cautious, but it’s not a roll-on-rollers type of day.

Tips to get more out of your four hours

A few small moves can make the experience smoother:

• Bring hiking shoes and long pants. Dust and uneven ground are real.
• Wear layers. Cusco weather can shift fast in the hills.
• Use a small daypack so you can keep your hands free when needed.
• Ask your guide during the briefing what sites you’ll cover today, especially if you care about the Temple of the Moon.

And if you’re the photo type: plan to stop often. The guide will pause in key places, and those are usually the moments where you’ll get the best balance of view plus understanding.

Should you book this horseback ride to Devil’s Balcony?

If you want a half-day in Cusco that feels like you left the main tourist map, this is a strong choice. The big reason: trained horses and a structured guide-led setup make it feel safe and doable, even if you’ve ridden only a couple times or never before.

Book it if Devil’s Balcony is on your list and you’d enjoy riding above Cusco with a guided connection to the place. Skip or re-check details if Temple of the Moon is your must-see and you’re trying to pack it into a half-day—some versions seem to reserve that for longer tours.

FAQ

What’s the total duration of the horseback ride?

The tour lasts about 4 hours, though the exact timing can vary based on your riding experience and skills.

Where does the tour start and end?

It includes hotel pickup and drop-off from central Cusco, and you return to Cusco at the end.

Do I need prior horseback riding experience?

No. You’ll get an induction and basic instruction, and horses are selected based on your experience and mood.

Is the ride safe for beginners?

The experience includes safety helmets, saddle setup, and guidance from a guide plus a muleteer. Many guests note they felt safe even when they were new to horseback riding.

What will I see at Devil’s Balcony?

Devil’s Balcony (Chacan) includes a major rock formation with a chasm view, a window/balcony overlooking a river underneath, and a cave area connected to Inca shrine use.

Will I also visit the Temple of the Moon?

Some people report seeing the Temple of the Moon, but one guest found it was only included on full-day tours. If it’s important to you, confirm before booking.

What other stops are included besides Devil’s Balcony?

The experience plan includes stops such as Lanlakuyoc in addition to Devil’s Balcony, with guide commentary at multiple viewpoints.

What should I bring?

Bring hiking shoes, long pants, and a daypack.

Is the tour suitable for everyone?

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