Adventure tourism and extreme activities to do in Cusco
Cusco is one of the most fascinating cities in the world. Without a doubt, talking about this place means diving into a broad cultural world full of high-value adventures.
In this article, we’ll tell you which extreme sports in Cusco you shouldn't miss. The truth is, this wonderful city lets you discover stunning mountains and have a unique adventure. If you're a lover of high-risk sports, you must visit Cusco and make the most of your vacation.
If you want to know which are the best adventure activities in Cusco, keep reading until the end.
What adventure sports can be done in Cusco?
Undoubtedly, Cusco is a city full of adventures. So if you decide to visit this destination, you can't miss the opportunity to live the experience to the fullest. Some of the best adventure sports in Cusco are:
1. Bungee Jumping
Bungee jumping is a sport full of adrenaline. To perform this type of activity, a lot of determination is needed. It consists of jumping into the void from a bridge located many meters high. One end of an elastic rope is tied to your body and the other to the jump point.
This sport helps release stress and is incredibly thrilling. In fact, it is one of the most popular extreme sports in Cusco among visitors. There are different locations where you can do it, such as the Cunyac Bridge, located 60 meters high with an incredible water hole below.
This activity is an exciting way to challenge personal limits and enjoy a unique experience. The free-fall sensation that this extreme sport offers is truly rewarding if you're passionate about big adventures.
2. Maras Moray by ATV
Adventure tourism in Cusco wouldn’t be complete without riding through the Maras Salt Mines and the amazing Moray archaeological site on ATVs. This tour is ideal if you have limited time to explore Cusco. The Maras Moray ATV Tour offered by Guru Explorers lets you visit the Sacred Valley and much more.
During the journey, you'll see traditional villages and the best views of the Peruvian mountain range. The cultural richness of this area is unmatched. Additionally, the adventure and risk make the experience more entertaining as you travel at full speed on ATVs. Another important aspect is visiting one of the most important agricultural centers of the Inca Empire.
Beyond the thrill, ATV rides give you the chance to stop for photos, observe wildlife, and enjoy panoramic views.
3. Zip Line
If you want to enjoy the mountain range, Zip Lining is one of the extreme sports in Cusco that you must try. This exciting activity consists of gliding from one mountain point to another using a safety harness and a cable fixed to a pulley. Basically, it lets you feel like you’re flying through the Andes.
With Guru Explorers, you can zip line in the Sacred Valley and enjoy an amazing adventure in Cusco. This activity is a tourist favorite and is very safe when done with the necessary equipment. It’s also a great option for families.
Undoubtedly, this sport is a popular form of outdoor entertainment and an exciting experience for people of all ages seeking adventure and fun in nature.
4. Climbing and Rappelling
Among all the extreme sports in Cusco, this is one of the most physically demanding. It involves climbing mountains via rock walls. Climbing can be done at different difficulty levels, so some ascents are easier than others.
The height makes this sport considerably risky, so it is performed with proper gear to avoid accidents. In Cusco, this activity can be done in places like Balcón del Diablo (north of the Sacred Valley), Pachar in Ollantaytambo, Santa Teresa in La Convención, and others.
Both activities, climbing and rappelling, offer a unique experience full of excitement and breathtaking views—perfect for those seeking vertical adventures and the chance to explore incredible places from a different perspective.
5. Rafting
If you want to discover more of the Sacred Valley, kayaking is the perfect sport. By paddling along the Urubamba River, you’ll enjoy a high-adrenaline and extreme adventure. This activity is done in a light plastic boat carrying two to four people who propel it with paddles.
There are different difficulty levels for this extreme sport in Cusco, ensuring safety at all times. Each level varies depending on the time of year. Generally, the routes don’t exceed two hours.
Rafting is a versatile activity that can be competitive or relaxing and offers the opportunity to connect with nature while enjoying the water. Overall, it's a thrilling way to explore aquatic environments.
6. Skybike
Among the extreme sports in Cusco, Skybike is one of the most recent. However, its popularity has grown in recent years, and more people want to try it.
This activity involves pedaling on a suspended bike between Cusco’s mountain ranges while secured with a harness. It’s definitely a high-adrenaline experience.
