The best cycling routes in Santiago

There are over 30 touring cycling routes recorded in komoot for Santiago, offering a diverse range of experiences for cyclists. These routes vary in difficulty, length, and elevation gain.

Santiago offers a good mix of routes for all skill levels. You'll find 3 easy routes, 15 moderate routes, and 16 difficult routes. This variety ensures that both beginners and experienced touring cyclists can find suitable challenges.

Yes, Santiago has several easy routes perfect for beginners or those looking for a relaxed ride. One such option is the Licey to Moca Route loop from Parqueo Colegio Saint David School, which is 19.8 miles (31.8 km) long with minimal elevation gain. Another easy route is the Fuente parque trina de moya. loop from Pontificia Universidad Católica Madre y Maestra, covering 16.2 miles (26.1 km).

For experienced touring cyclists seeking a challenge, Santiago offers several difficult routes with significant elevation. Consider the Mirador El Descanso – Finca F.Jaquez Tavarez loop from Mapfre, a demanding 49.7 miles (79.9 km) route with over 1500 meters of ascent. Another difficult option is the Los Mabises – Circunvalación Norte loop from Parada de Autobus, which is 35 miles (56.4 km) long and features over 1000 meters of climbing.

Many of Santiago's touring cycling routes are designed as loops, allowing you to start and end at the same point. Examples include the Higuerito Bridge – Circunvalación Norte loop from Santiago de los Caballeros, a moderate 32.3 miles (52.0 km) ride, and the Finca F.Jaquez Tavarez loop from Estadio Cibao F.C., a difficult 24.4 miles (39.2 km) route.

Touring cycling in Santiago offers incredibly diverse landscapes. You can ride through fertile valleys, past vineyards in areas like the Maipo Valley, and along rural roads. The majestic Andes Mountains provide a stunning backdrop, and some routes will take you into the foothills, offering dramatic views and challenging climbs.

While specific touring routes might be long, Santiago is becoming increasingly bike-friendly. Within the city, areas like Providencia and Las Condes have connected bike paths suitable for families. The ambitious Mapocho 42K project also offers a long, uninterrupted cycle route away from traffic, which can be great for family rides.

Many routes offer scenic views of the Andes. For panoramic city views, cycling up San Cristóbal Hill is a popular option, with routes like La Pirámide or Pío Nono leading to the summit. While not directly on the touring routes listed, the Cajón del Maipo area, with its stunning El Yeso Reservoir, is a major natural attraction accessible from Santiago and offers incredible scenery.

Santiago generally enjoys a Mediterranean climate. The spring (September to November) and autumn (March to May) months are often considered ideal for cycling, with pleasant temperatures and less extreme weather. Summers can be hot, especially in the central valley, while winters are mild but can bring rain, particularly in June and July.

Absolutely! Santiago's location allows for combining cycling with various experiences. You can explore routes through the Maipo Valley and enjoy wine tasting tours. The Cajón del Maipo region, accessible from Santiago, offers opportunities for hiking, rafting, and ziplining. Many operators also offer guided tours that blend cycling with cultural explorations of the city's markets and historic sites.

The duration of routes varies significantly based on distance, elevation, and your cycling pace. For example, the easy Licey to Moca Route loop from Parqueo Colegio Saint David School can be completed in about 1 hour 50 minutes. More challenging routes like the Fuente parque trina de moya. loop from Limonal Abajo, which is 45.4 miles (72.9 km) long with over 1100 meters of climbing, can take over 5 hours.