Top Cycling Trails in Peru

Peru is a country with rich culture, natural beauty, and history. It is also a country quickly gaining popularity as a top destination for cyclists. With its diverse landscape, Peru offers something for every type of rider. We will be exploring some of the top cycling trails in Peru in this article.

From the coast to the mountains, there is a trail for every type of rider.

So whether you’re looking for a challenge or a leisurely ride, be sure to check out these trails on your next trip to Peru.

 

The Peruvian Andes

The Peruvian Andes can easily be labeled as among the most stunning and varied cycling trails in the world. From the high-altitude passes of the Cordillera Blanca to the rolling hills of the Sacred Valley, there is a route to suit every type of rider.

The climb up to Ausangate is to be noticed by those looking for a challenge. At over 5,000m above sea level, it is among the highest paved roads in the entire world and offers incredible views of the surrounding mountains. For those wanting something a little less strenuous, the valley floor routes offer gentle gradients and beautiful scenery.

Whatever route you choose, you are guaranteed an unforgettable experience around one of the best mountain ranges on Earth.

 

The Colca Canyon

The Colca Canyon is easily among the most popular cycling trails in Peru. The canyon is located in the Andes Mountains and is about two times as deep as the Grand Canyon in the United States. The Colca Canyon offers some spectacular views of the mountains and the valley below. There are several different routes that cyclists can take, depending on their level of experience and fitness.

 

The Amazon Basin

The Amazon Basin can easily be categorized to be among the most biologically diverse places on the planet. It is home to an astonishing variety of plant and animal life. The basin covers an area of nearly 2.5 million square miles and is drained by the Amazon River, the largest river in the world by volume.

The basin is mainly covered in dense rainforests and is crisscrossed by a network of quite a few rivers and streams. Cycling through this landscape is an unforgettable experience, with several great trails to explore. Here are some of the best:

1. The Alto Mayo Protected Forest Nature Reserve: This reserve is located in northern Peru and covers an area of 1.3 million acres. The reserve is home to a great variety of plant and animal life, including several species of monkeys, sloths, birds, and reptiles. The reserve also contains impressive geological features, such as waterfalls and limestone caves.
2. The Manu National Park: This national park is located in southeastern Peru and covers an area of 3 million acres. The park is home to a vast diversity of plant and animal life, including several endangered species, such as the jaguar and the harpy eagle. Visitors can explore the park on foot, by bike, or even by canoe or raft.
3. The Tambopata National Reserve: This reserve is located in southeastern Peru, bordering Bolivia and Brazil. It covers an area of 1 million acres.

 

The Pacific Coast

The Pacific Coast is another popular cycling destinations in Peru. This area contains some of the country’s best-known cycling trails, including the Inca Trail, the Salkantay Trek, and the Lares Trek.

The Pacific Coast is an excellent place to cycle because of its beautiful scenery. The region is home to some of Peru’s most iconic landmarks, including Machu Picchu and the Nazca Lines. Cycling in this region will allow you to take in some of the country’s best views.

The climate on the Pacific Coast is also ideal for cycling. The region enjoys year-round sunshine and moderate temperatures, making it a great place to ride no matter what time of year it is.

The Inca Trail is worth checking out if you’re looking for a challenging ride. This trail takes you through some of Peru’s most stunning scenery, including the Andes Mountains and rainforests. The path can sometimes be tough, but the views are more than worth it.

The Salkantay Trek is another popular option for cyclists looking for a challenge. This trek takes you through remote villages and up into the mountains, offering incredible views along the way. The trek can sometimes be tricky, but it’s an incredibly rewarding experience.

Finally, the Lares Trek is an excellent option for those who want to explore off-the-beaten-path destinations.

 

Tips for Cycling in Peru

Peru is a beautiful country with amazing landscapes and exciting culture. It’s an excellent place for a cycling holiday, with an incredible variety of terrain, including some of the world’s highest mountains. The country has a range of climate zones, so you can find a suitable route for all seasons. The best time to visit peru for cycling is between October and April. The weather is milder during this time, and the roads are less busy.

 

Choose the Right Type of Bike for the Trail

You can use several types of bikes for riding in Peru. You should choose the type that suits you the best.
There are road bikes, mountain bikes, and hybrid bikes.

Road bikes are suitable for long distances and for traveling in cities.

Mountain bikes are best for off-road trails.

Hybrid bikes have a combination of characteristics from both road bikes and mountain bikes.

The best road bikes for cycling in Peru are the ones that are comfortable and stable with a lot of gears so that you can climb mountains and hills easily. If you want to go off-road, mountain bikes are best for you. They are more lightweight than road bikes but can still climb mountains and hills easily. Hybrid bikes are best for people who like to ride simultaneously on roads and off-road trails. They are very versatile, so you can use them in different places.

 

Carry Enough Water

Ensure you carry enough water with you because water can be hard to find in some areas. You can buy bottled water, or you can refill your water bottle from the tap, but better to not drink the water that comes from the tap because it may have been contaminated. It’s also a good idea to carry a water purifier with you, so you don’t get sick. If you are travelling to a place with no water, and not carrying enough water supplies with you, then you should plan ahead and bring a water purifier.

Bring a First Aid Kit

If your plan is to cycle a long distance, you should bring a First Aid Kit. This will help you if you get hurt or have any medical issues. You can even some times get one for free from your doctor. You can buy one online or in stores if you don’t have one.

Ask for Directions

If you are riding and unfamiliar with the area, you can ask for directions. You can request a local, ask a taxi driver, or ask a restaurant owner. If you ask a restaurant owner, they may even give you a map of the area. You can also use the GPS feature on your phone to get directions.

Be Friendly and Respectful

Be friendly and respectful if you are riding your bike in an area with other bikers. Bikers should share the road. Don’t ride in a way that blocks other bikers. When you are riding, don’t run into bikers or cars. You can’t see them coming. If you see a car coming, stop and wait for it to pass.

Enjoy the Ride

The best way to enjoy the ride is to wear a helmet. It can protect your head in case you fall. Also, you can wear a cycling jacket or vest, gloves, and knee pads. You can find these at your local bike shop.

There are many places to go and see in Peru. You can go to the Andes, the Amazon, the coast, and the jungle. You can go to the ruins of Machu Picchu. You can go to the marketplaces in Lima. You can also go to the markets in Cusco, Puno, and Arequipa.