4 Adventure Sports in Cusco: The Ultimate Peru Vacations Experience

Cusco, also known as the “navel of the world,” is a city located in the Andean region of Peru and is considered one of the most important tourist destinations in the country. The city is famous for its rich history and cultural heritage, as well as its proximity to Machu Picchu, one of the most iconic and visited tourist destinations in the world. But Cusco is not only a destination for those interested in history and culture; it is also an excellent destination for adventure sports enthusiasts.

The Best Adventure Sports in Cusco

Cusco offers a wide range of outdoor activities for adrenaline junkies and adventure seekers. From hiking and mountain biking to rock climbing and white-water rafting, the city and its surroundings have something for everyone. Here are some of the best adventure sports to try in Cusco:

Hiking:

Cusco is also a popular destination for hiking enthusiasts, with a variety of trails to choose from. Here are some of the most popular hiking trails in the Cusco region:

1. Inca Trail: The Inca Trail is one of the most famous and popular hiking trails in the world. It is a multi-day trek that takes you through stunning Andean landscapes and ancient Inca ruins, culminating in the breathtaking Machu Picchu.
2. Salkantay Trek: The Salkantay Trek is a challenging alternative to the Inca Trail, taking you through high mountain passes and remote Andean villages.
3. Rainbow Mountain: Rainbow Mountain (also known as Vinicunca) is a day hike that takes you to one of the most stunning natural wonders in the region. The hike offers panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.
4. Choquequirao Trek: The Choquequirao Trek is a multi-day trek that takes you to the ruins of Choquequirao, which are often referred to as a smaller version of Machu Picchu.
5. Ausangate Trek: The Ausangate Trek is a challenging multi-day trek that takes you through stunning Andean landscapes, past high mountain lakes and glaciers, and over high mountain passes.

There are many tour operators in Cusco that offer guided hikes and treks to these and other destinations in the region. It is recommended to book with a reputable company and to ensure that you are physically prepared for the difficulty level of the hike. Additionally, visitors should be mindful of the high altitude in the region and take steps to acclimatize properly.

You can also read: Vinicunca or Rainbow Mountain

Mountain Biking:

There are a variety of trails available for all levels of riders, ranging from beginner-friendly to challenging technical descents. Many of the trails offer breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.

Some popular mountain biking trails in Cusco include:

1. Moray and Maras: This trail is a great option for beginners and offers scenic views of the Andean mountains and traditional Peruvian villages.
2. Abra Malaga: This trail is more challenging and is recommended for experienced riders. It offers technical terrain and stunning views of the surrounding mountains.

There are several mountain biking tour companies in Cusco that offer guided tours of these trails, as well as equipment rentals. It is recommended to book a tour with a reputable company to ensure your safety and enjoyment while biking in the mountains.

Rock Climbing:

Cusco is home to some of the best rock climbing in South America. The city and its surroundings offer excellent opportunities for both sport and traditional climbing, with routes for all skill levels. Some of the most popular climbing areas include the Sacred Valley and the South Valley.

You may also like: Top 10 places to visit in and around Lake Titicaca

White-water Rafting:

Cusco is an excellent destination for white-water rafting enthusiasts. Its surroundings offer a wide range of rivers for all skill levels, from easy and gentle rivers for beginners to challenging and technical rivers for experienced rafters. Some of the most popular white-water rafting routes include the Urubamba River, the Apurimac River, and the Vilcanota River.

Experience Cusco and Machu Picchu in a Different Way

Cusco is not only a destination for history and culture lovers but also an excellent destination for adventure sports enthusiasts. The city and its surroundings offer a wide range of outdoor activities for adrenaline junkies and adventure seekers. Whether you want to hike to Machu Picchu, mountain bike in the Andean mountains, rock climb on ancient Inca ruins, or white-water raft on wild rivers, Cusco has something for everyone. So, if you’re planning a Peru vacation and want to experience the country in a different way, consider adding adventure sports to your itinerary.

Colourful Peru invites you to experience our country. We are committed to offer you the best options so you can live a Colourful journey. If you want to know more about our suggested journeys, do not hesitate to get in touch with us.