Epic Rides

The Best Motorcycle Rides Around the World

Epic Rides in Morocco | High-Atlas Mountains

Epic Rides in Morocco | High-Atlas Mountains

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Epic Rides in Morocco

High-Atlas Mountains

(Quarzazate to Marrakesh)

‘Best of’ Morocco Photo Gallery

This Epic Ride takes place in Quarzazate, over the High-Atlas Mountains towards Marrakesh.

Location

The Ride

Roads: As of 2019, mostly asphalt that seems like it was laid yesterday. The roads in Morocco are in great condition.

Bike: 2019 BMW F750 GS

Weather: Spring – Peak season | Summer – Scorching heat | Autumn | Mid season | Winter – Lovely Day temps, Cold at night (around 6 degrees)

Highlights

Aït Benhaddou

Aït Benhaddou is an ighrem along the former caravan route between the Sahara and Marrakech in present-day Morocco. Most citizens attracted by the tourist trade live in more modern dwellings in a village on the other side of the river, although there are four families still living in the ancient village.

  • Sunset over Aït Benhaddou
Telouet Kasbah

Telouet Kasbah is a Kasbah along the former route of the caravans from the Sahara over the Atlas Mountains to Marrakech. The kasbah was the seat of the El Glaoui family’s power, thus sometimes also called the Palace of Glaoui, and it was built in the 18th and 19th centuries.

Marrakesh

The ‘Heart of Morocco’ is a fantastic mix of craziness, colours and food. Wander around the maze of alleys in the main medina and then head to one of the many roof terrace to escape the heat and crowds of people below.

What’s Nearby

Photo Gallery

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Epic Rides in Morocco | The Gorges

Epic Rides in Morocco | The Gorges

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Epic Rides in Morocco

The Gorges

‘Best of’ Morocco Photo Gallery

This Epic Ride takes place between the Atlas Mountains and the Sahara Desert. Here you’ll find some amazing Gorges.

Location

Starting from Agadir, this ride goes over the lower Atlas Mountains via Paradise Valley towards the Moroccan Sahara Desert.

The Ride

Roads: As of 2019, mostly asphalt that seems like it was laid yesterday. The roads in Morocco are in great condition.

Bike: 2019 BMW F750 GS

Weather: Spring – Peak season | Summer – Scorching heat | Autumn | Mid season | Winter – Lovely Day temps, Cold at night (around 6 degrees)

Highlights

Les Gorges Du Todra (Todra Gorge)

Todra Gorges are a series of limestone river canyons in the eastern part of the High Atlas Mountains in Morocco.

Both the Todgha and neighbouring Dades Rivers are responsible for carving out these deep cliff-sided canyons, on their final 40 kilometres through the mountains.

Gorges Dadés

The Dadès Gorge are a series of rough-cut mountain valleys carved by the Dadès River. The river originates in the High Atlas Mountains and flows some 320 kms southwest before joining the Draa River at the edge of the Sahara. The many-colored walls are thrilling to ride through.

  • Mountain Pass down the Gorge
  • Gorges Dadés
  • Ancient Kasbah around Gorges Dadés

What’s Nearby

Photo Gallery

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Epic Rides in Morocco | Sahara Desert

Epic Rides in Morocco | Sahara Desert

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Epic Rides in Morocco

Sahara Desert

‘Best of’ Morocco Photo Gallery

This Epic Ride takes place in south-east Morocco, along the edges of the mighty Sahara Desert.

Location

Starting from Zagora, this ride descents from the Atlas Mountains down into the vastness of the Sahara Desert.

The Ride

Roads: As of 2019, mostly dirt tracks

Bike: 2019 BMW F750 GS

Weather: Spring – Peak season | Summer – Scorching heat | Autumn | Mid season | Winter – Lovely Day temps, Cold at night (around 6 degrees)

Highlights

Sahara Desert

The hottest desert in the world and comparable to the size of USA or China. The Sahara section in Morocco is easily accessible with good tarmac roads and enough dirt trails to explore for days.

What’s Nearby

Photo Gallery

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Epic Rides in Morocco | Lower High-Atlas Mountains

Epic Rides in Morocco | Lower High-Atlas Mountains

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Epic Rides in Morocco

Lower High-Atlas Mountains

‘Best of’ Morocco Photo Gallery

This Epic Ride takes place in southern Morocco, over the lower High-Atlas Mountains.

Location

Starting from Agadir, this ride goes over the lower Atlas Mountains via Paradise Valley towards the Moroccan Sahara Desert.

