Urubamba River Rafting: Sacred Valley Class II–V Rapids for U.S. Travelers

Experience Peru’s Sacred Valley with a rafting adventure for U.S. travelers—Class II to V rapids on the Urubamba River, seasonal routes from Ollantaytambo to Quiquijana, and expert safety support with a kayak guide. Includes lunch and return to Cusco.

OVERVIEW
ITINERARY
INCLUDED
MAP
FAQ

OVERVIEW

Location: Peru
Duration: One Day
Type: Adventure Peru Treks, River Rafting Tours
Destinations: Cusco, Urubamba River, Sacred Valley, Ollantaytambo
Description: Enjoy a wonderful day rafting in the Sacred Valley of the Incas on the Urubamba River. We will show you some of the fantastic scenery near Cusco as well as a thrilling wet ride.

Tour: River Rafting Urubamba Full Day
Day 1: Cusco, Urubamba River

ITINERARY DETAILS

Day 1: Cusco Urubamba river.

At 9:00 AM you will be greeted in your hotel before we leave for the Urubamba River in the Sacred Valley of the Incas (north of Cusco). Here our guide will give us an introductory safety talk and equipment demonstration before our trip running the Class II, III, IV and V rapids. We will raft for around 2 hours depending on which route we select.

Class II, Ollantaytambo

Class III (We run it from May to December), Quiquijana

IV and V (Dec to May). For the last one, which is the hardest, We always take a safety kayak with us. This means there is one extra guide with us for the safety of our clients.

After lunch we return to Cusco, arriving at around 5:00 PM.

The rainy season is the best time to go rafting since the river gets higher, faster and the waves are larger. The rainy season lasts from December through April.

Included:

Professional English speaking guides, paramedics qualified for Class V rafting.
Full Rafting equipment (helmet, safety jacket, raincoat, paddle, wetsuit, Hyside Self Bailer Boats.
Private Round Trip Transportation.
Lunch (Meat, salad, sodas, tea, coffee, dessert, fruits).
Optional: Video and Photos Services.

Not Included:

UV chap-stick.
Sunscreen.
Sleeping bag, mattress.
Extra socks (4 pairs).
Warm clothes for the night (fleece, long pants).
Light clothes for rafting.
Fold-up lightweight rain gear / poncho.
Collapsible umbrella for rain and shade.
Waterproof day back pack for water and personal items.
Trekking shoes.
Non-disposable water bottle (stainless steel).
Water purification tablets (Micropur available in Cusco).
Flashlight.
Insect repellent.
Camera.
Compass.
Small travel binoculars.
Toilet paper for your backpack.
Pocket knife.
Bandana.
Brimmed hat.
Small notebook and pen (notes for your blog and wildlife sketches).
Small tone.
Bathing suit.
Foam ear plugs. For long bus rides and better rest.
Medications.
Airborne.
Imodium-D.
Ibuprofen.
Band-aids.
Treat shoes with waterproof silicon spray before leaving home.
Personal clothing for trek, extra socks and t-shirts.
Lighter / matches ziploc plastic with hiking energy food.
Ziploc plastic bags to keep clothes dry.

FAQs – Your Urubamba River Rafting Day Tour Questions Answered

When is the best time to raft the Urubamba?
December to April (rainy season) when the river is higher and rapids are stronger.

What makes this tour different from others in Cusco?
You can choose between Class II, III, IV, and V rapids depending on season and skill level.

What type of travelers usually book this tour?
Adventure seekers looking for adrenaline and nature in the Sacred Valley.

Do I need prior rafting experience?
No—guides provide instruction and safety, suitable for beginners and experts.

What kind of accommodation is included?
Not applicable—it’s a one-day tour returning to Cusco.

Are transfers included?
Yes—includes ground transportation to and from Cusco.

What altitude is reached during the tour?
The Urubamba River runs at about 2,800 m (9,186 ft) in the Sacred Valley.

What kind of weather should I expect?
Mild during the day, cool in the morning, with possible light showers.

What should I pack for this adventure?
Light clothing, rain gear, swimwear, sturdy sandals, sunscreen, and insect repellent.

Is this tour eco-friendly?
Yes—we work with local communities, minimize waste, and respect the natural environment.

Can the itinerary be customized?
Yes—you can combine it with visits to Pisaq, Ollantaytambo, or Maras.

What level of rapids are included?
Class II in Ollantaytambo, Class III in Quiquijana (May–December), Class IV and V (December–May).