CANOTATION IN THE CANYON OF APURIMAC Full Day

The mighty river

The river that gives rise to the adventure on a raft runs through an extraordinary and deep canyon, one of those places where the beauty of the landscape and the strong emotions are intertwined to enjoy a privileged nature. It is situated very close to the snowy Salcantay and divides during a great stretch the departments of Cusco and Apurímac. During its journey it crosses close to important places such as the archaeological complex of Choquequirao – old bastion of the Incas of Vilcabamba – and the medicinal baths of Cónoc

When to go?

The flow of the Apurímac varies according to the season. The best time to visit it is between the months of May and October. Rollercoaster sensations on the boat are interspersed with gentle stretches in which the raft is carried by the river, while extraordinary rock formations are appreciated. During the afternoon the expedition leaves the river to settle on sandy beaches and set up camp. Bonfires, a sky covered with stars and the sound of the river mark nights of tranquility and meditation.

Boating in Apurimac

Various agencies that are located in the Plaza de Armas of Cusco offer this possibility. Most itineraries take three to four days. Five hours by road and a descent to 2,000 meters of altitude mark the arrival to the Hualpachaca bridge. At this point the security systems are distributed: helmets, ropes, life vests, neoprene suits for the cold, and all the equipment is prepared inside the raft.

It sails approximately 55 kilometers and is crossed by rapids of class III, IV and even V. The maximum in boating is grade VI, and this is reserved only for expert adventurers and well trained. The route in the Apurímac is quite demanding and requires absolute concentration. A safety kayak as a companion for each raft, provides the necessary tranquility in case of any mishap. Those who know the Apurímac always say that it is he who commands, for that reason the river deserves all possible respect. No precaution is too much for those who dare to venture into its waters.

The rapids

An intrinsic part of boating are the difficulties at the time of crossing the rivers and their turbulent waters. These obstacles or stretches of white water, full of eddies and movement, are called rapids. Rivers contemplate rapids that are cataloged from I to VI. Normally the most interesting rapids are those of class III, IV and even V. Those of class VI are reserved only for experts and adventurers with a lot of experience. Running the class IV and V rapids is often a formidable experience loaded with adrenaline. Class VI rapids always carry a great risk.

The best fast of the route, which is usually found on the third day of the adventure, is a famous class V called Toothache. It is a technical step, dangerous and very large. Once in the river there is no time to worry. The crew must here obey the captain and row strong. After the difficult test, other rapids are also interesting but more relaxed: Babalúa, You first, After You and Last Laughter. If after all the effort still has energy, it is possible to do bungee jumping from the top of the Cúnyac bridge, where the trip ends.

Our service includes:

• Rubber boat, oars, life jacket, helmet and raincoat.
• Transfers in tourist bus.

We recommend to bring:

• Swimwear.
• Shorts and thin.
• Insect repellent.
• Sunscreen.
• Towel.
• A set of dry clothes, including shoes for return.