Paragliding in Cusco provides unrivalled views of the Sacred Valley and is undoubtedly one of the most exciting and adrenaline filled experiences you can have in the region.
But before you go ahead and book yourself on a paragliding tour, it is important that you understand some basics about adventures involving paragliding in Cusco.
At the end of the day, the most important thing is that you have a safe and enjoyable experience!
In this paragliding Travel Guide, we have put together a list of the most frequently asked questions so that you can make an informed decision as to whether this experience is for you, as well as establish which company you should make a booking with.
Paragliding Tour in Cusco FAQs
Is Paragliding in Cusco Dangerous?
It really depends on your definition of danger. Paragliding in general, regardless of where or when it is conducted, is a relatively dangerous activity when compared to the multitude of other adventure experiences you could undertake.
However, risks to your safety are significantly mitigated by the quality of the tour company you book with, the quality of gear used, and most importantly, the experience of the pilot.
When choosing a company, you should find out some key information first:
Ask how long they have been running tours for.
Establish how new and well maintained their equipment is.
Get a brief history on your pilot’s experience.
At a minimum, your pilot should have the following credentials:
A professional certification and commercial licence or membership from either FAI or the APVL.
Hundreds of hours of flight time under their belt. A significant portion of this time should have been conducted whilst piloting tandem flights.
The Scared Valley is a mountainous area which makes the flight more technical than paragliding in Lima, for example. Make sure you only go with a reliable company and experienced pilot.
Do I need to have any technical skills or training to Paraglide in Cusco?
No, you don’t need any technical skills or training to go paragliding in Cusco. All paragliding tours in Cusco and the Sacred Valley are tandem flights that should be operated by trained paragliders. You will be shown the basics of how to take off and land in a safe way, but once you’re airborne, the pilot will be in full control.
Where do Paragliding tours in Cusco fly and how long do they last?
There are two main spots where most operators run their paragliding tour in Cusco. The first and most popular is near Chinchero, which is about 1 hour north of Cusco in the Sacred Valley.
The other frequently used launch spot is near Pisac, which is about 45 minutes from Cusco. Both provide exquisite views of the Sacred Valley and have well profiled launch stations. Flights from these stations last between 10 – 20 minutes.
Some operators offer special tours which fly from the Sacred Valley all the way to the ancient Incan ruins at Sacsayhuaman near Cusco city. This option lasts about 45 minutes and provides more extensive views of the Sacred Valley and Cusco city.
How much does it cost to Paraglide in Cusco?
Costs vary from operator to operator to paraglide in Cusco, but are generally based on a 2 – person minimum booking. Each person pays between US$120-US$150. If you are a single person, expect to pay a US$20-US$30 premium. Hence, it’s worth joining up with a small group to save on expenses.
To Book a paragliding Tour in Cusco, you need to provide the following information:
Your full name
Your passport number
Your nationality
Your date of birth
Your weight and height
You need to pay a 50-60% deposit
Costs Usually Include
Costs Usually Exclude
Private Transport from Cusco to the launch site and return to Cusco
Food and Drinks
Rental of gear
Professional pilot
Some tour operators also offer additional services like short films of your flight. We recommend taking a GoPro on your trip so you can capture the experience in full.
What should I bring or wear?
For a paragliding Cusco tour, you should bring:
Comfortable and good – fitting shoes. No sandals or flip flops.
Sporty layered clothes. Convertible trousers and a warm jacket is recommended so that you can layer up or down depending on changes in the weather.
Sunblock, sunglasses and a hat.
Water (at least 1 litre).
Snacks. You can end up waiting a few hours for the right weather conditions and thermals. Bring some food to snack on like fruit, sandwiches, crisps, nuts and sweets.
A rain jacket or poncho, particularly during the raining season (October-April).
A small backpack or bag to hold your belongings.
A camera, video Camera or GoPro (with mounts).
I’m a little overweight, can I still go paragliding?
It really depends on your definition of a “little overweight.” Most companies require participants to weigh under 100kg (220 pounds or 15.5 stone).
I have a Heart Condition, am I allowed to Paraglide?
We recommend seeking medical advice and clearance if you want to paraglide in Cusco and the Sacred Valley. That being said, most tour operators will not allow you to paraglide if you have a pre-existing heart condition. If you have any heart problems, it is highly recommended giving this tour a miss!
Conclusion
If you have any questions or insights about Paragliding Cusco, leave us a comment below and we will respond within 24 hours (remember to check back).
The Inca salt mines in the Sacred Valley is an essential part of your exploration of the Inca Heartland in Peru. Indeed there are many ruins to visit and mountainsides to trek, but one intriguing sight that should not go unnoticed are the ancient salt pans, known as Salineras de Maras. Strategically dug into the […]
Here is a list of what we consider to be the 7 best Hiking trails in South America. Each trek is unique and filled with a range of biodiverse landscapes. Ranging from natural, cultural or archaeological, one of the main reasons many visitors return to Peru. Visit time and time again as there is always […]
What is the best way to spend 4 days in Cusco? You need to explore this unique city and the beautiful Sacred Valley. Depending on your time in Cusco, we’ll provide a the possible itineraries . If you’re planning to explore Peru’s Sacred Valley and visit Machu Picchu, Cusco is the perfect home base to […]
Sam Corporations
Why Choose SAM CORPORATION
Local Peruvian Company
Our company is 100% locally owned. We directly contribute to economic development and
environmental sustainability in Peru.
Service Quality
The quality of our service is one of our most important values which demands all our effort, determination, and courage to be successful in what we are
doing and the services we provide
Responsible travel
We aim to have a positive impact in all the areas that we visit. Through our training sessions and social projects, we empower women, indigenous communities and
children
Small Personalized Groups
Our groups never exceed 10 people, giving you a personalized tour in our small comfortable
vans
100% Customised Itinerary
Interested in visiting only specific destinations? No problem, all our packages can be fully
customized to suit your budget and schedule. Contact our travel advisors to plan the most
comprehensive trip of a lifetime.
Community and Environment
We commit socially and culturally to the community and adapt our business strategies to the preservation
of the environment
100% Locally owned and operated.
Best Tour guides & trip leaders.
Quality-Touch & Personalized service
Highest quality, name brand equipment.
All Inclusive Tours with no hidden fees.
Sustainable Prctice and responsible travel.
Safety conscious with first aid training annually.
Unique Tours & Trekking routes
Customized Tours & Packages forFair and kind travel.
Personalized Attention with the Most Dedicated Team
Giving back to our local communities
Quality
Why Choose SAM CORPORATION
100% Customised itinerary
Contact our travel advisors to plan the most complete trip of your life.
Easy communication
Simplified ease of communication, text us on WhatsApp, email or call us.
Professional and experienced
Our guides are local and have vast knowledge in Peruvian culture and history.
Local peruvian company
100% local company. Development and environmental sustainability
Small personalized groups
Our groups never exceed 10 people, giving you an unforgettable experience
Memorable trips
Discover an exceptional journey where perfection meets adventure.