1.- BRIEF OVERVIEW OF CUSCO AS A RAFTING DESTINATION
The city of Cusco contains more than just a historical and cultural heritage in fact for lovers of adventure activities it becomes a complete paradise, especially the activity of Rafting Cusco Peru thanks to the wide geography that exists in addition to the unique quality of rivers that exist in the Andean region that was once the heart of the Inca culture. Rafting Cusco Peru is considered as one of the outdoor activities that can be enjoyed in the surroundings of the city of Cusco mainly in the Urubamba, Apurimac and Vilcanota rivers which has made him worthy of being considered a unique destination for the fast and exciting waters that contains what makes it the ideal place to practice Rafting Cusco Peru.
| “Adventure is not just a destination, but a river where freedom flows.” |
Which one of the rivers contains a particular charm, for example the Urubamba river is mainly known not only for being one of the main places where Rafting Cusco Peru is performed but also for the incredible beauty it contains, also the fact that it crosses almost entirely the sacred valley making the experience in the White water rafting Peru become an unforgettable experience between mountains and beautiful agricultural terraces. On the other hand the Apurimac river is considered as another important point for water sports such as Rafting Cusco Peru characterized by deep canyons that contains in addition to one incomparable rapids cataloged as challenging.
2.- BEST TIME FOR RAFTING IN CUSCO
It is important to know that the activity of Rafting Cusco Peru can be done all year round, however the intensity of the activity always depends on a very important factor and are the weather conditions that directly affect the water levels that run through the many rivers that are around the city. Unlike many other outdoor activities such as hiking or biking, Rafting Cusco Peru is an experience that is enjoyed at its best mainly in the rainy season that occurs between November and April, of course you can also enjoy it at other times of the damage but with less intensity.
3.- High season to enjoy the activity of Rafting Cusco Peru
The most popular time for the activity of Rafting Cusco Peru undoubtedly occurs between May to October, this is because many people around the world prefer these months to plan their trip because it is the time of year when the weather is more stable with pleasant temperatures which gives the opportunity to enjoy the experience without the presence of rain, for those looking to enjoy the activity of Rafting Cusco Peru with a more stable environment is a suitable time however due to the lack of rainfall the luxury of water is less intense so the intensity is reduced.
4.- Water levels per month
4.1.- Rainy season
This period of the year occurs between May and October, is where there is more rain and the water level rises precipitously affecting mainly the Apurimac and Urubamba rivers which directly causes an increase in the difficulty in addition to the dose of adrenaline that offers you the experience in the White water rafting Peru. For travelers more adapted to challenges, this is the most suitable month.
4.2.-Transition season
It is a short period of time that occurs almost at the end of the rainy season, keeping the water level at a high but with a more stabilized climate that gradually improves, although the adventure of Rafting Cusco Peru is exciting it is always important to be prepared for any eventuality, plus there is the possibility that there is the presence of rains.
4.3.- Dry season
It is considered as a season in which the presence of rainfall decreases considerably causing the water level also decreases in a fast way, in this way the current becomes a smoother ride, for travelers who are novices or looking to make the experience of Rafting Cusco Peru for the first time it becomes the ideal season with less challenge and also less demanding.
5.- POPULAR RAFTING RIVERS IN CUSCO
5.1.- Urubamba River
It is considered one of the main places where Rafting Cusco Peru takes place, thanks to its accessibility, as well as its impressive and unique landscapes that turn the tour into a complete adventure. It also contains divided sections that are intended for beginners or family groups, other intermediate sections where adventurers are looking for more excitement and of course the most challenging version that is exclusively separated for the most experienced. The complete experience of Rafting Cusco Peru on the Urubamba River combines almost perfectly the natural landscapes as well as the cultural legacy, giving you the opportunity to navigate through its gentle waters while enjoying the great views.
It is certainly advisable to opt for the activity of Rafting Cusco Peru during the dry season, this is the time of damage in which the water flow is much more stable in addition to presenting predictable weather conditions, this time of damage is ideal for beginners. On the other hand if you are looking for a more experienced challenge the rainy season will be ideal for you as it presents more intense and challenging rapids.
5.2.- Apurimac River
Among the options of places where you can perform in an exceptional way the activity of Rafting Cusco Peru, the Apurimac River is a great alternative because it presents options of different days. It has a strong current that runs through many canyons and landscapes giving many options for lovers of adventure in water activities. These multi-day activities allow adventurers to venture not only into the Andean region but also into part of the high jungle giving them a completely different perspective of Rafting Cusco Peru.
