Explore the best cycling and bike touring routes in Raleigh, from scenic greenways to wooded trails and smooth city rides—perfect for a vacation on two wheels.
WHAT ARE THE MOST BEAUTIFUL CYCLING ROUTES IN SOUTH AMERICA?
South America is a cycling paradise hiding in plain sight. Its diverse geography—from the high Andes to coastal deserts and lush jungles—offers unforgettable routes for cyclists of all levels. This guide highlights the most scenic, challenging, and culturally rich rides across the continent. Whether you dream of riding Patagonia’s windswept plains, climbing Colombian switchbacks, or following ancient Inca trails, these cycling routes deliver epic landscapes, raw adventure, and world-class riding.
Why South America is perfect for cycling
From high-altitude climbs to dirt-road expeditions, South America offers terrain that rivals any cycling destination on Earth. But it's not just about the views—it's about the spirit of the ride. The continent blends remote landscapes with warm local hospitality, creating the kind of soulful adventure that changes how you pedal forever.
Cycling appeal across the continent
Diverse terrain: Ride through deserts, volcanoes, glaciers, cloud forests, and coffee plantations—often in a single week.
Challenging elevation: Climb above 4,000 meters on roads like Abra del Acay or Alto de Letras.
Low-traffic roads: Many rural routes are virtually car-free, especially in Patagonia and Bolivia.
Culture and community: Ride into villages where cyclists are treated like explorers, not tourists.
Adventure-first attitude: South America rewards riders who seek the unbeaten path over polished tours.
Whether you're bikepacking for months or squeezing in a week-long trip, South America gives you space to breathe, grind, and marvel. Each country has its own signature climbs, coastlines, and off-grid escapes worth adding to your ride bucket list.
Top cycling routes by country
From Colombia to Argentina, these are the routes that define South America’s cycling beauty. Each one offers unique terrain, jaw-dropping scenery, and the kind of challenge that makes for great stories and even better photos.
1. Carretera Austral – Chile
This 1,200 km stretch through Chilean Patagonia is a bikepacker’s dream. Expect turquoise rivers, glacial lakes, suspension bridges, and long sections of gravel through untouched wilderness. It’s remote, rugged, and unforgettable.
2. Alto de Letras – Colombia
One of the longest paved climbs in the world, this 80+ km ascent rises from 500 m to over 3,600 m. It’s a rite of passage for Colombian cyclists and offers a massive sense of achievement with ever-changing scenery and altitude challenges.
3. Death Road – Bolivia
Officially known as Yungas Road, this infamous route descends from the Andes into the Amazon. It’s narrow, steep, and occasionally terrifying—but also lush, beautiful, and uniquely South American.
4. Ruta de los Siete Lagos – Argentina
A paved 100+ km ride through Argentina’s Lake District, connecting Bariloche to San Martín de los Andes. Ideal for riders who love pristine alpine lakes, pine forests, and sweeping mountain views with moderate gradients.
5. Quilotoa Loop – Ecuador
This high-altitude circuit surrounds the Quilotoa Crater Lake. It’s a mix of paved and dirt roads that test your legs and lungs, but reward you with volcanic views, Andean villages, and endless photo ops.
Bonus picks:
Laguna de los Tres (Argentina) – MTB route to Mt. Fitz Roy
Ciclovía Sundays (Colombia) – Urban riding done right in Bogotá or Medellín
Trans-Andean routes – Multiple gravel crossings between Chile and Argentina
Every route offers something distinct. Whether it's the raw Andes, jungle descents, or Patagonia’s isolation, South America’s cycling canvas is painted with intensity and beauty. The key is matching your ride style and endurance level with the terrain.
Tips for riding in South America
Cycling in South America can be the ride of a lifetime—but it’s not without challenges. Routes can be remote, infrastructure limited, and weather unpredictable. Preparation and mindset make all the difference.
What to know before you go
Choose the right bike: A gravel or touring bike with wide tires is ideal. Many roads are mixed-surface or unpaved.
Pack for all weather: High altitudes mean temperature swings from heat to freezing rain within hours.
Know the elevation: Many routes climb above 3,000 meters. Acclimatize slowly and recognize altitude sickness symptoms.
Carry spares and tools: Bike shops may be rare. Bring tubes, a patch kit, chain links, and a multi-tool.
Learn some Spanish or Portuguese: In rural areas, English is rare. Basic language skills help with directions and emergencies.
Safety and cultural respect
Ask locals about conditions: They’ll know which roads are passable, safe, or under repair.
Be humble in remote areas: Always greet people, be respectful, and ask permission before camping or entering properties.
Stay visible: Use bright gear and lights, even in the day, especially on rural roads with limited shoulder space.
Trust your gut: If a road feels unsafe or too remote, reroute. Flexibility is part of the adventure.
Finally, take your time. South America isn’t about KOMs—it’s about immersion. Stop for empanadas, camp near volcanoes, talk to locals. These routes aren’t just beautiful—they’re transformative. Ride slow, ride smart, and let the continent change you.
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