Flying with a paraglider over Cusco gives you sights of the Sacred Valley that nothing else matches. It’s one of those rush-filled activities that pumps you up big time in this area.
Hold up though, before jumping in and reserving a spot on one of these flights, get the lowdown on what paragliding here really involves.
Bottom line? You want the whole thing to go smooth and stay fun without issues!
We’ve rounded up common questions in this piece about paragliding travels, so you figure out if it fits you. Plus, pick the right outfit to sign up with.
Common Questions About Paragliding Trips in Cusco
How risky is paragliding around Cusco?
Depends what you call risky. Paragliding anywhere counts as more hazardous than loads of other outdoor stuff you might try.
But dangers drop a lot with a solid company, decent equipment, and especially a skilled flyer at the controls.
- Before picking one, dig into basics like:
- How many years they’ve run these outings.
- Condition of their stuff, how fresh it is.
- Background on the person flying with you.
- At least, that flyer needs:
- Official papers from groups like FAI or APVL, maybe a pro license.
- Tons of air hours logged. Lots should come from double rides.
Sacred Valley’s got mountains everywhere, so flights here demand more skill than, say, coastal spots like Lima. Stick with trustworthy operators and pros only. Man, I wonder sometimes if all companies check this stuff thoroughly.
Do I need skills or lessons for paragliding in Cusco?
No need for your own know-how or classes to fly paraglider in Cusco. Every trip here uses tandem setup with trained experts. They show quick tips on starting and touching down safe. Up in the air? Flyer’s handling everything.
Where do these paragliding outings happen, and how long?
Most groups launch from a couple main areas for paragliding near Cusco. One big spot’s by Pisac, around 45 minutes out from town.
Other common takeoff’s close to Chinchero, roughly an hour north in Sacred Valley. Both give killer looks over the valley, with proper setup points. Rides last 10 to 20 minutes or so.
A few outfits do longer ones, soaring from Sacred Valley right to old Inca spots at Sacsayhuaman by Cusco. That takes about 45 minutes, covers more ground over valley and city. Wait, is Sacsayhuaman always open for landings? Not sure, better check.
What’s the price for paragliding in Cusco?
Prices differ between groups for Cusco paragliding, but usually start with at least two people booking. Per head, it’s US$120 to $150. Solo? Add $20-$30 extra. Team up with folks to cut costs, yeah?
To reserve a paragliding outing in Cusco, hand over:
- Full name
- Passport ID
- Where you’re from
- Birth date
- Weight, height
- Put down 50-60% upfront.
- What’s covered most times: Private ride from Cusco to takeoff and back.
- Gear rental.
- Expert flyer.
Some add extras like video clips of your ride. Pack a GoPro yourself to record it all. I mean, who wouldn’t want footage from up there?
What’s not: Meals, drinks.
What to pack or put on?
For Cusco paragliding trip, grab:
Shoes that fit well, comfy for moving. Skip open toes.
- Clothes in layers for sports. Pants that zip off, jacket for warmth – adjust as weather shifts.
- Sunscreen, shades, cap.
- Water, liter at least.
- Food bits. Waiting for wind can drag hours. Fruits, sammies, chips, nuts, candy work.
- Rain gear, poncho especially Oct-April wet times.
- Bag small for stuff.
- Cam, vid recorder, GoPro with holders.
Bit heavy, can I still fly paraglider?
Depends on how much “bit” means. Companies cap at under 100kg, that’s 220 lbs or about 15.5 stone.
Heart issues, okay to paraglide?
Talk to doc first if aiming for paragliding in Cusco or Sacred Valley. Honestly though, most won’t let you if heart stuff’s there already. Skip it if problems – safety first! Damn, that could ruin plans quick.
Wrapping Up
Got questions or tips on Cusco paragliding? Drop comment, we’ll hit back in a day. Come check.
