DESCRIPTION
Experience a day full of adrenaline and nature with the Rafting and Ziplining tour in Cusco, a perfect experience for those seeking adventure and connection with the Andean environment. From Cusco, you’ll travel to the community of Cusipata, in the Urubamba River Valley, where exciting rapids and breathtaking mountain landscapes await you.
During the day, you’ll combine whitewater rafting with Class II, III, and IV rapids, ideal for both beginners and experienced adventurers. Then, you’ll enjoy the most exciting ziplining in the South Valley of Cusco, soaring over rivers, canyons, and Andean valleys. An unforgettable experience that combines sport, culture, and natural landscapes in a single day.
ITINERARY
Rafting and Ziplining Tour in Cusco | Adventure Day in Cusipata
🗓️ Day 1 – Detailed Itinerary
Pickup from your hotel in Cusco (6:30 – 7:00 AM)
Begin your day with pickup from your accommodation in Cusco’s historic center or nearby areas. Our tour will take you south along the Cusco Sicuani route, passing through rural landscapes, fertile valleys, and Andean communities. The journey takes approximately 2 hours, ideal for admiring the natural surroundings of the Urubamba River.
Arrival at the ecological base camp in Cusipata
Upon arrival at the lodge, located on the banks of the river, you will receive a warm welcome from professional guides. This space features green areas, changing rooms, showers, and rest areas. Complete rafting equipment is provided:
- 🧤 Wetsuit to protect you from the cold water
- 🪖 Safety helmet
- 🦺 Professional life jacket
- 🚣♂️ Heavy-duty paddle
Before starting, the guide conducts a safety briefing and basic training for all participants, explaining commands, positions, and rescue measures, ensuring a safe and fun experience.
Start of the Urubamba River Rafting Trip (Class II, III, and IV)
The adventure begins on the Urubamba River, where participants will navigate a 6 to 8 km stretch. The Class II, III, and IV rapids offer a perfect combination of adrenaline and excitement. During the trip, you will enjoy intense moments among the waves, followed by calm stretches that allow you to contemplate the beauty of the valley.
Return to camp and Andean buffet lunch
At the end of the rafting trip, we return to camp to change clothes and enjoy a delicious buffet lunch with local products.
Start of the Zipline Circuit in Cusipata
After lunch, the adventure continues with the zipline. After receiving your harness, helmet, and gloves, the guide provides a brief technical instruction. The circuit has 4 to 6 lines, some over 400 meters long, that cross Andean rivers, canyons, and valleys. You can choose between different options:
- 🪂 Classic style
- 🦸 “Superman” style
- 🔄 Reverse (retro) style
Flying over the Andean landscape is an unforgettable experience that combines excitement, freedom, and connection with nature.
Free time and relaxation
After the circuit, you will have time to take a hot shower, rest in the green areas, or share photos with the group. The lodge offers rest areas ideal for enjoying the natural surroundings.
Return to Cusco (5:00 – 5:30 PM)
We begin our return to Cusco, enjoying the Andean landscape at sunset. Arrival is scheduled for around 5:30 PM, bringing to a close a day full of adrenaline, fun, and connection with the nature of the South Valley.
INCLUDES
✅Includes
🚐 Round-trip tourist transportation from Cusco
Pickup from your hotel and transfer to Cusipata in a fully-equipped tourist vehicle.
🧑🏫 Certified professional guides
Instructors specialized in rafting and ziplining, bilingual (Spanish/English) and trained in first aid.
🦺 Complete rafting and ziplining equipment
Wetsuit, helmet, life jacket, paddle, harness, gloves, and professional safety system.
🗣️ Safety briefing and pre-practice training
Technical explanation and basic training before starting both activities, adapted to all levels.
🍲 Andean buffet lunch at the eco-camp
Balanced menu with typical options such as quinoa, trout, meats, and salads, as well as hot drinks.
🩹 Assistance and first aid kit
Trained staff available throughout the experience to ensure your safety.
📸 Free time and rest areas
Use of showers, green areas, and panoramic spaces to relax and take photographs.
