The best traffic-free bike rides in Santiago

The no-traffic touring cycling routes featured in this guide are generally considered difficult. For example, routes like Reventazón Canyon – View of San José loop from Los Ángeles and Ujarrás Ruins – Iglesia de Paraíso loop from Cartago involve significant elevation gains, typically ranging from 500 to over 1400 meters, making them suitable for experienced touring cyclists.

You can expect a diverse range of terrain. While the specific routes in this guide are challenging, the broader Santiago region offers everything from urban greenways and dedicated bike paths along the Mapocho River to more rugged mountain trails in the Andes foothills. The featured routes often involve varied surfaces and significant climbs, characteristic of touring in mountainous or hilly regions.

Yes, the region around Santiago is rich in natural beauty. While specific viewpoints vary by route, you can expect stunning backdrops of the Andes Mountains. Nearby attractions include the beautiful Orosi Valley and the impressive Irazú Volcano National Park. Some routes may also pass by natural features like the Waterfall or the Río Orisí in Tapantí National Park.

The Santiago area offers several cultural and historical points of interest. You might encounter sites such as the Basilica of Our Lady of the Angels, the historic Cathedral of Cartago, or the unique Sanatorio Durán. The Cartago Farmers Market also offers a vibrant local experience.

The best time for touring cycling in Santiago, especially for routes with significant elevation, is typically during the drier and milder seasons. Spring (September to November) and Autumn (March to May) offer pleasant temperatures and less rainfall, making for more comfortable rides. Summer can be hot, particularly in the central valley, while winter brings cooler temperatures and more precipitation, especially in the mountains.

Yes, several of the no-traffic touring routes in this guide are designed as loops, allowing you to start and end at the same point. Examples include the Iglesia de Paraíso – Cathedral of Cartago loop from Los Ángeles, which covers approximately 30 km, and the Cartago Farmers Market – Cathedral of Cartago loop from Cartago, spanning about 42 km.

The komoot community highly rates the touring cycling experiences in this region, with an average score of 4.9 out of 5 stars. Reviewers often praise the challenging nature of the routes, the stunning Andean scenery, and the opportunity to explore less-trafficked areas, providing a rewarding experience for those seeking adventure away from city traffic.

While the specific routes highlighted in this guide are rated as difficult, Santiago offers other family-friendly and easier no-traffic cycling options. The city has expanding bike paths, such as the Mapocho River Bikeway, and routes through urban parks like the Las Condes – Bellas Artes Track, which are generally flatter and more suitable for families or beginners. These are not included in this specific guide but are available in the broader Santiago area.

Santiago has a developing public transport system, including a metro and bus network. While direct access to the start points of some more remote touring routes might require a combination of public transport and a short ride, many urban and suburban routes are accessible. For specific routes, it's advisable to check local public transport schedules and policies regarding bicycles, as rules can vary.

Parking availability can vary depending on the specific starting point of each route. For routes that begin in more urban or suburban areas, public parking lots or street parking might be available. For routes venturing into more rural or natural areas, designated parking might be less common, and it's recommended to research specific trailhead or starting point parking options beforehand.

Given that many of these routes venture into less-trafficked and sometimes more rural areas, dedicated cafes or restaurants directly on the route might be sparse. It's always a good idea to carry sufficient water and snacks. However, routes that pass through or near towns and villages, such as those around Cartago, will offer opportunities to find local eateries and cafes.