At Explorinka, we are excited to share the incredible experience that Anna, the famous influencer, lived with us on her recent e-bike tour around Cusco. Anna joined us to explore the surroundings of Cusco in a unique and exciting way, and this is what she had to say about her adventure:
“Seeing Cusco from a different perspective and exploring its surroundings by e-bike is an unforgettable experience. The tour began with a ride through the picturesque areas surrounding Cusco, offering breathtaking views of the city and its majestic mountains. Along the way, I encountered llamas and passed through picturesque villages that seemed frozen in time. This was my first e-bike experience, and I was thrilled at how easy it was to ride 25 kilometers in high-altitude terrain.”
“One of the highlights of the tour was passing historic sites such as Saqsaywaman and Puka Pukara. Our knowledgeable guide shared fascinating details about the history and importance of these sites. We also crossed a forest trail, which added a touch of adventure to the tour.
Another thing that made the experience even more enjoyable was the support vehicle that accompanied the group. This meant I didn't have to carry a heavy backpack, allowing me to fully immerse myself in the breathtaking scenery of the Andes.”
“I highly recommend this e-bike tour to everyone, regardless of age, who wants to see Cusco from a new angle. It is the perfect blend of adventure, history and natural beauty.”
Anna, originally from the Czech Republic, has spent four years in Spain, which has given her a special fondness for the Mediterranean Sea. She is a world-traveling digital nomad, passionate about books, art, mindfulness and traditional lifestyle. If you want to read Anna's full article and find out more about her journey, click here or on the image below!
Happiness, sometimes, is found in the simplest of things: connecting with nature and the people around us, day by day. And what better way to do it than riding a bicycle through the majestic Sacred Valley of the Incas?
Our dear friend Pavel Marmanillo and his wife lead a beautiful lodge project in the heart of the Sacred Valley. Through their initiative, they promote education, coaching and empowerment of underprivileged and orphaned children, providing them with a space for learning and hope.
We were honored to be invited by them to offer a different experience: a day of fellowship where children could enjoy and connect with the natural beauty of the valley, riding bicycles. After talking and planning together, we identified the Ruta del Maíz as the ideal option. This 20-kilometer ride starts in Urubamba and ends in the picturesque town of Ollantaytambo.
The day before, we prepared carefully: we checked each bike to make sure they were in optimal condition and carefully assigned them according to the size of each child.
The next day, we were overcome with emotion when we arrived at the lodge and were greeted with warm smiles and bright eyes. The children lived in a house that left us in awe of its simplicity and charm. After the welcome, we drove to the starting point in Urubamba, where the adventure would begin.
Upon arrival, we handed out the bicycles, helmets and gloves to each child, making sure they were ready for a safe ride. Together with our guides, we set off along the Corn Route. With every pedal stroke, nature enveloped us: the sound of the river, the fresh air and the majestic mountains that watch over the valley made the ride unforgettable.
But nothing compared to the joy reflected on the children's faces. They challenged each other in friendly races, shared their skills, chatted and laughed enthusiastically. The best part was their constant motivation to reach the end of the course. At each stop, they cheered each other on, enjoying the ride and the company.
It gives us great satisfaction to have contributed a small grain of sand to this worthwhile project. Sharing this day on the bike with the children was not only an adventure, but also a lesson in joy and hope. They gave us unforgettable moments, and we hope to return soon to live more experiences like this one.
At Explorinka, each of our bike routes actively involves local communities in the logistics of the tours. We collaborate with them by utilizing their food, lodging, and cultural tourism services, ensuring that their participation is not only economically beneficial but also fosters personal and community growth. We organize workshops and talks to help them improve their services, promoting sustainable development.
Below, we detail the communities we are currently working with.
The community of Misminay, located in the district of Maras, Cusco, at 3,700 meters above sea level and near the archaeological site of Moray, is known for its agricultural activities and small livestock farming. Recently, the residents of Mullakas Misminay have organized a cultural tourism program that offers visitors the opportunity to experience Andean culture in an authentic way.
