Bikepacking the Andes

I am always thirsty for new adventures, and here's the next one, a big one: For about 3 weeks I will cycle across the Andes, traversing parts of Peru, Chile and Bolivia. 1700km, 20,000m of positive elevation gain, constantly riding and camping with my tent above 4000m. There’s something magnetic about those wild, endless mountains — the altitude, the silence, the raw beauty. And is there a better way to experience all of that than by bike? I don’t think so. 

A bicycle gives you the freedom to reach places no car could ever get to, and the speed to cover far more ground than on foot. It's the perfect tool to explore the real wilderness. 

This journey will be a solo one, and that’s a conscious choice. First, because this ride is tough: I’ll be camping and cycling at altitudes above 4,000 meters almost every day, with brutal elevation gains and unpredictable conditions. It’s not for everyone. Second, I want to go at my own pace — to stop when I want, push when I feel strong, rest when I don’t. And finally, I want to be outside my comfort zone. I want to feel the solitude, the vulnerability, the challenge.

I’ve spent months preparing for this moment. I’ve carefully mapped my route, almost day by day. Sure, plans will change — they always do — but as the saying goes: “planning may be useless, but not planning is crazy.” I've invested in every piece of gear, from my bike to the tent, sleeping bag, cooking kit, and all the little things that will keep me rolling, warm, and fed in the high mountains. 

It all begins on May 27th, in Cusco, Peru. From there, I’ll ride south, looping around the mighty Ausangate massif, then traversing the Cordillera towards Macusani. Next, I head to Puno, on the shores of Lake Titicaca, and follow parts of the Camino del Puma to reach Arequipa. 

From there, I’ll take a bus to the Chile border, where I’ll rejoin the saddle and ride the iconic Ruta de las Vicuñas, crossing remote desert and high plains into Bolivia. My journey will end with the ultimate ride across the surreal Salar de Uyuni — a perfect ending.

I know this trip will test me — physically, mentally, emotionally. But if I make it through, I know it will be one of the most meaningful experiences of my life. 

Let’s fucking goooo!