PERU COAST AND CANYONS ADVENTURE

the White City (Arequipa) to the City of Eternal Spring (Trujillo), this ride encompasses the very best adventurous roads linking the north and south of Peru. True to the name of this adventure, we will be seeking world-class canyon and coastal roads. Highlights include Colca Canyon (world’s second deepest Canyon), UNESCO World Heritage city centers (Arequipa and Trujillo), a boat ride out to critter-rich Ballestas Islands and dune boarding at a true desert oasis. Bring your dirt skills, only 75% is paved. Ride the driest desert in the world, see the deepest canyons in the world, visit remote indigenous towns in the Andes and relax at sunset at an oasis or beach front. This adventure has a little bit of everything. If you ever wanted to explore Peru from tip to tail by motorcycle, this is your chance!

*This ride is tough and challenging. Only riders with off road experience that don’t mind challenging conditions and lack of amenities some nights should register for this adventure.

ROAD CONDITIONS:

Paved and dirt surface. This is a challenging ride and only for those who have off road experience and like a challenge.

PERU COAST AND CANYONS ADVENTURE

Starting Price: $9,250
Total Miles: 1,950

Difficulty: Is this tour right for me?
Contact us with any questions

THE ITINERARY

THE GEAR TO BRING

MotoQuest guides wear KLIM helmets, jackets, pants and gloves, and we outfit our motorcycles with luggage and accessories from Revzilla. You can view and download our complete MotoQuest packing list here.

Included with the tour:

Hotel Accommodations
Premiere Welcome and Farewell Dinners
Professional MotoQuest Guide(s)
Support Vehicle
Support Vehicle Driver
Staff Trained in First Aid with Satellite Phone
MotoQuest Swag Bag
Photos Taken on the Trip
Automatic Enrollment in Global Rescue

Not Included:

Airfare
Meals on the Road
Gas
Alcohol
Alternative Tours
Travel Insurance
Gratuities
National Park Entrance Fees

MotoQuest Staff on Tour:

Phil Freeman

Landmarks And Attractions

Arequipa, Peru

Arequipa, Peru is a city of rich history and captivating beauty nestled in the Andes Mountains. Arequipa is often referred to as the "White City" due to the abundance of buildings constructed from a light-colored volcanic stone called sillar. Located in southern Peru, Arequipa is the country's second most populous city and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Its historic center is a treasure trove of colonial architecture, showcasing a unique blend of Spanish and indigenous influences. The most iconic landmark in Arequipa is the Santa Catalina Monastery, a stunning complex of colorful buildings and tranquil courtyards that dates back to the 16th century. The city is blessed with a picturesque setting, surrounded by three towering volcanoes: Misti, Chachani, and Pichu Pichu. These majestic peaks provide a dramatic backdrop to the cityscape and offer adventurous opportunities for hiking and mountaineering. Arequipa is also known for its culinary delights. The city boasts a vibrant food scene, with traditional Peruvian dishes such as rocoto relleno (stuffed spicy pepper) and adobo (marinated meat) taking center stage. Don't forget to try the local specialty, "Queso Helado," a unique frozen dessert made from milk, cinnamon, and coconut. Cultural festivals are an integral part of life in Arequipa. The most famous celebration is the "Fiesta de la Virgen de la Candelaria," held in February, where the city comes alive with vibrant processions, music, and dance. Exploring the streets of Arequipa, you'll encounter charming plazas, ornate churches, and bustling markets where you can immerse yourself in the local culture and shop for traditional crafts and textiles.

The Atacama Desert

The Atacama Desert is a captivating and arid expanse that stretches along the western coast of South America. The Atacama Desert is known as one of the driest places on Earth, characterized by its vast stretches of barren landscapes, salt flats, and rugged mountains. Covering parts of Chile, Peru, Bolivia, and Argentina, the Atacama Desert is a place of extreme conditions. Its unique geographical features and climatic factors contribute to its desolate beauty. The desert is surrounded by the Andes Mountains to the east, which create a rain shadow effect, blocking moisture from reaching the region. The Atacama Desert is renowned for its otherworldly landscapes, such as the Moon Valley (Valle de la Luna) with its lunar-like terrain, salt flats like the Salar de Atacama, and geysers like El Tatio. These natural wonders attract visitors from around the world who are captivated by the desert's stark beauty and surreal atmosphere. Despite its harsh conditions, the Atacama Desert is also home to unique flora and fauna that have adapted to survive in this extreme environment. You can find species such as cacti, llamas, vicuñas, and flamingos, among others, thriving in this seemingly inhospitable place. The Atacama Desert is also a haven for stargazers and astronomers due to its clear skies and minimal light pollution. The region is home to several world-class observatories, taking advantage of the optimal conditions for astronomical observations. Throughout history, the Atacama Desert has been inhabited by indigenous communities, who have developed their own ways of life and cultural practices in harmony with the desert's challenging environment.

