Apurímac river rafting: multi-day whitewater expeditions from Cusco

The Apurímac is one of the rivers that give rise to the Amazon and runs through one of Peru's deepest canyons. For many paddlers it's the country's great whitewater expedition: several days running rapids between rock walls, sleeping on sandy beaches by the river, far from any road. This guide explains what these expeditions are like, when they run and what you need.

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The river and the canyon

The Apurímac rises in the Andes of southern Peru and flows through a very deep canyon west of Cusco. In the stretch run from Cusco, the canyon walls rise hundreds of metres above the river, with rock formations, side waterfalls and very little human presence. It's a wild, spectacular setting, very different from the more touristy sections of the Urubamba.

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What the expeditions are like

The usual format is 3 or 4 days from Cusco. On day one you drive a few hours to the put-in, around the Huallpachaca bridge, and start paddling in the afternoon. The following days combine hours on the water, stops to explore waterfalls and nights at riverside camps. On the last day you take out and drive back to Cusco.

A day on the river

The day starts early with breakfast at camp. Then everything is packed, the rafts are loaded and you paddle for a few hours, with stops to explore on foot or swim in calm pools. Lunch is usually on a beach, and in the afternoon you reach the next camp, with time to rest before dinner.

Difficulty

Operators describe class III and IV rapids, with some class V, especially early in the season when flows are higher. Some rapids are avoided by walking along the bank (portages). Some sections are known as more technical and others as more accessible; ask exactly which section your expedition runs.

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Season

The season runs roughly May to November, while the river is in its dry season. In May and June flows are high and the rapids more powerful, better for experienced people. As the season goes on the water drops and the run becomes more accessible. In the rainy season the river is too dangerous and trips don't run.

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Requirements

• Being able to swim is essential.
• Good fitness: you paddle several hours a day.
• Previous rafting experience is highly recommended, especially early in the season.
• Being able to sleep in a tent and go without comforts.

If you've never rafted, try a day on the Urubamba first.

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Camps

You sleep in tents pitched on sandy beaches by the river. The operator's crew cooks and sets up camp. It cools down at night, and there can be insects on the beaches: bring repellent and long sleeves.

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Safety and choosing an operator

This is a serious activity in a remote place, so the operator is key:

• Guides trained in whitewater rescue and experienced on the Apurímac.
• Safety kayaks accompanying the rafts.
• A full first-aid kit and an evacuation plan.
• Gear in good condition: life jackets, helmets, wetsuits.

Ask for details and recent reviews. A very low price may mean cuts in safety.

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Travel insurance

Check that your insurance covers whitewater rafting and evacuation from remote areas. Many basic policies exclude it.

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What to bring

• Swimwear, quick-dry clothes and a dry change.
• Sandals or water shoes that can get wet.
• Warm clothes for the evening.
• Water-resistant sunscreen, sunglasses with a strap and a cap.
• Insect repellent.
• Personal medication in a dry bag.

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Altitude

The river runs much lower than Cusco, with a mild or hot climate by day. The drive crosses high areas, so arrive acclimatised in Cusco before the expedition.

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Alternatives

If you don't have several days or the experience, the Urubamba offers one-day sections of different difficulties near Cusco and the Sacred Valley. For another adventure in the same setting, the Choquequirao trek also crosses the Apurímac canyon on foot.

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Responsible tourism

In the canyon, everything that goes in must come out. Choose operators that pack out rubbish, handle waste properly and respect local communities.

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Notice: This guide shares advice and recommendations based on research and local experience. Prices, opening hours and rules may change: always check with official sources and operators. Cusco Tips is not responsible for third-party services, bookings or decisions made using these guides; some links are affiliate links (see our affiliate policy).