Tours
Three-Day Black Canyon Apurimac River Rafting Expedition
Three days of whitewater, spectacular canyons, and an unforgettable adventure through the Andes.
Embark on an exciting three-day rafting expedition along the spectacular Apurimac River, one of Peru’s most famous whitewater rivers.
Known as the “Speaking God” in Quechua, the Apurimac River was highly revered by the Incas and is famous for its powerful rapids, impressive canyons, and remote landscapes.
Our expedition takes us from the highlands of Cusco deep into the Apurimac Canyon, where we will spend three days rafting through Class III and IV whitewater, camping along the river, and enjoying the incredible scenery of the Andes.
This is a true wilderness adventure for travelers looking for an exciting and immersive rafting experience away from the usual tourist routes.
Highlights
- Three-day rafting expedition
- Two nights camping along the Apurimac River
- Class III and IV whitewater
- Spectacular Apurimac Canyon
- Remote Andean landscapes
- Riverside camping
- Short hikes and opportunities to observe local wildlife
- Professional bilingual river guides
- Safety kayakers or safety cataraft
- All meals during the expedition
- Complete camping and rafting equipment
Season & River Conditions
May – November: Dry season — generally Class III and IV conditions.
River conditions can vary depending on rainfall and water levels. Our professional guides will determine the safest route and procedures according to the conditions of the river.
Itinerary
Day 1 — Cusco – Apurimac Canyon – Rafting
We will depart from Cusco in the morning and travel across the Andes toward the spectacular Apurimac Canyon.
After approximately four hours of travel, we will reach the river and prepare for our expedition.
Our professional guides will provide a safety briefing and instructions before we begin rafting.
We will spend the afternoon navigating exciting Class III and IV rapids, surrounded by the impressive walls of the Apurimac Canyon.
After several hours on the river, we will reach our first riverside campsite.
Our team will prepare dinner while you relax and enjoy the remote surroundings.
Overnight camping along the Apurimac River.
Meals included: Lunch and dinner
Day 2 — Full Day on the Apurimac River
After breakfast, we will continue our expedition downstream.
This will be our longest day on the river, combining exciting Class III and IV rapids with calmer sections where we can appreciate the incredible scenery of the canyon.
Depending on the conditions, we may also take a short hike to explore the surrounding landscape and vegetation.
During the day, we will stop at a riverside beach for lunch before continuing downstream.
Our guides will prepare another campsite along the river, where we will enjoy dinner and spend our second night surrounded by the spectacular Apurimac Canyon.
Overnight camping along the Apurimac River.
Meals included: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner
Day 3 — Final Rapids – Hualpachaca – Cusco
After breakfast, we will begin our final day on the Apurimac River.
We will continue navigating exciting Class III and IV rapids while making our way toward the end of the expedition.
As we approach Hualpachaca, we will complete the final section of rafting and say goodbye to the river.
Our private transportation will be waiting for us at the take-out point.
After lunch, we will begin our approximately 5-hour journey back to Cusco.
Upon arrival in Cusco, we will transfer you to your hotel, marking the end of our three-day Apurimac River rafting expedition.
Meals included: Breakfast and lunch
What’s Included
- Round-trip private transportation from Cusco
- Professional bilingual river guides
- Safety kayakers or safety cataraft
- Complete rafting equipment
- Raft
- Helmet
- Life jacket
- Wetsuit
- Windbreaker
- Paddles
- Waterproof bags
- Tents
- Sleeping bags
- Cargo boat for expedition equipment and supplies
- First-aid kit
- All meals during the expedition
- Camping support
What’s Not Included
- Travel insurance
- Accident or life insurance
- Tips for guides
- Personal expenses
What to Bring
- Dry clothes for the camps
- Swimsuit
- Sunscreen
- Mosquito repellent
- Sandals or sneakers suitable for rafting
- Personal hygiene items
- Small towel
- Waterproof camera, if desired
- Small amount of cash for personal expenses
Important
This is a three-day wilderness rafting expedition involving physically demanding activities, remote environments, camping, and Class III and IV whitewater.
River conditions can change depending on rainfall and water levels. The final route and specific rapids will be determined by our professional guides based on current conditions and safety considerations.
Participants should be in good physical condition and comfortable participating in a multi-day outdoor adventure.
The itinerary may be modified due to weather, river conditions, safety considerations, or other circumstances beyond our control.