Huacachina, Peru

Huacachina, Peru is a truly enchanting oasis in the heart of the desert. Huacachina is a small village located just outside the city of Ica, in southwestern Peru. What makes Huacachina so special is its picturesque lagoon surrounded by towering sand dunes. Legend has it that the lagoon was created when a beautiful princess was discovered bathing by a young hunter. Startled, she fled, leaving behind a pool of water that became the oasis we know today. Huacachina has become a popular tourist destination, attracting visitors from all over the world. The village is known for its unique charm and offers a range of activities for adventure seekers and nature enthusiasts alike. One of the main attractions in Huacachina is sandboarding and dune buggy rides. The towering sand dunes surrounding the oasis provide the perfect playground for adrenaline junkies. Visitors can hop on a dune buggy and zoom across the sandy slopes, or grab a board and slide down the dunes, experiencing the thrill of sandboarding. The oasis itself is a tranquil spot where visitors can relax and enjoy the serene surroundings. The palm trees and lush vegetation create a peaceful atmosphere, and the lagoon offers a refreshing escape from the desert heat. In addition to the outdoor adventures, Huacachina also offers a variety of accommodations, restaurants, and bars. Visitors can indulge in delicious Peruvian cuisine, sip on refreshing cocktails, and soak in the vibrant atmosphere of this desert oasis. Whether you're seeking adventure, relaxation, or simply a unique experience, Huacachina has something to offer. It's a place where you can immerse yourself in the beauty of nature and create unforgettable memories.

Huarascán National Park

Huarascán National Park is a breathtaking natural wonder in the heart of Peru. Huarascán National Park is located in the Ancash region of the country, encompassing a vast area of the Cordillera Blanca mountain range. This national park is named after its highest peak, Mount Huascarán, which stands tall at an impressive elevation of 6,768 meters (22,205 feet). Mount Huascarán is not only the tallest mountain in Peru but also the highest tropical mountain in the world. Its majestic presence dominates the park's landscape, attracting mountaineers and adventurers from around the globe. Huarascán National Park is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers. The park is renowned for its stunning alpine scenery, snow-capped peaks, glacial lakes, and lush valleys. It is home to a diverse range of flora and fauna, including unique Andean species that have adapted to the high-altitude environment. One of the main attractions of Huarascán National Park is its extensive network of hiking trails. These trails offer opportunities for both experienced trekkers and casual hikers to explore the park's natural wonders. Popular routes include the Santa Cruz Trek, Alpamayo Circuit, and Huayhuash Circuit, each offering breathtaking views and unforgettable experiences. For those seeking a mountaineering challenge, Mount Huascarán and other peaks within the park provide thrilling opportunities. However, it's important to note that climbing these mountains requires proper equipment, experience, and acclimatization due to the high altitude and challenging conditions. In addition to its natural beauty, Huarascán National Park holds cultural significance as well. It is home to indigenous communities that have preserved their traditional way of life, adding a cultural dimension to the park's allure.

Cañon del Pato

Cañon del Pato is a remarkable natural wonder located in Peru. Cañon del Pato, which translates to "Duck Canyon," is a breathtaking gorge situated in the Cordillera Blanca mountain range in the Ancash region. This canyon is renowned for its dramatic and rugged beauty, characterized by towering cliffs, steep rock formations, and the rushing waters of the Santa River. The name "Duck Canyon" is derived from the shape of the rocks, which some say resemble a duck's beak. Cañon del Pato is a popular destination for adventure seekers and nature enthusiasts. The canyon offers thrilling opportunities for activities such as hiking, rock climbing, and birdwatching. The diverse flora and fauna found in the area make it a haven for nature lovers. One of the unique features of Cañon del Pato is its road, known as the Cañon del Pato Road. This road is an engineering marvel, carved into the canyon walls, and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. It is considered one of the most scenic and challenging roads in Peru, attracting thrill-seeking motorists and cyclists. As you traverse the Cañon del Pato Road, you'll be treated to awe-inspiring vistas of the canyon, with its sheer cliffs and the Santa River flowing below. The road winds its way through a series of tunnels and bridges, adding to the excitement and adventure of the journey. It's important to note that due to the rugged nature of the canyon and the challenging road conditions, caution and proper preparation are necessary when exploring Cañon del Pato. It is advisable to travel with experienced guides or drivers who are familiar with the area.