Ride out of San Pedro and into Catarpe Valley to descend the Devil's Throat—a short, thrilling gorge with views of Pukará de Quitor and the San Pedro River oasis. This guided bike tour balances easy terrain with one memorable descent.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
A cool wind off the salt flats cuts across the valley as riders clip in at the plaza in San Pedro de Atacama. Within minutes the town's adobe silhouettes fall away and the landscape opens: sandy terraces, sculpted badlands and the San Pedro River daring you to follow its narrow green line. The ride follows dusty tracks into Catarpe Valley, where ridgelines sharpen and a fortress ruin—Pukará de Quitor—claims the skyline.
Difficulty
moderate
Duration
4 hours
Fitness Level
Light to moderate fitness; comfortable with sustained pedaling and basic bike handling on mixed dirt.
Wildlife
History
The valley contains pre-Columbian remains and the Pukará de Quitor fortress, an important Atacameño site later encountered by Spanish travelers.
Conservation
The high desert ecosystem is fragile—stay on established tracks, avoid disturbing vegetation and pack out all waste to minimize impact.
Reserve your spot on the Bike Tour in San Pedro de Atacama - Devil's Throat today and enjoy a trusted, highly rated experience designed to help you make the most of your adventure.
Start early or late
Desert sun is intense—begin in the morning or late afternoon to avoid heat and harsh light.
Hydration plan
Bring at least 1.5–2 L of water and sip regularly; the dry air accelerates dehydration.
Check tire pressure
Slightly lower pressure improves traction on sandy tracks but avoid going too low to prevent pinch flats.
Pace the descent
Take the Devil's Throat at a steady speed—loose sand and sharp turns reward controlled braking more than speed.
Helmet
Protects against falls on rocky or sandy sections and is usually provided but bring your own for fit and hygiene.
Hydration pack or 1.5–2 L water bottles
Keeps you hydrated in the dry desert air between guide stops.
summer
Sunglasses and high-SPF sunscreen
Blocks intense UV at high desert altitude and reduces glare on open sections.
summer
Flat-repair kit and pump
Punctures are common on desert tracks—carry a spare tube, patch kit and mini-pump.