Bikepacking the Americas / Northern Peru (Video)

Words, photos, and video by Hans de Neve (@deneve.hans)

Peru is one of the countries on our long-term bikepacking trip through South America that we had the highest expectations of. And while high expectations and extensive research can sometimes break a trip or ruin the “surprise effect”, this was absolutely not the case in Peru. The country has some of the world’s most challenging but rewarding bikepacking routes. And, during our lengthy four-month stay, we only scratched the surface of its full potential.

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This video showcases the first weeks of our trip in Northern Peru. The journey took us from Cajamarca to Huaraz and continued along the Peru Great Divide to Chicla. We passed through diverse landscapes and breathtaking scenery, from rocky cliffside canyons to towering ice-clad peaks and over rough mountain passes and winding dirt roads. The riding was just top-notch, and few routes offer a comparable experience.

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The endless climbing, including the longest continuous climb we’ve ever done so far (2,000 metres in 25 kilometres), are the essence of bikepacking Peru’s backcountry roads. Although most of these roads are a byproduct of Peru’s enormous mining industry, it’s also a good reminder of the impact our consumption society in the West has on the rest of the world.

Alongside all this natural beauty, we were also completely immersed in the rich cultural heritage that Peru has to offer. Riding through traditional villages, having conversations with local farmers, and experiencing the local way of living made this trip even more exceptional and unique.

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Although the current civil unrest in the country is unfortunate, we hope this video can inspire others to explore this incredible country by bike someday. Stay tuned for more in the next part of our trip through Peru!

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