Imagine floating gently over the historic streets of Cusco, the ancient Inca capital, with panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and ruins. For about $124 per person, this 5-hour adventure offers travelers a chance to see Cusco and the iconic fortress of Sacsayhuamán from a perspective few get to enjoy — soaring at 100 meters above the city in a hot air balloon, followed by a delicious picnic breakfast and a toast of champagne.

What makes this experience truly memorable are the spectacular vistas of the city and the Andes, and the professional guidance that helps ensure a safe, fun flight. We particularly appreciate the insightful explanations about Sacsayhuamán’s history, which add depth to the visual feast. Plus, the friendly guide and smooth logistics make this a comfortable and hassle-free outing.

One potential consideration is that the activity isn’t suitable for everyone — pregnant women or anyone afraid of heights should think carefully before booking. Also, keep in mind that insurance is not included, so travelers with specific needs might want to double-check their coverage.

This tour is perfect for anyone interested in unique aerial views of Cusco and the surrounding landscape—especially those keen on history, scenic photography, or simply looking for a once-in-a-lifetime adventure that combines thrill with cultural insight.

Key Points

Unparalleled Views: See Cusco, Sacsayhuamán, and the Andes from above.
Cultural Insights: Learn about the history of Sacsayhuamán and the Inca civilization from your guide.
Comfort & Safety: Enjoy a secure flight with giant ropes attached and professional supervision.
All-Inclusive Experience: Breakfast, champagne toast, hotel pickup, and drop-off included.
Timing & Duration: Approximately 5 hours, with around 20 minutes in the air.
Ideal for: Travelers seeking an adventurous, scenic, and culturally enriching experience.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Experience in Detail

If wine interests you, we've examined these other wine experiences in Cusco

Starting Point and Logistics

Your adventure begins with hotel pickup in Cusco, a big plus for convenience, removing the need to navigate to a meeting point. The tour then heads out to the site of Sacsayhuamán, the impressive Inca fortress perched on a hill just outside the city. Here, you’ll witness the inflation process of the hot air balloon — a fascinating sight as the giant fabric is filled with warm air, preparing for flight.

Once the balloon is ready, you’ll climb into the sturdy basket, which is securely attached by giant ropes for safety. This setup not only reassures nervous flyers but also offers a stable platform for viewing. The flight itself lasts about 20 minutes, ascending to 100 meters for sweeping views of the city, fortress, and mountain range.

The Flight and Views

From the sky, the sights are truly captivating. You’ll love the panoramic vistas of Cusco’s terracotta roofs and colonial architecture contrasting with the ancient stonework of Sacsayhuamán — a site that served both as a military stronghold and a ceremonial center. Your guide, like Carlos or Lucia, will share stories about the fortress’s role in defending the Incas and its significance as a sun worship site.

The bird’s-eye perspective on Pukamuqu mountain and parts of the Andes provides an unforgettable sense of scale and beauty. The quietness of the balloon’s ascent, combined with the vast mountain vistas, creates a peaceful and awe-inspiring atmosphere.

Post-Flight Breakfast and Champagne

After touching back down, you’ll be treated to a well-earned picnic breakfast. Expect a selection of local fruits, breads, and perhaps some traditional Peruvian delicacies. The breakfast is described as delicious, giving you fuel for the rest of your day’s explorations.

The champagne toast adds a celebratory touch to the experience, making it feel like a special occasion. It’s also a perfect moment to toast your adventure and take photos of the stunning backdrop before heading back to your hotel.

More Great Tours Nearby

End of the Tour & Return

Once you’ve enjoyed the breakfast and drinks, the tour concludes with a comfortable transfer back to your Cusco hotel. The whole process, from pickup to return, is designed to be smooth and hassle-free, allowing you to focus on your awe of the scenery and the experience.

While you're exploring Cusco, here are other experiences we've looked into

What Travelers Love About This Tour

Many reviewers highlight the professionalism of the guides who are both knowledgeable and friendly. One traveler mentioned, “The guide explained the history of Sacsayhuamán perfectly while we were flying — it really brought the place to life.” Others loved the quality of the breakfast, describing it as “far better than typical hotel fare,” and appreciated the champagne toast as a fun finishing touch.

The views are breathtaking, with some saying, “Seeing Cusco from above gives you a whole new appreciation for how the city is nestled into the mountains.” The safety measures and small group size also garner praise, making this experience feel personal and well-coordinated.

What to Consider Before Booking

While this tour is generally well-received, a few points are worth noting. It’s not suitable for pregnant women or those with a fear of heights, given the 100-meter ascent. The activity is also weather-dependent; cloudy or windy days could lead to cancellations or rescheduling.

Plus, the insurance is not included, so if you have specific health concerns or require coverage, check your policy beforehand. Travelers should also dress warmly, especially in the early morning when temperatures can be chilly at altitude.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience best suits adventurous travelers, history buffs, and photographers eager for a unique viewpoint of Cusco. It’s also great for romantic couples or families with older children looking for an unforgettable sightseeing highlight.

If you’re seeking a calm, scenic activity with cultural insights and a touch of luxury, this balloon ride checks all those boxes. Keep in mind, it’s ideal for those comfortable with heights and who can appreciate a bit of early-morning chill.

FAQs

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour includes pickup and drop-off at your hotel in Cusco, making the experience easy and convenient.

How long is the balloon flight?
The actual flight lasts about 20 minutes, ascending to 100 meters to enjoy a broad view of Cusco and the surrounding landscape.

What is the price?
The tour costs around $124 per person, which includes the flight, breakfast, champagne, and transportation.

Is insurance included?
No, insurance is not included in the tour price, so travelers should ensure they have appropriate coverage if needed.

Is this tour suitable for children?
While the information doesn’t specify age restrictions, it’s best for older children or teenagers comfortable with heights and calm flights.

Can I cancel if the weather is bad?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance. Weather conditions might lead to rescheduling or cancellations.

What should I bring?
Bring warm clothing for the early morning chill and a camera to capture your views from the sky.

Is it safe?
Yes, the activity is conducted with safety measures, including giant ropes attached during the flight, and guided by professionals.

Are there any restrictions?
The tour isn’t suitable for pregnant women or people afraid of heights.

This hot air balloon ride offers a genuinely special way to see Cusco beyond its vibrant streets and bustling markets. Floating high above the city and Sacsayhuamán, you gain a new appreciation for how the Inca capital is set into the landscape. The experience balances adventure, culture, and comfort, making it a memorable highlight for many travelers.

If you’re looking for a unique, scenic, and culturally enriching adventure that combines spectacular views with expert guidance and a bit of luxury, this tour is an excellent choice. It’s perfect for those wanting to add a touch of thrill to their Cusco visit without straying far from the city’s historic core. Just remember, the early morning chill can be brisk, so pack accordingly, and be prepared for the possibility of weather-related changes.

In sum, this balloon ride is a great way to see Cusco from a fresh perspective — offering both breathtaking scenery and a story you’ll tell for years to come.