The Ride

Roads: As of 2019, mostly asphalt that seems like it was laid yesterday. The roads in Morocco are in great condition.

Bike: 2019 BMW F750 GS

Weather: Spring – Peak season | Summer – Scorching heat | Autumn | Mid season | Winter – Lovely Day temps, Cold at night (around 6 degrees)

KMZ File Download of Route | Epic Rides in Morocco – Lower High-Atlas Mountains

Highlights

Paradise Valley

Paradise Valley is a area North-East of Agadir.

It’s a lovely area to swim or hike.

The main swimming hole is located below.

  • Camping in Paradise Valley
Taroudant

This city in the Sous Valley in southern Morocco. It is situated east of Agadir on the road to Ouarzazate and the Sahara desert and south of Marrakesh. The town is known as the “Grandmother of Marrakesh” because it looks like a smaller Marrakesh with its surrounding ramparts. In the sixteenth century, the Saadi dynasty briefly used Taroudant as a capital before it moved its royal seat onwards to Marrakesh.

To the tourist, Taroudant is much less touristy than the grandfather, Marrakech.

What’s Nearby

Photo Gallery

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Epic Rides in Scotland | Malt Whisky Trail

Epic Rides in Scotland | Malt Whisky Trail

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Epic Rides in Scotland

Malt Whiskey Trail

‘Best of’ Scotland Photo Gallery

This Epic Ride takes place in Scotland, on a route is known as the Malt Whiskey trail. The short ride passes through the biggest cluster of Malt Whiskey Distilleries.

Location

KMZ File Download of Route | Epic Rides in Scotland – Malt Whiskey Trail

The Ride

Bike: 2005 BMW R1200ST

Roads: All asphalt. Check out this great write up here

Weather:

Spring | Less traffic

Summer | Crazy traffic, best weather

Autumn | Less traffic. Amazing scenery with the Autumn colors

Highlights

There are many distilleries on the route. I’d say make your own way… Here are some I visited.

The Tomatin Distillery

Founded in 1897, the Tomatin Distillery is a single malt Scotch whisky distillery in the village of Tomatin, 25 minutes south of Inverness.

  • Tomatin Distillery, Scotland
  • Tomatin Distillery, Scotland
Ballindalloch Single Malt Distillery

The distillery was only built in 2011 on a site that dates back to 1820.

  • Ballindalloch Distillery, Scotland
Ballindalloch Castle and Gardens

Nestled deep in the beautiful Spey valley, Ballindalloch Castle has been the home of the Macpherson-Grant family since 1546. This Castle and gardens is not a distillery but is definitely worth a visit.

  • Ballindalloch Castle and Gardens, Scotland
  • Ballindalloch Castle and Gardens, Scotland
  • Autumn in Scotland
  • Ballindalloch Castle and Gardens, Scotland
Tormore Distillery

The Tormore is one of the younger Scottish whiskies, the distillery construction began in 1958 and was completed in 1960. It was the first new distillery to be built in the country in the 20th century.. It’s one of the most architecturally striking distilleries as it is made of granite, has copper rotors and a clock which plays four different Scottish songs each quarter of an hour. The topiary hedges in the garden are also clipped to the shape of a bell or still

  • Tormore Distillery, Scotland

What’s Nearby

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'Best of' Scotland Gallery
 
 
 
Epic Rides in Scotland | nc500

Epic Rides in Scotland | nc500

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Epic Rides in Scotland

nc500

(North Coast 500)

‘Best of’ Scotland Photo Gallery

This Epic Ride takes place on Scotland’s self pro-claimed ‘Ultimate Road Trip’, the nc500. The North Coast is 500 miles long and follows the coast of some of the most remote and isolated places on the Scottish mainland.

Location

KMZ File Download of Route | Epic Rides in Scotland – nc500

For most people the nc500 will start in Inverness (the capital of the Highlands). There is also an option to start the route closer to Applecross if coming from the Isle of Skye. (highly recommended)

The Ride

As of 2019, mostly asphalt with alot of single lanes and narrow roads. It’s a tourist hot spot in the summer months. With a lot of Camper-vans overwhelming the roads

The route has been heavily advertised by Scottish Tourism and this has put a massive strain on the local resources of the small communities. So go slow, take your rubbish back to a city and using the Passing Lanes with care 🙂

The west side of the route is by far the most interesting and remote. The east side is a little underwhelming.

Magnet Trophy after riding the nc500

When is the best time to Ride?

