Horseback Riding Tour to the Devil's Balcony from Cusco
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Horseback Riding Tour to the Devil's Balcony from Cusco
By Horseback Riding in Cusco By Vieja Estancia Ranch
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About
The Devil’s Balcony is a natural feature in the countryside outside Cusco, with a human history dating back to the Incas. This half-day guided horseback safari includes round-trip travel from Cusco, safety equipment, and snacks—allowing you to relax and enjoy an intimate experience in nature. Discover the Temple of the Moon and the Devil’s Balcony itself while learning of Cusco’s Incan heritage.
Lowest price guaranteeReserve now & pay laterFree cancellation
Ages 8-80, max of 15 per group
Duration: 4h
Start time: Check availability
Mobile ticket
Live guide: English, Spanish
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Highlights
- Visit the Temple of the Moon and the Devil’s Balcony on horseback
- Enjoy a more intimate experience than you would on a large-group bus tour
- Learn of the region’s rich Incan history and heritage along the way
- Includes all equipment and round-trip travel from your Cusco accommodation
- Professional tour guide
- Saddle and safety helmets
- Muleteer (goes to the care of horses)
- Mineral water or natural water
- Round trip transportation from Cusco hotel to ranch
- Weight Limit 200 pounds
- Entry/Admission - Horseback Riding in Cusco By Vieja Estancia Ranch
- Entry/Admission - Cusco
What's not included- Gratuities
- Choose a morning or afternoon horseback safari, and meet your guide during pickup at your accommodation in Cusco. Begin your half-day tour as you transfer out to a ranch in the Villa San Blas neighborhood. On arrival, meet the horses and muleteers, and then receive a safety briefing. Afterward, climb onto your horse and ride out toward the archaeological site of the Temple of the Moon. With your guide leading the way, gain insight into the region’s ancient history and rich cultural heritage. Pass traditional local communities in the countryside and see a way of life that’s quite different than bustling Cusco. On arrival at the Devil’s Balcony—known locally as Chacan—explore features including a natural cave that the Incas used as a shrine thousands of years ago. Replenish your energy with a snack by the cave, then return on horseback to the ranch, where you board your vehicle for the journey back to your Cusco accommodation.
- Start:Traveler pickup offered.End:This activity ends back at the meeting point.
- Not wheelchair accessible
- Near public transportation
If you have questions about accessibility, we’d be happy to help. Just call the number below and reference the product code: 9864P1- Confirmation will be received at time of booking
- Not recommended for travelers with back problems
- Not recommended for pregnant travelers
- Most travelers can participate
- Suitable for participants with little or no experience
- Minimum age is 8 years
- It is recommended that you wear long pants (preferably jeans), closed shoes (with rubber soles or walking shoes), and bring a rain jacket (if the weather forecast gives any significant chance of rain during the time of the ride)
- Note: Do not wear jewelry or valuables during the ride
- Weight Limit 200 pounds or 90 kilos
- This experience requires good weather. If it’s canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund
- This experience requires a minimum number of travelers. If it’s canceled because the minimum isn’t met, you’ll be offered a different date/experience or a full refund
- This tour/activity will have a maximum of 15 travelers
- For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours in advance of the start date of the experience.
