Cusco offers a unique combination of geography and spirituality that makes it an exceptional destination for cycling. The Andean landscape, with its sacred mountains, ancient valleys and ancestral trails, transforms each bike ride into an experience that goes beyond simple physical exercise. Here we present the best routes that allow you to connect with nature and the spiritual energy of the Andes while enjoying the adventure of cycling.

Adventure and spirituality in Cusco

Adventure and spirituality in Cusco have always gone hand in hand. The region is a geographical space that enables a unique connection because adventure activities can culminate in spaces charged with spirituality. At 3,399 meters above sea level within the Andes mountain range, Cusco possesses a varied geography full of mountains, cliffs and valleys ideal for cycling.

Beyond its beautiful geography, Cusco was the capital of the Inca empire and contains numerous sacred spaces: temples, huacas, mountains, rivers, caves and natural sites considered sources of energy and renewal. Using bicycles as transportation means zero-emission tourism, respectful of Pachamama and the earth.

Sacred Valley bike route: Pisac - Urubamba - Ollantaytambo

This cycling route is ideal for those seeking an active, spiritual and cultural experience in the Sacred Valley of the Incas. The route covers between 50 and 58 kilometers, starting at the archaeological site of Pisac. From there you descend towards Calca, cross Urubamba and end in Ollantaytambo, one of the most mystical towns in the Sacred Valley.

It is essential to hire an agency specialized in adventure cycling that offers well-maintained bicycles, helmets, certified guides and mechanical assistance during the journey. The price of a complete Bike Tour, including food, entrance fees, guide and bicycle rental, ranges between 120 and 150 USD.

Spiritual places along the route

• Pisac: Visit the Temple of the Sun, a ceremonial space that still retains a strong energy charge, ideal for meditation
• Vilcanota River: Considered sacred by Andean cultures, you can perform a small blessing or energy cleansing ritual on its banks
• Ollantaytambo: Besides the Temple of the Sun, visit the Baths of the Nusta, where Inca women performed purification rituals
• Tutelary Apus: Contemplate Apu Pitusiray and Apu Sawasiray, which can be honored with a symbolic offering during the ride

Bike tour to Qoricocha Lagoon

This route is ideal for those seeking an active and spiritual experience in the Andes, away from conventional tourist circuits. The journey to Qoricocha Lagoon, located in the highlands of Chinchero, offers a deep connection with nature and the Andean worldview. The lagoon is considered a space of feminine energy, linked to fertility and ancestral wisdom.

The total distance varies between 25 and 30 kilometers. The first stretch can be demanding, so prior acclimatization and sufficient hydration are suggested. The price of a complete Bike Tour to Qoricocha ranges between 90 and 130 USD.

Spiritual places along the route

• Huallarcocha: Another lagoon where Andean sages perform ceremonies of connection with the Apus and Pachamama
• Qoricocha Lagoon: Considered a sacred water mirror, many travelers perform energy cleansing rituals or silent contemplation
• Panoramic views of Cusco and the distant Apu Ausangate, recommended to carry a small offering to thank for protection

Maras and Moray bike route

This route is perfect for those seeking an active, spiritual and cultural experience in the Cusco highlands. Traversing Maras and Moray by bicycle transforms the visit into a deep immersion in the Andean worldview. The total distance varies between 30 and 35 kilometers, including dirt roads, gentle descents and panoramic views.

To enter Moray, the Partial Tourist Ticket is required (70 soles). The price of a complete Bike Tour to Maras and Moray ranges between 100 and 140 USD, depending on included services.

Spiritual places along the route

• Moray: The circular terraces evoke natural mandalas and are believed to have been used as spaces for energy harmonization. Many travelers perform meditations there
• Maras salt mines: Represent natural abundance and community work, considered a place of purification, ideal for energy cleansing rituals
• Tutelary Apus like Apu Antaquilla and Apu Chicon accompany the journey, recommended to carry a small offering

Native potato tour by bike

This route is ideal for those seeking an active, educational and spiritual experience in the Andes. The Native Potato Tour by bicycle allows you to visit highland communities where more than 3,000 varieties of potato are cultivated, many with ritual and symbolic value in the Andean worldview. The total distance varies between 20 and 30 kilometers.

The price of a complete Bike Tour ranges between 100 and 150 USD, depending on included services such as food, local guide, transportation, tasting and participation in cultural activities.

Spiritual places along the route

• Quechua communities where gratitude rituals for the harvest are performed, linked to the energy of the potato as sacred food
• Payment to the earth ceremonies guided by local sages, honoring Pachamama and asking permission to cross her domains
• Native potato fields considered spaces of ancestral wisdom, where each variety has a spiritual, medicinal or ceremonial purpose

Frequently asked questions

What is spiritual cycling and how is it practiced in Cusco?

It is a form of conscious tourism that combines physical activity with spiritual connection. In Cusco, it is practiced by riding routes that cross sacred mountains, energy lagoons and ancestral communities.

Is prior cycling experience needed for these routes?

Not necessarily. There are routes for all levels, although it is recommended to acclimatize to the altitude and have good physical condition for more demanding stretches.

Is a tourist ticket needed for these destinations?

For archaeological sites like Moray, Pisac and Ollantaytambo, the Partial Tourist Ticket is required (70 soles). Natural routes like Qoricocha or agricultural communities do not require it.

Is cycling safe in Cusco?

Yes, as long as it is done with specialized agencies and following their recommendations. The routes are well established and surrounded by nature. All include helmet, guide, mechanical assistance and support vehicle.