Spring | Less traffic, less midges

Summer | Crazy traffic, best weather, alot of midges

Autumn | Less traffic, less midges. Amazing scenery with the Autumn colours

Highlights

Applecross and the Bealach na Ba (Pass of the Cattle)

The Bealach na Ba to Applecross is a historic and one of the most famous passes in the UK. Bealach na Ba, meaning pass of the cattle, was used in earlier days to drive cattle from Applecross and surrounding settlements to other parts of the Highlands. Crossing the Bealach na Ba is a great ride if the weather is good. :0

  • Google Maps view of the Route
  • Bealach na Ba Pass, Scotland
  • Bealach na Ba Pass, Scotland
  • Bealach na Ba Pass, Scotland
Smoo Cave

Smoo Cave is a large combined sea cave and freshwater cave in Durness in Sutherland, Highland, Scotland. The cave name is thought to originate from the Norse ‘smjugg’ or ‘smuga’, meaning a hole or hiding-place.

  • Inside Smoo Cave, Scotland
  • View out from Smoo Cave
  • Smoo Cave, Scotland
The Glenmorangie Distillery Co

Glen Coe is the crown jewel of valleys in Scotland. It is famous for the James Bond Scene in Skyfall and therefore can be very busy in the summer. I’d recommend camping at Kinghouse Hotel. It is free and you can use the showers etc. It has a great pub for food and drinks.

For those looking for the Skyfall Scene location. It is actually in Glen Etive. The road is a dead end and is equally amazing as the road through Glen Coe. The exact spot is here

What’s Nearby

Photo Gallery

Full Scottish Breakfast
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'Best of' Scotland Gallery
 
 
Epic Rides in Scotland | Isle of Skye

Epic Rides in Scotland | Isle of Skye

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Epic Rides in Scotland

Isle of Skye

‘Best of’ Scotland Photo Gallery

This Epic Ride takes place on one of the most magical island in the world. Isle of Skye. It is the largest island in the Inner Hebrides, a group of 35 inhabited islands as well as 44 uninhabited islands.

Since 1995 a bridge from the mainland allows an easier journey to the Isle (Some would say it has also changed the dynamic island way of life)

Location

The Isle of Skype is the largest of the Inner Hebrides, an archipelago of the West Coast. 5 hrs drive from either Glasgow or Edinburgh and 2.5 hrs from Inverness.

The Ride

As of 2019, mostly asphalt with alot of single lanes and narrow roads. It’s a tourist hot spot in the summer months. With a lot of Camper-vans slowly circling the island.

KMZ File Download of Route | Epic Rides in Scotland – Isle of Skye

When is the best time to Ride?

Spring | Less traffic, less midges

Summer | Crazy traffic, best weather, alot of midges

Autumn | Less traffic, less midges. Amazing scenery with the Autumn colours

Highlights

Neist Point and Lighthouse

The Lighthouse is the most westerly point on the Isle of Skye. On a clear day you’ll have views to the Outer Hebrides.

It’s a lovely hike around the points were you can see whales, dolphins, porpoises and the huge basking shark. You’ll also see heaps of sea-birds flying around.

  • Neist Point
  • Loch Mor
The Quiraing Area

This area is a landslip on the eastern face of Meall na Suiramach, the northernmost summit of the Trotternish. The best road runs across the peninsula. See the map below.

  • East Side of Quiraing
  • Best viewed on Motorcycle
  • Isle of Skye, Scotland
  • Windy Roads
  • Camping around Quiraing
Glamaig, Sgurr nan Gillean and the Sligachan Old Bridge

Situated in the middle of the island and with some of the best wide open scenery, this area offers heaps of hikes, camping and tourist sites.

  • Sligachan Old Bridge
  • Sgurr nan Gillean
  • Sligachan Old Bridge
Kilt Rock and Mealt Falls Viewpoint

Check out this Waterfall that falls into the sea!! This is Mealt Falls and it is easily accessible from the road and has a great viewpoint here

  • Mealt Falls
  • Mealt Falls
Talisker Distillery

Talisker is the oldest distillery on the Isle of Skye, set on Loch Harport with dramatic views of the Cuillins.

Talisker Distillery, Isle of Skye, Scotland

What’s Nearby

  • Glen Coe Valley | 189kms
  • Applecross, Bealach na ba shieldaig (Pass of the Cattle) | 98kms

Photo Gallery

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Epic Rides in Scotland | A82 Glasgow to Inverness

Epic Rides in Scotland | A82 Glasgow to Inverness

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Epic Rides in Scotland

A82 Glasgow to Inverness

‘Best of’ Scotland Photo Gallery

This Epic Ride takes place as you leave the largest city in Scotland towards the Highlands. On route you’ll pass sites made famous by movies like James Bond and Harry Potter…. and Scotland’s legendary Lochs.