NOT INCLUDED
❌Not Included
🍽️ Lunch or additional drinks not included in the buffet menu
The main lunch at the camp includes an Andean buffet, but any additional drinks (sodas, beers, or specialty juices) are the visitor’s responsibility.
💰 Voluntary tips
Tips for guides, drivers, or camp staff are not included. They are left at the traveler’s discretion as a token of appreciation for the attention and service provided during the tour.
📸 Professional photography or video service
If you wish to capture the experience with professional cameras or drones, this service has an additional cost and must be requested in advance, as the use of audiovisual equipment requires security clearance.
🛡️ Travel Insurance or Personal Medical Coverage
The tour does not include travel insurance. It is recommended to purchase a policy that covers adventure activities, especially rafting or ziplining, for added peace of mind during the experience.
🎟️ Entrance fees to other tourist attractions in the South Valley
The itinerary focuses on rafting and ziplining in Cusipata. Visits or entrance fees to archaeological sites or nearby towns outside the established program are not included.
🧳 Personal Expenses and Additional Purchases
Souvenirs, local handicrafts, bottled beverages, and other items not specified in the “Includes” section are not part of the package. It is recommended to bring money in soles for direct purchases.
🚐 Transfers outside the scheduled itinerary
Transportation covers only the Cusco – Cusipata – Cusco route. If the traveler wishes to continue to other destinations or make customized detours, additional charges apply.
🌧️ Replacement clothing or personal equipment
The tour provides a wetsuit and basic equipment, but does not include a towel, sandals, or additional dry clothing. It is recommended to bring a complete change of clothes for after water activities.
RECOMMENDATIONS
✨Recommendations
👕 Bring comfortable clothes and a change of clothes
During rafting on the Urubamba River, getting wet is inevitable, so it is recommended to bring a complete change of dry clothes (pants, t-shirt, and shoes) to change into after the activity. Store your clothes in a waterproof bag or sealed backpack.
👟 Wear appropriate footwear
Opt for tight-fitting sneakers or sandals with heel support. Avoid open or loose footwear, as they can come off during the river descent. Footwear should be comfortable, non-slip, and waterproof.
🧴 Sun protection and personal care
The sun in the mountains is intense even on cloudy days. Bring waterproof sunscreen, sunglasses with straps, and a cap or hat to protect yourself during the zipline. Insect repellent is also recommended, especially during the rainy season.
💧 Stay hydrated
Although the weather may be mild, physical activity and altitude require good hydration. Bring a reusable bottle or personal thermos to consume water during the tour and reduce plastic use.
🎒 Pack only the essentials
Bring in a small backpack:
- Dry clothes
- Towel and sandals
- Sunscreen and insect repellent
- Sports camera or cell phone with a waterproof case
- Cash in soles for personal expenses or tips
🧘 Pre-acclimatization in Cusco
Before participating in adventure activities such as rafting or ziplining, it is recommended to acclimatize for at least 1 or 2 days in Cusco. This helps the body adapt to the 3,399 meters above sea level and reduces the possibility of altitude sickness.
FAQs
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
🌊 1. Do I need previous experience to take the tour?
No. The rafting and zipline tour in Cusco is designed for all types of travelers, even beginners. Professional guides provide a detailed explanation about safety, paddling techniques, and equipment use before starting.
🚣♂️ 2. How difficult are the Urubamba River rapids?
The Cusipata rafting route features Class II, III, and IV rapids, which means it offers exciting yet safe sections. It’s ideal for both adrenaline seekers and those looking for a fun, controlled experience.
🕐 3. How long is the entire tour?
The tour lasts approximately 10 hours (from 6:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.), including transfers, the rafting session, buffet lunch, and the zipline circuit.
📍 4. Where does the activity take place?
The activities take place in Cusipata, about 80 km south of Cusco, in the beautiful Urubamba River Valley. This area is known for its landscapes, temperate climate, and natural environment, ideal for adventure tourism.
🍲 5. What does the buffet lunch include?
The camp menu includes traditional soups (quinoa or cream of vegetable soup), main dishes such as trout, lomo saltado, or stewed chicken, side dishes, salads, desserts, and hot drinks. Vegetarian or vegan options are also available upon request.