Best Outdoor Adventures In The Sacred Valley

Highlights

• Follow the historic ‘Inca Trail’ to Machu Picchu along ancient Inca footpaths, retracing the steps of a civilization lost to time.
• Mountain bike down exhilarating single-track trails between picturesque mountain villages, experiencing the raw beauty of the Andes firsthand.
• Spend an unforgettable night in a transparent glass capsule hanging precariously high on a cliff overlooking the breathtaking Sacred Valley, a truly unique accommodation.
• Summon your courage and jump off one of the highest bungee jumps in South America, an adrenaline-pumping freefall experience that will leave you breathless, located near Cusco.

Overview

The Sacred Valley, in addition to its world-renowned trekking opportunities, has blossomed into a premier destination for a diverse array of action and adventure sports. Beyond simply walking its ancient paths, the region now caters to thrill-seekers and adrenaline junkies from around the globe. For those with an insatiable thirst for adventure, the Sacred Valley presents a thrilling menu of options, including exhilarating mountain biking escapades, heart-pounding whitewater rafting adventures, gravity-defying bungee jumping experiences, and challenging rock climbing routes — all of which can be conveniently arranged through reputable local tour operators based in the vibrant city of Cusco. These operators possess invaluable knowledge of the terrain and the necessary expertise to ensure both safety and unforgettable memories.

If you’re meticulously planning to embark on one of the captivating alternative treks to Machu Picchu, venturing off the beaten path to discover hidden gems and less-crowded trails, it may be entirely possible to seamlessly integrate some of these exhilarating adventure highlights into your meticulously crafted trekking itinerary. The key is to proactively check with the local operators, those intimately familiar with the region’s offerings, to explore the various options and tailor your experience to your specific preferences and adrenaline threshold.

White-water Rafting

The Sacred Valley boasts some delightfully exciting Class II and III rapids on the mighty Urubamba river, providing an ideal setting for thrilling day trips that can be effortlessly organized by one of our knowledgeable and experienced local specialists. The most popular and frequently traversed section of the river is the invigorating Class III stretch that flows from the charming town of Ollantaytambo to the welcoming community of Chilca. These exhilarating rafting trips typically commence around 9 am, encompassing convenient transportation to and from the river, ample time spent navigating the rapids under the guidance of expert rafters, and a well-deserved, replenishing stop for a delicious lunch amidst the stunning scenery.

For those seasoned adventurers who possess more extensive whitewater rafting experience and are yearning for a greater challenge, longer, multi-day expeditions can be skillfully organized on the more demanding and untamed Apurimac and Tambopata rivers. These multi-day journeys offer an unparalleled opportunity to immerse yourself in the raw beauty of the Peruvian wilderness, testing your skills and endurance against the powerful currents of these legendary rivers.

Mountain Biking

Once you’ve diligently acclimatized to the high altitude of the Andes, allowing your body to adjust to the thinner air and reduced oxygen levels, mountain biking can emerge as an exceptional and liberating way to explore the Sacred Valley’s hidden corners and discover its best off-the-beaten-path locations at your own leisurely pace. The freedom of pedaling through stunning landscapes, the wind in your hair, and the thrill of conquering challenging trails create an unforgettable experience. However, given the significant altitude of the region, which can impact physical performance, and the fact that the main roads in the Valley often lack adequate space and safety measures for cyclists, it is absolutely crucial to invest time in consulting with a knowledgeable local specialist to meticulously plan your routes well in advance of setting off on your two-wheeled adventure. These experts can provide invaluable insights into trail conditions, elevation changes, and potential hazards, ensuring a safe and enjoyable biking experience.

The mountain biking options within the Sacred Valley are virtually limitless, catering to a wide range of skill levels and preferences. However, one highly recommended and universally praised route winds its way from the charming town of Maras, famed for its ancient salt pans, to the fascinating Moray ruins, an intriguing agricultural laboratory of the Inca civilization, and ultimately culminates at a welcoming local brewery in the quaint village of Pachar. This route offers a perfect blend of cultural immersion, historical exploration, and breathtaking natural scenery, making it an ideal choice for a memorable day on two wheels. Local operators can also arrange transport for you and your bike to and from some of the best rides, providing logistical support for your two-wheeled adventures

Multi-Day Treks

Without a doubt, the most famed and iconic way to arrive at the awe-inspiring Machu Picchu is by embarking on a challenging yet rewarding trek along the legendary “Inca Trail,” a four-day journey that culminates in a breathtaking sunrise view over the majestic ruins from the vantage point of the Sun Gate (Inti Punku). This historic trail, meticulously constructed by the Inca civilization centuries ago, winds its way through stunning mountain landscapes, offering glimpses into the rich history and cultural heritage of the region.

However, it’s important to note that Inca trails, remnants of this sophisticated network of ancient pathways, actually run throughout the vast expanse of the Andes Mountains. Recognizing the allure of these historic routes, many travelers actively seek out “Alternative” Inca Trail treks, opting to venture off the main, often crowded trail, either to avoid the throngs of tourists or because they were unable to secure a coveted permit for the classic Inca Trail experience. Regardless of which trek you ultimately choose to undertake, it is absolutely essential to book your adventure with a reputable and responsible local operator, ensuring both your safety and the preservation of the environment and the cultural integrity of the communities you encounter along the way.

