An Exciting Day on the Urubamba River: Rafting & Zip Line Tour in Peru
If you’re craving an adrenaline rush combined with spectacular scenery, this full-day tour from Cusco offers just that. For $69 per person, you’ll spend about eight hours exploring the Urubamba River, tackling class three rapids, and enjoying a variety of activities from zip lining to unwinding in a sauna. Led by professional guides, with transportation, equipment, and lunch included, it’s a well-rounded adventure suitable for most travelers—highlighted by high safety standards and enthusiastic reviews.
Two things we love about this experience are the personal touches from guides like Americano and Anderson, who earn rave reviews for their attentive hosting, and the stunning river scenery that makes every rapid and zip line over the water feel extra special. That said, a consideration is the quality of wetsuits, which some guests found insufficient, leading to hypothermia. Packing a dry set of clothes and a towel is a good idea.
This tour suits those looking for a balanced mix of adventure and relaxation, especially travelers who enjoy active outdoor pursuits with supportive guides. It’s ideal if you want a full-day, authentic experience that leaves you with stories to tell, great photos, and a sense of accomplishment.
Key Points

- Thrilling white water rafting on class three rapids with safety measures in place.
- Guides like Americano and Anderson receive praise for their professionalism and friendliness.
- Additional activities include zip lining over the river and a relaxing sauna.
- All transportation and equipment are included, making logistics simpler for travelers.
- High safety standards are emphasized, with safety kayakers accompanying the raft.
- Excellent value considering the full day of diverse activities, meals, and facilities.
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Exploring the Full-Day Adventure on the Urubamba River

This tour offers a well-crafted balance of adventure and comfort. Starting at 8:30 am with hotel pickup in Cusco, you’ll head toward the scenic Urubamba River for an experience that appeals to both thrill-seekers and those wanting a taste of Peruvian nature.
What to Expect During the Day
Once you’re picked up, the journey to the rafting launch spot is smooth, with private transportation providing a comfortable start. You’ll arrive at the Cusipata River Lodge, where you’ll gear up with all necessary equipment, including neoprene water shoes and wetsuits. The guides will give safety instructions, ensuring everyone feels confident before hitting the water.
The rafting itself is the core highlight. Your guide will teach you how to paddle and navigate the class three rapids, which strike a good balance: enough excitement to get your heart pounding but not so fierce that it’s intimidating. Reviewers report feeling safe and well-supported throughout, thanks to professional safety kayakers and attentive guides like Anderson.
As you bounce over the rapids, you’ll be treated to stunning views of the river landscape—a crucial aspect that makes the experience memorable. Several guests, like Gabriella, mentioned that high water levels during their trip helped produce great rapids, emphasizing the importance of timing.
The Zip Line and Sauna
After conquering the rapids, you’ll get the chance to zip line over the river—a fun, somewhat basic but safe thrill. The guides’ thorough safety instructions and professionalism make this an enjoyable activity, even for those new to zip lining.
Following this, you’ll relax in a sauna, which many guests find to be a perfect way to unwind after the physical exertion. The lunch at the Cusipata River Lodge is generally described as delicious, offering a welcome break and a chance to chat with fellow travelers. The facility’s showers and bathrooms add to the comfort.
What’s Missing or to Consider
While most guests rave about the experience, some mention that the wetsuits provided are not always the right fit—many are too big, and no wetsuit tops are available. This can lead to hypothermia, especially if water levels are high and temperatures lower. To mitigate this, bringing your own dry clothes and a small towel is advised.
It’s also worth noting that food quality is described as marginal by some, but generally, the lunch is satisfying enough. The overall value still holds strong given the variety of activities, transportation, and safety measures.
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Who Will Love This Tour?
This experience is perfect for adventurous travelers eager to combine white water rafting with other fun activities like zip lining and sauna relaxation. Families, groups of friends, or solo travelers who appreciate professional guides and authentic outdoor experiences will find it especially rewarding. If you’re looking to tick off multiple activities in one day and enjoy excellent scenery with a supportive crew, this tour is a solid choice.
Why This Tour Stands Out

What makes this tour memorable is the combination of adrenaline, comfort, and scenery. The professional guides earn praise for their knowledge and friendliness—making even nervous first-timers feel safe. The stunning landscape of the Urubamba River provides a dramatic backdrop for each rapid and zip line, with reviews highlighting the beautiful river views.
Plus, the full package—including transportation, equipment, lunch, and facilities—means you can focus on enjoying yourself without worrying about logistics. The added bonus of relaxing in a sauna after the excitement is a thoughtful touch, giving you time to recover and reflect on the day.
Price and Value
At $69, this tour offers excellent value considering the full day of activities, professional guidance, and facilities included. Many reviewers felt it was worth every penny and even wished they had booked longer experiences like multi-day rafting or trips to Rainbow Mountain. The consistent high ratings (averaging 4.8 to 5.0 out of 5) speak to its reliability and satisfaction among travelers.
Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for an action-packed day that combines white water rafting, zip lining, and relaxation, this tour checks all the boxes. It’s ideal for those who want a supported, safe adventure with incredible views and good food. The guides’ attentiveness and the well-organized logistics make it accessible, even for newcomers.
While the wetsuit quality could be improved, bringing your own gear can easily fix that. The inclusion of facilities like a sauna and showers enhances the overall value, making the experience a true full-day escapade.
This tour is best suited to adventure lovers who enjoy multiple activities and don’t mind a bit of physical exertion. It offers a fantastic way to see the Urubamba River, challenge yourself a little, and relax afterward—an experience you’ll likely remember fondly long after you’ve returned home.
Frequently Asked Questions

Is transportation included?
Yes, hotel pickup and drop-off are included, and transportation to the rafting launch point is provided, making logistics hassle-free.
What should I bring?
You’ll want to pack a complete set of dry clothes, a small towel, sunblock, and a swimming suit. Remember, wetsuits are provided but may not fit everyone perfectly.
How safe is the rafting?
With professional guides, safety kayakers, and safety instructions, guests generally feel secure. Most reviewers mention feeling safe throughout the trip.
What is the difficulty level of the rapids?
The rapids are classified as class three, which offers excitement without being too intimidating for beginners with guidance.
Can children participate?
While most travelers can participate, it’s best to check with the provider directly for age or height restrictions, especially given the physical nature of rafting.
What is the best time of year to go?
While specific water levels depend on the season, some reviews note high water levels in April, creating great rapids. It’s best to book in advance and check current conditions.
To sum it up, this Rafting & Zip Line Urubamba River 1 Day Tour provides a balanced, fun-filled experience with plenty of opportunities for adventure and relaxation. It’s perfect for travelers who want a taste of Peru’s natural beauty, combined with a dose of adrenaline—delivered by guides who know how to make it both safe and memorable. Whether you’re a first-time rafter or a seasoned thrill-seeker, this tour offers a genuine, enjoyable day on the river that you’ll fondly recall.
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