Canoeing in Cusco
- Duration
- Half Day
- Difficulty
- Moderate
- Group
- Private or group
- Language
- ES - EN
- Max altitude
- 3,399 m.s.n.m
About this tour
Experience the adrenaline of the Sacred Valley!
You’ll love this option.
Embark on an unforgettable water adventure navigating the waters of the Urubamba River, in the heart of the Sacred Valley of the Incas. Enjoy Class II and III rapids surrounded by majestic mountains, farmlands, and traditional villages—an experience that combines adrenaline, nature, and Andean culture.
Itinerary
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08:00 hrs – Pick-up from your hotel in Cusco and departure for the Sacred Valley of the Incas. The journey takes us through Andean landscapes filled with mountains, rivers, and farmlands, arriving at the town of Chuquicahuana, famous for its rapids.
09:30 hrs – Arrival at base camp. Our professional guide will give a safety briefing covering raft handling, paddling techniques, and rescue protocols. You will then receive your full gear: wetsuit, life jacket, helmet, and paddle.
10:30 hrs – Start of the journey down the Urubamba River. For approximately an hour and a half, you will navigate exciting Class II and III rapids, alternating between adrenaline-filled moments and calmer stretches that allow you to admire the natural beauty of the Sacred Valley. Along the way, you can view mountains, Inca terraces, and Andean birdlife.
12:00 hrs – Arrival at the end of the route and return by vehicle to base camp.
12:30 hrs – Enjoy a country-style lunch prepared with local products while relaxing and gazing at the river.
14:00 hrs – We begin the return trip to Cusco, taking one last look at the stunning landscape of the Sacred Valley.
15:30 hrs – Arrival at your hotel and end of service.
Included
- Transfers: Round-trip tourist transport with pickup and drop-off at your hotel in Cusco city.
- Adventure gear: Complete whitewater rafting safety equipment (wetsuit, high-buoyancy life jacket, helmet, and paddle).
- Guide and safety: Professional certified rafting guide, pre-trip technical briefing/instructions, and first aid kit.
- Meals: Country-style lunch served at base camp after the river run.
Not included
- Accommodation: Overnight stays in the city of Cusco.
- Photography and video: Optional digital photo or video service for the river excursion.
- Unspecified meals: Breakfast or dinner upon returning to Cusco.
- Personal items: Towels or toiletries for changing.
- Insurance: Medical, travel, or personal accident insurance.
- Gratuities: Optional tips for the guide team and the driver.
Information and recommendations
- Change of dry clothes and towel: Bring a swimsuit to wear under your wetsuit, a personal towel, and a full set of dry, warm clothes to change into at the camp's changing rooms afterward.
- Suitable water footwear: Wear lightweight shoes that can get wet or sports sandals with a heel strap (avoid flip-flops or loose sandals that could be lost in the river).
- Care of valuables: Do not enter the river with jewelry, watches, glasses (unless secured with a strap), or non-waterproof phones; leave them in the care of the base camp or in your transport vehicle.
- Sun protection: Apply water-resistant sunscreen to your face and neck before putting on your wetsuit.
Frequently asked questions
Is previous rafting experience required for this tour?
No. Before entering the water, certified guides provide a comprehensive briefing on orientation, safety, and paddling commands that is suitable for beginners.
What is the category or difficulty level of the rapids in Chuquicahuana?
The Chuquicahuana section features Class II, III, and III+ rapids (depending on the time of year), offering an exciting yet very safe run for both beginners and experienced paddlers.
What should I wear under the wetsuit?
It is recommended to wear a swimsuit or quick-drying synthetic underwear. Cotton garments should be avoided, as they retain water and conduct cold.
At what time do you get back to the city of Cusco?
The return to Cusco is scheduled for approximately 3:30 PM, dropping you off at your hotel or near the historic center so you can enjoy the rest of the afternoon.
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