Cusco: Urubamba River Rafting Adventure

Cusco’s Urubamba River offers an exhilarating rafting adventure perfect for thrill-seekers and nature enthusiasts alike. Traversing class II and III rapids, this 2.5-hour journey immerses participants in the stunning Andes scenery. With professional guides, safety gear, and optional zip-lining, the experience promises an unforgettable day. Whether you’re a beginner or seasoned rafter, the Urubamba adventure provides an adrenaline-fueled exploration of Cusco’s picturesque landscapes.

Good To Know

• An exhilarating 9-hour rafting excursion on the Urubamba River near Cusco, priced from $70 per person with a minimum of 5 participants required.
• The rafting experience includes class II and III rapids, with the possibility of class IV and IV+ rapids during the rainy season.
• The tour includes hotel pickup, safety equipment, a comprehensive safety briefing, and professional guides who prioritize participant safety.
• An optional zip-lining activity across the Urubamba River is available after the rafting experience to enhance the adventure.
• Free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, and the opportunity to explore Moray and Maras salt mines after the rafting activity.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Overview of the Urubamba River Rafting Adventure

The Urubamba River Rafting Adventure in Cusco, Peru, offers an exhilarating 9-hour excursion that takes participants on a thrilling journey through the scenic Urubamba River.

The activity is priced from $70 per person and is available in Spanish and English. The tour requires a minimum of 5 participants and is confirmed the day before.

This thrilling Urubamba River rafting adventure is priced from $70 per person and offered in Spanish and English. A minimum of 5 participants is required.

Guests are picked up from their hotels in the morning and driven to the river, where they receive a safety briefing and equipment before embarking on a 2.5-hour rafting experience navigating class II and III rapids.

After the river adventure, participants can enjoy a hot lunch, sauna, and optional zip-lining.

Itinerary and Highlights of the Tour

After the morning hotel pickup, guests embark on a 1.5-hour drive to the upper Urubamba River.

Upon arrival, professional guides provide a safety briefing and distribute the necessary equipment.

The approximately 2.5-hour rafting experience navigates class II and III rapids, with the potential for class IV and IV+ during the rainy season.

After the thrilling ride, guests return to the Cusipata River Camp to enjoy hot showers, a sauna, and a hearty lunch.

An optional zip-lining activity across the river offers additional adventure.

Finally, the group departs for Cusco around 5 PM, with photos available for viewing at the tour office.

Safety and Equipment Provided

Professional rafting guides provide participants with full safety equipment before the adventure begins. This includes a life jacket, helmet, paddle, and any other necessary protective gear.

The guides thoroughly explain how to properly use the equipment and review safety protocols. Participants also receive a comprehensive safety briefing, covering essential river skills and guidelines for navigating the rapids.

The guides prioritize participant safety throughout the entire rafting experience. With their extensive expertise and the provided equipment, guests can confidently tackle the thrilling class II and III rapids of the Urubamba River.

Professional Rafting Guides and Instruction

Before embarking on the rafting adventure, participants receive thorough instructions and guidance from the professional rafting guides.

They brief the group on safety protocols, proper paddling techniques, and navigating the river’s rapids. The guides are experienced and knowledgeable, ensuring a safe and thrilling experience for all.

They monitor the group closely, providing clear communication and making adjustments as needed. With their expertise, participants can confidently take on the class II and III rapids, with the potential for more challenging class IV and IV+ rapids during the rainy season.

The guides closely monitor the group, providing clear communication and making adjustments as needed, enabling participants to confidently tackle class II-IV+ rapids.

The guides’ leadership is essential for a memorable Urubamba River rafting excursion.

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Scenic Riverside Views and Relaxation

As the rafting experience comes to an end, participants are treated to stunning riverside views and a chance to unwind.

They return to the Cusipata River Camp, where they can take hot showers and enjoy the sauna. Surrounded by the lush, green landscape, guests have time to relax and recharge before the journey back to Cusco.

The optional zip-lining across the river offers another opportunity to take in the scenic beauty. Lunch is provided, allowing travelers to refuel after the thrilling rapids.

Optional Zip-Lining Across the River

What’s the optional zip-lining activity across the river all about?

After the rafting adventure, thrill-seekers can take advantage of the zip-line course that spans the Urubamba River.

Thrill-seekers can take advantage of the zip-line course that spans the Urubamba River after the rafting adventure.

Soar across the water, taking in the stunning scenery below. This exhilarating activity is an opportunity to add some extra excitement to the day’s activities.

Led by experienced guides, the zip-line provides a bird’s-eye view of the river and surrounding landscape.

Prepare for an adrenaline rush as you glide from one side of the river to the other. The zip-line is an optional add-on to the rafting tour.

Booking Information and Cancellation Policy

Reservations for the Cusco River Rafting Adventure can be made online without any upfront payment. Visitors can simply reserve their spot and pay later.

The cancellation policy allows for free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. This provides flexibility for customers in case plans change.

Before booking, it’s recommended to check the availability and confirm the starting times, as the tour requires a minimum of 5 participants to operate.

The easy booking process and lenient cancellation terms make this rafting experience accessible and hassle-free for adventurous travelers.

Exploring Moray and Maras Salt Mines

Though the thrilling rafting adventure is the main highlight of the Cusco River Rafting Tour, the excursion also provides an opportunity to explore the fascinating Moray and Maras salt mines. After the rafting, guests can opt to visit these historical sites, marveling at the ancient Inca engineering and the stunning natural landscape. The Moray Ruins feature a series of concentric terraces, believed to have been used for agricultural experimentation. Meanwhile, the Maras Salt Mines consist of thousands of salt evaporation ponds, with salt harvesting practices that have endured for centuries.

| Site | Elevation | History | Highlights |

| — | — | — | — |

| Moray Ruins | 3,500 m | Inca agricultural laboratory | Concentric terraces |

| Maras Salt Mines | 3,380 m | Salt harvesting since Inca times | Thousands of salt ponds |

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Bring My Own Personal Life Jacket?

No, participants must use the safety rafting equipment provided by the tour operator. Personal life jackets are not allowed, as the guides need to ensure all safety gear meets required standards for the rafting activity.

Is There an Age Limit or Minimum Participant Requirement?

The tour requires a minimum of 5 participants to operate, but there’s no specified age limit. Children can participate with proper safety equipment and supervision from their guardians.

Can I Stop and Take Photos During the Rafting Trip?

Participants can stop and take photos during the rafting trip, but it’s recommended to do so at designated photo stops to avoid disrupting the flow of the activity. The tour guides will coordinate these photo opportunities.

What Should I Pack to Bring on the Excursion?

Bring quick-drying clothes, closed-toe water shoes, sun protection, a swimsuit, a towel, and water. Pack snacks and a change of clothes for after the rafting. Don’t forget your camera to capture the thrilling ride on the river.

How Difficult Is the Rafting Experience for Beginners?

The rafting experience is suitable for beginners, with a mix of class II and III rapids. The guides provide thorough safety briefings and professional supervision to ensure a thrilling yet manageable adventure, even for those new to whitewater rafting.

The Sum Up

The Urubamba River rafting adventure in Cusco is an exciting and thrilling experience that caters to both beginners and seasoned adventurers. With stunning scenery, class II-IV rapids, and amenities like hot showers and a sauna, it’s a must-do activity for those seeking an adrenaline-filled day in the heart of the Andes. Combining the rafting with a zip-lining experience across the river makes for an unforgettable day of outdoor adventure.

You can check availability for your dates here: