As you know, Bert shoes are proudly made in Colombia, a country known not only for its exceptional shoe manufacturing but also for being a paradise for adventure seekers and cycling enthusiasts. With its diverse landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and stunning natural beauty, our country offers some of the most rewarding and thrilling bikepacking routes in the world. As Colombians, we wanted to share with you our favorites, and we hope you come to visit us soon!
1. The Alto de Letras: The Ultimate Challenge
Alto de Letras is widely considered one of the toughest climbs in the world, and it’s a must-ride for any avid cyclist visiting Colombia. This route stretches from the town of Mariquita to the mountain town of Manizales, covering over 80 kilometers with a brutal ascent of 3,700 meters.
The climb offers breathtaking views of the Colombian Andes, passing through coffee plantations and mist-covered peaks. It’s essential to pace yourself on this route, as the altitude can be physically demanding. But for those who are up to the challenge, the sense of accomplishment and the vistas make it worth every pedal stroke.
2. La Ruta del Sol: A Coastal Adventure
For a change of scenery, the Ruta del Sol takes riders along Colombia’s stunning Caribbean coast. Starting in Cartagena and heading east toward Santa Marta, this route offers a mix of flat and rolling terrain, making it suitable for all skill levels. The 240-kilometer stretch between these two cities passes through quaint fishing villages, pristine beaches, and tropical forests.
The warm coastal climate and the opportunity to stop at beautiful beaches make the Ruta del Sol an enjoyable and relatively easy bikepacking trip. Don’t miss a chance to explore Tayrona National Park near Santa Marta, where dense jungle meets the ocean, providing a spectacular backdrop for any bikepacking adventure.
3. The Coffee Triangle: A Journey Through Colombia’s Coffee Heartland
The Eje Cafetero, or Coffee Triangle, is a region steeped in Colombia’s rich coffee culture and scenic beauty. This bikepacking route takes you through the departments of Caldas, Risaralda, and Quindío, winding through rolling hills covered in coffee farms, quaint colonial towns, and lush valleys.
A popular route in the Coffee Triangle starts in the vibrant city of Manizales and travels through Salento, a charming town known for its colorful buildings and the nearby Cocora Valley, home to the towering wax palm trees. This route offers a mix of paved roads and gravel paths, making it perfect for intermediate riders looking to experience the beauty of Colombia’s countryside while savoring some of the world’s best coffee along the way.
4. The Trans-Andean Traverse: Crossing Colombia’s Mountain Spine
The Trans-Andean Traverse is one of the most epic and demanding bikepacking routes in Colombia. This multi-day ride crosses the towering Andean mountain range from the capital city of Bogotá to the city of Cali, covering some of the most rugged and remote landscapes in the country.
Starting in Bogotá, the route climbs over mountain passes as high as 3,600 meters before descending into the lush valleys of the Valle del Cauca. The route takes you through cloud forests, coffee plantations, and remote villages where you can experience the warmth and hospitality of rural Colombia.
This route is recommended for experienced riders due to the steep climbs, rough terrain, and high altitudes. However, the stunning views and sense of adventure make it one of the most rewarding rides in the country.
5. The Llanos Plains: A Flat and Scenic Ride
If you prefer flatter terrain, the Llanos region in eastern Colombia offers wide-open spaces and sweeping plains. This area, often referred to as the "Serengeti of South America," is home to vast grasslands, rivers, and an abundance of wildlife. The bikepacking routes here are relatively flat, but the distances between towns can be long, so planning is essential.
One recommended route in the Llanos is the ride from Villavicencio to Puerto López, where you can visit the geographical center of Colombia, marked by the Obelisco de Puerto López. The route is around 100 kilometers and takes you through cattle ranches and wetlands, offering a peaceful and unique experience compared to the mountainous regions of the country.
6. The Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta: High Mountains and Indigenous Culture
For those looking for a truly unique and culturally rich bikepacking experience, the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta offers both adventure and an opportunity to learn about Colombia’s indigenous cultures. This mountain range rises abruptly from the Caribbean coast to peaks over 5,700 meters, making it the highest coastal mountain range in the world.
Bikepacking routes in this region are challenging, with steep climbs and rugged trails. However, the opportunity to visit indigenous communities like the Kogi and Arhuaco peoples, who have lived in harmony with the land for centuries, makes this a deeply rewarding journey. The views of snow-capped peaks and the Caribbean Sea from the higher elevations are breathtaking.
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