If you’re craving an adventure that mixes nature, adrenaline, and a touch of mystery, the Cañon de Autisha tour from Lima is worth considering. For around $62, you’ll spend about 16 hours exploring one of the deepest gorges in Peru, including a hike underground through dark tunnels, a rappelling descent of 30 meters, and a visit to stunning waterfalls and caves. It’s a full-day experience that promises excitement, unique sights, and a healthy dose of physical activity.

What we especially like about this tour are the opportunity to rappel down a canyon—a real adrenaline rush—and the chance to see underground waterfalls and lagoons that feel like something straight out of a sci-fi film. Plus, if you’re a thrill-seeker, the optional bungee jump from Lima’s highest bridge offers a spectacular ending.

One potential consideration is the length of the day—from early morning departure to late night return—and the fact that the tour mainly operates in Spanish. If language isn’t your first, or if you’re not comfortable with long days and physical activity, this might require some extra planning. But if you’re into adventure tourism, enjoy authentic experiences, and don’t mind a long day outside the city, this tour could be a highlight of your trip. It’s especially suited for active travelers who want to push their limits and see a different side of Peru’s natural landscape.

Key Points

Deep underground exploration with tunnels, waterfalls, and lagoons
Adrenaline activities including rappelling and optional bungee jumping
Authentic, guided adventure with safety equipment provided
Long but rewarding day, ideal for active travelers
Limited English support, mostly conducted in Spanish
Includes transportation, safety gear, and professional guides

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Closer Look at the Cañon de Autisha Tour

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What’s Included and How It Works

This full-day tour starts early, with a 5 am departure from Lima. The ride out to Autisha Canyon takes you into a remote part of Peru’s natural scenery, where the adventure begins. Upon arrival, you’ll be equipped with safety gear—helmet, harness, gloves, and ropes—and given a safety briefing, mostly in Spanish, so some Spanish language skills or patience for translation will help.

The core of the experience is descending 170 meters underground through a series of dark tunnels, crossing stairs and pathways safely. It’s not a casual stroll—think of it as a physical and mental challenge but with plenty of support. The highlight is reaching the underground waterfall and lagoon of Sheke, which are truly breathtaking. The lagoon is deep and clear, inviting brave souls to cool off in its cold waters.

If you’re a fan of caves and caves, you’ll love the bat cave visit—an authentic encounter with the nocturnal creatures that are part of the underground ecosystem. The 30-meter rappel is the tour’s adrenaline-packed finale, giving you a sense of accomplishment and a good adrenaline shakeup.

The Waterfalls and Lagoons

The Sheke waterfall and lagoon are accessible from within the tunnels, offering a glimpse into the underground water systems. The lagoon is a photogenic spot—perfect for taking in the mysterious atmosphere, snapping pictures, and catching a quick swim if you dare. The cold water is refreshing after the physical exertion, and many reviewers mention how unique and unforgettable this part of the tour is.

The Bats and Cave Experience

The bat cave adds a touch of cave wildlife immersion to your adventure. It’s an authentic cave experience that might be a bit dark and confined, but that’s part of the charm. This part of the tour is mostly about appreciating the underground ecosystem, and many travelers find it fascinating.

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The Rappel and Final Thrills

The 30-meter rappel is the most dramatic part of the experience. This involves descending a vertical drop with professional guidance and safety equipment. Reviewers say it’s a stress reliever—“you will get all the stress out”—and a highlight even for those who are new to rappelling. It’s a controlled descent, and safety concerns are addressed thoroughly with helmets, harnesses, and trained guides.

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Optional Bungee Jumping

Post-adventure, you have the option to bungee jump from Lima’s highest bridge. The cost is around $25 for this adrenaline-filled activity, and it’s perfect if you want to end your day with a big bang. If you’re comfortable with heights and jumping, it’s a memorable way to cap off the trip.

Lunch and Return

After a physically demanding day, a lunch break helps you recharge. The tour includes transportation back to Lima, arriving around 9 pm. The long day is packed, but that’s part of what makes it memorable.

