Explore the stunning beauty of Cusco from a unique perspective with a hot air balloon tethered flight. This adventure offers breathtaking panoramic views of the city and the Sacsayhuaman archaeological site. Participants will enjoy a 15-minute flight, a traditional ceremony featuring champagne, and a delightful picnic breakfast. With safety as the top priority, this experience blends adventure and celebration amidst the region’s stunning landscapes. Whether you’re seeking a memorable activity or simply want to capture the essence of Cusco, this tethered flight promises an unforgettable journey.
Key Points
- A 3.5-hour hot air balloon tethered flight experience in Cusco, with panoramic views of the city and the Sacsayhuaman archaeological site.
- Includes a 15-minute captive flight, a traditional ceremony with champagne and picnic breakfast, and round-trip transportation from hotels in the Historic Center.
- The experience is not recommended for individuals with certain health conditions, such as vertigo, altitude sickness, or motion sickness.
- Reservations can be made without upfront payment, and a full refund is available for cancellations up to 24 hours in advance.
- Additional costs apply for photographic and video services, as well as any extra food or refreshments not specified in the package.
Activity Overview
The hot air balloon tethered flight experience in Cusco typically lasts 3.5 hours and is limited to a group size of 10 participants.
The instructor speaks Spanish during the experience. Priced from $130.00 per person, this activity offers a unique chance to take in panoramic views of Cusco and the nearby Sacsayhuaman archaeological site.
Participants will be picked up from their hotels in the Historic Center between 4:00 – 5:00 a.m. and transported to the flight zone, where they’ll receive a safety briefing and instructions from the pilot before embarking on their 15-minute captive flight.
After the flight, they’ll enjoy a traditional ceremony with champagne and a picnic breakfast before being transferred back to the main square of Cusco.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Cusco.
Itinerary and Experience
Upon pickup from their hotels in the Historic Center between 4:00 – 5:00 a.m., guests are transported to the flight zone near Sacsayhuaman, where they receive a safety briefing and instructions from the pilot. Guests then embark on a 15-minute captive flight, enjoying panoramic views of Cusco and Sacsayhuaman. After the flight, they partake in a traditional ceremony with champagne and a picnic breakfast, including sweet and salty breads, juice, coffee, and infusions. Finally, guests are transferred back to the main square of Cusco, arriving around 8:30 a.m.
Itinerary | Duration |
---|---|
Hotel pickup | 15 min |
Travel to flight zone | 15 min |
Safety briefing | – |
Captive flight | 15 min |
Picnic breakfast | – |
Transfer to Cusco | 15 min |
Reservations and Payment
Reservation and payment flexibility are hallmarks of this hot air balloon experience. Customers can reserve their spot without paying upfront, allowing for a more convenient booking process.
Plus, a generous cancellation policy offers a full refund up to 24 hours in advance, providing peace of mind for potential changes in plans.
Some key reservation details include:
- Reserve now and pay later
- Free cancellation up to 24 hours prior
- Advance reservation required, no last-minute bookings
- Additional costs for photographic and video services
These flexible options ensure a seamless and hassle-free experience for guests, allowing them to focus on the exhilaration of the hot air balloon flight.
Inclusions and Additional Costs
This hot air balloon experience comes with a range of inclusions that enhance the overall value for participants.
Pickup from hotels in Cusco’s Historic Center, a 15-minute transfer to the launch site, and round-trip transportation are all covered in the package price.
Flyers will enjoy a traditional flight ceremony with champagne and a picnic breakfast featuring sweet and savory breads, juice, coffee, and infusions.
While these core elements are included, there’s an additional cost of S/. 20 (or $6) for photographic and video registration.
Any food or refreshments not mentioned in the package description are also an extra expense.
More Great Thing To Do NearbyImportant Information
The hot air balloon experience may not be suitable for all participants, including wheelchair users, individuals with vertigo, altitude sickness, or motion sickness.
Travelers should bring the following essentials:
- Camera to capture the stunning views
- Sunscreen to protect against the high-altitude sun
- Comfortable, layered clothing to stay warm during the early morning flight
- Cash for any additional purchases, such as photographic registration and video
Weather conditions may affect the flight, and if cancelled, only the transfer cost will apply.
Safety and Accessibility
While the hot air balloon experience offers breathtaking views, it may not be suitable for all travelers.
The activity isn’t recommended for wheelchair users, people with vertigo, altitude sickness, or motion sickness. Participants must be able to climb in and out of the balloon basket, which may be challenging for some.
The flight takes place at high altitudes, which can exacerbate health conditions. Plus, the weather conditions in Cusco can be unpredictable and may affect the flight.
If the activity is canceled due to weather, travelers will only be charged the transfer cost. It’s crucial to consider these safety and accessibility factors when booking this experience.
Picnic and Celebration
Celebrating the successful flight, the group partakes in a traditional ceremony with champagne and a picnic breakfast. The spread includes:
- Sweet and salty breads
- Freshly squeezed juice
- Aromatic coffee and infusions
A lively atmosphere as participants toast the memorable experience.
After the ceremony, the group enjoys the picnic while taking in panoramic views of Cusco and the archaeological site of Sacsayhuaman. This communal moment allows them to savor the achievement and share their impressions of the tethered flight.
The experience culminates with a transfer back to the main square of Cusco, arriving around 8:30 a.m.
Weather Considerations
Although weather conditions can affect the hot air balloon flight, the operator closely monitors the forecast and makes decisions accordingly.
If the weather is deemed unsafe for the flight, the operator will cancel it. In such cases, only the cost of the transfer (S/. 60.00 or $17.00) will be charged.
Participants should be aware that the flight may be subject to cancellation or rescheduling due to wind, rain, or other unfavorable weather conditions.
It’s important to check the forecast and be prepared for the possibility of a weather-related change to the itinerary. The safety of the participants is the top priority.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Purchase Additional Items During the Picnic Breakfast?
Yes, travelers can purchase additional items during the picnic breakfast, though they’re not included in the package price. The picnic includes a basic spread, but other food and drinks may be available for an extra cost.
What Is the Maximum Weight Limit for Participants?
The maximum weight limit for participants is not explicitly mentioned. However, the activity is not suitable for wheelchair users, indicating there may be weight or size restrictions. It’s best to inquire directly with the provider for the specific details.
Can I Choose My Preferred Time for the Hotel Pickup?
The tour provider arranges hotel pickups between 4:00 – 5:00 a.m. and doesn’t offer flexibility for preferred times. Participants must be ready during this pickup window to join the hot air balloon tethered flight experience.
Are There Any Discounts Available for Group Bookings?
The activity provider offers discounts for group bookings, though the specifics aren’t detailed in the knowledge provided. Customers should inquire about group pricing when making their reservation to see if any discounts are available.
Can I Request a Specific Seating Arrangement in the Balloon?
Customers can’t request specific seating arrangements in the hot air balloon. The balloon’s capacity is limited to 10 participants, and the pilot determines the seating to ensure balanced and safe flight operations.
Recap
This hot air balloon tethered flight over Cusco offers a unique and unforgettable experience. Soar above the city and the Sacsayhuaman archaeological site, enjoying breathtaking panoramic views. The 15-minute flight is complemented by a traditional ceremony with champagne and a delightful picnic breakfast. Safety is prioritized, and the experience is perfect for those seeking adventure and celebration in a stunning landscape.
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