The best cycling routes in Cusco

Cusco offers a selection of touring cycling routes, with komoot featuring 5 distinct tours. These routes vary in difficulty, providing options for different skill levels.

Touring cycling in Cusco takes you through diverse mountainous geography, including high Andean regions, valleys, and rivers. You'll encounter both highlands and cloud forests, with routes often traversing ancient trails, agricultural fields, and areas rich in cultural heritage. Expect varied elevations, from moderate city loops to more challenging ascents and descents.

While many routes in Cusco involve significant elevation changes, there are moderate options suitable for those looking for a less strenuous ride. For example, the City of Cusco – Yuncaypata loop from San Pedro is a moderate 9.6-mile (15.5 km) path that features varied terrain around the city, which could be a good option for families with some cycling experience.

Many touring cycling routes in Cusco are intertwined with its rich historical and cultural sites. You can explore ancient Inca ruins like the Sacsayhuamán Archaeological Site, the Tambomachay Water Temple, and the Inca Sacrificial Altar (Q'enqo). Within the city, you might pass by the iconic Qorikancha (Temple of the Sun) or the bustling Plaza de Armas of Cusco. Natural features like the Balcón del Diablo also offer scenic stops.

Several routes in Cusco are designed as loops, allowing you to start and end in the same location. Popular circular options include the difficult City of Cusco – Qurikancha loop from San Pedro, the moderate City of Cusco – Yuncaypata loop from San Pedro, and the difficult Qurikancha – City of Cusco loop from Wanchaq. These loops provide diverse experiences, from urban exploration to varied terrain around the city.

The dry season, which typically runs from May to October, is generally considered the best time for touring cycling in Cusco. During these months, you can expect more stable weather conditions, less rain, and clearer skies, making for more enjoyable rides through the Andean landscapes.

Yes, for experienced touring cyclists seeking a significant challenge, Cusco offers routes with considerable distance and elevation gain. The Qurikancha – Pisac Town and Inca Terraces loop from Corao is a difficult 59.8-mile (96.3 km) route with over 4,300 feet (1,300 meters) of elevation gain, taking you through the Sacred Valley to the historic Pisac. Another difficult option is the City of Cusco – Qurikancha loop from San Pedro, which covers 19.2 miles (30.9 km) with over 1,800 feet (570 meters) of climbing.

The touring cycling routes in Cusco are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 5.0 stars from several reviews. Cyclists often praise the stunning Andean highlands, the opportunity to explore ancient trails, and the immersive experience of cycling through the Sacred Valley, combining adventure with rich cultural exploration.

Absolutely. The Sacred Valley is a prime area for touring cycling in Cusco. Routes often wind through picturesque villages, corn, strawberry, and potato fields alongside the Vilcanota River, offering panoramic vistas. A notable route that takes you into this iconic valley is the difficult Qurikancha – Pisac Town and Inca Terraces loop from Corao, which allows you to experience the historical and natural beauty of the region.

While many routes in Cusco feature significant elevation changes, there are moderate options that can be more approachable for beginners or those seeking a relaxed pace. The City of Cusco loop from San Sebastián is a moderate 8.6-mile (13.8 km) route with less elevation gain compared to others, making it a good choice for a more leisurely exploration of the city's surroundings.

Cusco's cycling routes are deeply integrated with its cultural heritage. You'll often pass by significant Inca archaeological sites, traditional villages where you might observe local customs like weaving, and ancient paths used by local communities for centuries. Cycling here offers a unique way to combine outdoor adventure with an immersive historical and cultural journey.