Cusco is well-known as the best one-day whitewater river rafting in Peru partly because of the Black Canyon one-day rafting. The Black Canyon switches from exciting, splashy rapids to peaceful pools, offering paddlers a chance to break in-between as well as the opportunity to test out our cool single-person inflatable Kayaks.
Season: May to Nov.
Experience the thrill of navigating world-class rapids, offering an exciting and adventurous white-water rafting journey.
Spot playful giant otters in their natural environment. Observe a variety of bird species, including majestic Andean condors and colorful parrots. Watch for graceful deer and other native wildlife along the riverbanks.
Enjoy a scenic hike to a stunning waterfall, where you can marvel at the natural beauty and refreshing waters.
Immerse in Apurimac Black Canyon’s beauty; cliffs, river, awe. Unforgettable nature, grand landscapes, captivating. Explore, be amazed, let it mark your soul.
As the premier one-day rafting experience, this excursion takes you on a pulse-pounding journey through the magnificent Black Canyon.
We pick you up from your hotel at 5:30 am for a scenic three-hour drive southwest of Cusco, winding through the Andes down to the Apurimac River. We make a few stops along the way time to stretch, take photos and enjoy the views. By around 8:30 am, we reach the starting point, where everyone helps get things ready: inflating the rafts, unloading gear and getting organised together. Once set, we kit you out with everything you need full-length wetsuit, shorts, Type V life vest, helmet, paddle jacket, river shoes and paddle.
Before we hit the water, your guides run a thorough safety briefing covering floating positions, paddle commands, the safety rope, swimming techniques and how to handle the one-man inflatable kayaks. We start on a calm stretch of river ideal for putting all of that into practice. There are no rapids until everyone feels confident and ready.
The first section is relaxed and beautiful: gentle pools, easy waves and a handful of light rapids framed by spectacular scenery. There’s time to hop in a kayak, walk to Sumaro waterfall, spot wildlife or simply enjoy the river. As we approach the Black Canyon, the pace picks up. The canyon walls close in, the waves get splashier and the rapids more exciting Class II, III and IV. The Class IV sections can be bypassed if preferred, making this a great option for families and children from age 10.
After the rapids, the river quiets down again perfect timing for a proper lunch break by the water. The final canyon section brings fast, thrilling whitewater, strong currents and dramatic views of the towering canyon walls.
Four to five hours after setting off, the adventure comes to a close. Our driver is waiting at the takeout point with the van and dry clothes, and the three-hour ride back to Cusco gives you plenty of time to relive every rapid.
If you’re planning more time in the region, this rafting trip pairs beautifully with our Machu Picchu adventure tours and Cusco tours — a great way to mix adventure with culture and make the most of your time in Peru.”
Private Transport: From your hotel to the rafting start point and from the rafting end point back to your hotel in Cusco.
Meals: Enjoy a delicious lunch pack including vegetables, bread, sandwiches, and more. Vegetarian and vegan options are available upon request. Includes two snacks, one in the morning and one after lunch.
Rafting Gear: Top-quality gear including type V life vests, paddle jackets, helmets, wetsuits with long arms and legs, river shoes, paddles, and a small dry bag for essentials like sunscreen and mosquito repellent. A satellite phone is also provided for safety.
Guides: Experienced guides certified in Swift-Water Rescue and advanced first aid to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.
First Aid: A complete first aid kit is carried along.
Safety: An extra safety kayak accompanies the group.
One person inflatable Kayak: We bring a one-person inflatable kayak for those who wish to try it on easier level I and II rapids.
Travel Insurance: We highly recommend purchasing travel insurance before making any payments.
Breakfast and Dinner: Morning breakfast and evening dinner are provided.
Personal Items: Personal items (refer to the checklist).
Tips: Typically, tips amount to 10% of the tour cost.