Among the services offered, tourists can enjoy full meals (breakfast, lunch, and dinner) and lodging in local accommodations. Additionally, they have the opportunity to participate in various cultural activities, such as adobe construction, llama walks, and the planting or harvesting of agricultural products.
Explorinka is currently working with two families from the community, providing these services to its cyclist travelers, offering a unique experience in contact with nature and community life. Misminay is an excellent option for those who wish to connect with rural Andean life and learn about local traditions.
The community of Rumichaca, located at 2,900 meters above sea level near Urubamba, Cusco, is an emerging destination that offers lodging and meals as its main tourist activities. Although it is still a relatively unknown place, its residents have begun setting up food stalls and cabins to accommodate visitors.
Explorinka is promoting the community among its cyclists, who make Rumichaca a key stop on their journey through the Urubamba Valley. Travelers especially enjoy lunch after an intense day of cycling, highlighting the local services and products the community has to offer.
The community of Patacancha, located at 3,400 meters above sea level near Ollantaytambo, Cusco, is a tourist destination that offers immersive experiences while preserving its cultural traditions. Agriculture and alpaca wool production are the main economic activities of this picturesque community.
Visitors, especially Explorinka cyclists, can enjoy the local cuisine and stay in traditional cabins while immersing themselves in the local customs. The men of the community wear vibrant red ponchos, and single women can be identified by hats adorned with flowers, highlighting the area's rich cultural heritage.
Families like those of Juan Yupanqui, Claudio, and Francisca benefit from tourism, which is promoted sustainably by Explorinka, ensuring that visitors consume local products and services. Patacancha is a community full of color and living culture, ideal for those seeking an authentic immersion in Andean culture.
The community of Lares, located at 3,200 meters above sea level in the district of Calca, Cusco, is renowned for its hot springs and hospitality. It offers a rich, immersive tourism experience where visitors can stay in local homes, engage in cultural activities, and enjoy Andean traditions.
Explorinka passengers can relax in the medicinal hot springs, a natural attraction that enhances their stay by allowing them to unwind while closely experiencing the local customs. They also have the opportunity to learn about traditional hand-weaving and participate in agricultural activities, such as potato harvesting and adobe brick making.
Explorinka promotes visits to Lares, supporting sustainable tourism and local economic growth, while providing passengers with an authentic and culturally enriching experience.
The community of Willoc, located at 3,600 meters above sea level in the Patacancha Valley near Ollantaytambo, is renowned for its textile heritage and vibrant red clothing, which locals continue to wear daily. This community offers a cultural immersion through artisanal weaving workshops, where visitors can learn ancient spinning and dyeing techniques.
Explorinka passengers have the chance to participate not only in these workshops but also in local agricultural and construction activities, using traditional methods. Visitors are welcomed by local families who share their hospitality and way of life, providing an authentic experience.
Explorinka promotes sustainable tourism in Willoc, respecting and celebrating the community’s ancestral customs while contributing to its economic development. This experience allows travelers to deeply connect with Andean traditions and create unique and unforgettable memories.
The community of Pumamarca, located at 3,500 meters above sea level in the Patacancha Valley near Ollantaytambo, is a living tourism destination that blends history and tradition. Known for its agricultural terraces and the archaeological site of the same name, Pumamarca allows visitors to explore ancient Inca structures and engage in traditional farming activities.
The locals preserve their ancestral attire: men wear red ponchos and hats, while women decorate their hats with flowers and wear traditional skirts. Explorinka travelers can experience the local hospitality by staying in traditional homes and immersing themselves in Andean culture.
Explorinka promotes visits to Pumamarca, fostering sustainable tourism that benefits the community and enhances the cultural exchange between residents and visitors.
The community of Huama, located at 3,800 meters above sea level in the town of Lamay, Cusco, focuses on community-based tourism, offering an authentic experience through agricultural activities, hikes to archaeological sites, and homestays in local houses. The residents primarily raise small animals and engage in farming, growing crops such as potatoes, corn, and various cereals.
Visitors have the opportunity to participate in the community's daily activities, including adobe brick making, llama herding, harvesting crops, and preparing meals with organic ingredients. Additionally, the locals have developed mountain biking trails, promoting Enduro cycling and encouraging cyclists to collaborate in maintaining these routes.
