Cusco: Night at Skylodge, Via Ferrata, Sacred Valley Zipline

Cusco: Night at Skylodge, Via Ferrata, Sacred Valley Zipline offers a rare chance to sleep suspended in the air, surrounded by stunning views of the Sacred Valley of the Incas. For $646 per person, this two-day adventure takes you from Cusco into the mountains, where you’ll ascend to futuristic bubble suites, rappel down via ferrata routes, and soar across zip lines—an exhilarating combination of comfort, adrenaline, and natural beauty. The tour is priced to include a night in the Skylodge, meals, and all safety gear, making it a comprehensive package.

What we really love about this experience are the stunning vistas of the Sacred Valley, visible from the comfort of your bubble suite, and the sense of achievement after conquering the via ferrata route. Plus, the tour’s commitment to sustainable practices adds an extra layer of appeal. On the flip side, be aware that the activity involves some physical effort—climbing and rappelling—and that the price reflects the exclusive nature of sleeping in a glass-like capsule perched on a mountain.

This adventure suits travelers craving unique overnight accommodations and adventure seekers who are comfortable with heights and physical activity. If you’re looking for a thrill that combines comfort with adrenaline in a breathtaking setting, this tour could be just the right fit.

Key Points

• Unique overnight experience: Sleep suspended in glass bubbles with panoramic views.
• Adventure-packed: Includes via ferrata climbing and ziplining.
• Sustainability focus: All services comply with eco-friendly standards.
• Small group: Limited to 10 participants for a more intimate experience.
• Inclusive package: Meals, safety gear, and transportation included.
• Timing flexibility: Check availability for specific start times.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Skylodge Experience

The journey begins early afternoon in Cusco, where a private transfer picks you up and whisks you roughly an hour into the Sacred Valley. Upon arriving in Pachar, you’ll be introduced to the star of the show—the futuristic Skylodge suites—which look like sci-fi bubbles clinging to the mountainside. These transparent capsules are designed to give you a night under the stars with spectacular views of the Sacred Valley below.

We appreciated how the tour emphasizes safety, starting with a thorough briefing before gearing up for the ascent. The via ferrata equipment—harness, helmet, and gloves—look intimidating but are straightforward, and guides are there to assist. The climb to reach the Skylodge is about 400 meters of rugged ascent, but it’s manageable with proper safety measures. What we loved here is the combination of physical effort and awe-inspiring scenery, as you ascend amidst lush greenery and rugged mountain terrain.

The arrival at the suites is a moment of triumph. Once you’re securely inside, you’ll be greeted with a hot drink, a welcome reward after the climb. The design of the suites is nothing short of remarkable—clear walls allowing unimpeded views, yet sturdy and safe. In the evening, the dining experience is in a cozy room with panoramic vistas, where you’ll enjoy a filling dinner accompanied by wine, all in the company of fellow adventurers. As one reviewer put it, “Dining with the Sacred Valley stretching out below was magical.”

Sleeping in the Bubble Suites is an experience unlike any other. If you’re worried about comfort, don’t be—these suites are designed for a good night’s sleep, even under the stars. One traveler noted, “It was surreal to lie there and look up at the night sky through transparent walls.” Keep in mind, however, that the experience is weather-dependent; clear skies enhance the view, but rain or clouds could obscure the stars.

Day Two: Adventure and Return

Waking up in your floating bubble, you’ll start the day with a breakfast served in the suites or nearby dining area, with views of the sunrise over the Sacred Valley. At 7:00 a.m., you’ll be served coffee or mate, a perfect way to fuel up for the descent.

The second day involves descending via via ferrata or zip line, offering multiple options depending on your comfort level. The zip line spans across the valley, providing an adrenaline rush and spectacular panoramic views. For those who prefer climbing back down or rappelling, the via ferrata route ensures a controlled, engaging descent.

The tour concludes around 1:00 p.m., with transportation back to Cusco. This timing allows for a relaxed morning, avoiding any rush, and gives you a full afternoon free for other explorations.

What’s Included, What’s Not

The tour fee covers hotel pickup, transport in a private vehicle, and guides who speak both Spanish and English—a plus for international travelers. You’ll stay overnight in the Skylodge, with dinner and breakfast provided, along with all safety gear like harnesses, helmets, and gloves.

However, meals not specified in the itinerary are not included, so you may want to bring snacks or plan for additional dining options in Cusco before or after your trip.

Practical Tips & Considerations

This experience is best suited for adventurous travelers in good health who are comfortable with heights and physical exertion. The ascent is about 400 meters, and the climb takes roughly an hour, so a reasonable level of fitness will make the experience more enjoyable. If you’re prone to vertigo or have mobility issues, it’s worth discussing with the provider beforehand.

Weather can impact the experience significantly. Clear, dry nights will offer spectacular star views, but rain or clouds might limit what you see outside. The experience is also weather-dependent for safety reasons, so it’s good to have flexible plans.

While the price may seem steep compared to a regular hotel stay, it’s important to consider the value of the unique accommodation and adrenaline-filled activities packed into just two days. Many reviews mention that the experience offers excellent value for a memorable bucket-list adventure.

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Who Should Consider This Tour?

This tour is perfect for adventure lovers who want more than just sightseeing. It suits those interested in sleeping somewhere special, with a view unlike any other, and who enjoy physical challenges like climbing and ziplining. It’s also an excellent option for anyone eager to combine luxurious novelty with thrilling outdoor activities, all in a setting of natural beauty.

If you’re traveling with a group or family, the small group size ensures a more personalized experience, and the bilingual guides help bridge language gaps. However, if you prefer a more relaxed, low-effort trip or are uncertain about heights, you might want to consider other options.

FAQ

Is this experience suitable for children or older travelers?
The tour involves climbing up 400 meters and using via ferrata equipment, which requires a certain level of physical fitness. It’s best suited for those comfortable with heights and active pursuits. Check with the provider if you have specific concerns about age or health.

What should I pack for the overnight stay?
While the suites are equipped for comfort, bringing a sleep mask, a warm layer for the night, and personal essentials is advisable. The tour includes safety gear, but you might want to bring some personal items for comfort.

Can I participate if I don’t like heights?
The experience involves a via ferrata climb and ziplining, so if heights are a concern, you should discuss your worries with the guides. You may opt for the zipline descent instead of climbing back down the via ferrata route.

What is the weather typically like during the tour?
The tour is weather-dependent. Clear nights provide excellent star viewing, but rain or cloud cover can obscure the sky. It’s best to check the forecast ahead of your trip.

How long does the entire experience last?
The tour starts with hotel pickup around 2:00 pm, with the ascent and overnight stay, followed by breakfast and descent the next morning. Expect around 24 hours total, with the main adventure occurring in roughly 4-5 hours on Day 1.

Are meals included?
Dinner on Day 1 and breakfast on Day 2 are included. Other meals are not, so plan accordingly if you want additional dining options.

In the end, this tour offers a remarkable blend of adventure, comfort, and natural beauty. If you’re looking to sleep under the stars in a glass bubble with a backdrop of the Sacred Valley, and are physically ready for some climbing and ziplining, it promises an experience you’ll remember for a lifetime. For those who value authentic adventure with a touch of luxury, this is a trip worth considering.

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