Machu Picchu Motorcycle Tour

Machu Picchu Odyssey

The Incas and The Atacama

Explore more than just the renowned “Lost City” of Machu Picchu on this adventure. Journey through South America’s captivating landscapes, from the towering peaks of the High Andes to the sprawling expanses of the Atacama Desert. Delve deeper into the Inca civilization than most standard tours, traversing regions rich in history and culture.

Since 2006, we’ve guided riders to Machu Picchu dozens of times, refining our itinerary for an optimal experience. This tour incorporates a handpicked selection of South American highlights essential for anyone visiting the region.

Highlights of the Machu Picchu Adventure include:

• Magnificent pass roads of the High Andes.
• La Rioja, the heart of Argentina’s wine country.
• Purmamarca’s “Seven colours summit” (Cerro de los Siete Colores) with its traditional adobe center and artisanal market.
• Unforgettable routes through salt flats, the 14,000 ft Jama Pass, and a descent into the Atacama Desert and the oasis of San Pedro de Atacama.
• Free day of relaxation in San Pedro de Atacama, set against a backdrop of mesmerizing landscapes, dunes, unique rock formations, and geysers. Optional detour to the nearby Valley of the Moon.
• Coastal allure of Iquique and Arica beach resorts in Chile.
• Lake Titicaca in Puno, Peru – the world’s highest navigable lake. The man-made Floating Islands of the Uros Indians, complete with a community, school, and post office.
• Grandeur of the Colca Canyon, one of the world’s deepest canyons, with majestic Andean Condors soaring overhead.
• Pan American Highway stretch to Arequipa, or “The White City”, surrounded by majestic mountains including the famous El Misti volcano.
• Three nights in Cuzco with ample time for Machu Picchu’s archaeological wonders and other nearby Inca ruins. Machu Picchu as South America’s most iconic archaeological site.

At a Glance Your Machu Picchu Adventure:

DAY 1 – ARRIVAL IN LA SERENA, CHILE

Upon arrival in La Serena, our tour leaders will facilitate your transfer from the airport to the hotel. Those arriving early can explore the colonial charm of the city, visiting attractions like the lighthouse, Japanese garden, and the vibrant La Recova market. Adventure seekers can opt for a day trip to the Humboldt penguin colony or the historic harbor city of Coquimbo. In the late afternoon, gather for the motorcycle handover and a short kickoff meeting. We’ll conclude the day with our first dinner together at a local Argentinian restaurant.

DAY 2 – LA SERENA TO RODEO, ARGENTINA (210 MILES)

Starting from La Serena, we’ll ascend the Andes towards the Chile-Argentina border via the scenic Paso Agua Negra. Navigating the challenging unpaved stretch, we’ll be rewarded with breathtaking vistas. Following a smooth border crossing, we’ll descend to Rodeo, a vibrant town framed by majestic mountains and fertile lands. Our journey will also take us through the twisty mountain paths, culminating at the captivating Cerro de los Siete Colores in Purmamarca.

DAY 3 – RODEO TO CHILECITO (200 or 260 MILES)

Today, we choose between two routes leading to Chilecito, a quaint former gold mining town. The shorter path on Route 40 promises faster travel, while the extended Route 150 and 74 route unveils mesmerizing mountain landscapes. Regardless of the choice, you’ll have ample time to wander around Chilecito, known for its historic mining cable car and the overlooking Christ statue.

DAY 4 – CHILECITO TO CAFAYATE (290 MILES)

Embark on a journey across the iconic Ruta 40, traversing serene landscapes to Cafayate, a renowned wine-producing region of Argentina. This quaint town, with its bustling main square and local markets, is the perfect spot to sample regional wines like the “high altitude wines.”

DAY 5 – CAFAYATE TO PUMRMAMARCA (230 MILES)

Prepare for an awe-inspiring ride! The stretch between Cafayate and Salta offers unparalleled natural beauty, showcasing the vibrant Quebrada de las Conchas canyon. In Salta, choose between the winding route 9 or the more direct routes 34 and 66. Both paths converge at San Salvador de Jujuy, after which it’s a short ride to Purmamarca, renowned for its striking “Hill of the seven colours.”

DAY 6 – PURMAMARCA TO SAN PEDRO DE ATACAMA,CHILE (280 MILES)

Begin the day with an exhilarating ride from Purmamarca, taking in the twisty roads up to the Jama Pass at 14,000 ft. As the day progresses, transition from Argentina to Chile, heading towards San Pedro de Atacama. A highlight en route is the Reserva Nacional Los Flamencos, home to vast flocks of pink flamingos. As the journey continues, witness the expansive salt flats of the Atacama Desert, culminating in the enchanting oasis of San Pedro de Atacama.

