Cusco: Paragliding : Adrenaline in the air.

Imagine soaring high above the iconic landscapes of Cusco, Peru, with the wind in your face and panoramic views unfolding beneath you. For those craving a mix of adventure and stunning scenery, this paragliding experience offers a unique way to see the region from a different perspective. At $116 per person for a roughly 6-hour adventure, this tour combines safety, expert guidance, and breathtaking vistas. You’ll be accompanied by a professional pilot, ensuring your safety while you enjoy this exhilarating flight.

What drew us in? Firstly, the opportunity to fly over Cerro Sacro, a spot known for its incredible panoramic views. Secondly, the fact that every flight is supervised by a licensed pilot, which adds a reassuring layer of safety — especially for first-time flyers. On the flip side, weather conditions can influence the timing and availability, so flexible planning is wise. But if you love adventure with a view, this is a fantastic choice for travelers who want a memorable, active experience without straying too far from Cusco’s highlights.

This tour is perfect for adventure travelers, scenic lovers, and anyone who’s curious about a new way to experience Peru’s stunning highlands. It’s suitable for children from 5 years old and those weighing up to 100 kilos, making it a family-friendly option for thrill-seekers of various ages.

Key Points

• Stunning Views: Witness Cusco’s landscapes from above, including Cerro Sacro.
• Professional Guidance: A licensed pilot accompanies each flight, prioritizing safety.
• Flexible Timing: The activity depends on weather, with a typical start around 7-7:15 a.m.
• All-Inclusive Comfort: Transportation, safety gear, a picnic, and assistance are provided.
• Limited Group Size: Small groups of up to 9 participants ensure personalized attention.
• Perfect for Beginners: No prior experience necessary, children from age 5 are welcome.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Experience: A Step-by-Step Breakdown

When we signed up for the paragliding tour, the first thing you notice is how well-organized the process is. Your day begins with a hotel pickup between 7:00 and 7:15 a.m. in Cusco’s historic center — a quiet, early start perfect for catching the morning light. The vehicle ride to Chinchero, a traditional Andean town, takes roughly an hour, giving you scenic glimpses of the Peruvian countryside.

The first stop is Ccollana Baja, a community where you’ll receive a thorough safety briefing. Here, the guides emphasize safety procedures, equipment use, and what to expect during the flight. This briefing is crucial, especially for first-timers, and is done in Spanish and English. The guides, such as Miguel, are friendly, clear, and professional, making sure everyone feels comfortable before heading up Cerro Sacro.

The main event begins once you arrive at Cerro Sacro, a prominent hill that offers some of the region’s best panoramic views. As you prepare to fly, you’ll don safety gear, including a harness and helmet. The paragliding flight itself lasts between 10 to 20 minutes, but many agree that it feels much shorter because you’re so absorbed in the experience. We loved the way the pilot coordinated with us, adjusting for wind conditions to ensure the smoothest, safest flight possible.

During the glide, you’ll be treated to spectacular views of Cusco’s surrounding mountains, valleys, and terraced fields. The sensation of floating gently over these landscapes is something you won’t forget. Many reviewers mention how surreal it feels to see the Inca terraces and local villages from above, giving a sense of connection to the land. One traveler noted, “The scenery from up there made me realize just how vast and beautiful Peru really is.”

The tour concludes around noon, though it often extends depending on weather conditions. The pilot’s decision to fly is based on safety — a reassuring aspect for those new to paragliding. After landing, you’re taken back to Cusco, and the tour wraps up with some time to reflect on your adventure or grab a local snack.

The Practicalities

Transportation is included, and the pickup/drop-off service means you don’t need to worry about logistics. The group size is kept small—limited to 9 participants—to ensure personal attention, which is especially valued when trying something new like paragliding.

Pricing at $116 includes not only the flight but also a professional pilot, safety gear, a picnic, and personal assistance. This all-in-one approach offers good value, considering the cost of similar adventure activities worldwide. Keep in mind that extra expenses are not included, so any souvenirs or additional snacks are on you.