- If you have questions about this tour or need help making your booking, we’d be happy to help. Just call the number below and reference the product code: 9864P1
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About the operator
Don’t take it from us – here’s what people have to say about this operator:
- Annesa700 contributionsKanai Azhagamman TempleKanai Azhagamman Temple is a lesser-known but significant temple located in the village of Kanai, in the Viluppuram district of Tamil Nadu. The temple is relatively modest in size compared to larger temples in Tamil Nadu, but it retains a deep spiritual aura that draws devotees from nearby areas. The temple and surroundings are devoid of any commercial activities and is very serene. The area is full of neem and banyan trees. Even in the peak of summer, this part of the world will remain cool and breezy! The presiding deity is Azhagamman (a form of Goddess Shakti), and the temple also includes shrines for other deities, such as Lord Shiva and Lord Ganesha. There is very old and huge ant-hill which is preserved and prayers are being offered here. Local belief is that someone who wants to build a house comes here and he/she arranges the stones representing house, the wishes are granted. Azhagamman is believed to be a powerful goddess who grants blessings, protection, and prosperity to her devotees. The temple is a center of spiritual activities and festivals for the local community.Written October 14, 2024
- Joheller0 contributionsGreat trip with very knowledgeable and helpful guideWe booked this based on the reviews, and it did not disappoint. Benny was our guide. She knew and explained the ruins well. My husband was unwell due to altitude sickness and she was very considerate to his needs. Oxygen was available. The horse riding was very enjoyableWritten September 17, 2024
- Roam7606580 contributionsHighly Recommend and Reliable CompanyAnother amazing experience from many trips with Holger and his team in Cusco, every time is a different place and it’s quite exciting, the team is very knowledgeable with the history of every place we visit, reliable on time. We highly recommend it and will be coming back next year.Written July 12, 2024
- Guide128540570580 contributionsTory provider canceled 4 days out so they could raise the price $5I booked nearly two months ago. My tour was scheduled for Wednesday and the vendor canceled today (Saturday), but is offering the same tour at the same time, but increased the price $5. There are other vendors offering similar horseback tours. I wouldn’t trust someone who would do this to someone in the middle of their vacation just so they can greedily get a little more money out of someone else. Viator should be ashamed they allow vendors to do this.Written June 29, 2024
- azhoy130 contributionsUnforgettable Day in the AndesAbsolutely breathtaking day exploring the countryside of the Andes on horses. Holger and his family were wonderful and getting to have a home cooked meal from his mom looking over the sacred valley is something I’ll never forget. Manulo & Pinto were the most sure footed and trusty steeds we could have asked for. Was very impressed by how well behaved the horses were through the rocky terrain, not to mention how well cared for they were too. Pro tip: bring some carrots for the horses for after your ride!Written May 25, 2024
- mella_luv0 contributionsIf you have any reservations, just book it! Unforgettable experience :)I am so glad I found this tour! I have been looking for horseback riding companies in Cusco and so glad I went with this company. I am not an experienced rider at all. I have only ridden on vacations like 2 times, and would never consider myself a serious rider. Just a real beginner! First of all, Holger was very responsive when I first inquired about the tour, and was graciously able to book a tour for just one person. I told him I was a little worried about the altitude, as I was starting to feel symptoms again, and he was very understanding. Then I expressed my concerns about needing a calm, smaller horse who was gentle, and that's exactly what I got! I created such a great bond with my host, and I've never really been a horse person, or even rode for a full day, only 2 hours maximum and couldn't wait to get off afterwards. But this time I didn't want the tour to end!! In the morning it was a small group tour, since I didn't mind either way if it was a small group or private. We went to Devil's Balcony. Then in the afternoon, was private with just Holger and I and we went to the Temple of The Moon. Both experiences were incredible, because Holger and everyone on my morning tour were so patient with me and encouraging. I felt like I was learning fast. Plus we also learned about the places we went too, and the surrounding areas. Breath taking views throughout the whole ride where you can see forever and peaceful surroundings. Same in the afternoon. I got to even rock climb and felt like I was in an Indiana Jones movie! I've never climbed rocks before, but Holger opened me up to new experiences, and was so patient with me the whole day, both on the group and private. When I thought things couldn't get better, Holger and I had a picnic lunch all set for us near the Temple of The Moon prepared by his mom who joined us for part of it and was so kind, and not to mention, an amazing cook!! Plus throughout both morning and after, Holger made sure there was enough water and snacks for everyone, even when I dropped one of my fruits, he graciously gave me another, and an extra pack of oreos which I asked for. They really all went above and beyond to make sure we had an unforgettable day. I would definitely ride with Holger again, even for an overnight tour. I wish I was a more advanced rider to do a multi-day trip. And an added bonus, for any cat and dog lovers, there are the sweetest, most affectionate, cuddly cat and dogs on Holger's farm. I made friends with them, there was a little puppy only 9 weeks old and a sweet and sassy cat who loved attention.Written April 28, 2024
- Freedom311284328120 contributionsPerfect day!This was our favorite activity in Cusco!! Our guide and driver were prompt at pick up, and shared so much history with us! The horses were so gentle and the ride was engaging and super fun!Written March 24, 2024
- Z2883HKjimd0 contributionsAmazing time in Cuzco by horseback!We had such an amazing time on our horseback tour of Cuzco! I highly recommend it! The guide knew all the local history and we felt connected to the Incas during this tour!Written March 22, 2024
