Few views of the Sacred Valley match the one from above. A tandem paragliding flight launches from a ridge above the valley floor and glides over patchwork fields, terraced hillsides and the river, with the snow peaks standing behind. You are strapped in front of an experienced pilot who handles the launch, the flying and the landing, so no previous experience is needed. The glide is calm rather than frightening, and many people are surprised by how quiet it is once the wing fills and lifts you off the slope.
The flight itself usually lasts around fifteen to twenty minutes, though weather decides the exact length. Thermals build as the day warms, so pilots favour mornings and early afternoons when the air is stable and visibility is clear. Expect a short safety briefing, a run of a few steps down the slope to launch, and then a smooth ride with time to look around and take photographs with a camera that the pilot may attach for you. Landings are normally on a flat field near the road and are gentle.
Altitude matters here. The valley sits at roughly 2,800 metres, and the launch point is higher, so take a day or two to settle in before you fly. Drink water, avoid a heavy lunch beforehand and wear closed shoes with grip, long trousers and a jacket, because it is cool in the air even on a warm day. Sunglasses and a hat that will not blow off are sensible. Weight limits apply, and operators will tell you the range when you reserve.
Wind and cloud can cancel flights, so keep a spare day if the experience is important to you, and ask what happens if conditions are poor on the morning. The rainy season, from November to March, brings afternoon cloud and showers, so mornings are the safer bet, while the drier months from May to September give the most reliable flying. Pair the flight with a lunch in Urubamba or a visit to Moray and Maras in the afternoon.
What to expect
The experience
A guided tandem flight with a licensed pilot, including a safety briefing, a short launch run and a gentle landing in a valley field.
Best time
Morning or early afternoon on a clear day, with the most settled air from May to September.
How long
Around fifteen to twenty minutes in the air, within a half-day outing.
Tips
Acclimatise for a day or two first, wear closed shoes and a warm layer, and keep a spare day in case wind or cloud stops flights.
Quick picks
- Best for
- Travellers who want a calm, high-impact way to see the valley from above.
- Families
- Operators set age and weight limits, so check these before reserving; it suits older children and teenagers better than young ones.
- Couples
- A shared experience that makes a memorable photo, followed by a long lunch in the valley.
- Pair with
- Moray and the Maras salt pans, or a relaxed afternoon in Urubamba.
- Time needed
- Half a day.
Good questions
Do I need paragliding experience?+
No. You fly tandem with a licensed pilot who manages the launch, the flight and the landing.
How long is the flight?+
Usually around fifteen to twenty minutes in the air, depending on wind and thermals. The whole outing takes a few hours.
Is it safe at altitude?+
Pilots fly here regularly, but the valley is high. Rest for a day or two before flying and drink water.
What if the weather is bad?+
Wind and cloud can cancel flights. Ask the operator about rescheduling, and keep a spare day in your plans.
What should I wear?+
Closed shoes with grip, long trousers and a warm jacket. Add sunglasses and a secure hat.
