Paragliding in Sacred Valley Cusco

Imagine standing at the edge of a mountain in the Sacred Valley, ready to launch yourself into the sky, feeling the wind in your hair and the thrill of flight. For around $189 per person, this paragliding tour offers just that — a chance to see the Inca heartland from a perspective few visitors get to enjoy. The experience lasts about six hours, starting early in the morning, and includes transportation from Cusco’s historic center, a safety briefing, and a 15-20 minute flight over breathtaking landscapes.

What we particularly love is how this tour combines the adventure of paragliding with the chance to appreciate the marvelous scenery of mountains, snow-capped peaks, and archaeological sites that are usually only visible from the ground. The guides are professionals, providing safety instructions and insights, which help you feel more confident whether you’re a seasoned adventurer or a first-timer. The chance to capture spectacular photos from the air is an added bonus that makes this experience truly memorable.

One possible consideration? The activity depends heavily on weather conditions — wind currents and climate play a crucial role in determining if you’ll fly on your chosen day. If the weather isn’t cooperating, you might need to reschedule. But, if the skies are clear, you’ll be rewarded with a flight that’s both exhilarating and visually spectacular. This tour best suits those who are comfortable with outdoor activities, aren’t prone to vertigo, and are eager for an authentic adventure that offers a fresh perspective on Inca land.

If you’re looking for a unique way to see the Sacred Valley beyond the usual sightseeing bus routes, and you’re comfortable with heights, this paragliding trip offers a rewarding blend of adrenaline, natural beauty, and cultural context. It’s perfect for adventure-minded travelers keen to add a thrill to their Cusco itinerary.

Key Points

• Stunning aerial views of mountains, snowfalls, and archaeological sites.
• Professional guides ensure safety and provide interesting insights.
• Weather-dependent activity; flights are not guaranteed every day.
• No experience needed; just a run at takeoff and a love of adventure.
• Early start with hotel pickup within Cusco’s historic center.
• Great photo opportunities from the sky to share your adventure.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Details of the Experience

When we consider a tour like this, what matters most is how it fits into your overall trip and how much value it offers. This paragliding adventure is a well-organized affair, with transportation provided from Cusco’s historic district — a major plus since getting to the Sacred Valley can be tricky without a car. The pickup is usually between 07:00 and 07:30, which means you’ll start your day early, but that’s typical for activities outside the city, where the weather conditions are more predictable in the morning.

The drive to the mountain top takes about an hour, offering a scenic start as you leave Cusco behind and head into the lush, mountainous landscape of the Sacred Valley. Once there, you’ll meet your pilot, who will give a safety talk and run through some basic instructions. The emphasis on safety and professional guidance is reassuring, especially for first-time paragliders.

The actual flight lasts between 15 and 20 minutes, which is plenty of time to absorb the views and take photos. During this flight, you’ll see the mountains, snowfalls, and archaeological sites from a perspective that few travelers experience. We loved the way the guides shared snippets of local culture and legends during the safety briefing, adding context to the scenery that unfolded below.

After landing, the return trip to Cusco is smooth, arriving back around 1:00 p.m. The tour’s timing makes it a manageable morning activity, leaving the rest of your afternoon free for other explorations or rest.

What’s Included and What’s Not

Included in the tour are round-trip transportation and an expert paragliding guide, which means you won’t need to worry about logistics or safety. The only thing you’ll want to bring along is a valid ID, comfortable shoes, sunglasses, a camera, and some cash for any extra expenses or tips.

Lunch isn’t included, so you might want to plan for a snack or meal afterward. The tour is flexible, with a simple cancellation policy: you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, which provides peace of mind if your plans change.

The Itinerary Breakdown

• 07:00-07:30: Hotel pickup within Cusco’s historic center.
• 08:30: Scenic drive to the Sacred Valley’s mountain launch site.
• Meeting with pilots: Safety briefing and instructions.
• Flight time: 15-20 minutes, soaring over mountains and archaeological sites.
• Post-flight: Return drive to Cusco, arriving around 1:00 p.m.

What makes this itinerary appealing is the early start, ensuring good weather, and the scenic drive that sets the stage for your aerial adventure. The flight offers a unique bird’s-eye view of the landscape, with the Inca archaeological sites adding a cultural layer to the experience.

Authenticity and Real Traveler Insights

Reviewers are unanimous in praising the knowledgeable guides and the stunning views. One noted, “The guides explained everything clearly and made us feel safe, which was very reassuring.” Others appreciated the photo opportunities, saying, “The views from the sky are unforgettable — I captured some of the best photos of my trip.”

The activity is especially suitable for those who are adventure seekers but also appreciate a safe, guided experience. The requirement that participants be under 99 kg (218 lbs) and over 6 years old means it’s accessible to families as well. However, it’s not for travelers with certain medical conditions, mobility issues, or a fear of heights, which is worth considering before booking.

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Final Thoughts

This paragliding tour in the Sacred Valley offers a rare opportunity to experience Peru from an entirely different vantage point. The combination of stunning landscapes, expert guidance, and the thrill of flight makes it a standout activity for those who crave adventure with a side of cultural context.

The value is clear: a professional, safe experience that provides lasting memories and incredible photos — all for under $200. You’ll leave with a profound appreciation for the landscape and perhaps a new perspective on the Inca heartland.

It’s best suited for active travelers who are comfortable with outdoor activities, love scenic views, and want an authentic, adrenaline-fueled experience. If you’re wary of weather disruptions or have health concerns, you might want to consider scheduling it for a day with a clear forecast.

All in all, this tour caters to those eager to add an exciting highlight to their Cusco journey, offering a perfect blend of adventure, culture, and natural beauty.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, children from 6 years old and up can participate, provided they meet the weight limit of 99 kg (218 lbs). It’s a family-friendly activity for adventurous kids.

Do I need prior experience to fly?
No prior experience is needed. All you have to do is run at takeoff, and the guides will handle the rest, making it accessible even for first-timers.

What should I bring?
Bring your passport or ID, comfortable shoes, sunglasses, a camera, and some cash for extras. Dress in comfortable clothes suitable for outdoor activity.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, which makes booking flexible if your plans change.

What if the weather isn’t good on my scheduled day?
Since the flight depends on weather conditions, your guide will advise if it’s safe to fly. If not, you can reschedule or get a refund.

Is transportation included?
Yes, round-trip transport from your hotel within the historic center of Cusco is included, making logistics easy.

How long does the entire tour last?
The tour lasts about 6 hours, including transportation, safety briefing, flight, and return to Cusco.

Will I get good photos?
Absolutely. The flight offers excellent vantage points for capturing stunning images of the mountains and archaeological sites below.

This paragliding experience promises a memorable way to see the Sacred Valley, blending adventure with awe-inspiring scenery. Whether you’re after a thrill or a new perspective on Peru’s landscape, it’s an activity worth considering for an unforgettable trip.

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