Motorbike tours in Cusco: the Sacred Valley, Andean roads and what to know first

Riding the Andes by motorbike, with bends between snowy peaks, adobe villages and deep valleys, is a dream for many riders. From Cusco there are guided one-day and multi-day tours, and you can also rent a bike if you're experienced. But Peruvian mountain roads have their own unwritten rules. This guide covers the essentials.

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Guided tour or rental

• Guided tour: a guide on a bike leads the route, knows the roads and handles the unexpected. There's often a support vehicle on long routes. It's the most advisable option if it's your first time in Peru.
• Rental: more freedom, but you take on navigation, basic mechanics and responsibility in case of an accident. Book with established companies and check the bike thoroughly.

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Typical routes

Day trips usually cover the Sacred Valley: Chinchero, Maras, Moray, Urubamba, Ollantaytambo and Pisac, with paved and dirt sections. Multi-day routes can cross Abra Málaga towards the jungle, drop into the Apurímac canyon or head south to the Puno and Lake Titicaca area.

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What a day on the bike is like

A typical day in the Sacred Valley starts early with the hand-over of the bike and gear, a check and a route briefing. Then you climb to the Chinchero plateau, stop for photos at viewpoints and at sites such as Moray or the Maras salt pans, and descend into the valley on winding roads. Lunch is in a valley village and you return to Cusco in the afternoon, before dark. On multi-day routes, stages are usually short in kilometres but long in hours because of the bends and the altitude.

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Riding with respect

Roads pass through communities where people walk on the verge, herd livestock and children play near the road. Slow down in villages, avoid unnecessary noise and ask permission before photographing people.

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The roads

The main roads are paved, but you'll also find dirt or gravel stretches, hairpin bends, landslides and animals on the road. Many drivers overtake on bends and buses and trucks take up much of the road. Ride defensively and avoid riding at night.

Driving licence

To rent or ride you need a valid motorcycle licence. As well as your home licence, an International Driving Permit is usually recommended. Check the current requirements before travelling and confirm with the operator which documents they'll ask for.

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Experience needed

Andean routes aren't for beginners: they combine altitude, steep gradients and uneven surfaces. Operators usually ask for previous experience on bikes of a certain size and, on dirt routes, off-road riding. Be honest about your level.

Altitude

Many stretches are above 4,000 m. Altitude affects your concentration and reflexes, and engine performance too. Acclimatise for a few days in Cusco or the Valley before setting off and don't plan overly long stages.

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Weather

In the dry season, May to September, roads are in better condition, though it's very cold at dawn and on high passes. In the rainy season there's more mud, fog and landslides. Always carry waterproofs and warm layers.

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Gear

• An approved helmet (check the one you're given).
• A jacket and trousers with armour, waterproof.
• Winter and summer gloves.
• Boots that cover the ankle.
• Thermal layers for mountain passes.

Good operators include a helmet and protective gear; confirm when booking.

Safety

• Check brakes, tyres and lights before setting off.
• Respect speed limits, even if others don't.
• Keep your phone charged and the operator's number handy.
• Don't ride tired or after drinking alcohol.

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Insurance

Check that your travel insurance covers motorbike riding and the engine size you'll use. Also ask what insurance the rental includes and what the excess is.

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Alternative: ATVs

If you have no motorbike experience, ATV tours around Maras and Moray offer a simpler motor experience, on short guided routes with no previous experience needed.

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Fuel and stops

Larger towns have petrol stations, but they're scarce on remote routes. Fill up whenever you can and carry some cash: not all accept cards.

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Notice: This guide shares advice and recommendations based on research and local experience. Prices, opening hours and rules may change: always check with official sources and operators. Cusco Tips is not responsible for third-party services, bookings or decisions made using these guides; some links are affiliate links (see our affiliate policy).