Explorinka is working to position Huama as an attractive destination for Enduro cycling enthusiasts, leveraging its trails and promoting the use of the community’s services through its travelers.
The community of Cuper Alto, located at 3,800 meters above sea level in the Chinchero district of Cusco, specializes in rural tourism with a focus on sustainable agriculture and ancestral traditions. Known for its traditional farming practices, Cuper Alto has established accessible trails for biking, charging a small fee that contributes economically to the community.
Visitors have the opportunity to observe and learn about traditional weaving in local homes, as well as participate in activities like harvesting native crops. Additionally, the community offers delicious cuisine that highlights local flavors.
Explorinka includes Cuper Alto in its itineraries, promoting responsible tourism and supporting the economic development of the area through genuine cultural exchange.
The community of Urquillos, located in the Sacred Valley of the Incas at an altitude of 2,900 meters, is dedicated to community tourism and offers authentic cultural experiences. Just 25 minutes from Urubamba, its main activity is the cultivation of corn, an essential product in the region.
Cyclists traveling the Raqchi route can enjoy accommodation and lunch services made with locally sourced organic ingredients, prepared by community members. Urquillos stands out for its sustainable agricultural practices and rich cultural heritage, allowing visitors to participate in the harvesting of Andean products and craft workshops. Additionally, the community shares its traditions through typical festivities and dances.
Explorinka includes Urquillos in its itineraries, promoting tourism that respects the environment and contributes to local economic development through genuine cultural exchange.
The community of Chinchero, located in the district of Chinchero, Cusco, at an altitude of 3,760 meters, is known for its rich cultural heritage and the community tourism that offers authentic activities. This place, situated on the route to the Sacred Valley of the Incas, stands out for its ancestral traditions, especially in the creation of artistic pieces made from alpaca wool.
The families of Chinchero, primarily organized by women, showcase their artisan works in homes and workshops, allowing visitors to participate in activities such as textile making and harvesting Andean products. Tourists can also explore the local market and the archaeological center of Chinchero.
Local cuisine is another significant attraction, offering typical dishes that reflect the community's cultural identity. Explorinka includes visits to this community in its itineraries, contributing to local economic development and promoting a genuine cultural exchange.
The community of Yunkaypata, located in the district of Calca, Cusco, at an altitude of 2,900 meters, offers community tourism centered around agriculture and native cultural activities. It is about a 45-minute drive from the city of Cusco, and its inhabitants primarily engage in agriculture and the raising of small animals, preserving their traditions and way of life.
Visitors can enjoy handicrafts and traditional food, providing them with an authentic and participatory experience in the community's daily activities. Yunkaypata is a key stop for Explorinka passengers, who have the opportunity to rehydrate and taste local products. Many choose to extend their visit, enjoying the hospitality of Yunkaypata by renting cozy accommodation options available in the community.
El Mariscal is a cevichería located in Wanchaq, Cusco, renowned for offering authentic cuisine with a focus on Peruvian ceviche. Although Wanchaq doesn't have major tourist stops, this establishment has become a gastronomic attraction for visitors. In addition to providing the true flavor of ceviche, El Mariscal also employs local university students, supporting community development. Tourists have the opportunity to enjoy a ceviche preparation demonstration, providing a unique culinary experience.
In Cusco, a destination with an astonishing historical legacy, you will find an exceptional opportunity for cycling. Cycling enthusiasts always crave discovering new challenges, and Cusco, with its geographical diversity, offers an ideal setting for a variety of cycling experiences, framed by stunning landscapes.
The challenging trails and impressive landscapes of Cusco are a delight for cyclists of all levels. Prepare to explore this Peruvian gem on two wheels, here are some options that you can enjoy on a bicycle:
Bicycle tourism in Cusco offers a unique experience for travelers who wish to explore the cultural and natural wealth of the region by bike. It is an excellent way to explore Peru's most touristic region, where you will find many cultural and adventure tours.
Furthermore, bicycle tourism allows you to interact with local communities, learn about their traditions, and try their delicious cuisine. Whether you are an experienced cyclist or a beginner, there are routes for all skill levels and endurance.