- nicksA2313XI0 contributionsFantastic horseback adventure!A fantastic experience! I’m not very familiar with horses back at home, but it wasn’t an issue at all because they had a wide variety of horses to accommodate different experience levels. Was a ride that was a mixture of appreciating the beauty of the Andes as well as a lesson as to the culture and background of the surrounding areas. An absolute recommend! 5 starsWritten March 18, 2024
- Sharina M0 contributionsStunning views, amazing guide and gentle horsesAmazing experience with the most knowledgeable and kind guide. The views and the archeological structures weee breath taking! Absolutely 100% recommended.Written February 28, 2024
- Coastal137996628730 contributionsHave Freddie and Roger take you to rainbow mountainFreddie and Roger were amazing guides! They took plenty of stops for us to take pictures of the views, which were amazing. The whole drive out there is gorgeous. Roger was very knowledgeable about the Incan history and little fun facts about the area. 10/10 would recommend themWritten February 25, 2024
- SaraWorldAdventures0 contributionsOne of the best experiences in PeruThis horseback riding experience was one of the highlights of my trip to Peru. We were a very small group of 2 travelers and it felt personalised (the guide takes the time to fully explain the history and facts of the inca sites we saw) The horses were very well looked after and extremely well behaved. We had the opportunity to trot too which was safe and fun.Written January 22, 2024
- L6145WIrachelv0 contributionsAn Absolute Must Do Experience!I was so impressed with this tour and could not recommend it enough! The horses were incredible, well taken care of and a joy to ride. We were able to gallop multiple times throughout the trip and it was an absolute joy. But there is so much more to this experience on top of the fantastic ride! Seeing some of the off the beaten path Inca temples is so special, there are far less visitors at these sites and they are equally as important as some of the better known spots. The guide was passionate and had so much knowledge to share. He was a joy to spend the day with. He also provided some videos from our ride which I am so grateful to have and look back on! This was by far my favorite thing I did on my trip to Peru and highly recommend it!Written December 15, 2023
- Stella T0 contributionsGood quality serviceThe guide was courteous and informative. The horse ride went smoothly and the horses were forward but well behaved. Was fun to do a horseback tour.Written November 12, 2023
- HoboTravelling0 contributionsHighly recommended!An absolutely impeccable experience from start to finish. Our guide’s language skills, knowledge of the area and history was second to none and his obvious affection for the horses shone through. A truly unforgettable experience that we would recommend and re visit if we had the opportunity - even though we are total novices, we felt very safe throughout. We really couldn’t recommend this experience highly enough. Thank you so much!Written October 6, 2023
These reviews are the subjective opinions of Tripadvisor members and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
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Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as wait time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.
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5.0
155 reviews
Excellent
152
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2
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0
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Marina B
Toronto, Canada19 contributions
Apr 2022 • Friends
I am really into horseriding and ancient ruins, so this activity was a perfect match for me.
I booked it myself and encouraged a friend to join as well.
I had enough experience in the saddle, so I was given a horse perfectly matching my personality: an active, impatient and quick stallion named “Caramelo”. The connection with a horse was quick and I enjoyed all the time we spent together. My horse tried to outrun the others and lead the group and was willing to turn into a gallop which I enjoyed given my passion for a quick ride.
The other members of the group were also happy with the horse assignments. All the horses are well cared for, well trained and are amazing companions even for beginners.
The guide Holger was amazing, to be honest the best I met in Peru. He speaks English fluently, shared a lot of interesting facts about the ruins and took care of every single member of the group. When my friend scratched his neck having encountered a branch, Holger immediately took care of the scratch and disinfected it. The other member of the tour was following us in the rear, so the whole group was under observation all the time.
Not only did we ride the horses but also climbed and explores the local caves.
The next day Hoger created a WhatsApp group and shared the photos of us he made during the trip (they were amazing btw).
Take me back pls!!!!
I booked it myself and encouraged a friend to join as well.
I had enough experience in the saddle, so I was given a horse perfectly matching my personality: an active, impatient and quick stallion named “Caramelo”. The connection with a horse was quick and I enjoyed all the time we spent together. My horse tried to outrun the others and lead the group and was willing to turn into a gallop which I enjoyed given my passion for a quick ride.
The other members of the group were also happy with the horse assignments. All the horses are well cared for, well trained and are amazing companions even for beginners.
The guide Holger was amazing, to be honest the best I met in Peru. He speaks English fluently, shared a lot of interesting facts about the ruins and took care of every single member of the group. When my friend scratched his neck having encountered a branch, Holger immediately took care of the scratch and disinfected it. The other member of the tour was following us in the rear, so the whole group was under observation all the time.
Not only did we ride the horses but also climbed and explores the local caves.
The next day Hoger created a WhatsApp group and shared the photos of us he made during the trip (they were amazing btw).
Take me back pls!!!!
Written May 10, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Imelda B
1 contribution
Oct 2021 • Friends
We enjoyed the calm ride across the beautiful landscape of Peru. The horses were so calm and professional, our Guide was knowledgeable and also a true profesional. He knows his history and horses.