Location

Starting from Glasgow, this ride heads north to the capital of the Scottish highlands, Inverness.

The Ride

As of 2019, mostly asphalt with alot of single lanes and narrow roads. It’s a tourist hot spot in the summer months. With a lot of Camper-vans especially around Glen Coe.

When is the best time to Ride?

Spring | Less traffic, less midges

Summer | Crazy traffic, best weather, alot of midges

Autumn | Less traffic, less midges. Amazing scenery with the Autumn colours

Highlights

Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park

With its proximity to Glasgow, Loch Lomond is surprisingly quiet. Since there is a wild camping ban in place during the summer months, it only makes for a good pit stop after leaving the city.

  • Loch Lomond, Scotland
Glen Coe

Glen Coe is the crown jewel of valleys in Scotland. It is famous for the James Bond Scene in Skyfall and therefore can be very busy in the summer. I’d recommend camping at Kinghouse Hotel. It is free and you can use the showers etc. It has a great pub for food and drinks.

For those looking for the Skyfall Scene location. It is actually in Glen Etive. The road is a dead end and is equally amazing as the road through Glen Coe. The exact spot is here

  • Skyfall Scene, Glen Etive, Scotland
  • Glen Etive, Scotland

As for the rest of Glen Coe, your experience will be dependent on the weather. Sunny days will provide some amazing scenery. But when the weather turns, so does the visibility.

  • Kingshouse Hotel, Glen Coe, Scotland
  • Wild Camping, Glen Coe, Scotland
  • Glen Coe, Scotland
A830 Road from Fort William to Mallaig (Ferry to Isle of Skye)

If your heading to the Isle of Skye, you’ll ride the A830 from Fort William. This is a worthy detour as you’ll pass some iconic sites.

  • Glenfinnan Monument, Scotland
  • Eilean Donan Castle, Scotland
  • Scotland
  • Ben Nevis, Scotland
Urquhart Castle on Loch Ness

Urquhart Castle sits on the famous Loch Ness. The castle is pretty much ruined but it is located right on the A83 and provides great views over the Loch.

  • Urquhart Castle on Loch Ness, Scotland

What’s Nearby

Photo Gallery

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Epic Rides in Spain | Mallorca (Majorca)

Epic Rides in Spain | Mallorca (Majorca)

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Epic Rides in Spain

Mallorca (Majorca)

‘Best of’ Ecuador Photo Gallery

This Epic Ride takes place on the largest of the Balearic Islands in the Mediterranean Sea, Mallorca!. This is an island that satisfies the need for beaches, mountains, great food and a relaxed way of life.

Location

Mallorca is located in the Balearic Islands in the Mediterranean Sea of Spain.

KMZ File Download of Route | Epic Rides in Spain – Mallorca

The Ride

As of 2019, mostly asphalt with alot of single lanes and narrow roads. It’s a tourist hot spot in the summer months. With a lot of Cyclists circling the island.

My Ride on Mallorca was a 2019 Ducati Scrambler 800 Icon from Vintage Motors, located in Palma. Google Maps

  • 2019 Ducati Scrambler 800 Icon

When is the best time to Ride?

All year round

Highlights

Serra de Tramuntana

In the southwest–northeast part of the island you’ll find the Serra de Tramuntana which forms the backbone of the Spanish island of Mallorca. The highest peak is the Puig Major, which at 1,445 metres, is the highest mountain in the Balearic Islands.

For bikers, the mountain range has some amazing roads right along the sea.

  • Cala Figuera, Mallorca
  • Mallorca, Spain
  • Cap de Formentor
Plataforma des Funicular | Ma-2141

The MA-2141 road leads down from the Serra de Tramuntana down to the coastal town of Cala Tuent.

If you down have time to ride the whole Serra de Tramuntana, definitely check out this small section.

  • Plataforma des Funicular | Ma-2141, Mallorca
  • Natural Tunnel
  • Mallorca, Spain
All the little Villages

Mallorca has some lovely, quiet villages. Some of my favorite are Sineu, Santuari de Lluc and Valldemossa

  • Mallorca, Spain
  • Santuari de Lluc, Mallorca
  • Museu Parroquial de Santa Maria, Sineu, Mallorca
  • Esporles, Mallorca

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Epic Rides in Mexico | MEX 40/40D The Devils Backbone

Epic Rides in Mexico | MEX 40/40D The Devils Backbone

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Epic Rides in Mexico

MEX40/40D

The Devils Backbone

‘Best of’ Mexico Photo Gallery

Tale of two roads. Between Mazatlan and Durango you have two amazing roads to choose from. The MEX 40 or the 40D. the 40 is free, old, twisty, takes 7 to 8 hours to ride. Alternatively, the 40D is new, fast, has 115 bridges (one of them being the highest suspension bridge in the Americas) and 61 tunnels. The project to built 40D costed a small fortune.

You can easily jump between roads on the journey, so you choose your pace and experience. More details on the roads from Dangerous Roads.

Location

Between Mazatlan (State of Sinola) and Durango (State of Durnago)

Road Details

MEX 40
El espinazo del diablo (The devils backbone) is a famous mountain road in Mexico. Located between Mazatlan on the west coast of mainland Mexico and Durango, which lies east of the Sierra Madre Mountains, this road is known by locals and internationally for its hairpins and zigzags turns. The road lies almost entirely over 2.000 meters above the sea level.

Some sections of MEX 40 are narrow with lots of curves (around 2.000). Despite of many cautionary tales about crossing the devils backbone, El Espinazo del Diablo, is exceptionally well maintained and there are many cautionary signs marking most of the hazards.

There are some versions of the name given to the area. One says that the impressive ravines deployed on both sides of the road allow to see the devil. Local legend says that when the Archangel Michael threw the devil from heaven and he landed here on earth, his backbone formed the rugged ridgeline of the Sierra Madres. The road has had a bad reputation for many reasons: it’s accident-prone and hundreds of people have died on it, these mountains have historically been remote and inaccessible enough that they are used for growing marijuana and poppies, and therefore, there has been a lot of crime in these mountains related to drug trafficking.
The road encompasses miles of stunning views through twisty hair pin corners, high elevations and steep grades. This road is so curvy and twisted that it takes 7-8 hours to cross (that’s an average speed of 20 mph or less). It is the only place to cross the Sierra Madres for more than 500 miles.

MEX 40D – New Toll Road (Cuota)
In 2013, the MEX 40D was opened. This highway, is 140-miles-long, has 115 bridges and 61 tunnels and costed $2.2 billion. 

The most spectacular part of the drive is the Baluarte Bridge (Puente Baluarte). It’s the highest cable-stayed bridge in the world, the third-highest bridge overall and the highest bridge in the Americas. It’s a record-breaking 1124 meters, width – 20 meters, and its height above the canyon is 403 meters.

When is the best time to Ride?

All year round. Winter months may add icy roads and heavy fog to the ride.

Why is it an ‘Epic Ride’

The roads are among the most famous in Mexico, and rightly so. It’s amazing to jump between roads and enjoy the altitude shift from sea level to some of the most stunning mountains in Mexico. Tunnels, bridges, thousands of curves and relatively low traffic. Doesn’t get much better than this.


Highlights

Baluarte Bridge

The Baluarte bridge is on the newer 40D road and has a total length of 1,124 m (3,688 ft) with a central cable-stayed span of 520 m (1,710 ft) With the road deck at 403 m (1,322 ft) above the valley below, the Baluarte Bridge is the third-highest cable-stayed bridge in the world, the seventh-highest bridge overall and the highest bridge in the Americas. 

Baluarte Bridge Document (English Subtitles)

Mirador El Espinazo Del Diablo (The Devils Backbone viewpoint)

This Viewpoint exists on MEX 40 here and allows riding to stop and take in the amazing views of the mountains. No doubt when you then you’ll find many other bikes enjoying the rest stop. 

It is also where you can get a photo near the Ruta 666 sign.

TimeLapse Video of the Ride on MEX 40D

Time Lapse of MEX 40D

Video Blog of my Ride on the MEX40

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Epic Rides in Belize | Mountain Pine Ridge Forest

Epic Rides in Belize | Mountain Pine Ridge Forest

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Epic Rides in Belize

Mountain Pine Ridge Forest

Mountain Pine Ridge Forest Reserve is a nature reserve located in central Belize, close to the Guatemala border. It was setup to protect the natural pine forests. Since it is sparsely populated it is a great place to venture around on a motorcycle.

Considering its proximity to the massive jungles in the north of Guatemala, and the fact that Belize is a very small country, the landscapes here are unique. You can explore several caves, some Maya ruins, rivers and waterfalls all within close proximity.

There are a lot of hidden gems as well, from Abandoned logging villages, to private reserves of the famous, Francis Ford Coppola has a massive estate here.

