Ride from the plaza of Cachi into the Los Cardones sector of the Calchaquí Valleys—columnar cacti, red rock canyons and high-altitude gravel tracks define this 5‑hour mountain biking experience. Support vehicle, helmets and water are included; moderate fitness and basic off-road handling required.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
Morning light hits columnar cacti as you clip into a hardtail and push off from the dusty plaza of Cachi. The air is thin—Cachi sits around 2,300 m (7,500 ft)—and the road unspools through red-rock canyons, wide salt-baked flats and stands of towering cardones that seem to watch every turn.
Difficulty
moderate
Duration
5 hours
Fitness Level
Moderate cardiovascular fitness with basic off-road cycling ability; altitude makes climbs feel harder.
Wildlife
History
The Calchaquí Valleys have long been a corridor of pre-Columbian settlement and later colonial grazing and viticulture, visible in terraces and adobe architecture.
Conservation
Los Cardones protects high-altitude cacti and fragile soils—stick to established tracks, avoid collecting plants, and pack out all trash to limit erosion and disturbance.
Reserve your spot on the Bicycle rides today and enjoy a trusted, highly rated experience designed to help you make the most of your adventure.
Acclimatize before you ride
Spend a day in Cachi to adapt to ~2,300 m elevation; altitude increases perceived exertion and dehydration risk.
Bring sun protection
High-altitude sun is strong—use SPF 50, lip balm and a wide-brimmed hat under your helmet for stops.
Trust the support vehicle
The tour includes a support vehicle—stow extra layers and non-riders can transfer sections if the gravel gets technical.
Use grippy tires and lower pressure
Loose gravel and rocky tracks reward wider tread and slightly reduced tire pressure for traction and comfort.
Closed-helmet
Helmets and gloves are provided, but bring a familiar helmet if you prefer a personalized fit.
Hydration bladder or bottle
Carry at least 1.5–2 L—bottled water is supplied but active hydration is crucial at altitude.
summer
Padded cycling shorts
Improves comfort on mixed terrain and longer saddle time.
Windproof layer
High valleys can be cool and windy even in sunny weather; pack a light shell.
spring