The tour guide provided snacks, he chose the right horses for our riding abilities, narrated the history of places we visited and took photos of us.
We were picked up at our hotel by their driver and he was super nice too.
Cautionary notes: no bathrooms available during this particular ride. Bring sunscreen for your neck and nose, wear long sleeve, sturdy pants and shoes.
They provided light snacks.
I would definitely book with this tour group again and perhaps try a longer ride. The horses are perfect for beginners and experienced riders.
Thank you for a beautiful experience in Peru!
The tour guide provided snacks, he chose the right horses for our riding abilities, narrated the history of places we visited and took photos of us.
We were picked up at our hotel by their driver and he was super nice too.
Cautionary notes: no bathrooms available during this particular ride. Bring sunscreen for your neck and nose, wear long sleeve, sturdy pants and shoes.
They provided light snacks.
I would definitely book with this tour group again and perhaps try a longer ride. The horses are perfect for beginners and experienced riders.
Thank you for a beautiful experience in Peru!
Written November 3, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
BoardingPass194463
1 contribution
Sep 2021 • Couples
After looking for something to do in Cusco on one of the days we had nothing planned I took to the internet and saw many people recommended horseback riding with Olgor. We jumped on the idea of seeing the area by horseback and we were definitely not disappointed. We did the Devils balcony tour with Temple of the Moon and even got to trek through a cave. We really enjoyed Olgor and his knowledge of the area. This was a great way to see the countryside and get amazing views of the city and mountains surrounding it. The horses were pretty tame and stayed in line very well. Olgor lets you trot and gallop if you are comfortable. If you are not experienced and not comfortable going faster then you can just let him know. If I came back to the area I would definitely do this again. It was for sure a highlight.
Written September 6, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Lauran G
11 contributions
Apr 2022 • Friends
We literally booked this the morning of our excursion not certain we would have the time to do it since it was last minute but Holgar was prompt & efficient to reply in guiding us on how to book it online. He handles that part and was helpful in answering any questions we had. We were quickly picked up and taken to where the horses were, also where we started our journey. His brother, Morgan, speaks english & spanish. He was an absolute gem of a person. He was very accommodating since it had been absolute 20 years since we had been on a horse. I road Galvan (the brown horse in the pics) who was sweet even if he wanted to be in front of my friend’s horse for a sec..lol. The horses bickered minimally and so we figured the horses must be siblings. There was 2 of us riding and we always felt safe through our journey. We were in the middle of our trek, so Morgan was the leader of our pack and his helper was at the end. Morgan was really great about turning around to check in on us to make sure we were doing well. He is definitely a professional in this line of work so you will be in good hands. We saw dogs, alpacas, llamas, chickens, birds, and an abundance of native plants that are locally grown there like potatoes, maiz (their unique native corn) and it was literally just US for what seemed like miles. The foothills were absolutely breathtaking. I kept saying I felt like I was in a dream. The stops Morgan had set up were simply magical. This was all very well planned out and he was so passionate about the special locations he took us to when we hiked on foot. Each part of this excursion felt as though we were off the beaten path. I would highly recommend this company and as Morgan mentioned the horse senses our energy. I made it a point to stay calm and connect with Galvan, the experience & pachamana. It rained a bit sporadically which is normal for that time of the year and made it that much more exciting. If I had to do it all over again, I would do it again in a heartbeat for a longer trek. If you have any doubts, I hope this helps make your decision as you will be in for a real treat! Remember to bring & reapply sunscreen cuz it is easy to get sunburned. Also wear layers to accommodate the ongoing weather changes which goes for all of our time there, too.
Written May 30, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
HenryD31
Monroe, NJ32 contributions
Aug 2021
It was just 2 of us, friends who came to Cusco as a base place for visiting Machu Picchu and Sacred Valley. We booked with these guys based on needing to do something fairly easy to allow getting used to the altitude before going off for Inca trail. This tour was just awesome, the horses were very gentle, it was my second time ever on a horse but they were very easy to ride. The guide was a local guy who owns the business with his family. Wonderful person who enjoys the natural beauty of the Cusco and the surrounding area. Spoke excellent English. My friend got a bit winded walking around the Devils balcony, the altitude got to him, but the guide was quick to find some natural remedies and we were able to continue. Devil's balcony as well as Temple of the Moon were both great places to visit and experience the great landscapes around Cusco. Totally recommended for anyone !
Written September 1, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Rotem
Gedera, Israel1 contribution
Nov 2022 • Friends
We had the best time! We took the 3 hour trip with horses, got a full explanation of the area around us and also of how to ride the horses, even for those who had zero experience. We even had a ride from our hostel to the ranch and back. So much fun, we recommend for everyone- doesn’t matter if you have been riding on a horse before or not.
Written November 4, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
andrea
Golden, CO16 contributions
We happened to be the only 2 on our tour so it was very special and personalized. Excellent knowledgeable guide both with horses and the local area. Learned a lot and such beautiful locations and views. The guide went out of his way to be sure we had good video of riding as well. The naturally gaited Peruvian Paso and mixes were so smooth to ride even at fast pace. Horses well cared for. We loved the breaks with short hikes and exploring of caverns too. Very highly recommended! Awesome way to spend a half day in Cusco, great value.
Written April 21, 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Annabelle F
4 contributions
Dec 2023 • Friends
Very well organised, really nice guide, informative and interesting tour. The horses were really well trained. The equipment was good. We got great value for money because it wasn't just riding but also interesting stops to look at ancient Inca temples and caves etc.
Written December 12, 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Hana0817
Nottingham, UK27 contributions
May 2023 • Couples
Holger and his family took great care of us and the horses, checking our ability levels and designing the speed around us. Holger was very knowledgeable and we saw Inca areas that we would never have discovered on our own. Overall we would definitely recommend.
Written May 7, 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Roxy T
United Kingdom11 contributions
Jan 2022
We took this tour on the morning, Holger was an excellet guide, gave us a tons of information abut the incas and local culture.
The horses were well behaved and perfect trained, Holger gave us horses according to our experience.
Horses are well cared by Holger's family, I can say that horses are happy and safe.
Perfect half day activity in Cusco, My parents loved it!.
The horses were well behaved and perfect trained, Holger gave us horses according to our experience.
Horses are well cared by Holger's family, I can say that horses are happy and safe.
Perfect half day activity in Cusco, My parents loved it!.
Written January 12, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Hello
You have lots of lovely reviews
I’m interested in booking a tour for my family- my husband and I and two kids. They are 8 and 9
I wondered if you take children, and what standard do the riders need to be
And do you provide helmets?
Thank you
I look forward to hearing from you
Rebecca
Written February 17, 2020
Hi, We went riding with them in December. our total trip consisted of 5 weeks and several horse rides and this one was definitely one of the most memorable. I have very little riding experience and I felt the ride was very comfortable for me. I think if your children have had no experience at all then you would need to let them know this prior to booking. The horses do a Peruvian gate which is an amazing and very smooth. Again it was one of our most memorable days on our holiday.
Written February 18, 2020
What time start the afternoon tour? And how much it takes?
Thanks!
Written January 16, 2020
Will the 9am tour return to Cusco by 3pm? I would like to plan an afternoon activity.
Written January 2, 2020
Yes, I was back at my hotel before then.
Written January 2, 2020
Where should I stay in a hotel if I am interested in this experience / how far will the company van drive to pick up travelers? Thank you.
Written December 22, 2019
Yes. They will send a bus for you in the city. We stayed in a hostel and they found the hostel on time and we had a great ride!
Written January 1, 2020
Hello, can we take our 5 year old with us on the horse?
Written November 30, 2019
Es apto para los q hemos andado solo alguna vez ocasional a caballo ?
Written October 19, 2019
Hello, is it possible to attend to a tour being only 1 person?
Written September 2, 2019
YES!! And I am sure they will make you feel very comfortable.
Written September 2, 2019
Hi, I will be staying in Cusco with a group of people, some of whom are visually-impaired and some are their sighted guides. So my question is would you accept visually-impaired people on rides? I've done it before where a sighted person rides beside and leads the blind person's horse with a lead rope. Second question is how to pay. Do you accept US$ as well as local currency? Can you pay by credit card? What's your 'phone number? Still in the UK but checking on things our group might like to do in their 3 days of free time. Many thanks, Catherine
Written August 1, 2019
We will be staying at a hotel in Urubamba. Do you offer hotel pick up here?
Written June 12, 2019
I believe Urubamba is like 1.5hrs by car, you will need to negotiate directly with the company and I'm pretty sure there will be an additional charge for that. I paid about 70~80 soles for 1.5hr trip, so it's not so bad anyway
Written December 4, 2019
Hi I was just booking for this week but it states 83kg is the max my partner is 93kg does this mean we can not book?
Written May 30, 2019
They dont weigh you before the tour, but if they state that's the limit it seems safe to assume you shouldn't book.
Written May 31, 2019
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