Location

Type of Road

As of 2018, All hard clay or loose hard packed gravel.

When is the best time to Ride?

All year road

GPS Tracking Map

My tracking from ride around Mountain Pine Ridge Forest Reserve. (GPX / KML files), But to be honest, this is a place that is just best explored without a map or GPS

Here is an overview of the area. Just fuel up and ride.

Elevation Profile

Details

  • Covers an area of 106,352.5 acres (430 km2)
  • Camping is NOT allowed in the Reserve. You can camp at one of the lodges inside the reserve. Check out Pine Ridge Lodge . Neil the owner is very welcoming and knowledgeable of the area.
  • Be aware of your Motorcycle impact on the environment and the peacefulness of the place.
  • South of the Reserve is the biggest Mayan Ruins in Belize, Caracol

Accessing the Reserve

The reserve is best accessed from the north at a town called San Ignacio. There will be a Ranger station on the road entering the reserve, you need to give them details of the place you’re staying.

Why is it a ‘Best Ride’

Belize is a very small country (even for central american standards). You wont find many areas where you can just ride around so freely. Most other places like this will have fences everywhere to stop the adventurer from looking around. This is not the case in Mountain Pine Ridge, you’re free to explore for days. Enjoy!

Video Highlights

Photo Gallery

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Epic Rides in Colombia | Punta Gallinas (The top of South America)

Epic Rides in Colombia | Punta Gallinas (The top of South America)

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Epic Rides in Colombia

Punta Gallinas

‘Best of’ Colombia Photo Gallery

Punta Gallinas marks the most northern part of South America, on the coast of the Caribbean Sea. The area mostly desert which has been populated by the indigenous Wayuu people. The area is very different to any other area in Colombia. The headland is also the location of the northernmost lighthouse in South America.

The Ride

You will mostly likely leave from Cabo de La Vela, the hot stop for wind/kite surfing. From there there are no real roads. Just alot of tracks through the deserts landscapes.. All dirt. Bring fuel and water

No mainroads. just goat tracks
Time Lapse of the Ride
  • Fuel stop
  • the lighthouse at the top of South America
  • Wild camping
  • Cabo Crew
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Epic Rides in Colombia | El Cocuy National Park

Epic Rides in Colombia | El Cocuy National Park

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Epic Rides in Colombia

El Cocuy National Park

‘Best of’ Colombia Photo Gallery

One of Colombia’s most spectacular national parks, PNN El Cocuy is mostly made up of a diverse ecosystem known as the páramo. This glacially formed, neotropical system of valleys, plains and mountain lakes includes the largest glacier zone in South America north of the equator. The park has 15 peaks that are at least 5000m, the highest being Ritacuba Blanco at 5330m, and is an outdoor playground popular for trekking, mountaineering, camping and climbing, although many activities are currently restricted.

Established in 1977, the park covers 306,000 hectares. The western boundary begins at the 4000m elevation line; the eastern half of the park drops to just 600m elevation to the Colombian llanos (plains).

The Ride

The park is huge and varies in altitude greatly. This is one of the most remote places in Colombia and has only been ‘open’ for tourists in the last decade.

Highlights

El Cocuy National Park

Established in 1977, the park covers 306,000 hectares. The western boundary begins at the 4000m elevation line; the eastern half of the park drops to just 600m elevation to the Colombian llanos (plains).

Among the park’s most famous features is an unusual rock formation called the Púlpito del Diablo (5120m; Devil’s Pulpit), but it’s just one of many spectacular peaks. Sadly, the park’s glacier fields are rapidly melting due to climate change. Park officials believe that if melting continues at the present rate, the glaciers will be gone within 20 to 30 years.

Despite the harsh environment, PNN El Cocuy is home to diverse species of flora and fauna. Animals you might encounter include the spectacled bear (also called the Andean bear), deer, eagles, condors, mountain tapirs, chinchillas and the beautiful spotted ocelot. The mountaintop plains are covered in a variety of shrubbery, the best known being the yellow-flowered frailejón that’s native to the area.

El Cocuy town

El Cocuy town is located at the base of the National Park. It is a beautiful town with numerous options for accommodation.

  • El Cocuy town
  • El Cocuy town
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'Best of' Colombia Gallery
 
 
Epic Rides in Colombia | Around Quindío (Salento, Coffee Valley, Jardin)

Epic Rides in Colombia | Around Quindío (Salento, Coffee Valley, Jardin)

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Epic Rides in Colombia

Around Quindío

(Salento, Coffee Valley, Jardin)

‘Best of’ Colombia Photo Gallery

Quindío is a department of Colombia. It is in the western central region of the country, crossed by the Andes mountains. It is famous for the quality of the coffee plantations, colourful architecture and lust green rolling hills. A great area for a Ride.