To start this adventure, you first climb a rocky area about 45 meters high. The view from the top is incredible, and once you’re up there, all you have to do is balance on the bike and pedal across a 60-meter-high straight cable. You can enjoy this activity just 20 minutes from the city of Cusco by bus or taxi.
7. Hot Air Balloon
This activity is ideal for adventure tourism in Cusco. Flying above the city gives you a broader view of everything this amazing destination has to offer.
It’s a unique experience, and the feelings it evokes can’t be compared to anything else. These flights are only done in good weather, with no strong winds.
From above, you can see the wonders of the Sacred Valley, including the Maras Salt Mines. It’s a great idea for couples or friends, as the basket holds two or three people.
8. Horseback Riding
Horseback riding is a unique experience in Cusco. It’s not just about exploring different places on horseback, but also about discovering the most beautiful landscapes of the Sacred Valley. It’s a great way to connect with nature more closely while breathing fresh air and feeling totally free.
Riding in Cusco is perfect for visiting high-value archaeological sites. Some places you can explore on horseback include the Temple of the Moon, Zona X, Ollantaytambo, Lamay, and more.
As you can see, Cusco offers a variety of horseback riding routes, from gentle valley rides to more challenging trails through mountains and remote paths.
9. Hiking
If you prefer more relaxed adventure experiences, hiking is a great option. Cusco isn’t just for extreme sports—it also has perfect destinations for hiking.
There are many alternatives, from short hikes to longer treks. The Palccoyo Rainbow Mountain Tour is a great choice where you’ll visit the Rainbow Mountain and the town of Checacupe, home to three incredible colonial bridges.
Hikes only take around 45 minutes, so they don’t require much physical effort. It’s a great adventure option if you want excitement without spending too much energy.
10. Paragliding
The weather in the Sacred Valley is ideal for paragliding and hang gliding, thanks to its perfect wind conditions. This is one of the most adrenaline-filled extreme sports in Cusco. From the air, you’ll get panoramic views of Cusco’s mountainous terrain as you float through the sky.
One of the best things about paragliding is the feeling of free flight. Pilots sit in a special chair and are attached to the glider wing while gliding gently through the air.
The entire experience takes less than 20 minutes, but the memory lasts forever. The best season to go paragliding in Cusco is from April to October.
11. Mountaineering
The Peruvian Andes stand out for their altitude, being the second-highest mountain range in the world. That makes Cusco one of the best places to go mountaineering.
Besides its unmatched elevation, the city offers lush green mountains and unique landscapes. Urubamba and Vilcanota are ideal natural areas if you’re passionate about this sport.
In general, mountaineering is one of the most challenging extreme sports in Cusco. Therefore, it’s recommended for experts and should always be done with professional guidance. The high-altitude experience is one-of-a-kind, with impressive views.
12. Biking
When it comes to extreme sports in Cusco, biking has everything you need. The circuits are usually on narrow trails, allowing you to enjoy nature while getting great exercise. Mountain biking not only offers adrenaline but also improves your physical and mental health.
In Cusco, these rides take place in archaeological areas, colorful villages, and ecological landscapes. There are many biking options in Cusco, such as Pomacanchi in Acomayo, Ccorcca in Cusco, Maras, Santa Teresa in La Convención, and more.
Cycling routes in Cusco give you the chance to enjoy stunning landscapes, including mountains, valleys, rivers, lakes, and rural villages. The region offers spectacular panoramic views of the Andes and their natural beauty.
13. Slingshot
The adrenaline doesn’t stop with this extreme adventure in Cusco. The slingshot launches you over 10 meters into the air for a next-level experience.
Safety is the top priority for this activity, and you’ll have protective gear at all times. The view during the descent is unmatched, and the thrill is incomparable.
The Slingshot in Cusco is considered one of the highest in the world. Plus, its privileged location offers truly unbeatable landscapes.
Conclusions
Cusco is a city with endless tourist options to explore. In addition to its rich history, the city offers countless adventures.
So if you're planning a trip here, don’t miss the chance to enjoy the best extreme sports in Cusco.
With its powerful nature, landscapes, and archaeological sites, Cusco proves why it's one of the most important cities in the world. Undoubtedly, it's the best destination for extreme activities and leaving the stress of city life behind.