Cusco Rafting and Zipline Adventure on the Vilcanota River
Spend a full day trading Cusco’s cobbled plazas for the Vilcanota River’s fast water and zipline platforms. This guided outing pairs Class III–IV rafting with two zipline runs, an Oropesa bakery stop, and an English-speaking safety team.
The Experience
Before You Go
Acclimatize first
Arrive in Cusco at least 24 hours before the trip to reduce altitude effects; drink water and take it easy the first day.
Wear secure footwear
River shoes or strapped sandals protect toes and stay on during swims — flip-flops are not recommended.
Protect electronics
Bring a small dry bag or waterproof case for your phone and keys; action shots are worth the protection.
Confirm pickup
Contact the operator a week ahead to confirm pickup location and time; vans collect from multiple hotels so times vary.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Oropesa bakery — grab a freshly baked roll for lunch or snack.
- •Camp zipline platforms offer unobstructed views of Andean terraces and the river corridor.
Wildlife
- •Andean goose (ñandú)
- •Llamas and alpacas grazing on nearby hill slopes
Conservation Note
Groups and guides emphasize leave-no-trace practices; avoid single-use plastics and pack out trash — river corridors are sensitive to sediment and waste.
The Vilcanota has long supported Andean agriculture and paths that fed Inca trade routes; towns like Oropesa grew around milling and bread-making tied to local grain production.
Photographer's Notes
- • From the raft — low-angle action shots of rapids
- • Zipline platform — wide valley panoramas
- • Camp ridge — shoot downstream curves and terraces
What to Bring
River shoes or sturdy sandalsEssential
Secure footwear protects feet on rocks and stays attached during swims.
Quick-dry layers and thermal baseEssential
Morning chill at altitude and wet river spray make insulation and fast-drying layers useful.
Small dry bagEssential
Keeps phone, passport, and snacks dry during rafting and transfer.
High-SPF sunscreen and lip balmEssential
Stronger sun exposure at high altitude requires reliable UV protection.
Common Questions
How long is the trip from pickup to drop-off?
Plan on roughly eight hours total: an 8:30–9:00am pickup in Cusco, about a 30-minute drive to Oropesa, several hours rafting, lunch, ziplines, and a return to the city.
What level of rapids will we face?
The route includes Class III, III+ and occasional Class IV rapids—engaging but guided and suitable for people with moderate fitness and basic swimming ability.
Is equipment provided?
Yes—wetsuit, life jacket, helmet and rafting equipment are included, along with an English-speaking guide and a security team.
Do I need prior rafting experience?
No—this trip is designed for beginners and intermediates; guides lead techniques and safety briefings so newcomers can participate confidently.
Will I have time to change after rafting?
Yes—there’s a camp after the river where you can change into dry clothes and eat lunch before the ziplines.
Are there age or health restrictions?
The tour is not recommended for pregnant travelers, people with spinal injuries, or those with serious heart conditions; a moderate level of physical fitness is required.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
8 hours
Location
Cusco, Cusco
Difficulty
moderate
Fitness Level
Good baseline fitness—comfortable with sustained paddling, short swims, and hiking to zipline platforms; be able to move quickly on uneven ground.
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