The Ride

You’ll need a few days to enjoy these lush green lands. Distances are short with good roads and alot of exciting bends and viewpoints.

The Lust greenery of Quindio

Highlights

Cocora Valley

Cocora Valley is home to the tallest wax palms in the world. It is a very laid back valley with some great hikes.

Time Lapse inside Cocora Valley
Salento

Set amid gorgeous green mountains 24km northeast of Armenia, this small town survives on coffee production, trout farming and tourists, the last drawn by its quaint streets, typical paisa architecture and its proximity to the spectacular Valle de Cocora. It was founded in 1850, and is one of the oldest towns in Quindío and a great base for visiting Cocora Valley.

The ‘Willy’ Jeeps you see all around the towns are a great colourfully site… After the wars, the USA exported its huge numbers of excess jeeps to Colombia for military use. Not many were used by the army and they mostly ended up with the people and they made them their own 🙂

  • Moto vs Willy Jeep
  • Rainbow of Willys
Jardin

Jardín is an Andean town in northwest Colombia, known for its brightly painted houses, colorful floral displays and milk candies. The main plaza, El Libertador Park, features rose gardens, a central fountain and the twin-towered, neo-Gothic Basilica of the Immaculate Conception.

  • The colourful town of Jardin
  • Basilica of the Immaculate Conception
  • Inside the Basilica
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Epic Rides in Peru | Cañon del Pato

Epic Rides in Peru | Cañon del Pato

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Epic Rides in Peru

Cañon del Pato

‘Best of’ Peru Photo Gallery

One of the best in Peru but also one of the most dangerous. The narrow high mountain dirt road, totalling a length of 45km, sits between the village of Yuracmarca and the Calipuy National Reservation. The Road is onlyt one lane wide and riders are expected to use the horn to ensure the tunnels are clear before entering. All 50 of them. These tunnels are hand-cut through solid stone.

The Ride

The road is extreme, with 50 one-lane tunnels. It crosses the infamous Cañón del Pato (Duck Canyon), on the Rio Santa (Santa River) at the north end of the Callejón de Huaylas (Corridor of Huaylas) in north-central Peru. This road is very exciting and sometimes very exposed and unsecured driveway in innumerable twists and turns. The total route involves over 50 tunnels, most of which are one lane and rough cut through the mountainside. The road rises from 500m to over 2000m. (link)

The Ride through Canon Del Pato

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Epic Rides in Peru | Huascaran National Park

Epic Rides in Peru | Huascaran National Park

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Epic Rides in Peru

Huascaran National Park

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Huascarán National Park is situated in the Cordillera Blanca, the world’s highest tropical mountain range. Named after Mount Huascarán which rises to 6,768 m above sea-level, these lands boast deep ravines watered by numerous torrents, glacial lakes and a variety of vegetation. Making it a site of spectacular beauty.

The Ride

I started the ride from Yungay. The road will be a straight climb until you get to the two blue lakes (near tyhe hike to Laguna 69). The the hairpins being. From there you can loop all the way back around to Yungay.

The Ride through Huascarán National Park

Huascarán National Park

Laguna 69

Lake 69 is a small lake near of the city of Huaraz, in the region of Áncash, Peru. It is one of the more than 400 lakes that form part of the Huascarán National Park, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve and World Heritage Site.

Along Dusty Roads has a great write up of Laguna 69 here

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Epic Rides in Peru | Carr. Canete Yauyos | Huancaya District to San Vicente de Cañete

Epic Rides in Peru | Carr. Canete Yauyos | Huancaya District to San Vicente de Cañete

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Epic Rides in Peru

Carr. Canete Yauyos | Huancaya District to San Vicente de Cañete

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The ride, when heading to the coast, races the river from the Andes down to the low land coast of Peru. It is a great way to return to Lima from the amazing Reserve Paisajistica Nor Yauyos-Cochas.

The Ride

Starts from Reserve Paisajistica Nor Yauyos-Cochas and ends on the coast of Peru.