Authentic Experiences and Practical Considerations

What Travelers Love

Many reviewers appreciate the authenticity of the experience. Judy, who spoke perfect Spanish, mentioned that despite the long day, she “had a blast and made real friends.” She also noted the importance of understanding safety instructions—“the activities require a clear understanding of directions for safety”—so language barriers could be a concern if your Spanish isn’t strong.

The adventure sports like rappelling and optional bungee jump elevate this tour beyond typical sightseeing. For those who crave physical activity and adrenaline, this tour offers a genuine challenge wrapped in a natural wonder setting.

Things to Keep in Mind

While the adventure is exciting, some travelers, like Matthis, found the large group size and long queue for the rappel to be a downside. Waiting times might extend over an hour, especially during peak periods. The tour’s length—about 15 hours—may also feel long if you’re not used to such full-day excursions.

The fact that the tour operates mainly in Spanish means that non-Spanish speakers should prepare accordingly—either brushing up on key phrases or arranging a guide or translation. The safety of activities like rappelling and bridge jumping depends heavily on understanding instructions, so language could impact your overall experience.

Cost and Value

At $62 per person, the tour offers a competitive price point considering the transportation, safety equipment, and professional guidance included. The adrenaline activities and access to underground caves make it a good value for adventure seekers. Additional costs like entrance fee (S/.8) and optional bungee jump are extras, but they are clearly communicated.

Who Should Join This Tour?

This experience is best suited for active travelers who enjoy physical challenges and are not claustrophobic, given the underground tunnels and confined caves. It’s ideal for those who want a unique adventure off the beaten path, showing a different side of Peru’s natural landscape. If you’re comfortable with long days in the outdoors in Spanish, this tour could be a highlight.

However, if you prefer a relaxed sightseeing day or don’t want to deal with long waits or language barriers, you might want to consider other options. Those with limited mobility or fear of confined spaces might also find the underground parts challenging.

The Sum Up

The Cañon de Autisha tour from Lima delivers a genuinely thrilling experience for adventure-minded travelers. From descending underground waterfalls and exploring caves to rappelling down a 30-meter vertical wall, it combines physical activity with spectacular natural sights. The optional bungee jump adds an extra shot of adrenaline for daring souls. It’s a full-day commitment, but the sense of achievement and the unique underground scenery make it well worth it.

This tour is best suited for adventure lovers willing to tackle physical challenges in a remote, awe-inspiring setting. It’s also ideal for those who want to see a less-visited part of Peru and don’t mind long hours and Spanish-only guidance. If you’re seeking an authentic, adrenaline-fueled experience and don’t mind a bit of a logistical challenge, this could be one of the most memorable days of your trip.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for non-Spanish speakers?
Most of the tour is conducted in Spanish, so some knowledge of the language or translation help would be beneficial for understanding safety instructions and guides.

How long does the whole tour last?
The total duration is around 16 hours, starting early at 5 am and returning to Lima around 9 pm, making for a very full day.

What safety gear is provided?
The tour includes a helmet, harness, gloves, ropes, and a headlamp, with professional guides overseeing all activities.

Can I participate in the bungee jump?
Yes, the bungee jump from Lima’s highest bridge is optional and costs about $25. You need to be comfortable with heights and jumping.

Is there a weight or health limit?
While not explicitly stated, activities like rappelling and bungee jumping usually have safety protocols, so inquire directly if you have concerns.

Do I need to bring anything?
Yes—swimwear, sunscreen, and insect repellent are recommended, especially for swimming or spending time outdoors.

What is the entrance fee?
There’s a small fee of S/.8 per person for access granted by the Chaclla community.

Is the tour suitable for children or those with mobility issues?
It’s not recommended for people with claustrophobia or limited mobility, given the underground tunnels and physically demanding activities.

What if I don’t speak Spanish?
You might find it challenging, as the tour is primarily in Spanish. Consider bringing a translation app or choosing a guided tour with bilingual support if available.

This adventurous tour offers a rare chance to explore underground waterfalls, caves, and experience the thrill of rappelling and bungee jumping—all in a remote corner of Peru. It’s perfect for those hungry for a physical challenge and authentic, off-the-beaten-path encounters.

You can check availability for your dates here:

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