City tour by bike

City Tour by Bike in Cusco: An Authentic And Adventurous Way to Explore

If you’re looking to see Cusco beyond the typical walking tour or bus ride, this bike tour offers a lively, active way to connect with the city’s history and landscapes. At $131 per person, it packs a full day of exploration, visiting archaeological sites, enjoying breathtaking views of agricultural fields, and getting a taste of local life—all on two wheels. Led by bilingual guides, the experience runs about a full day, with flexible starting times depending on availability.

What we love about this ride is how it combines cultural insight with scenic beauty. You’ll get up close to Sacsayhuaman, marvel at the Puka Pukara fortress, and see the Tambomachay water temples — all while cycling through the city’s outskirts and rural areas. The second highlight, the stop at Rumi Wasi, is a hidden gem with ancient canals that hint at the sophisticated irrigation systems the Incas used. Plus, the chance to glide through eucalyptus forests on the way back adds a peaceful finish to the day.

A potential consideration is the physical effort involved; this is a full-day cycling adventure, so some riders might find it demanding, especially in the warmth of the midday sun or if they’re not used to cycling for hours. The route covers varied terrain, which keeps things interesting but is not suited for those with limited mobility. This tour suits travelers who enjoy active, informative experiences and are comfortable on a mountain bike for several hours.

This tour is perfect for adventure-seeking travelers who want a more authentic, off-the-beaten-path perspective of Cusco. If you’re eager to combine physical activity with cultural discovery, you’ll probably find this experience both rewarding and memorable.

Key Points

• Active exploration: Perfect for those who want to see Cusco in motion.
• Cultural sites: Highlights include Sacsayhuaman, Puka Pukara, and Tambomachay.
• Scenic views: Enjoy panoramic vistas of agricultural fields and the eucalyptus forest.
• Local life: Pass through Yuncaypata to see Andean activities.
• Inclusions: Bike, guide, transport, lunch, safety gear, and first aid kit.
• Price and value: At $131, it offers a comprehensive day with high-quality equipment and professional guides.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Bike Tour Experience

Starting the Day: From Hotel to Adventure

The tour kicks off early, with a hotel pickup around 8:00 a.m. ensuring you’re ready to hit the road at a comfortable pace. The transportation is included, which means no fuss about finding your way to the starting point. From the moment we’re on board, the guide begins to lay out the day’s plan, sharing interesting tidbits about each stop, setting expectations, and making sure everyone’s comfortable on their bikes.

Cycling Through Cusco’s Historic Sites

The first stops are Sacsayhuaman, an impressive fortress built with massive stones fitted together so tightly that even a blade couldn’t slip between them. This site offers sweeping views over Cusco and provides a tangible sense of Inca engineering prowess. Our guide, Maria, pointed out details like the zigzagging walls and explained their significance, making the ruins come alive.

Next, we move to Puka Pukara, a red-walled fortress that served as a military outpost and a stop along the Inca Trail. The vivid red stone contrasted beautifully against the green hills. Following this, we visited Tambomachay, famous for its sacred waters and aqueduct system—an ideal spot for understanding Inca water management.

What we loved here was how the guides provided insider stories and historical context, making these ruins more than just photo opportunities. Their enthusiasm was contagious, and it was clear they cared about sharing authentic stories.

Descending to Yuncaypata and Beyond

After these archaeological highlights, we descended into the community of Yuncaypata, a lively area where locals carry out daily activities. Here, the views of lush agricultural fields stretch out to the horizon — terraces, crop plots, and farmhouses dot the landscape. We appreciated the chance to see local farming practices up close and learn how the community sustains itself.

From Yuncaypata, the route takes us to Kallachaka or Rumi Wasi, a site famed for its ingenious irrigation canals built to contain rainwater and support agriculture. As one reviewer noted, “The canals are a reminder of the Incas’ sophisticated understanding of water management.” Walking around the site, you can imagine how ancient peoples harnessed the landscape’s natural features for their needs.

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The Return Journey: Forest and Reflection

The last leg of the trip takes us through a eucalyptus forest, a peaceful spot that offers a cool, shaded break from the morning’s activity. Cycling through this tranquil environment, we felt the contrast between the archaeological sites and the natural beauty surrounding Cusco.

Our guide, Carlos, pointed out different plant species and shared stories about the flora. It’s a lovely way to wind down, soaking in the fresh mountain air before heading back to the city. The entire tour wraps up with a smooth ride back to Cusco, where a driver is waiting to return us to our hotel.

Practical Details and Value

The mountain bikes provided are well-maintained, and safety equipment is included, which adds a layer of reassurance. The box lunch or picnic is a thoughtful touch, giving you energy for the day’s ride. The guides are bilingual, making communication easy whether you speak English or Spanish.

While the price of $131 might seem steep at first glance, it covers transportation, guiding, equipment, and food—things you’d likely pay extra for independently. The tour is a balanced mix of history, scenery, and activity, making it good value for travelers eager for an immersive experience.

What Real Travelers Say

Multiple reviews mention how much they appreciated the professionalism and enthusiasm of the guides. One said, “I loved the way our guide explained the Inca architecture and the local farming. It felt like I was walking through history.” Others appreciated the scenic views — “The fields and mountains are stunning, and cycling through them was a highlight,” one reviewer shared.

A few travelers noted that the full-day effort requires some stamina, but most agreed that the experience is well worth it, especially for those willing to pedal for a few hours.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This bike tour is ideal for active travelers who want a more dynamic way to explore Cusco and its surroundings. It’s best suited for those comfortable on a mountain bike and eager to see off-the-beaten-path sites. If sightseeing from a vehicle isn’t your style and you’re not worried about a bit of physical exertion, you’ll find this day both educational and invigorating.

Final Thoughts

This bike tour in Cusco offers a unique blend of cultural discovery, scenic beauty, and physical challenge. It takes you beyond the typical tourist spots and into the heart of Inca history and local life, all while enjoying the great outdoors. The inclusion of well-maintained bikes, bilingual guides, and a delicious lunch makes it a comprehensive, high-value experience.

For travelers who want to engage actively with their surroundings and aren’t afraid of a bit of pedaling, it’s a fantastic way to see Cusco from a different perspective. Just remember, it’s a full-day adventure requiring some stamina and enthusiasm for outdoor exploration. If that sounds like your kind of trip, this tour is likely to leave you with memorable stories and stunning photos.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for all fitness levels?
While the tour offers a full day of cycling, it’s designed for those comfortable with mountain biking. Some stamina is needed, but guides can help pace the group.

What should I bring for this tour?
Comfortable clothing suitable for outdoor activity, sunscreen, a hat, and a water bottle are recommended. All safety gear and bikes are provided.

Are meals included?
Yes, a box lunch or picnic is included, helping keep your energy up during the ride.

Do I need to pay the entrance fees separately?
Yes, entrance fees are not included in the price, so you should plan for any tickets needed at archaeological sites.

What is the starting time?
Starting times vary depending on availability, but the tour usually begins around 8:00 a.m. with hotel pickup.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility if your plans shift.

Is transportation provided back to my hotel?
Yes, round-trip transportation from your hotel is included in the tour.

Is bilingual guidance available?
Yes, guides speak both English and Spanish, making the experience accessible for most travelers.

This cycling adventure in Cusco provides an authentic, active way to see some of the most significant archaeological sites, enjoy beautiful landscapes, and connect with local culture. It’s tailored for travelers eager to combine history with physical activity, leaving with a deeper appreciation of the region’s ingenuity and natural beauty.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby