From Cusco | Paragliding in the Sacred Valley

From Cusco | Paragliding in the Sacred Valley

Imagine soaring over one of Peru’s most stunning landscapes, the Sacred Valley, with a bird’s-eye view of terraced hills, ancient ruins, and vibrant villages. For just $150 per person, this 5-hour adventure offers an exhilarating chance to fly from Cerro Sacro, more than 1,000 meters above sea level, and take in the scenery that makes the Sacred Valley so uniquely captivating. Guided by friendly instructors, usually bilingual in Spanish and English, you’ll spend about 12 to 25 minutes floating above the landscape, a highlight for those craving an authentic, active experience beyond the usual sightseeing.

What we appreciate most about this tour is how accessible and well-organized it is — transportation, equipment, and local guides are included, making it straightforward to focus on the thrill of flying and the awe-inspiring views. The other standout feature is the breathtaking panorama you’ll enjoy from Cerro Sacro, truly a moment to treasure for any adventure lover or photography enthusiast.

However, it’s worth noting that flight times can vary and depend on weather conditions, so some flexibility with your schedule might be necessary. Also, this activity is best suited for those comfortable with heights and physical activity, as well as travelers who love combining adventure with natural beauty. It’s perfect for curious travelers seeking an unforgettable perspective on the Sacred Valley, but perhaps less ideal if you prefer a relaxed, ground-based tour.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Stunning Views: Fly over the Sacred Valley, capturing memorable vistas of farmland, mountains, and traditional villages.
• All-Inclusive Price: Transfers, equipment, and guidance are covered, offering good value for an adventure of this nature.
• Flexible Cancellation: Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, adding peace of mind to your booking.
• Ideal for Active Travelers: The experience needs participants to be comfortable with heights and physical activity.
• Bilingual Guides: Guides speak both Spanish and English, ensuring clear communication during the flight.
• Duration & Timing: About 5 hours total, with check-in and pickup at 7:30 a.m., making it a manageable half-day trip.

An In-Depth Look at the Paragliding Experience

Starting Point and Transportation

The adventure begins early in the morning, with a pickup from Plaza San Francisco in Cusco at 7:30 a.m. This convenient, central location makes it easy to meet your guide and join the group. From there, it’s roughly an hour’s drive north towards Racchi, which is nestled in the Sacred Valley. This scenic journey alone is a treat, offering glimpses of local life, Andean mountains, and terraced fields along the way.

The Paragliding Launch Site: Cerro Sacro

Once at Cerro Sacro, the launch site—about 1000 meters above sea level—provides an ideal vantage point for flight. The short introductory session helps prepare you with safety instructions, harness fitting, and breathing techniques, ensuring you’re comfortable before takeoff. The short prep period is efficient but thorough, giving nervous flyers confidence while keeping the experience on schedule.

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The Flight

From Cerro Sacro, you will soar for 12 to 25 minutes, gliding over the Sacred Valley. The views are truly stunning, with the lush tapestry of farmland, winding rivers, and distant mountains stretching as far as the eye can see. This flight provides an unobstructed perspective of the landscape, something that photos and videos will never fully capture, but you’ll certainly try.

Several reviewers have shared that the flight exceeded expectations, with one mentioning, “We loved the way the instructor guided us, making sure everyone felt safe but still enjoyed the thrill.” The experience is both peaceful and invigorating—floating above the world with only the sound of wind and the view as your companions.

Post-Flight and Return

After landing, usually back at Cerro Sacro or a designated landing zone, the group boards the minibus for the return trip. Typically, the entire experience wraps up around 12:30 p.m., returning to Cusco’s Plaza San Francisco. This allows enough time for the rest of your day, perhaps for a relaxed lunch or more sightseeing.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The tour package offers great value, including transfers, a Spanish-speaking instructor, all necessary equipment (paraglider, harness, helmet, gloves), and refreshments like mineral water or infusions. These thoughtful inclusions mean you don’t need to worry about additional gear or logistics, and you can fully focus on the experience.

However, additional drinks are not included, so if you want a celebratory toast or extra hydration, you should bring some cash or plan to purchase drinks after the activity.

Flexibility and Booking

One of the appealing aspects of this tour is the “Reserve now & pay later” option, allowing you to secure your spot without upfront payment. Plus, with a full refund available if canceled 24 hours in advance, you can plan with confidence, knowing you won’t lose your investment if plans change.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This paragliding experience is ideal for adventurous travelers eager to see the Sacred Valley from a fresh, exhilarating perspective. It suits those comfortable with heights and physically active, as preparing and flying requires some coordination. Nature lovers will especially enjoy the breathtaking views, and photographers will find plenty of opportunities to capture stunning images.

If you’re looking for a unique, memorable activity that combines scenic beauty with adventure, this tour offers an excellent choice. It’s less suitable if you’re seeking a leisurely, ground-based tour or if you have concerns about heights or motion sickness.

Final Thoughts

For those visiting Cusco and craving a thrilling outdoor experience, paragliding in the Sacred Valley offers a blend of breathtaking scenery, accessible adventure, and professional guidance. The views from Cerro Sacro are truly special, providing a moment to connect with the landscape in a way that’s impossible from the ground. With included transport, equipment, and flexible booking options, it’s a straightforward choice for adding a dash of adrenaline to your itinerary.

While weather can influence flight times and duration, most participants find that the experience is well worth the effort. It’s especially rewarding for travelers who love combining active pursuits with stunning natural beauty and want to create memories that will last long after they’ve landed.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children or teenagers?
While the tour is generally geared toward adults and older teens, it’s best to check with the provider about age restrictions and any height or weight limits.

Do I need prior paragliding experience?
No, the activity begins with a short introductory session, so first-timers are welcome. Guides will provide safety instructions and support throughout.

What should I wear for the flight?
Wear comfortable clothing suitable for outdoor activity, including layers if it’s cool. Bring gloves if you tend to get cold, and avoid loose accessories that could interfere with harnesses.

How long is the actual flight?
Expect to fly for 12 to 25 minutes, depending on conditions. The overall tour lasts about 5 hours, including transportation and preparation.

Can I cancel if the weather is poor?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours before for a full refund, which is wise if weather conditions aren’t suitable for flying.

Is transportation included?
Yes, transfers by minibus or bus are part of the package, making logistics smooth and hassle-free.

What is the capacity of the group?
While specific group sizes aren’t detailed, most tours aim for a small, manageable group, ensuring personalized guidance.

Is lunch included?
No, but refreshments such as mineral water and infusions are provided during the activity.

Are guides bilingual?
Yes, guides speak both Spanish and English, making communication clear for most travelers.

What if I want to book last minute?
Availability depends on demand and weather, so it’s best to reserve in advance or check for last-minute openings, especially during peak seasons.

Embarking on this paragliding adventure in the Sacred Valley offers a rare chance to see Peru’s iconic landscape from the sky. Whether you’re an adrenaline junkie or simply looking for a memorable way to connect with nature, this experience promises stunning vistas and a genuine sense of freedom.

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