The Ride through Reserva Paisajistica Nor Yauyos-Cochas

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Epic Rides in Peru | Reserva Paisajistica Nor Yauyos-Cochas (Landscape Reserve)

Epic Rides in Peru | Reserva Paisajistica Nor Yauyos-Cochas (Landscape Reserve)

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Epic Rides in Peru

Reserva Paisajistica Nor Yauyos-Cochas

(Landscape Reserve)

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Reserve Paisajistica Nor Yauyos-Cochas is an untouched landscape. Even though it is located within the Lima region, it is actually located around 3,000 meters above sea level. The destination itself is characterized by the stunning views that you’ll encounter while exploring the surroundings. Amid lush forest and sweeping pampas, you’ll find lots of small lakes full of diverse birds species and herds of camelids. This is a natural conservation area, and once you get here you will understand why.

Riding through the reserve is a slight challenge with all the road dirt and gravel. But take your time cause you’ll most likely have the place to yourself.

The Ride

A few hours from Lima, you can enter the reserve from many different entrances.

The Ride through Reserva Paisajistica Nor Yauyos-Cochas

Waterfalls Carhuayno

Between Huancaya and Vilca, the Cañete River forms a multitude of lakes and waterfalls through the forest. The Nor Yauyos-Cochas reserve, ranging from 2,500m to 5,700m in altitude, was created to preserve these magnificent landscapes and its small villages. Its most famous attraction is the Carhuayno Falls.

The Cañete River in this area forms beautiful emerald lagoons where trouts abound. Also ducks, coots and other Andean birds can be seen horses, llamas, cows and livestock. The whole area is dominated by the beauty of the Cañete River which capture the attention of the visitor.

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Epic Rides in Peru | Cusco to Machu Picchu via Ollantaytambo

Epic Rides in Peru | Cusco to Machu Picchu via Ollantaytambo

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Epic Rides in Peru

Cusco to Machu Picchu

(via Ollantaytambo)

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This Epic Ride links the most popular tourist attraction in South America with the ancient Inca town of Cusco.

The Ride

On the ride from Cusco you’ll experience the Sacred Valley, endless mountains passes (some at 4500m) and some great examples of Inca cities from days gone by.

Cusco

Cusco was the historic capital of the Inca Empire from the 13th century until the 16th-century Spanish conquest. In 1983, Cusco was declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO with the title “City of Cuzco”.

  • Cusco Cathedral
  • Cusco
Sacred Valley Local festival
  • Urubamba, Peru

Ollantaytambo

Dominated by two massive Inca ruins, the quaint village of Ollantaytambo, is the best surviving example of Inca city planning, with narrow cobblestone streets that have been continuously inhabited since the 13th century. Because it is half way between Cusco and Machu Picchu, you’ll see alot of buses stopping for a quick break. But with the amazing ruins around, Ollantaytambo is worth at least a night. It’s perfect for wandering the mazy, narrow byways, past stone buildings and babbling irrigation channels, pretending you’ve stepped back in time.

  • Ollantaytambo Main Square
  • Pinkuylluna

Humantay Lake

After a moderate hike to a 4200m, the gorgeous colours of the lake finally presents itself. With all Inca man-made ruins in the area, it’s great to see some natural sites that are much more tranquil.

Machu Picchu

Shrouded by mist and surrounded by lush vegetation and steep escarpments, the sprawling Inca citadel of Machu Picchu lives up to every expectation. In a spectacular location, it’s the most famous archaeological site on the continent, a must for all visitors to Peru. Like the Mona Lisa or the pyramids, it has been seared into our collective consciousness, though nothing can diminish the thrill of being here. This awe-inspiring ancient city was never revealed to the conquering Spaniards and was virtually forgotten until the early part of the 20th century.

Best (and cheapest) way to visit Machu Picchu on a Moto

Santa Teresa is one of the closest towns to Machu Picchu. From here you can find a cheaper Hospedaje than other more tourist towns nearby

From Santa Teresa, you can either walk or get a taxi to the Hydro Electric Dam on the railroad to Machu Picchu.

From here you just need to walk along the train-line to the base of Machu Picchu.

  • the walk to Machu Picchu

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Epic Rides in Peru | Interoceanic Highway – Brazil to Cusco

Epic Rides in Peru | Interoceanic Highway – Brazil to Cusco

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Epic Rides in Peru

Interoceanic Highway

‘Best of’ Peru Photo Gallery

This Epic Ride takes place on newly created (2011) transcontinental highway that links Peru and Brazil. The section I travelled was from Rio Branco in Brazil to Cusco in Peru. The road provides a fast route from the low lands of the Amazon to the high mountains of the Peruvian Andes. But it is not without controversy. The road is link to many environmental and corruption concerns.

The Ride

As of 2017, new asphalt with not alot of traffic.

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