Whitewater Rafting in Peru

Peru is blessed with a few of the top whitewater rafting rivers in the world. No wonder it’s become such a popular vacation destination with those who love to run the wildest rivers available! In Peru, Class IV and V rapids are not at all unusual and experts love them. And for novices of the sport, fairly gentle float trips in Class II water is easy to find as well, making this a good pursuit for rafters of all levels.

Whitewater rafting trips in Peru can range from half- or one-day excursions to lengthy trips that can consume a week or two. The class of rapids you encounter will largely depend on the time of year. Mountain run-off during the spring months, for example, will make the rivers deeper and wilder. At other times of the year, the rivers are much more placid.

That said, it really is necessary, especially for foreigners, to find a reputable guide to lead them through the often wild and desolate rivers of Peru. Sometimes, however, that is easier said than done. Whitewater rafting – as a business – is not regulated in Peru and, hence, can be quite dangerous. Signing up in advance with a licensed outfitter is almost a must for long trips and travelers should never sign up for a last minute trip with a guide who can’t produce any sort of certification. The good, reputable outfitters are sold out months – sometimes a year – in advance for the lengthy trips. (Some of the best trips only depart a few times a year because of the weather conditions.) Don’t book a long trip with someone who is peddling cheap tours on a street corner – chances are he’s not licensed and that your trip will be neither safe nor enjoyable.  (Day trips may be the exception; but – again – check the licensing.)

Another major problem is that some of the best whitewater locations in Peru are also the most remote. That means that if you get hurt, getting you to a hospital - or getting emergency treatment to you - can be nearly impossible. That’s why potential rafters should always check to see whether their guides are certified life savers and also ask to see what first aid equipment will be coming along on the trip.   

Urubamba River

The Urubamba River offers a variety of adventures. The portion from Huambutio to Pisac is quite gentle and is ideal for novices. These are generally offered year round and may include a chance to visit the Pisac Market (Tuesday, Thursday, and Sunday) and a visit to some local Incan ruins.

The section between Ollantaytambo and Chilca offers mostly Class II and III rapids but can still accommodate most beginners. Some companies combine this with an Inca Trail hiking passage.

The toughest portion of the Urubamba is around Huaran, the section closest to Machu Picchu. This is for experienced rafters only and is only scheduled on occasion when water conditions warrant a safe trip.

Tambopata River

From June through October, rafters can run this river, which flows from the eastern slope of the Andes through the Tambopata National Reserve, providing exciting Class III and IV rapids. Guests will see some of the most beautiful rainforest on earth as well as colorful tropical plants and a variety of animal species. Most trips began at Puno on the shores of Lake Titicaca and end at Cusco and take about a week-and-a-half to complete.

Apurimac River

Take a bus from Cusco to the start of the awesome Apurimac River, the source of the Amazon, offering exciting adventures from May through November. Quickly gaining a reputation as one of the top 10 rafting rivers in the world, the Apurimac offers Class III, IV, and V rapids, including the wildest with names like “Toothache” and “Last Laugh.” This trip generally takes about 4 days and demands a very experienced guide with good first aid training.

Near Arequipa

There are several rivers near Arequipa that are suitable for beginners. Rio Chili is probably the most popular local river and half-day trips are offered there from about April through November, often at a very affordable price. Similarly, the Rio Majes offers an easy trip as well, though rafters may encounter a Class III rapid or two.

But the most extreme adventure is on the Cotahuasi River, which reaches into the world’s deepest canyon. A few outfitters run one or two trips on this river each year and the tour is only for those with the best whitewater skills. The entire trip takes 8 or 9 days and involves navigating mostly Class IV and V rapids. Similarly, adventurers can also try their hand at the Colca River, running through the canyon of the same name. This is even more dangerous than the Cotahuasi run and trips are quite infrequent and very expensive.

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