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Peru Classic Adventure

This isn’t a sightseeing tour. It’s a deep dive into the wildest corners of Peru — a raw, high-altitude motorcycle expedition through the spine of the Andes. From the colonial grace of Arequipa to the mystic ruins of Machu Picchu, you’ll be crossing volcanic deserts, plunging canyons, and riding high-altitude backroads barely touched by tourism.

The ride covers over 3,700 kilometers of rugged terrain and smooth sweepers, with gravel patches, high mountain passes, and cliffside trails — and yes, it's as tough as it sounds. You'll soak in thermal springs, walk ancient Inca paths, and explore sacred ruins, all while tackling the kind of remote riding most travelers never see.

This is Peru, unplugged and untamed — and the only way to see it is sideways.

TOUR HIGHLIGHTS

• 🏔 Ride through the Andes at altitudes over 4,000m
• 🦅 Witness the majestic condors soar at Cruz del Cóndor
• 🛤 Ride to Machu Picchu via a jungle trail and hike in
• 🏞 Camp in hidden valleys and unwind in remote hot springs
• 🛣 Navigate the legendary Karkatera tunnels en route to Cusco
• 🌵 Ride from mountain peaks down to the sand dunes of Huacachina
• 🌀 Explore the surreal oasis of Nazca and its enigmatic lines
• 💥 Discover Cotahuasi — the deepest canyon on Earth

WHAT TO EXPECT

This ride takes you from desert heat to sub-zero mountain passes. Expect chilly mornings, dry mountain air, and occasional jungle rain. Altitudes range from 500m to over 4,800m — acclimatisation is built in, but the riding is demanding.

Hotels range from charming village guesthouses to thermal-spring lodges, with warm meals and mountain hospitality. You’ll eat everything from jungle stews to fresh trout and local barbecue.

Gravel sections are real — and they’re wild. Riders must be confident on loose gravel, tight turns, and altitude changes. This is not a tour for beginners — but the challenge makes the reward even greater.

You’ll encounter llamas, ancient Incan trails, and villages that haven’t changed in centuries. The people are welcoming, the scenery is jaw-dropping, and the road never stops surprising you.

This is Peru the Sideways way: raw, remote, and unforgettable.

WHO IS THIS TOUR FOR

Experienced riders only (intermediate+ gravel skills recommended)

  • Adventure seekers looking for more than tourist routes

  • Riders who are fit, flexible, and okay with the occasional tough day

  • Aussie explorers who want to ride wild — and live large

DAY BY DAY DESCRIPTION: 

  • Welcome to the “White City” of Arequipa, Peru’s second-largest city, framed by the perfect cone of El Misti Volcano. After airport pickup and check-in, enjoy a welcome dinner with your fellow riders and a full tour briefing. Explore the historic center, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, with its grand colonial architecture, baroque churches, and vibrant plaza life.


    Climate: Dry and sunny, 10°C to 25°C.

  • Your journey begins with a steady climb through the Salinas and Aguada Blanca National Reserve, a windswept landscape dotted with vicuñas and snowcapped peaks. The road takes you over a 4,800 m mountain pass before descending into Chivay, gateway to the Colca Canyon, one of the deepest in the world.


    Climate: Cold nights, intense sun during the day.

  • Ride across remote stretches of high-altitude puna, with little traffic and incredible views. This is classic Altiplano — sparse, beautiful, and timeless. Expect wide-open skies, gravel detours, and small villages where time moves slow. Arrive in Espinar, a traditional Andean town rarely visited by outsiders.

    Climate: Thin air and cold breezes, ~5°C to 18°C.

  • Begin your descent from the windswept heights into lush mountain valleys. The ride is thrilling: twisty asphalt hugging cliffsides, occasional river crossings, and dramatic switchbacks. Abancay, known as the “Eternal Spring City,” welcomes you with warmer weather and a relaxed Andean vibe.


    Climate: Pleasant and temperate, 15°C to 25°C.

  • Follow the winding roads deep into Inca country. You’ll ride through deep river valleys and fertile farmland before entering the legendary city of Cusco. Once the capital of the Inca Empire, Cusco is a cultural hub with narrow cobblestone streets, sacred ruins, and lively plazas.

    Climate: Mild days, chilly nights. Altitude-sensitive.

  • Free Day.

    Explore Cusco at your own pace. Optional excursions include the stone fortress of Sacsayhuamán, the Qorikancha (Temple of the Sun), or a culinary deep dive in San Pedro Market. It’s also a good day to rest and adjust to the altitude.


    Recommended: Hydrate well and walk slowly.

  • Ride deep into the subtropical cloud forest zone along curvy roads with stunning views. After reaching Santa Teresa, park the bikes and begin a scenic 10 km walk along the train tracks to Aguas Calientes, nestled beneath the cliffs of Machu Picchu. Overnight in the base village.

    Climate: Warm and humid, 18°C–28°C. Bring hiking shoes.

  • Rise early and catch the sunrise over Machu Picchu, the legendary “Lost City of the Incas.” Wander through temples, terraces, and sacred stones with a local guide. In the afternoon, return on foot to Santa Teresa, where your bikes and hot springs await.


    No riding today. Easy trail. Unforgettable experience.

  • Today you’ll climb back into the Andes, riding through remote jungle backroads and agricultural highlands. Arrive in the peaceful Amaybamba Valley, an untouched corner of Peru where nature and tradition still live in harmony.


    Roads: Mixed terrain. Scenery: Spectacular.

  • A long day of riding through undulating mountain ridges, pine forests, and open farmland. Andahuaylas is a bustling provincial city where Quechua culture meets modern life. Expect winding roads and welcoming towns.


    Climate: Cool, dry. Local markets and highland culture.

  • Enter the wild backroads of the central Andes. The route today is rugged and spectacular — narrow dirt paths hugging canyon edges, isolated villages, and barely touched trails. Huancaraylla is a truly remote stop where tourism has never arrived.


    Technical riding. Wild Peru.

  • Descend through the Andes into the heart of Peru’s desert coast. After a long day, arrive in the surreal oasis of Huacachina, a palm-lined lagoon surrounded by sand dunes. Time to relax, sandboard, or sip a pisco sour by the pool.


    Climate: Hot and dry. 25°C to 35°C.

  • A short but beautiful ride along the Pan-American Highway, through arid plains and windswept ridges. Arrive in Nazca, home of the mysterious geoglyphs carved into the desert floor. View them from observation towers or prepare for tomorrow’s optional flight.


    Climate: Warm desert zone. Cultural excursions available.

  • Free Day in Nazca (Optional Flight Excursion)

    Enjoy a rest day or take a flight over the Nazca Lines, one of the world’s greatest archaeological enigmas. The stylized shapes — condors, monkeys, and geometric patterns — are only visible from above.


    Optional: Museum visit, aqueduct tour, or poolside recovery.

  • Ride the starkly beautiful Pacific coastline to Puerto Inka, a remote beach once used by Inca messengers. Tonight, sleep near the ocean and dine on fresh seafood with the sound of waves echoing through the bay.


    One of the most peaceful overnights on the route.

  • Back into the mountains again. Today’s ride climbs through desert passes and into the cool heights of Ayacucho Region. Pausa is a tiny, windswept town where adobe houses and wide skies await.


    Climate: Mountain chill. Authentic local vibe.

  • Today you'll ride through the Cotahuasi Canyon, the deepest canyon in the world. It’s raw, remote, and thrilling — with narrow dirt tracks, geothermal springs, and unforgettable views. Cotahuasi is a hidden gem of the Andes.


    One of the tour’s most adventurous days.

  • A challenging ride tracing the edge of Colca Canyon, finishing in Cabanaconde, where majestic condors soar above Andean cliffs. This is one of the best places in Peru to witness nature’s grandeur up close.

    Scenic, high-altitude, and full of wildlife.

  • Your final stretch takes you back to Arequipa through sweeping valleys and volcanic plateaus. A farewell dinner caps the journey, as you reflect on 19 days of riding, ruins, canyons, culture, and camaraderie.


    Tour complete. Buen viaje!

WHAT’S INCLUDED / NOT INCLUDED

WHAT’S INCLUDED

• Motorcycle rental (KLR 650 or similar ADV bike)

• All accommodation (3-star hotels, rustic lodges, hot spring stays)

• Support vehicle with paramedic + mechanic

• Entrance tickets to Machu Picchu

• Luggage transport

• Airport transfers

• Daily breakfast + selected dinners

• Fuel during guided riding days

• GPX files + navigation assistance

• English-speaking Aussie guide team

 

NOT INCLUDED

• International flights to/from Peru

• Lunches, drinks, and some dinners

• Travel insurance (mandatory)

• Tips and personal expenses

• Optional Nazca Lines flight

DATES & PRICING

Departures:
2025: SOLD OUT
2026: NOVEMBER 4TH

Pricing:
Rider: from $8,900 USD / $13,500 AUD

Pillion: from $7,900 USD / $11,950 AUD

See below for specifics.

Private departures available for groups of 6 or more, and choose your own departure date. Early bookings recommended.

Motorcycles Available

• CFMOTO 450 (2 available) - $8,900 USD / $13,500 AUD

• Suzuki DR650 (1 available) - $9,100 USD / $13,800 AUD

• Yamaha Ténéré 700 (1 available) - $9,450 USD / $14,300 AUD

• Honda Africa Twin (1 available) - $9,900 USD / $15,020 AUD

• Pillion / Support Vehicle Passenger - $7,900 USD / $11,950 AUD

Ready to Ride Sideways?

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