Rafting the Upper Urubamba: Chuquicahuana Class III Adventure from Cusco
Difficulty
moderate
Duration
6–7 hours
Fitness Level
Moderate fitness; able to paddle actively for short bursts and follow safety commands. Comfortable with bursts of exertion and quick recovery.
Overview
Float two hours of class III rapids on the Upper Urubamba—accessible from Cusco with private camp comforts, hot showers and a post-run sauna. This full-day trip blends technical whitewater, Andean scenery, and practical guide support for adventurous paddlers.
Rafting the Upper Urubamba: Chuquicahuana Class III Adventure from Cusco
Select participants and date
You feel the Andes before you see them: a low, cool pressure that tightens your breath and makes the first sip of coffee taste like fuel. The drive out of Cusco eases through high puna grass and small stone hamlets, then drops toward the Urubamba where the mountains peel back and the river begins to hurry. At the private campground in Cusipata, guides hand out neoprene and helmets, and the river—brown, fast, uncompromising—seems to grin at the bank.
Adventure Photos
Adventure Tips
Acclimate first
Spend at least a night in Cusco to reduce altitude effects; drink water and avoid heavy exertion the first day.
Secure footwear
Use closed-toe water shoes or old trail runners that stay on during wet, rolling rapids.
Bring a dry change
Pack a small dry bag with a towel and dry clothes for the post-raft sauna and drive back to Cusco.
Sun protection
Even on cloudy days UV is high—use SPF, lip balm and a hat under your helmet when possible.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Andean fox (culpeo) along river edges at dawn
- Various tanagers and hummingbirds in riparian trees
History
The Urubamba valley was central to Inca agriculture and transit; many modern trails follow ancient routes that linked highland communities.
Conservation
Operators encourage leave-no-trace practices and work with local camps to minimize waste; stick to provided facilities and avoid single-use plastics.
Select participants and date
Adventure Hotspots in Cusco
Recommended Gear
Wetsuit or neoprene top
Thermal protection in cold river water and early-morning high-elevation chill.
Closed-toe water shoes
Keeps feet secure during entries and in rocky put-ins or exits.
Dry bag (small)
Protects phone, wallet and spare clothes from spray and post-run dampness.
High-SPF sunscreen & lip balm
Prevents strong Andean sunburn even when temperatures feel cool.