Adventure Collective Journal

Adventure Collective Journal

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Explore Peru’s Sacred Valley by Mountain Bike and Discover Machu Picchu on a 2-Day Adventure

Explore Peru’s Sacred Valley by Mountain Bike and Discover Machu Picchu on a 2-Day Adventure

Ride the rugged trails of Peru’s Sacred Valley, visiting Inca terraces, salt mines, and culminate your journey with a guided tour of Machu Picchu. This 2-day mountain bike adventure offers a unique blend of culture, history, and adrenaline.

Cusco, null
2 days (approx. 8 hours biking day 1, 3–4 hours guided tour day 2)
By Adventure CollectiveOctober 2025

The Experience

Before You Go

Acclimatize Before You Ride

Spend at least a day in Cusco to acclimate to high altitude before starting the tour to avoid altitude sickness.

Wear Sturdy Mountain Biking Footwear

Choose shoes with good grip and ankle support to handle rocky and variable terrain on the MTB trails.

Hydrate Consistently

Carry water and drink regularly, as the high elevation and physical effort can quickly dehydrate you.

Start Early to Avoid Crowds

Begin your rides and Machu Picchu visits early in the day to enjoy cooler temperatures and fewer tourists.

Local Knowledge

Hidden Gems

  • Explore the lesser-known local textile workshops in Chinchero, where artisans maintain ancient Andean dyeing traditions.
  • Visit the family-operated salt ponds at Maras early in the morning when the light softens the geometric landscape.

Wildlife

  • Andean condor soaring high above valley cliffs
  • Vizcacha, a rabbit-like mammal seen on rocky outcrops

Conservation Note

Efforts are underway to minimize trail erosion and visitor impact around Machu Picchu and the Sacred Valley to preserve this UNESCO World Heritage Site.

The Sacred Valley was a critical agricultural and spiritual area for the Inca Empire, with sites like Moray serving as experimental terraces to optimize crop growth at multiple elevations.

What to Bring

Mountain Bike HelmetEssential

Protects your head on rough trails and during descents.

Layered ClothingEssential

Allows you to adjust for cool mornings and warmer afternoons in the Andes.

Gloves with PaddingEssential

Improves grip and reduces hand fatigue on long rides.

Hydration Pack or BottleEssential

Ensures you stay hydrated throughout the physical activity.

Common Questions

Is prior mountain biking experience required?

Yes, riders should be comfortable handling mountain bikes on variable terrain including dirt paths, rocky sections, and moderate descents.

What is the altitude range covered during the tour?

The riding spans between approximately 2,800 meters and 3,700 meters above sea level, so altitude acclimatization is important.

Are meals included in the tour?

Breakfast and dinner on day one and breakfast on day two are included, but lunch is not provided.

How is transportation handled between locations?

All transport between Cusco, Sacred Valley sites, and Ollantaytambo are included, as well as train transfers to Aguas Calientes.

Can this tour accommodate travelers with limited fitness?

The tour requires moderate fitness due to mountain biking and altitude; it’s not recommended for those with poor cardiovascular health.

Is Machu Picchu entrance included?

Yes, tickets to the Machu Picchu citadel are included along with a professional guide for the site visit.

Book This Experience

Check Availability

Duration

2 days (approx. 8 hours biking day 1, 3–4 hours guided tour day 2)

Location

Cusco, null

Difficulty

moderate

Fitness Level

Participants should have moderate physical fitness and some mountain biking experience to handle uneven trails and altitude.

Free cancellation available

Ready to Explore Cusco?

Book your guided walking tour and discover the hidden stories of this historic mountain city.

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