Day Hikes

In addition to the adrenaline-charged activities that have become increasingly popular in the region, the Sacred Valley also presents a plethora of excellent day hikes, catering to those individuals who are seeking a more relaxed and contemplative way to immerse themselves in the spectacular mountain scenery and appreciate the natural beauty of the Andes at their own unhurried pace. These invigorating day hikes can be exhilarating adventures in their own right, offering a unique opportunity to visit some of the welcoming rural communities that dot the landscape and explore lesser-visited, yet equally captivating, ruins that whisper tales of the past throughout the Valley.

Paddleboarding

Stand-up paddleboarding (SUP) on the tranquil waters of Lake Piuray emerges as a truly exceptional activity for those seeking a more serene and reflective way to connect with the natural environment in the Sacred Valley. The lake, perched at a significant altitude of 3,720 meters (approximately 12,200 feet), presents a unique challenge to paddlers, so this half-day trip is best enjoyed after you have allowed your body sufficient time to acclimatize to the thinner air and reduced oxygen levels. Most paddleboarding trips depart from Cusco in the early morning hours, taking advantage of the typically calmer waters that prevail during this time of day, and return by midday, allowing you to continue exploring the region’s other attractions in the afternoon.

Bungee Jumping

Although technically not located directly within the boundaries of the Sacred Valley itself, for those intrepid travelers who are actively seeking an adrenaline rush of epic proportions, it is highly recommended that you explore Action Valley, a renowned adventure park situated a mere 30-minute drive west of the city of Cusco. Action Valley offers a thrilling array of adrenaline-pumping activities, including both a heart-stopping bungee jump and a gravity-defying “slingshot” ride at their expansive “Adventure Park.” The focal point of these activities is a small, unassuming platform attached to a sturdy cable that is strung between the towering valley walls, providing the base for both the bungee jump and the slingshot experience. The bungee jump itself is an awe-inspiring 400 feet high, a staggering drop that claims to be the highest bungee jump in all of Latin America.

Zip-lining and Climbing

Natura Vive offers thrill-seekers a truly unique and unforgettable vantage point from which to appreciate the breathtaking beauty of the Sacred Valley, all from the company’s daring cliff-side operation that is strategically located near the charming town of Ollantaytambo. The adventure begins with an exhilarating climb of 400 meters (approximately 1,300 feet) up the vertical cliff face, utilizing sturdy metal handles that are securely embedded in the rock. Once you’ve reached the summit, the real thrill begins as you zipline down the mountainside via seven exhilarating cables that vary in length from 150 to an astounding 700 meters (approximately 500 to 2,300 feet). To top off this unforgettable experience, you have the option of spending a night in one of their unique glass-enclosed capsules that are suspended dramatically from the side of the mountain, offering unparalleled views of the valley below.

Overnight in a Sky Capsule

Hanging precariously against the sheer cliff walls high above the Sacred Valley, in close proximity to the quaint village of Ollantaytambo, are transparent glass capsules that offer a truly unique and unforgettable accommodation experience for the exceptionally adventurous traveler. Natura Vive employs a team of highly trained and experienced guides who are dedicated to assisting you in safely climbing the cliff wall (with the aid of a secure harness and ladder system) to reach these remarkable capsules. Once you’ve settled into your suspended abode, you’ll be treated to a delicious meal, an optional and exhilarating zip-line tour, and the opportunity to spend one of the most picturesque and memorable nights of your life, gazing out over the breathtaking beauty of the valley below, bathed in the soft glow of the Andean stars.

ATV Tours

For those individuals who harbor a passion for motorized quad-bikes, also known as ATVs (All-Terrain Vehicles), the Sacred Valley offers a selection of adventurous and exciting tours that allow you to explore the region’s rugged terrain and hidden gems in a unique and exhilarating way. One particularly popular day trip takes you across a network of winding dirt roads that traverse the Valley, making stops at some of the most popular and noteworthy attractions, including the fascinating salt pans of Maras, the intriguing agricultural terraces of Moray, the visually stunning Salt Mines, and the historically significant town of Chinchero. It is absolutely crucial to carefully check with the local operator to ensure that they operate their tours responsibly and ethically, taking appropriate measures to manage their environmental and community impact and implementing adequate safety precautions to protect both the participants and the surrounding environment.

Getting around the Sacred Valley

Taxi: Taxis provide a convenient and readily available mode of transportation within the bustling city of Cusco. Furthermore, they can be easily hired to transport you to and from the town of Urubamba and various other destinations throughout the valley. You can readily locate taxis in close proximity to the Plaza de Armas, the main square in the heart of Cusco, making them a readily accessible option for getting around.

Private car/van: Opting for a private car or van offers a superior and more comfortable way to navigate the Sacred Valley, particularly when venturing to remote communities nestled within the surrounding mountains. This mode of transportation is best organized through reputable local tour operators, ensuring a seamless and hassle-free travel experience.

Bus: Public buses are available throughout the region, offering an inexpensive mode of transportation. However, it’s important to note that they are not always the most efficient option for those travelers who are seeking to maximize their limited time and explore the region in a timely manner.

Train: The vast majority of travelers will inevitably find themselves taking a train either to or from the iconic Machu Picchu. The train ride itself, which follows the meandering course of the Urubamba river as it winds its way through the valley, is undoubtedly a highlight of any trip to the region, offering stunning views and a unique perspective on the surrounding landscape. The train journey is an experience in itself, allowing you to soak in the breathtaking scenery and immerse yourself in the natural beauty of the Andes.