Within this universe of tourist trips, there are specific routes that allow you to explore Cusco and its main archaeological sites by bicycle. These include the famous archaeological sites of Sacsayhuamán, Puca Pucara, Tambomachay, and Q'enqo. You do not need a specialized bike, but one that allows you to traverse sections with a variety of inclines.
Additionally, you can enjoy the freedom to explore the charming villages of the Sacred Valley of the Incas. If you are more enthusiastic, there is an option that covers the valley from Taray to Ollantaytambo, approximately 60 kilometers of journey. You will enjoy a landscape adorned with cornfields and mountains crossed by the Vilcanota River. This route can last all day, depending on your physical condition and the stops you decide to make.
Cross-country in Cusco is an exciting adventure for cyclists who wish to explore the nature and history of the region. Cyclists can enjoy the thrill of pedaling through challenging trails while admiring panoramic views of the Andes. Additionally, Cusco offers a variety of options for all skill levels, from beginners to experts.
The XC rally is a very popular form of cycling in Cusco, attracting numerous participants. Local competitions and guided tours contribute to its growing fame, in addition to taking you to discover the most notable places in the area.
One of the most popular XC routes in Cusco is the Maras-Moray route, which generally starts in the village of Chinchero. With a total distance of about 35 kilometers, this route offers varied slopes and terrains. Additionally, it provides the opportunity to explore the archaeological site of Moray and the Maras salt pans.
In addition to the extensive circuits, there are shorter options known as “Short Trail”. A prominent one is located in Yuncaypata, 45 minutes from the city of Cusco. With a length of 4 km, you can ride it at your own pace as many times as you wish. A specialized and lightweight bike with at least 11 speeds is recommended.
It is important to remember to carry water and sunscreen, as well as to respect the natural environment and local communities during your ride. Cusco is the perfect destination for cross-country lovers who want a unique biking experience while exploring the wonders of Peru.
For brave cyclists in search of thrills, downhill in Cusco offers an adrenaline-filled experience. It is the most popular mode and is supported by local clubs.
The trails, created by cyclists or adapted from indigenous agricultural transport routes, offer a variety of challenges, including ramps, berms, and rocky areas, making the descent more exciting and unique.
The community of Yuncaypata is a frequently visited destination by downhill enthusiasts, offering more than 5 lines with various levels of difficulty. Cyclists will enjoy thrilling descents through the Andes.
The Lares circuit is also busy, offering an ideal combination of rocky terrains and winding trails. Riders looking for new and exciting adventures can rent specialized bikes in the city and join tours guided by local experts.
Carrying protective gear and following safety instructions are essential to fully enjoy this unique experience. Cusco stands out as an exciting destination for downhill enthusiasts.
Enduro in Cusco offers an exciting combination of technical descents and challenging climbs. Although a relatively recent modality, it has become incredibly popular, consolidating Cusco as the national capital of Enduro.
It features a wide variety of trails, many of which are ancient paths forgotten by local communities, making it unique and distinct from other Enduro locations.
The Sacred Valley of the Incas is the ideal place for Enduro, with more than 20 challenging trails and breathtaking landscapes. One of the most popular routes is the path that connects the archaeological site of Pisac with the village of Ollantaytambo, offering an exciting experience through ancient paths and narrow trails.
With its thrilling terrain and rich history, Cusco is a must-visit destination for Enduro enthusiasts wishing to explore the best of cycling in Peru.
Cycling is a sport that is excellent for staying in shape and discovering amazing landscapes. For this reason, you should consider different important points.
Personal safety will always be more fundamental than any other factor when mountain biking. Keep the following in mind to ensure your personal safety.
Safety is important, as it can prevent serious injuries in case of an accident. Mountain biking has its risks, so you should minimize the margin of error.
You should learn to perform basic maintenance tasks, such as cleaning and lubricating the chain, checking the tire pressure, and adjusting the brake tension.
It is important to acquire a bicycle that is the right size for you. Being mountain biking, the bicycle must have the appropriate implements to be able to run on the terrain.
