The Via Ferrata: Rock Climbing, Rapelling & Ziplines in the Sacred Valley of the Incas

For an active adventure in the Sacred Valley of the Incas, consider the Vía Ferrata, the Iron Way. You’ll find it in Urubamba, near the town of Ollantaytambo.

Along the Vía Ferrata, with the help of a system of steel-enforced horizontal cables and vertical iron ladders, even beginners with zero climbing experience can tackle a 300m sheer rock face! The return trip can either be by a series of six ziplines or by rappel. All in all, it’s a jam-packed day trip that boasts both excitement and scenic views.

Trips begin with a hotel pickup at around 8am, and it takes about an hour and a half to reach the site near Ollantaytambo. Before beginning, you will receive instructions regarding techniques, safety, and the proper use of the equipment provided. Climbers have to don a harness hooked up to a double-carabineer system. Those who wish to only do the climb will descend to the valley floor by a 100m rappel. Those who prefer a combination adventure must hike a little to reach the beginning of the first zipline.

The six zip lines range from 100 to 500 meters. Each zipline is distinct, some being longer or faster than the others, and altogether they cover 2,000 meters. If you prefer to do the zip line on its own, you can reach it by a small 30-40 minute walk.

You’ll be dropped back off at your hotel after all this excitement. If you did the climb and rappelled down, it will take about 4 hours. If you do the climb and zipline combination adventure, it takes about 5 hours.

If you’re interested in learning more about the Iron Way and the ziplines of the Sacred Valley, or about other adrenaline-pumping Sacred Valley activities like ATV Quadbiking and Bungee Jumping, contact us at pirwatravel@gmail.com. We’re always happy to help!