Amazonas Explorer débuts two new mountain biking expeditions: Single Track Heaven & Back Roads of the Andes! I recently snagged myself a Rocky Mountain Fusion – my first ever mountain bike. Not the most fancy bike on the market, but definitely the nicest thing I’ve ever owned… a very satisfying check off the “needed gear” list. Ahhh!
After a week of owning my beautiful bike, I find these two beauties from Amazonas. Being that its winter in Montana and the hilly streets of Helena are glazed in ice, I catch myself drifting off to quiet (and snow-free) dirt roads high in the Peruvian Andes.
The Back Roads of the Andes thirteen-day journey starts on the shores of Lake Titicaca and veers north to Cusco on rarely used dirt roads and pack-trails. Visit quaint colonial towns and small mountain villages, stroll through vibrant indigenous markets, explore ancient Incan ruins, even stay the night at an alpaca breeding center. Way off the beaten path, this challenging ride offers sweeping altiplano views with crystal clear streams, vast lakes, cactus forests and out of this world rock formations, as well as, a chance to get to know the local Andean people… whom bikes are the preferred form of transportation!
Ending with a guided tour of Machu Picchu’s famous ruins – one of the new 7 Wonders of the World – and the chance to experience some of Cusco’s happening night-life, this trip offers the perfect combination of Peru’s must-see’s and a fascinating look into some of their unsung treasures.
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By mid-morning and a half a pot of coffee later, visions of their Single Track Heaven trek start creeping in. In similar fashion to the Back Roads tour, this trip still offers classic Peru experiences with an optional visit to infamous Machu Picchu and nights in Cusco. Yet, it offers even the most extreme mountain bike enthusiasts a chance to see the real Peru – off the beaten “Gringo trail” onto some of the best cross country and downhill single track on the planet (so says Amazonas).
Using a converted colonial building in the Sacred Valley – Hacienda Marcabamba – as the base for this nine-day mountain biking dream, you can hunker in for a bit and explore the local area – enjoy locally produced meals, explore rarely visited ruins and artisan markets or mosey on down to the local spa/bar to settle down after all the adrenaline-packed days.
The rides offer a mix of dirt roads, donkey paths, mind-blowing single tracks (largely downhill or flat) and a chance to hone your step jumping on original Inca trails. Take in the World class Mega – Avalanche Downhill course, a true wilderness ride to Huchuy Quosqo, the classic Maras to Moray saltpan ride and the very best of local single track in Cusco itself (plus plenty more). There is something for everyone to enjoy and daily rides will be tailored to the individual skills of the group. A great adventure!
