Cusco: Paragliding | Adrenaline in the Sky |

Imagine soaring above the high-altitude landscapes of Cusco, Peru, in a safe, guided flight that offers both thrill and incredible scenery. For $145 per person, this 6-hour adventure takes you from your hotel near the historic center to the vibrant community of Ccollana Baja and finally up to Cerro Sacro — where you’ll glide through the air with a professional pilot. It’s a remarkable way to see Cusco’s mountains, valleys, and archaeological sites from a perspective few get to experience.

What we love about this tour is the combination of adventure and authenticity. You get a real adrenaline rush, sure, but also jaw-dropping views of Cusco’s rugged terrain and local villages. Plus, the safety briefing and equipment give a reassuring sense of professionalism. The second thing that stands out is the small group size — limited to just 10 people — which ensures personalized assistance and a more intimate experience.

A possible consideration is that weather conditions heavily influence the timing and success of your flight. The pilot’s decision on whether conditions are safe for flying is final, so flexibility on your part is wise. This experience suits those who are looking for a thrilling, scenic activity that’s not overly strenuous but still memorable, and it works best for travelers comfortable with heights and outdoor adventures.

Key Points

• Spectacular views of Cusco’s mountains, valleys, and archaeological sites from the sky.
• Professional pilot guidance ensures safety and a smooth experience.
• Includes transport, safety gear, and a picnic, offering good value for the adventure.
• Booking flexibility with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
• Small group setting delivers personalized attention and a more relaxed atmosphere.
• Weather-dependent activity requiring a flexible schedule and a clear head for adventure.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at Cusco Paragliding

What Makes This Experience Unique?

This paragliding tour isn’t just about flying — it’s about seeing Cusco from a vantage point that few visitors get to enjoy. You start early, with hotel pickup between 7:00 and 7:15 a.m., which means you get a head start before the crowds arrive at the sites. Traveling in a comfortable vehicle to Chinchero and then to Cerro Sacro, the journey itself is part of the experience, with the scenic drive offering glimpses of rural Peruvian life and landscape.

The highlight for many is the paragliding flight itself. With a flight duration of 10 to 20 minutes, it’s a decent amount of airtime to take in the sprawling views. You’ll be accompanied by a professional pilot, who not only ensures safety but also shares insights into the landscape below, making it both exciting and educational.

The Itinerary: From Pickup to Landing

The tour kicks off with hotel pickup — a perk for those staying near the historic center. After a scenic drive to Chinchero, you’ll receive a safety talk that clarifies what to expect and how to stay secure during your flight. This briefing is crucial, especially for first-timers, and helps build confidence.

Next, you’ll head to Cerro Sacro — a location chosen for its ideal wind conditions and panoramic vistas. Here, with your pilot, you’ll strap into your harness and prepare for takeoff. The views from up there are described as incredible, with many noting that the panorama of Cusco’s mountains and Incan terraces is unforgettable.

The activity concludes around noon or early afternoon, but the timing can shift depending on weather — safety always comes first. The return trip includes a picnic — a thoughtful touch that allows you to unwind and soak in the scenery after the thrill of flight.

What’s Included & What’s Not

The inclusion of round-trip transportation, professional pilot, safety suits, and equipment makes this a straightforward, worry-free experience. The picnic adds a nice local touch, giving you a chance to relax and reflect on your flight. The only extra expenses would be personal or incidental costs, so budget accordingly with cash.

More Great Tours Nearby

What to Bring & What to Avoid

Make sure to carry your passport, comfortable shoes, camera, sunscreen, and casual clothes suitable for outdoor activity. We recommend bringing cash for small expenses or souvenirs. Alcohol and drugs are explicitly not allowed, aligning with safety standards.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This activity is best suited for adventurers who are comfortable with heights and outdoor pursuits. It’s not ideal for pregnant women, wheelchair users, or those with vertigo or medical conditions. The group size (limited to 10) ensures a more personalized experience, which can be especially reassuring for first-time flyers.

The Real Feel: Authenticity, Safety, and Views

Many reviewers have highlighted how stunning the views are from above. One described it as “an incredible panorama from up there,” emphasizing how the flight offers a different perspective of Cusco’s landscape. Others appreciated the professionalism of the pilot and safety measures, making the entire experience feel secure despite the heights.

The small group size is often praised for allowing more personalized attention and making participants feel comfortable. Several mentioned that the timing and weather are critical — sunny, clear days make for the best flights — so patience and some flexibility are necessary.

While the price of $145 is a reasonable investment considering the quality of the experience, it’s worth noting that the activity depends on weather conditions, and there may be a need to reschedule if the wind isn’t favorable. The inclusion of transportation and safety gear adds value, making this a well-rounded adventure.

Practical Tips

Arriving early is a good idea, especially if you want extra time to enjoy the landscapes or take photos. Wear comfortable clothes and shoes, and don’t forget your camera — these views are worth capturing. Also, the weather can be quite variable, so pack sunscreen and layers.

It’s advisable to keep your travel plans flexible on the day, just in case the pilot decides weather conditions aren’t suitable for flying. This is a common occurrence with outdoor activities in high-altitude regions.

Who Should Consider This Experience?

If you’re seeking a thrilling adventure with a focus on scenery, this paragliding tour hits the mark. It suits travelers who enjoy outdoor pursuits and want a unique perspective on Cusco’s landscape. It’s also perfect for those wanting a small-group adventure, with the reassurance of professional guidance.

However, it’s less suitable for travelers with medical issues, pregnancy, or mobility restrictions. If you’re a cautious flyer or a first-timer, you’ll appreciate the detailed safety briefing and personalized assistance.

The Sum Up

This Cusco paragliding experience offers a combination of adventure, breathtaking sights, and safety that makes it a worthwhile addition to any trip. It’s an exhilarating way to see the Sacred Valley, mountains, and ancient sites from above, all with the guidance of experienced pilots. The small-group setting ensures personalized attention, and the inclusion of transport and a picnic adds to the overall value.

If you’re looking for a memorable, scenic thrill that won’t take up your entire day, this tour fits the bill. It’s especially suited for active travelers who don’t mind heights and want a view that really sticks with you. Just remember — good weather is key, so keep your schedule flexible and your camera ready.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the paragliding activity suitable for first-timers?
Yes, as long as you’re comfortable with heights. The activity includes instructions and safety precautions, making it accessible for beginners.

What is included in the price?
The fee covers round-trip transportation, a professional pilot, safety suits and equipment, a picnic, and one paragliding flight lasting 10 to 20 minutes.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. This provides some flexibility if weather conditions threaten the flight.

What should I bring?
Bring your passport, comfortable shoes and clothes, sunscreen, camera, and cash for extras. Avoid alcohol and drugs, which are not permitted.

How long is the activity?
The entire experience lasts about 6 hours, but the actual flight is around 10 to 20 minutes. Timing depends on weather and pilot decisions.

Is the activity weather-dependent?
Absolutely. Safety is a priority, so the pilot may choose to delay or cancel the flight if conditions aren’t suitable.

Who is this tour not suitable for?
Pregnant women, wheelchair users, individuals with vertigo, or those with certain medical conditions should consider other options, as this activity involves heights and outdoor activity.

If you crave a spectacular view combined with a dash of adrenaline, this paragliding tour in Cusco is a fantastic choice. It balances adventure with safety, offers a personalized experience, and delivers images and memories that will stay with you long after your trip ends.

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