The best MTB trails in Tello
4.7
(6)
141
riders
7
rides
Mountain bike trails in Tello explore the arid landscapes surrounding the Tatacoa Desert, offering routes that traverse dirt roads and open terrain. The region features moderate elevation changes, providing a mix of flat sections and gradual climbs. This area is characterized by its unique desert environment, making for distinctive mountain biking experiences.
Best mountain bike trails in Tello
- The most popular mountain bike trail is Villavieja loop from Villavieja, a 36.7 miles (59.1 km) trail that takes 4 hours…
Last updated: June 29, 2026
44
riders
60.2km
04:35
600m
600m
Moderate mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Advanced riding skills necessary.
5.0
(3)
22
riders
45.4km
03:17
440m
440m
Moderate mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Suitable for all skill levels.
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5.0
(1)
20
riders
72.4km
05:32
540m
540m
Hard mountain bike ride. Very good fitness required. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.0
(2)
15
riders
14.6km
00:59
180m
180m
Easy mountain bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Suitable for all skill levels.
4
riders
23.2km
01:41
210m
210m
Easy mountain bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Popular around Tello
Tips from the Community
This crossing is not advisable; it costs five times what the boat from Natagaima costs (5000 COP instead of 1000)...it's better to use the car ferry a few kilometers before reaching Villavieja; it's cheaper.
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A really nice section of an unpaved road into the Tatacoa desert via Villaviejo. This section follows and old railway line using the old infrastructure. The tunnels are dark and the road inside is quite lumpy. They’re both very short and full of bats that you can hear squeaking above you. After here the route is a bit more hilly and there are some rough and sandy sections but I managed with fully loaded touring bike on 35mm tyres.
2
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Dirtroad which is not in the best condition but doable with touring setup. Views are nice especially last part.
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This village on the Rio Magdalena is the starting point for tours into the Tatacoa Desert. In addition to hotels and restaurants, tours can be booked here or bikes can be rented to experience the beauty of the nearby desert.
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After the dusty bike ride from Villavieja past the red Tatacoa to the gray, the pool and kiosk invite you to take a refreshing dip and rest. It feels like an oasis in the desert.
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The Tatacoa Desert (Spanish: Desierto de la Tatacoa) is an approximately 330 km² desert in Colombia. It is located in the northern part of the Departamento del Huila in the valley of the Río Magdalena in the municipality of Villavieja, about 40 km north of the department capital Neiva and only about 3° north of the equator. The average temperature is over 28 °C. The Tatacoa Desert owes its existence to the special geographic location between the two mountain ranges of the Central and Eastern Cordillera in a dry basin at the foot of the Eastern Cordillera. As a result, it lies in the double rain shadow and usually remains low in precipitation even in the rainy season. Due to the high average temperature, the amount of precipitation of around 1000 mm per year is not sufficient to compensate for evaporation. The name Tatacoa comes from a species of snake originally native to the desert but now extinct. Source: https://de.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tatacoa-W%C3%BCste
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Incredible to discover such a refreshing swimming pool in the middle of the unreal hot desert. Vendors sell cool drinks, snacks, and ice cream.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many mountain bike trails are there in Tello?
Tello offers a network of 7 mountain bike trails, catering to various skill levels. These routes explore the arid landscapes surrounding the Tatacoa Desert, providing a distinctive riding experience.
What kind of terrain can I expect on mountain bike trails in Tello?
The terrain in Tello is characterized by arid desert landscapes, dirt roads, and open areas. Riders will encounter moderate elevation changes, with a mix of flat sections and gradual climbs, typical of the Tatacoa Desert region.
Are there any easy mountain bike trails suitable for beginners in Tello?
Yes, Tello has trails suitable for beginners. An easy option is the Tatacoa Desert – Villavieja loop from Villavieja, which covers 13.6 miles (21.8 km) and has minimal elevation gain, making it a good choice for those new to mountain biking in the area.
What are the more challenging mountain bike trails in Tello?
For experienced riders seeking a challenge, Tello offers difficult routes such as the Villavieja – Dirt Road to Tatacoa Desert loop from Villavieja. This trail spans 44.9 miles (72.4 km) and features significant elevation changes, providing a demanding ride through the desert landscapes.
Are there any circular mountain bike routes in Tello?
Many of Tello's mountain bike trails are designed as loops, allowing you to start and finish in the same location. Examples include the popular Villavieja loop from Villavieja (36.7 miles / 59.1 km) and the Villavieja – Tatacoa Desert loop from Villavieja (27.5 miles / 44.3 km).
What is the average length of mountain bike trails in Tello?
The mountain bike trails in Tello vary in length, with routes ranging from approximately 13.6 miles (21.8 km) to 44.9 miles (72.4 km). This variety allows riders to choose trails that match their desired distance and time commitment.
What do other mountain bikers say about the trails in Tello?
The mountain bike trails in Tello are highly regarded by the komoot community, holding an average rating of 4.7 stars from over 6 reviews. Riders often praise the unique desert scenery and the comprehensive exploration of the local terrain that the routes offer.
Are there any specific landmarks or viewpoints along the mountain bike trails in Tello?
The primary landmark and point of interest in the Tello region is the Tatacoa Desert itself, which the trails traverse. Riders can expect expansive views of the arid landscapes and unique geological formations characteristic of this desert environment.
Is Tello suitable for family-friendly mountain biking?
While the region's trails are primarily focused on exploring the desert, some easier routes, like the Tatacoa Desert – Villavieja loop from Villavieja, could be suitable for families with older children or those comfortable with longer distances on dirt roads. Always assess the specific route's difficulty and your family's experience level.
What is the best time of year to go mountain biking in Tello?
Given the arid desert environment, the best time to go mountain biking in Tello is typically during the cooler, drier months to avoid extreme heat and potential rainy seasons. It's advisable to check local weather forecasts before planning your trip.
Are there any facilities or places to eat near the Tello mountain bike trails?
The trails in Tello are primarily located around Villavieja, which serves as a base for exploring the Tatacoa Desert. You can find basic amenities, cafes, and accommodation options in Villavieja to support your mountain biking adventure.
What are the typical trail conditions like in Tello?
Trail conditions in Tello generally involve dirt roads and open terrain, which can be dry and dusty, especially during arid periods. Riders should be prepared for varied surfaces and potential loose gravel, typical of desert environments.
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