Sacred Valley Downhill Mountain Biking with Machu Picchu Connection

Cusco Full Day

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Availability Daily departures
Transport Hotel pickup
Languages Español, Inglés
Service type Not specified
Cancellation policy Not specified

Summary
Itinerary
Inclusions
Recommendations
FAQs
Reviews
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About this activity

If you’re looking for a real adrenaline rush surrounded by out-of-this-world Andean scenery, this downhill mountain bike ride through the Sacred Valley of the Incas is for you. You’ll ride dirt trails, rural roads and technical sections with the wind in your face, leaving the high Cusco highlands behind as you descend toward the valley floor, surrounded by agricultural terraces, Andean communities and snow-capped peaks on the horizon.

It’s an experience built for anyone who loves adventure sports as much as scenery, and it can also become the perfect gateway to Machu Picchu thanks to its proximity to Ollantaytambo, the departure point for the train to the Inca citadel.

Itinerary

Day 01

Cusco – Sacred Valley MTB Descent – Urubamba/Ollantaytambo – Cusco

Pick-up from your hotel in Cusco will take place between 5:30 and 6:00 AM. From there, we will travel by private vehicle to the starting point of the descent, located in the upper area of the Sacred Valley. The drive will take approximately one and a half hours.

Between 7:30 and 8:15 AM, we will fit the bikes and protective equipment. Your guide will also provide a safety briefing and a short handling practice so you can become comfortable with the bike before starting the ride.

From 8:15 to 11:30 AM, we will begin the downhill mountain bike ride along trails and rural roads through the Sacred Valley. Along the way, we will make several stops for photos, rest and to enjoy the most scenic sections of the route.

Between 11:30 AM and 12:00 PM, we will take a short break for a snack and hydration before continuing with the final section of the ride. From 12:00 to 1:00 PM, we will arrive at the final point of the route in the Urubamba or Ollantaytambo area, where lunch will be served and you will have time to relax after the biking experience.

From 1:00 PM onward, we will begin the return journey to Cusco by private vehicle. Alternatively, you can continue with an optional extension to Machu Picchu by taking the train from Ollantaytambo. This extension is arranged separately and can include train tickets and entrance to the citadel as additional services.

Note: times may vary depending on the exact starting point, the group's pace and trail conditions. If you choose to continue to Machu Picchu, we can help coordinate the train and citadel entrance as an add-on to the biking day.

What's included

Inclusions

Included
- Pick-up and private vehicle transfer from your Cusco hotel to the starting point.
- Mountain bike in good condition, fitted to your size.
- Helmet, gloves and basic protective gear.
- Specialized mountain biking guide, bilingual in Spanish and English.
- Support vehicle throughout the ride.
- Snack and hydration along the route.
- Lunch at the end of the descent.
- Basic first-aid kit.
- Return transfer to Cusco (if you don't continue to Machu Picchu).

What's Not Included

Not included
- Cusco Tourist Ticket, if the route passes through an archaeological site covered by it.
- Train ticket and Machu Picchu entrance fee (offered as an optional extension, quoted separately).
- Travel or personal accident insurance.
- Tips for the guide and driver.
- Any expenses not listed under "Included".

Recommendations

Difficulty level: intermediate to advanced. Prior mountain biking experience is recommended, although the guide adapts the pace whenever possible.
Suggested minimum age: 14. Minors must be accompanied by a responsible adult.
It's essential to arrive with at least 1-2 days of altitude acclimatization in Cusco before the tour.
Bring comfortable athletic clothing, sunglasses, sunscreen, a cap or your own helmet if you prefer, and a change of clothes.
Wear closed, comfortable shoes suitable for pedaling.
Carry cash in soles for personal expenses or tips.
Check with your doctor beforehand if you have any cardiovascular or knee conditions.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need prior mountain biking experience?

Prior experience is recommended, since the route includes technical downhill sections. That said, if you've never ridden before, let us know in advance so we can help decide together whether this route is right for you or whether a gentler option would be better.

What safety measures does the tour have?

You'll always be accompanied by a specialized guide, with a support vehicle, helmet, gloves and basic protective gear, plus a first-aid kit. Your guide gives a safety briefing and a handling practice session before the descent begins.

What weather should I expect during the tour?

The Sacred Valley has changeable Andean weather: cool mornings, strong midday sun, and a chance of rain, especially between November and March. We recommend bringing layered clothing and both sun and rain protection.

What happens if it rains on the day of the tour?

If weather or trail conditions don't allow for a safe descent, the guide may adjust the route, reschedule the start time or, in extreme cases, move the activity to another day, subject to availability. The group's safety always takes priority over the original itinerary.

What's the cancellation policy?

You can cancel or reschedule your booking in advance and keep part of your deposit according to our current policies. We recommend contacting us as soon as you know you need to make a change, so we can help in the best way possible.

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