Cusco stands as the ancient Inca homeland, Peru’s most visited city, and a Peruvian cultural hub. This vibrant city beckons to all, from thrill seekers to culture enthusiasts. Cusco has a mix of heart-pumping activities:
You can scale towering mountains, navigate mighty rivers, or ride through the Sacred Valley. Each excursion challenges you to push beyond your limits and forge a deep bond with nature.
So, get ready for the ultimate adventure in one of the world’s most awe-inspiring destinations! Join us as we see the best adventure sports you can practice in the ancient Inca citadel.
Skybike
Catedralniyoc, a small village 20 minutes driving from the city, lies 3380 meters above sea level. It comes from a majestic rocky outcrop resembling the Cusco Cathedral, and the Skybike wires are located at the top.
Before getting on the bikes, guests can experience the exhilaration of rock climbing or go via Ferrata along one of the six stunning routes available on the walls.
For anyone looking to take in the amazing scenery and one-of-a-kind experience, it’s an amazing excursion!
This sport consists of two stretched rails and a highline to keep you safe. The total trip is around 250 meters, and you’ll be pedaling 50 meters above the ground.
Besides defeating the fear of falling into the void, once you get to the top, you’ll realize the view is breathtaking and the risky trip will be worth it. The approximate cost of skybiking is around 35 dollars, including the pick-up from your Cusco hotel.
Hot Air Balloon
Compared to the greatest spots for hot air balloon rides, such as the Serengeti or Cappadocia, our city is no exception. Near the Sacred Valley, Anta Village’s pampas is the starting point for an air adventure.
For example, Cusco offers air balloon rides where you can see from 50 meters the majestic city, what the Sacred Valley offers, and all of it at its best.
As you watch the pilot expertly inflate the balloon, you can feel the thrill of balloon inflation, increasing the anticipation before the balloon takes off.
Take this chance to capture amazing shots; the dreamy atmosphere paired with the thrill of flying creates distinctive pictures.
According to the people who are behind the rides, Cusco’s winds are ideal for hot air balloons. Although the ride lasts around 15 minutes, this short time will allow you to appreciate the beauty of our city and its Valley.
The cost of the ride is around 35 dollars. If you want a one-hour private ride for two people, you have to pay around 700 dollars.
Keep in mind that, for a better experience, you must ride the balloon very early, between 5 and 7 am. For example, the forecast also plays an important role as rides in the rainy season are almost impossible to perform.
After the climb, indulge in a picnic-style breakfast with your newfound friends. Encounters and delectable tastes shared will make your day extra special.
Via Ferrata
The mountains in the Sacred Valley of the Incas hold many secrets; however, when you take a better look, you’ll realize that the mountains contain metal ladders that will take bold visitors to the top.
“The via ferrata”, or iron path in English, is a fixed cable and iron ladder used to climb the most difficult parts of the Alps.
Another interesting fact about this iron way is that during World War I, they were built in the Italian Dolomites to facilitate military movement.
Following the war, mountain guides continued to use these paths for taking clients to the foot of the mountains.
You’ll climb around 300 meters until the top. Don’t worry, as a double crab system connected to a steel lifeline will protect you, and a professional skill guide will join you all the way.
When you get to the top, you’ll see beautiful mountains, archeological sites, and the majestic Andean sky.
Finally, the total time of ascent and descent is around 5 hours. After you finish, you’ll go down around 100 meters through a cliff fixed with an iron rope.
As it gets cold as you get to the top, be sure to bring warm clothes, hiking boots, a small backpack, and a big but light water bottle. Are you up for this challenge?
Bungee Jumping
Cusco’s bungee jumping is not an ordinary one; it’s the highest in Latin America, so if you’re a fainthearted, you’d better skip this part.
16 kilometers from the city’s downtown, you’ll get to Action Valley, the company that offers extreme adventure sports.
After receiving some recommendations about security and signing a document, the staff will put you on the right equipment, showing you some examples of right and wrong jumping.
Then, after getting up to the elevator for practice, you’ll be ready for your jumping: 120 meters from the elevator will be waiting for you. Prepare to scream your lungs out while you let all the stress go out of your body.
Following your jump in the middle of the Andes mountains, the staff will offer videos and pictures of your jump in 5k. Be sure to bring warm clothes, a GoPro camera, and, whether you’re a believer or not, say your prayers!
Rafting
Cusco is also an ideal place for this activity, as you’ll be surrounded by nature and peaceful mountains while you breathe the pure, fresh air of the Andes.
As you probably may know, rivers are classified on a scale called “rapids” from I to IV, I being the easiest one and IV one of the most dangerous, only for the seasoned ones.
The Apurimac River is known for its depth; it ranks among the best rivers in the world for whitewater rafting, featuring thrilling class II to V rapids. The river offers a wonderful mix of excitement and relaxation.
You can experience the rush of the rapids, followed by calm stretches where you can enjoy the beautiful scenery.
As you float along, you’ll see incredible rock formations that add to the river’s charm. It’s truly a great spot to enjoy nature and adventure!
On the other side, the Urubamba River offers thrilling rapids, tranquil campgrounds and pools, breathtaking scenery, the greatest river guides, delectable food, breathtaking sunsets, a fun and safe river navigation system, and an unforgettable rafting journey await you on your rafting experiences.
Honorable Mentions
Cusco is optimal for quad biking, mountain biking, paragliding, zip lining, etc. Stay up to date with our blog to know more!
We really hope you can make the most of Cusco by creating new adventures and trying the activities that we showed you.
Finally, we, Viagens Machu Picchu, are a reputable travel agency, and just like you, we love adventures and new experiences.
Our more than 100,000 satisfied clients can witness that. Contact our consultants for more information, and start planning your trip to the ancient inca homeland!
Viagens Machu Picchu, journeys that inspire, moments that last.