Cycling in Argentina
Including Bariloche and Cerro Catedral, Calchaquí Valleys (Tafí del Valle), and El Chaltén. On the map.
The vibe
Riding in Argentina feels like a cross‑country adventure, with long stretches of open roads and varied landscapes, but the infrastructure is largely car‑oriented. Spring and fall provide comfortable temperatures for long rides. Most cyclists plan their own routes, with occasional organized tours, but the experience is largely DIY.

Bariloche and Cerro Catedral
Río Negro
Mariano Melgar / Wikimedia Commons (CC BY-SA 3.0)
Bariloche is the epicenter of mountain biking in Argentina, featuring a vast network of trails ranging from technical singletrack in the forests to lift-accessed downhill runs at Cerro Catedral. The terrain offers varied volcanic soil and spectacular mountain vistas.
Access. Bike parks and rental shops are abundant in Bariloche; easy access to trailheads via local shuttles.
Notes. Summer season (Dec-March) is prime for lift-access; autumn offers stunning foliage.

Calchaquí Valleys (Tafí del Valle)
Tucumán
Dario Alpern / Wikimedia Commons (CC BY-SA 4.0)
Traversing the rugged landscapes of Tucumán and Salta, this region offers a mix of paved roads and gravel paths through dramatic red-rock canyons and high-altitude vineyards. It is a cultural and scenic highlight for those riding the northern Argentine circuit.
Access. Start from San Miguel de Tucumán or Salta city; bike touring logistics are best managed through local adventure operators.
Notes. Dry, arid climate; best visited in autumn or spring to avoid extreme heat.

El Chaltén
Santa Cruz
Daniel Burka dburka / Wikimedia Commons (CC0)
Known as the trekking capital, El Chaltén has developed a robust mountain biking scene with trails that offer views of Mount Fitz Roy. The terrain is rugged and technical, catering to experienced riders looking for dramatic mountain scenery.
Access. Local bike shops in the village provide rentals and trail maps; most trails are accessible directly from town.
Notes. Weather is highly unpredictable; trails are best suited for intermediate to advanced riders.
Mendoza Wine Region
Mendoza
Sefer / Wikimedia Commons (CC BY-SA 3.0)
While famous for wine, the foothills of the Andes around Mendoza provide an extensive network of gravel roads and dirt tracks through vineyards and desert landscapes. It is ideal for gravel cyclists looking for a mix of scenery, culture, and accessible riding.
Access. Base yourself in Mendoza or Luján de Cuyo; numerous bike tour operators offer guided gravel excursions.
Notes. Year-round riding, though summer afternoons can be very hot.
Parque Nacional El Palmar
Entre Ríos Province
Dario Alpern / Wikimedia Commons (CC BY-SA 4.0)
Located in Entre Ríos, this park features gentle gravel paths winding through vast groves of Yatay palm trees. It is a peaceful destination perfect for those seeking scenic, low-intensity gravel riding in a unique subtropical environment.
Access. Bicycles can be rented at the park entrance; the area is easily accessible from the town of Colón.
Notes. Flat terrain, ideal for casual riders and families.

Quebrada de Humahuaca
Jujuy
kdgabbo / Wikimedia Commons (CC BY-SA 3.0)
Cycling through this UNESCO World Heritage site offers a unique blend of high-altitude desert landscapes and vibrant indigenous culture. The route follows ancient paths through colorful geological formations and historic Andean villages.
Access. Purmamarca and Tilcara serve as the best hubs for bike rentals and guided multi-day tours.
Notes. High altitude requires acclimatization; best visited in the dry season from May to September.

Tierra del Fuego National Park
Tierra del Fuego
Butterfly voyages - Serge Ouachée / Wikimedia Commons (CC BY-SA 3.0)
The 'End of the World' offers rugged gravel paths and coastal trails at the southern tip of the continent. It is a rite of passage for long-distance bike tourers finishing their journey through the Americas.
Access. Accessible via Ushuaia; limited bike support, so self-sufficiency is required.
Notes. Windy and unpredictable weather; requires high-quality gear regardless of the season.

Traslasierra Valley
Córdoba
Taken by the uploader, Roberto Fiadone / Wikimedia Commons (CC BY-SA 3.0)
Nestled in the Córdoba mountains, this region is a hotspot for mountain biking and gravel riding on ancient dirt roads. The valley offers a mix of challenging climbs and fast descents through rolling hills and river crossings.
Access. Mina Clavero is the primary hub with several cycling clubs and rental shops available.
Notes. Popular for the 'Desafío al Valle del Río Pinto', one of the largest MTB races in South America.
