Cycling in Peru
Including Colca Canyon and Chivay Pass, Cordillera Blanca and Huascarán Circuit, and Lake Titicaca Shoreline and Peninsula. On the map.
The vibe
Riding a bike here is an epic test of lung capacity, descending endless switchbacks from windswept high passes down into humid jungle basins amid heavy regional traffic. The shoulder months of April and October offer manageable weather without the peak dust or torrential afternoon downpours. Most riders bring their own rigs for an independent cross-country slog, finding friendly roadside mechanics in larger mountain towns.
Colca Canyon and Chivay Pass
Arequipa
Nad Hemnani santtd / Wikimedia Commons (CC0)
Tackle one of the world's deepest canyons on two wheels, navigating thrilling switchbacks and dramatic cliffside roads. You will pass traditional Andean terracing and have chances to spot soaring Andean condors.
Access. Begin your ride from Arequipa, traveling upward toward Chivay and the canyon rim.
Notes. Challenging climbs reaching over 4,800 meters at the Patapampa Pass. Best done in the dry season.
Cordillera Blanca and Huascarán Circuit
Ancash
VanniaAliaga / Wikimedia Commons (CC BY-SA 4.0)
Towering snow-capped peaks and turquoise glacial lagoons provide an epic backdrop for serious altitude cycling. This region features some of the highest paved passes and most demanding gravel climbs in South America.
Access. Take a long-distance bus from Lima to Hrazaz, the main mountaineering and biking hub of the region.
Notes. Extreme altitudes exceeding 4,000 meters demand careful pacing and proper acclimatization. Recommended between May and September.
Lake Titicaca Shoreline and Peninsula
Puno
Leonora (Ellie) Enking from West Sussex, England / Wikimedia Commons (CC BY-SA 2.0)
Cycle across the high-altitude altiplano along the shimmering blue shores of the world's highest navigable lake. Rolling rural roads take you through traditional indigenous farming communities and ancient archaeological sites.
Access. Fly to Juliaca or take a bus to Puno, where local bike rentals and guides are available.
Notes. Flat to rolling terrain, but constantly sitting above 3,800 meters elevation. High sun exposure.
Paracas National Reserve Coastal Route
Ica
Petr Meissner / Wikimedia Commons (CC BY 2.0)
Experience raw desert riding where towering golden sand dunes meet the crashing blue waves of the Pacific Ocean. Wide gravel tracks and hard-packed coastal roads offer a unique arid landscape adventure.
Access. Accessible via a 3.5-hour bus ride south from Lima to the coastal town of Paracas.
Notes. Can be very windy, especially in the afternoons. Suitable for gravel and touring bikes with wide tires.
Sacred Valley and Maras Salt Mines
Cusco
Daniel Aufgang / Wikimedia Commons (CC BY 3.0)
Pedal past towering Andean peaks, ancient Incan agricultural terraces, and high-altitude colonial villages. The route blends challenging gravel tracks with stunning descents through the heart of the Inca Empire.
Access. Fly into Cusco and base yourself in Urubamba or Ollantaytambo. Full-suspension mountain bikes and gravel bikes are available for rent in Cusco.
Notes. High altitude (often above 3,000 meters) requires acclimatization. Best ridden during the dry season from May to September.