DAY 7 – SAN PEDRO DE ATACAMA: A DAY OF EXPLORATION

San Pedro boasts a rich tapestry of arts, crafts, and local culture. Wander its streets and immerse yourself in its unique ambiance. In the afternoon, the renowned “Valley of the Moon” awaits, offering mesmerizing landscapes of dunes, volcanic formations, and captivating rock structures, especially as the sun casts its golden hue.

DAY 8 – FROM SAN PEDRO DE ATACAMA TO IQUIQUE (300 MILES)

Set out from San Pedro de Atacama, traversing the vast desert landscape westward towards the beckoning Pacific Ocean. Along the way, pass by the impressive Chuquicamata, the world’s largest open-pit copper mine. The journey shifts from the arid desert to the refreshing sea level, providing breathtaking coastal views. Upon reaching Iquique, relax at a beachfront hotel, observing sea lions and soaking in the serene ocean sunset.

DAY 9 – JOURNEY TO ARICA (200 MILES)

Venture inland from Iquique, pausing to explore the haunting remnants of Humberstone, a bygone saltpeter factory town. The route north to Arica is adorned with majestic canyons, with the Canyon de Camarones standing out at an astounding depth of 3,000 ft. Before entering Arica, pause at the ‘El Morro’ viewpoint for a panoramic glimpse of the upcoming coastal city.

DAY 10 – FROM ARICA TO THE “WHITE CITY” OF AREQUIPA, PERU (270 MILES)

Embark on a journey from Arica, swiftly transitioning into Peru. Our path takes us along the renowned Pan-American Highway, skirting the stark beauty of the Peruvian coastal desert. As the day progresses, we’ll transition from the coastline, venturing inland and ascending from sea level to an elevation of over 7,000 ft. Our destination is the enchanting ‘White City’ of Arequipa, set against a backdrop of majestic 20,000 ft tall volcanoes. Before evening falls, relish a leisurely stroll through the city’s charming center.

DAY 11 – FROM AREQUIPA TO CHIVAY (110 MILES)

Starting at 7,000ft, our journey elevates to an impressive 13,000 ft as we set our sights on the Colca Canyon. Boasting a depth exceeding 10,000ft, this canyon ranks among the world’s deepest. A highlight awaits: the mesmerizing sight of Andean Condors soaring gracefully above the valley. These majestic birds are especially active during dawn and dusk, best experienced through an organized excursion from Chivay in the afternoon. Brace yourself for a day dominated by winding roads and breathtaking vistas.

DAY 12 – CHIVAY TO CUZCO (310 MILES)

Prepare for an exhilarating day of twists and turns as we navigate through the Andes towards Cuzco, the ancient heart of the Inca Empire. Navigating at altitudes surpassing 13,000 ft, our journey culminates with our evening arrival in Cuzco. Here, a sumptuous dinner and a three-night stay at a cozy hotel serve as our well-earned reward.

DAY 13 – FREE DAY IN CUZCO

Dedicate this day to exploring the rich tapestry of Cuzco. A guided tour comes highly recommended, unveiling the city’s dual legacy: as the bedrock of the Inca Empire and its transformation under Spanish colonial influence. Highlights include the formidable Sacsayhuaman fortress, the Coricancha Temple of the Sun, and the bustling Plaza de Armas. The afternoon offers a leisurely pace, allowing ample time to enjoy this beautiful and historic city.

DAY 14 – FREE DAY IN CUZCO

A day steeped in history and wonder awaits! Starting early from our hotel to the train station, we embark on a scenic journey to the legendary Inca city, Machu Picchu. Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, this hidden gem is among South America’s most revered destinations. Upon arrival, immerse yourself in the ancient Inca ruins, each vantage point offering breathtaking panoramas of valleys and mountains. Our day culminates with a return to Cuzco by evening, around 8 pm.

DAY 15 – CUZCO TO PUNO (LAKE TITICACA) (250 MILES)

With Cuzco behind us, our path leads southward to Puno, nestled on the shores of Lake Titicaca. A day of exhilarating riding through meandering roads is in store. Lake Titicaca, sitting majestically at 12,500 ft above sea level, holds the distinction of being the globe’s highest navigable lake. In the afternoon, we embark on a guided boat journey to meet the Uros, a unique community residing on intricate floating islands.

DAY 16 – PUNO TO ARICA, CHILE (290 MILES)

Though our last riding day, the road promises a tapestry of memorable sights. From Puno, the route unwinds through serpentine roads, descending from a lofty 14,500ft to sea level at Arica. After crossing into Chile and reaching Arica, we share our final dinner at a local restaurant, commemorating our shared adventures and the bonds formed.

DAY 17: DEPART ARICA, CHILE

After a leisurely breakfast at our hotel, our tour leaders will coordinate a transfer to the airport for your flight home.

Total mileage: ~ 3000 MILES