Mountain biking in Peru has a wide variety of routes; however, not all are the same, even if they are in similar places. For this reason, it is important to identify details about the route you will be riding, so you can prepare accordingly.
Mastering some basic cycling techniques will be of great help when mountain biking to face the challenges of the terrain you choose.
By following these safety tips, you can enjoy mountain biking in Peru safely and responsibly. Always prioritize safety and be prepared for any situation that may arise along the way.
Have fun exploring the beautiful landscapes that Peru has to offer!
With the onset of the pandemic in the last year, the cycling community grew exponentially. The covid-19 restrictions themselves caused many people to turn their eyes to the sport. Cycling trails filled with new riders frequently and with increasing intensity, weekends became massive days of cyclists seeking to escape confinement. Entire families, young people, fathers, mothers, etc. all of them with their bikes excited and happy, enjoying their extraordinary adventure in the middle of forests and mountains that only Cusco can offer you.
Unfortunately, not everything was happiness, the increase of new cyclists also led to an increase in solid waste at worrying levels. Plastic bottles, beer bottles, plastic bags, and even plastic garbage were the protagonists of these routes. The lack of culture and respect for nature endangered the ecosystem and the very vision of a natural and beautiful Andean panorama.
Explorinka as a company saw the problem and together with its team, we put our grain of sand. The objective was to clean each route affected by trash, taking advantage of the fact that many riders were training, we made them participate in the collection of this waste. Each one took a bag and collected starting in a specific area, picking up kilos and more kilos of garbage. Other cyclists who were passing by, seeing this action, joined the activity with their bags in hand, they got down to work. The intention was very motivating, at that moment we believed that we could clean the whole world, there was no lack of anecdotes and empathy among cyclists, but it was satisfying just to participate and contribute with something to this kind action.
We know that picking up litter alone won't accomplish much, but it's more about educating every rider that pollution is a serious problem. We are aware that we must teach that we can use alternative environmentally friendly products. That's why Explorinka uses recycled and environmentally friendly products, also, like this day, we periodically join to clean the routes, showing every rider that passes by our side the importance of keeping our environment clean. Join us as well and join us in our cleaning tasks on the mountain biking trails in Cusco.
Many say that young people are the future, the foundation of a community is forged by passionate youths with a thirst for success. Certainly, in our country, we can find many examples of young athletes who lack the tools and proper support for their sports career to stand out in this competitive world. Our commitment as a company is to promote the sport of Mountain Biking, supporting local athletes who inspire other young people to become new cyclists, promoting values and service to society.
Explorinka is currently supporting many young riders with bicycles and financial support as needed.
Abel Caceres:
A Cusco rider passionate about speed, who, in addition to mountain biking, also participates in rally competitions.
Abel has participated in many MTB competitions, achieving significant medals. His desire and effort in this sport inspire many. Currently, Abel does not have a competition bike, but seeing his achievements, Explorinka has been supporting him by providing a bike so he can train and participate in different local competitions.
Brener Montes:
Brener is an outstanding rider from Cusco, known for his talent and dedication in the world of enduro and downhill. He was crowned champion of the Enduro Series Peru in 2018 and 2022, consolidating himself as one of the best in his discipline.
In 2023, Brener reached 5th place in the Pan American Downhill held in Cusco, demonstrating his perseverance and passion for the sport. His achievements inspire many riders to follow in his footsteps in high-level competitions.
Siwar Monteagudo:
Siwar is practically a benchmark for Mountain Biking in Cusco. We were able to support him in some national competitions like the Enduro series 2021 where he reached the podium in his category. He also participates in some tours that we organize as support for our guides.
Siwar is a competitor who has won many medals, giving us an example that everything can be achieved with perseverance and effort.
Isrrael Bernaola:
Israel, or as his friends call him Chirra, is a persevering athlete. Apart from his skills as a rider, which by the way, he is one of the best in Peru in the Downhill modality. He has been winning different downhill competitions like the Inkavalanche, and other local competitions. Explorinka supported him by providing a bicycle for him to use so he can win medals during his career.
Gerson Paz
Gerson loves MTB as well as nature and animals. We met him in a video we made and were amazed, as with a rigid bike he performs incredible jumps, talented by nature.
