With the increasing political stability that has developed in Peru over the last ten years, more and more adventure cycling enthusiasts attempt to see the width and breadth of this country on two wheels.  For those wanting to do such, the following is recommended:  A steel-frame bike will be the most durable. Bring a bike that has a 26 inch wheel, since such wheels are standard here and thus finding replaceable parts for them will be easy. However, you should also bring your own tire replacements for long trips, since the quality of such is generally poor in Peru. One should also bring additional, and high quality, spokes for long trips, as well as, of course, tubes. A mountain bike is best for making it across Peru’s challenging geography.

To avoid accidents, always ride with a rear-view mirror, and avoid major highways, which also have little to offer in terms of scenery or culture.  Since they share the road with horses, llamas, or donkeys, drivers on smaller roads are more conscientious. Use sun block, and wearing long sleeves and riding pants will reduce your exposure to dirt, bugs, and sun. Go slowly to adjust to different climates and altitudes, and when arriving in a high-altitude city like Cuzco, spend a few days acclimatizing before you move on.Connect with other cyclists and hostel and campground owners to keep current on what routes have higher-crime possibilities.  Many cyclists stop at Casa Ciclista in Trujillo, where the owner Lucho Ramirez welcomes and registers all cyclists. The best times to go are from July through September, and one can make this trip for as low as $20 a day. In terms of taking your bike to Peru, you can have it boxed before boarding and reassembled in Peru, all for less than $100.

Transportation Info., Bicycling

By Ricardo Segreda

Growing up in New York, Rick Segreda used to cut out of high school in order to hang out at the Museum of Modern Art and catch foreign-language...

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