TourismCusco

Tours & experiences

Adventurous Rafting on the Vilcanota River

About this experience

Set sail on an exhilarating rafting adventure down the Vilcanota River, where the rugged beauty of the Andes meets thrilling Class III and IV rapids. Starting from the Cusipata River Lodge, this full-day expedition offers not only heart-pounding excitement but also stunning views of the surrounding landscape and opportunities to spot local wildlife. Professional guides ensure you’re equipped with safety gear and expert instructions, making this experience both fun and secure. Post-rafting, unwind with hot showers and enjoy a delicious meal before considering an optional zip-line ride over the river. Perfect for adventure seekers aged 15 and up.

At a glance

  • Duration: 8 hr

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Adventurous Rafting on the Vilcanota River
Pickup included

Plan your experience

Time on the tour8 hr
Getting therePickup offeredSee pickup details
Guide languagesEnglish (live guide), Spanish (live guide)

Set aside 8 hr for the experience itself, with additional time to reach your meeting or pickup point.

Before you go

  • Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness

What is included

  • All rafting equipment, such as helmets, life vests, spray jackets, wetsuits, paddles, and raft.
  • Transportation to Cusipata River Lodge, to the river, and back to Cusco.
  • Zip line at Cusipata River Lodge.
  • Professional river guide, and a safety kayaker.
  • Lunch (vegetarian options available upon request).
  • Safety instructions to ensure a secure experience.

Not included

  • Photographs or videos (coordinate with the guide, direct payment).
  • Dinner.
  • Personal expenses.

Itinerary and highlights

At 8:30 AM, we will pick you up from your hotel in Cusco with our private transportation to take you to the “Cusipata River Lodge” camp. Here you can leave your luggage and enjoy amenities such as hot showers, bathrooms, sauna, and a comfortable dining area. The journey from Cusco to the camp takes about 1 hour and 20 minutes.
At the camp, our professional rafting guides will provide all the necessary equipment: helmet, wetsuit, spray jacket, paddle, and self-draining raft. After a complete safety briefing, we will travel 10 minutes to Chuqui, where the river adventure begins. We will start in calm waters before heading into Class III and III+ rapids, ensuring an exciting and safe experience.

The rafting adventure lasts approximately 2 hours. During the tour, you will observe a section of the Inca Trail Qhapaq Ñan. Afterward, we will return to the Cusipata River Lodge camp to enjoy a delicious hot lunch and relax in the sauna. You will also have the option to try our zip-line with two 100-meter cables, situated above the Urubamba River.

In the afternoon, we will return to Cusco, arriving around 5:30 PM. Our transportation will drop you off two blocks from the Plaza de Armas.

See the overview, available options and booking details for the experience schedule.

Meeting and pickup information

  • Passengers will be picked up at their hotel at the time indicated in their booking confirmation email. If the reservation indicates a **meeting point**, passengers must arrive at the specified location **at least 10 minutes before the confirmed pickup time**. We kindly recommend being ready in advance to avoid any delays.

Languages and tickets

  • English — Guide
  • Spanish — Guide
  • Mobile Only

Tour operator

  • Sayariq Travel

Meeting points and locations

Accessibility and practical details

  • Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
  • Not recommended for pregnant travelers
  • Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
  • Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness

Cancellation policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Questions about this experience

How long is this experience?
The supplier lists a duration of 8 hr.
What are the pickup arrangements?
Passengers will be picked up at their hotel at the time indicated in their booking confirmation email.

If the reservation indicates a **meeting point**, passengers must arrive at the specified location **at least 10 minutes before the confirmed pickup time**.

We kindly recommend being ready in advance to avoid any delays.
Which guide languages are listed?
English (live guide), Spanish (live guide).
What ticket format is listed?
Mobile ticket.
What ticket age bands are listed?
Adult tickets: age 14+. Check the practical details for participation requirements.
What is the cancellation policy?
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

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