We supported him in some competitions, of course, he reached the podium and won medals. You can always count on us, Gerson.
We are pleased to help not only riders but also to continue building and maintaining trails so that the cyclist community grows, as we know that everything will be better while you're on the bike.
Cusco is one of the best places for cycling, with its mountainous geography and variety of ecosystems, making it the perfect place to pedal in different types of cycling. There are routes for XC, enduro, road cycling, downhill, among others.
Within our selection of the 5 best bike routes in Cusco, we highlight their ease of access, landscape diversity, and level of difficulty.
If XC or Cross Country is your thing, the Corn Route is perfect for you. It is a road type trail that crosses the Sacred Valley of the Incas from the town of Pisaq (located 45 minutes from the city of Cusco) to the fortress of Ollantaytambo.
With a distance of 60 km between the starting and ending points, running very close to the Vilcanota River among corn, strawberry, and potato crops. To better enhance this route, the corn crops you will pass through are the best in the city of Cusco and Peru.
The terrain is quite firm and there is not much unevenness, in most of the circuit the surface is flat making it a bicycle trail with a "easy" degree of difficulty. Ideal for a family outing or to disconnect from routine surrounded by typical landscapes of the Sacred Valley of the Incas.
Increasing the degree of difficulty, we move on to enduro mode. The route you can't miss while in Cusco is undoubtedly the Lares Trail. An ancient Inca path extends from 4600 m high, descending to 2900 m high over 12 km. The terrain is quite fluid but also has its technical side, making it more fun if you're looking for a lot of adrenaline discharge.
It is located 2 hours from the city of Cusco, in the Sacred Valley of the Incas. Its degree of difficulty is intermediate level with little positive unevenness. As an additional feature, there is a sand drop named "freeride" by local riders. This drop has a steep inclination, not very long, but we are sure that if you ride it, it will make your heart reach the top.
Huacarpay is a wetland located 30 minutes south of the city of Cusco, in this wetland there is a track that surrounds the lagoon extending for approximately 5 km. Yes, it is very little mileage for a road cyclist, but remember that it is at altitude (between 3000 to 4000 masl) which affects performance. However, you can make as many laps as you want, the great thing about this circuit is that there is very little vehicle traffic, we would say almost none, combined with the landscape, it makes a perfect place for road cycling.
As an additional piece of information, near this track is the town of Lucre, where you can find the best roasted duck in the Cusco area, as well as delicious artisanal ice creams. Take advantage of your break and treat yourself to a stop in Lucre.
It is the most classic circuit and perhaps the most used by enthusiastic tourists, characterized by having stops at archaeological sites such as Moray and crossing the salt mines, called Salineras. Its distance is approximately 20 km, starting near the town of Chinchero.
You will mostly see potato and cereal crops on your ride, in addition to being able to observe the Urubamba mountain range. The first stop will be the archaeological center of Moray, a place that was formerly used for agricultural experimentation, its circular and terraced terracing allowed to have different temperatures at each of its levels, which allowed the planting of different products.
Then you can visit the famous salt mines in Maras, where you can take the opportunity to buy some salt to taste at home. Finally, you will arrive in the Sacred Valley in Urubamba. The difficulty of this circuit is moderate, it has very simple parts, but at the end, there is a narrow horseshoe path with some tight turns. You can always walk the more complicated parts if your skill does not allow it.
This circuit will truly make your adrenaline fly, located in the Sacred Valley, on the high side, near Chinchero. It starts at a great viewpoint of the Urubamba snow-capped mountains, then crosses a canyon descending towards the town of Urquillos. The great thing about this circuit is that it has technical parts, sections with stone stairs, technical turns, and some ramps.
Its distance is 8 km, not very long, but fun. There are sections of high speed, which allows you to release that wild spirit that a rider keeps in their day to day. Otherwise, the fun is guaranteed if downhill is your favorite sport.
The Yucaypata route in Cusco is a favorite among mountain biking enthusiasts. Located just 45 minutes from the city of Cusco, this route offers trails for all tastes and cyclist experience levels.
The route begins at the Ccorao pass, where you can choose the trail you wish to explore. The distance varies depending on the trail chosen, so you can ride for about 8 km, encountering steps, ramps, and even roots typical of the forests surrounding the route.
However, if you're looking for a more relaxed ride, you can cycle approximately 16 km on a trail that doesn't require great skill. You may encounter sections with many holes due to rain and animal traffic, but these do not present a significant obstacle.
Undoubtedly, the versatility that Yucaypata offers is what made it the favorite route for all cyclists visiting the city of Cusco.
There are many possibilities for practicing mountain biking in Cusco, the best ones are found in the Sacred Valley of the Incas; however, they are somewhat far, between 2 to 3 hours driving to the starting point of any of these routes. Considering this and knowing that no one likes to spend a lot of time in the car, we recommend going to Yuncaypata. A town where you will find many possibilities to practice cycling, whether you are looking for lines for beginners or lines for experienced riders.
Yuncaypata is not very far from the city of Cusco, in 45 minutes you can reach the top of the mountain. Now, since there is a variety of lines, you can practice the following cycling modalities:
If you have time, we recommend traveling to the Sacred Valley of the Incas, where you will find circuits with more variety in each modality. Consider staying in Urubamba or Calca, places that offer many amenities for tourists, where you'll find hotels and restaurants at comfortable prices.
It's a bit complicated to do a city tour by bicycle in Cusco, for two basic reasons:
Even so, what can be done is to visit the 4 archaeological sites: Saqsayhuaman, Tambomachay, Puca Pucara, and Qenqo sites that are part of the classic City Tour in Cusco. Normally, this tour is done on electric bicycles, as the track has a lot of variation in elevation. Electric bicycles will make your experience more comfortable, as they assist almost 80% of your pedaling.
Adding visits to archaeological sites, this tour is truly a gem, as you are outdoors. The degree of difficulty is easy, you do not need much experience to enjoy the tour. It is highly recommended to escape the routine and do something different from the classic tours.
The city bike tour duration is a maximum of 6 hours, depending on your physical condition.
Here are some recommendations to consider for your bike ride.
The Maras-Moray route is the most popular in the Cusco region, offering a great variety in activities, as it involves not only cycling but also visiting the archaeological site of Moray and the salt mines in Maras.
To explore it, you must drive to the town of Chinchero, located 45 minutes from Cusco. This place marks the beginning of your adventure, with 20 km of distance awaiting you on this trail. The terrain is not complicated, although the path becomes narrower towards the end.
Do I need to pay for entry to this bicycle route?
The Maras-Moray bicycle circuit is free; however, entering the archaeological complex of Moray costs 70 soles, and for the salt mines, it is 10 soles.
Tour Duration
The duration of the tour depends on your physical condition, normally lasting 6 hours, but it can take a bit longer.
The downhill trail in Yuncaypata is one of the most used by cyclists visiting Cusco, offering adventure for both experts and beginners.
On the route, you can visit archaeological sites such as Inkilltambo, Kallachaka, Hatun Plaza, among others. To undertake this journey, you will have 2 options:
The Sacred Valley of the Incas offers perfect trails for cycling, where you can marvel at the wonderful landscape and even visit several archaeological sites like Pisac, Ollantaytambo, and more.
The route is approximately 58 km long, all along the cycle path of the Sacred Valley. Entry to the archaeological sites requires a ticket, costing 70 soles and includes access to Pisac, Ollantaytambo, Chinchero, and Moray.
What to Bring?
For any bike ride, it is always advisable to bring:
Tour Duration
The approximate duration of the tour is 6 hours.
Reaching the Machu Picchu citadel by bicycle is an adventure-filled and exciting experience. Additionally, it includes not only cycling but also hiking up to the Inca citadel.
The journey lasts 4 days and 3 nights, starting with a transfer from Cusco to Ollantaytambo where the bike route begins.
The trail includes sections of the Inca Trail, so at times the path may become too narrow, as these were designed for walkers.
The Sacred Valley is the perfect place for cycling. Its geography, incredible landscapes, and tourist sites that you can visit along the way make this location the best choice.
However, some routes are better than others. Here we present the best routes for cycling.
The Maras Moray bike route is an adventure that combines incredible landscapes, history, and culture of the city.
It is divided into two parts. The first starts in the town of Chichero on the road, leading us to the Huaypo Lagoon lookout, our first rest stop. We continue pedaling for about an hour past the towns of Cruzpata and Misminay, where we'll have an incredible view of the archaeological complex of Moray, our next destination.
In Maras, 10 minutes from Moray, begins the second part of the journey, a descent to the community of Pichingoto in the town of Tarabamba. This trail is narrower and has a high-speed downhill section with many stones on the path.
It is best to travel the route in the dry season, as the route can have slippery sections due to the clay soil.
General information
| Altitude | 2843–3758 m.a.s.l. |
| Elevation change | +203 m / - 1106 m |
| Distance | 30.3 km |
| Difficulty | Easy |
| Route type | Road |
The Corn Route is a trail that crosses the entire Sacred Valley parallel to the Vilcanota River. Along this route, you can see a large amount of corn crops, hence its name.
On the way, you will pass through various towns such as: Pisac, Coya, Lamay, Urquillos, Huayllabamba, Yucay, Urubamba, Ollantaytambo, and more; where you can observe the landscape and enjoy their traditions.
The terrain is not rugged, as it is mostly flat, and the slope does not vary much. This route is perfect for any cyclist who wants a leisurely ride while watching the corn crops.
On this route, it is not very common to find cars, but caution is always recommended. Stay on your right!
General information
| Altitude | 2972–2972 m.a.s.l. |
| Elevation change | +200 m |
| Distance | 60 km |
| Difficulty | Easy |
| Route type | Road |
Undoubtedly, the Inca Avalanche Route should be among the best bicycle routes found in the Sacred Valley. The route starts at an altitude of 4200 m at the place known as Abra Málaga, with an average temperature of 10 °C.
The Inca Avalanche offers a complete journey with sections of wet terrain, frequent and steep curves, requiring intermediate experience at every segment. You will also find ramps with almost 2 m of distance, and the drops that increase adrenaline while riding.
Be aware that this route has sections where you will cross roads with vehicular traffic, so it is recommended to be very cautious when approaching the road to avoid accidents.
General information
| Altitude | 2880 - 4300 m.a.s.l. |
| Elevation change | -1547 m / +128 m |
| Distance | 12.6 km |
| Difficulty | Advanced |
| Route type | Single Track |
This trail is undoubtedly perfect for mountain biking, considered one of the highest in the world, making it a challenge for all cyclists.
We start at the Yanamayo pass at over 4000 m of altitude, which involves good physical condition because the length is almost 30 km.
The terrain is not rugged; however, some sections have loose stones and mud with moss that can make the route more difficult.
General information
| Altitude | 2792 - 4300 m.a.s.l. |
| Elevation change | +330 / -1508 m |
| Distance | 30 km |
| Difficulty | Intermediate |
| Route type | Single Track Enduro |
The classic Lamay route is a mountain of adrenaline, with sections that will require all the cyclist's technique. This path is still used by the community members to transport their products.
It doesn't have much descent, and you will encounter Inca stairs with steps up to 30 cm high in some places. If your cycling level is intermediate, this route is completely for you.
General information
| Altitude | 2941 - 4300 m.a.s.l. |
| Elevation change | + 1359 m |
| Distance | 13.5 km |
| Difficulty | Intermediate |
| Route type | Single Track |
As its name suggests, this route is La Máxima, at an altitude of 4000 m, you will be able to have an incredible view of the mountain range surrounding the trail.
In this route, you will find everything, sections of high speed, tight turns, and terrains where you will have to use all your skills. The descent is full of adrenaline that will take you to maximum speed.
Keep in mind that this route is only for experienced cyclists and it is absolutely necessary to do it in the company of others, never alone.
General information
| Altitude | 2967 - 4000 m.a.s.l. |
| Elevation change | +216 / -1751 m |
| Distance | 11.2 km |
| Difficulty | Advanced |
| Route type | Enduro Singletrack |
Here are the recommendations you should consider for your bike trip.