This alternative is oriented and directed mainly for travelers who have previous experience with the activity of Rafting Cusco Peru as the current can reach up to category IV and V, each of the sections comprising the Apurimac River contains rough currents and requires a great mastery of the equipment to properly maintain balance, also the extreme geography that presents makes the canyons are deeper providing more impressive landscapes that come together in a harmonious way with the local flora and fauna allowing you to see condors, pumas, native plants and other endemic elements of the regions.
5.3.- Vilcanota River
For travelers looking for a quieter version of Rafting Cusco Peru, the Vilcanota River option is the most suitable alternative as it is mainly suitable for families and beginners as the water current is calmer and contains categories from II to III. This version is ideal for those who do not have previous experience and are looking to enjoy a relaxing ride surrounded by nature, you can navigate without worries while you immerse yourself in a journey of cultural and traditional connection with one of the most exciting activities that you can do in the extensive Vilcanota River.
Due to the strategic location in which it is located, this river connects directly with many traditional and artisanal villages where it is possible to learn more about the vast culture that is kept alive even with the passage of generations, also in this way you can immerse yourself in the natural beauty that exists in the environment. The ease that the Vilcanota River offers you is that you can enjoy the experience of Rafting Cusco Peru throughout the year and you can take advantage between seasons and live a quiet experience or a more demanding one.
6.- DIFFICULTY LEVELS EXPLAINED
There is an international ranking which measures the scale of difficulty that exists in a river, it is the International Scale of River Difficulty. In the case of the Cusco options there are also variations and these are:
6.1.- Class I – II: Beginner
It is characterized mainly by being the least difficult, this option is ideal for people looking to enjoy a calmer experience in the waters of rivers or cuenca, has smooth currents and does not represent a great challenge for travelers, this option is mainly aimed at families or groups of friends who perform Rafting Cusco Peru experience for the first time.
6.2.- Class III: Intermediate
It is the second version of difficulty, being considered as moderate and is characterized mainly by being the most exciting for travelers looking to enjoy the rapid as well as turbulent waters of rivers and basins during the Rafting Cusco Peru experience. To be able to face this challenge, participants must have previous experience and it is governed by a safety protocol with experienced guides before starting the experience.
6.3.- Class IV: Advanced
Categorized as the high difficulty version containing intense and challenging water currents, it is characterized mainly by being intended for experienced adventurers who have more solid skills on the Rafting Cusco Peru experience. Due to the intense currents it is quite complicated to direct the equipment so quick decisions are required and always under a strict safety order.
6.4.- Class V: Expert
This is the highest category within the ranking, this version is extremely complicated and challenging not to mention the fact that it is considered the most dangerous and is designed only for experts with years of experience in the activity of Rafting Cusco Peru. Here you not only have to worry about the currents but there are also other obstacles such as rocks, cliffs, drops and even faster currents that are complicated to evade, only the skill of experience allows for quick decision making.
7.- SOME OTHER PLACES TO LIVE THE EXPERIENCE
“Rafting is an incredible adventure that can be enjoyed in various places in Peru, although many travelers prefer the calm waters of the Andes there is also the option to enjoy it in cities such as Arequipa, Lima, Lunahuana, Lurin, Chili, Cotahuasi and many others.”
8.- FAQs
- Is rafting in Cusco safe for beginners?
Yes, participating in Rafting Cusco Peru is quite safe for first time rafters. Mainly in the Urubamba and Vilcanota rivers is where you can enjoy this activity in a peaceful and calm way even with extended families or small children.
- What is the best time of year to go rafting in Cusco?
The best alternative to enjoy this experience is during the dry season since it is the best time of the year where the weather is much more stable and there is no potential risk of unexpected rains.
- How much does rafting in Cusco cost?
There are several options in terms of prices, each one will depend directly on the company with which you hire it. The price can regularly vary between $80.00 dollars to $100.00 dollars per person.
- Do I need previous experience to go rafting in Cusco?
No, it is not necessary, however it is always advisable to be in good shape since the activity itself requires a considerable physical demand, for this reason it is important to take the necessary precautions. However, the rivers are friendly to first-timers.
- Can you combine rafting with a visit to Machu Picchu?
Of course they are, in fact for many it is a perfect combination for which they opt during their trip. Personalizing the trip is part of an unforgettable adventure, in this case the ideal first is to perform the activity of Rafting Cusco Peru and then proceed to visit the Inca city of Machu Picchu.
Giving a touch of excitement and adrenaline to your trip will always be the best option that will make your adventure an unforgettable trip. Auri Peru gives you the possibility to live a unique experience based on safety standards, contact us now and we will design together your next great trip.
“Rafting teaches that the only thing predictable in life is the unpredictable.”