Weather plays a significant role; the activity depends on clear conditions, and the pilot will decide the optimal time for flying. This flexibility can mean some waiting or rescheduling, but it’s a small trade-off for safety and quality of experience.

What to bring? Pack your passport, comfortable shoes, a camera, sunscreen, and comfortable clothing. The tour advises against alcohol or drugs, naturally, and emphasizes that pregnant women, wheelchair users, or those with vertigo or medical conditions might find this activity unsuitable.

The Value of the Experience

At $116, this tour offers more than just a thrill; it’s a chance to see Cusco from a perspective few get to experience. The landscapes are simply stunning, and the safety measures in place make it accessible even for nervous first-timers. The small group size elevates the experience, allowing for personalized guidance and more time to soak in the views.

Many users praise the professionalism and friendliness of the guides, with comments like “The safety briefing made me feel confident, and the pilot was great at making me feel comfortable.” The flight itself is described as “awesome,” with one reviewer noting it’s “like flying over a postcard.” The picnic adds a charming touch, allowing you to relax and enjoy the scenery after your flight.

While weather can influence the timing, the flexibility and safety-first approach mean that you’ll get a quality experience when conditions permit. It’s a wonderful option for adventure lovers, scenic explorers, and those wanting a memorable story to tell.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This paragliding experience suits travelers looking for a thrilling, active adventure that combines adrenaline with breathtaking views. It’s ideal for families with children from 5 years old, especially if they’re curious about gliding through the air. If you’re generally comfortable with heights and enjoy scenic landscapes, you’ll likely find this a highlight of your trip.

Those who appreciate well-organized tours will enjoy the included transportation, safety gear, and small group setting. It’s perfect for anyone wanting a safe, guided way to experience the spectacular scenery around Cusco without the hassle of setting up their own adventure.

However, it’s less suitable for pregnant women, wheelchair users, or anyone with vertigo or medical conditions that could be affected by heights or physical exertion. Weather-dependent nature means it’s best to keep your expectations flexible, but when conditions are right, the flight is unforgettable.

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The Sum Up

If you’re looking for a way to see Cusco from the air, this paragliding tour offers a compelling blend of adventure, safety, and incredible scenery at a reasonable price. The professionally guided flights over Cerro Sacro provide an experience that’s as visually stunning as it is adrenaline-pumping, perfect for those who want a story to tell and a true connection to the landscape.

The tour’s small-group size, safety measures, and inclusion of transportation and gear give it a solid value, especially considering the panoramic vistas it offers. Whether you’re a seasoned thrill-seeker or a curious traveler eager to try something new, this experience makes for a memorable highlight of your Cusco visit.

For travelers who enjoy active adventures with scenic rewards, this paragliding tour hits the mark — just remember to stay flexible with weather. Prepare to take off with confidence and glide over one of Peru’s most iconic regions, creating memories that will stay with you long after you land.

FAQ

Is this activity suitable for children?
Yes, children from 5 years old can participate, making it a family-friendly adventure. However, always consider the child’s comfort with heights and flying.

How long does the flight last?
The actual paragliding flight lasts between 10 and 20 minutes, though the entire tour, including transportation and safety briefings, takes around 6 hours.

What should I bring on the tour?
Bring your passport, comfortable shoes, a camera, sunscreen, and comfortable clothing. Avoid alcohol and drugs before the activity.

What happens if the weather is bad?
The pilot will decide the most appropriate time to fly based on weather conditions. If conditions aren’t suitable, the activity may be rescheduled or canceled with a full refund if canceled 24 hours in advance.

Is the tour suitable for people with medical conditions?
It’s recommended that those with pre-existing medical conditions, vertigo, or mobility issues avoid this activity. Pregnant women and wheelchair users are also advised against participating.

What is included in the tour price?
The price covers round-trip transportation, a professional pilot, safety equipment, a picnic, and personal assistance. Extra expenses are not included.

Whether you’re chasing that first thrill or simply seeking a new perspective on Cusco’s stunning scenery, this paragliding adventure offers a memorable way to elevate your trip.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby