MOTORCYCLE-TRIPS · SOUTH AMERICA
Motorcycle Tour La Paz Cartagena: Andes to Caribbean
This 29-day La Paz Cartagena motorcycle tour is the fourth stage of our South America Expedition. From the heights of the Andes in La Paz, you’ll ride your enduro through Bolivia, Peru and Ecuador all the way to the Caribbean coast of Cartagena in Colombia, around 6,800 km both off-road and on-road.
How long?
29 Days
When?
Spring, Winter
Price
€ 7,829
/ Person
The Journey
Go North: From the Andes to the Caribbean Coast
On this motorcycle journey from La Paz to Cartagena, you begin high in the Andes and finish on the Caribbean coast. Over 29 days, you’ll cover around 6,800 km both off-road and on-road through Bolivia, Peru, Ecuador and Colombia, passing glaciers, volcanoes, Inca sites and stretches of the Panamericana. If you have off-road and on-road experience, physical fitness and team spirit, this Andes-to-Caribbean stage is perfect for you. Your experienced, multilingual tour guide grew up in South America and is an expert in adventure travel. When it comes to motorcycle expeditions, you’re in the best hands with OVERCROSS, the certified tour operator.
Service Description, Overcross Expeditions, IMPORTANT!
This trip is an expedition, not a package holiday in the legal sense. Overcross organises and leads expeditions worldwide, aiming to give experienced adventurers a true sense of freedom, nature and encounters: raw, unpredictable, genuine.
Important Note
This trip is not a standardised tourist service, but an expedition with unpredictable external factors, including weather, political situations, technical breakdowns, and road and terrain conditions. Overcross handles organisation, preparation and execution, but cannot guarantee set stages, accommodation, riding times or routes. Changes are part of the expedition character and may be necessary at any time.
Nature of the Expedition
These trips are aimed at participants with a spirit of adventure, personal responsibility and the ability to improvise. An Overcross expedition is not a package product as defined by the EU Package Travel Directive, but a joint undertaking with expedition leadership and logistical support. The unexpected is part of the experience, not the exception.
Organisation by Overcross
Planning and coordination of the expedition, provision of experienced expedition leaders / guide team, organisation of transport and logistics, administrative support with visas, border crossings and vehicle documents, as well as safety and route planning based on the latest information.
Liability and Personal Responsibility
Participation is at your own risk. Each participant is responsible for themselves, their vehicle and their equipment. Technical preparation, physical endurance and mental resilience are required.
Important Safety Notice
We expressly point out that there may be risks and dangers in all countries visited. We strongly recommend checking the latest travel and safety advice from the Foreign Office before departure: https://www.auswaertiges-amt.de/de/ReiseUndSicherheit
Key Highlights of the Trip
Key Highlights of the Trip
01
La Paz to Cartagena
01
La Paz to Cartagena
Start high in the Andes at La Paz, finishing on the Caribbean coast in Cartagena, Colombia.
02
6,800 km Andes to Caribbean
02
6,800 km Andes to Caribbean
Off-road and on-road through Bolivia, Peru, Ecuador and Colombia.
03
Andes, glaciers and volcanoes
03
Andes, glaciers and volcanoes
Ride the slopes of Cotopaxi and Chimborazo and along the wild Pacific coast.
04
Culture and history
04
Culture and history
Inca sites like Kuelap and Ingapirca, the Nazca Lines and colonial towns like Santa Cruz de Mompox.
05
Pure enduro adventure
05
Pure enduro adventure
Dune surfing at Ica, the Tatacoa Desert and the thermal baths of Papallacta, a new adventure every day.
Bolivia
Your La Paz Cartagena motorcycle adventure begins in Bolivia: We start in La Paz, high in the Andes at over 3,600 m, receive the bikes and ride to Lake Titicaca, the highest navigable lake in the world.
Days 1-2
La Paz, arrival and tour briefing
Your La Paz Cartagena motorcycle journey begins in Bolivia at over 3,600 m above sea level. We meet in La Paz for the tour briefing, you receive your motorcycle, we carry out a kit check and load up the luggage. This way, you are perfectly prepared for the coming weeks through the Andes all the way to the Caribbean. Use the day to acclimatise to the high-altitude air of this Bolivian metropolis.
La Paz, heading for Lake Titicaca
On the first riding day of your enduro tour, we leave La Paz heading west and roll out onto the Altiplano plateau. Ahead lies Lake Titicaca, which we will circle either to the north or south, depending on the weather. The vast Andean landscape and its shifting light accompany you as we gradually approach the border with Peru. The first off-road and on-road kilometres set the tone for your adventure.
Peru
Peru is the heart of this enduro journey through the Andes: around 3,500 km from Lake Titicaca, along the Pacific coast and into the northern Andean ranges. Impressive landscapes, rich Inca history and outstanding cuisine await you every day.
Days 3-16
Puno, border and Lake Titicaca
We cross the border into Peru and reach Puno on the shores of Lake Titicaca. On this stage of the motorcycle journey through the Andes, we circle the lake and immerse ourselves in the culture of the Altiplano. The clear mountain air and deep blue waters shape your first day in Peru, before we head west towards the white city of Arequipa.
Arequipa, ride to the white city
From Puno, our enduro journey leads southwest towards Arequipa, known as the white city for its bright volcanic stone buildings. We wind our way over Andean passes and broad plateaus, passing volcanic cones. In Arequipa, colonial architecture awaits you against the backdrop of the Misti volcano. From here, it's only about 125 km to the Pacific coast.
Pacific coast, from the Andes to the sea
Today we leave the heights of the Andes behind and descend to the Pacific coast. The motorcycle journey takes us through barren desert landscapes until the sea comes into view. Riding north along the rugged coastline, you feel the wind and the vastness of the Pacific at your side. A complete contrast to the cold Andean passes of the past days awaits you.
Nazca, flight over the geoglyphs
We reach the Nazca plain, home to the world-famous geoglyphs. On a scenic flight, you view the mysterious Nazca Lines from above, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that continues to puzzle archaeologists. This stage of the enduro journey combines the thrill of riding the Panamericana with one of South America's great mysteries.
Ica, dune surfing at the oasis
From Nazca we continue to Ica. At an oasis on the edge of town, a special highlight of this motorcycle journey awaits: dune surfing with the bikes on the giant sand hills. Afterwards, you can relax in the peaceful palm oasis in the heart of the desert. Sand, sun and endless dunes shape this varied day between the Pacific and the Andes.
Lima, coastal ride and ceviche
We continue our motorcycle journey along the wild coast all the way to Lima, Peru's bustling capital. The ride takes us through desert stretches and past fishing villages. Once in Lima, you can sample a typical ceviche right on the Pacific coast in the evening, a culinary highlight before a rest day awaits you tomorrow.
Lima, rest day in the capital
Today is a rest day in Lima. Put your feet up, check the bikes or explore this vibrant city on your own. The colonial old town, museums and the Miraflores cliffs invite you to stroll. This free day on the enduro journey gives you energy for the coming Andean stages, which will take us from the sea all the way to the Ecuadorian border.
Heading north, coast and Andes
Rested, we leave Lima and tackle the roughly 1,800 km north. On this stage of the motorcycle journey through the Andes, we first follow the coast before the road leads us inland. Wide plains and the first foothills of the western Andes accompany you. The constant change between sea level and mountains makes this riding day especially rewarding.
Huaraz, Pierina gold mine in the Andes
Halfway to Trujillo, we leave the coast and climb up to Huaraz in the western Andes. Near Huaraz lies the former Pierina gold mine at 3,800 to 4,200 m altitude. The motorcycle journey takes you through high alpine scenery with views of the glaciated Cordillera Blanca. The thin air and winding roads challenge both rider and machine.
Trujillo, Duck Canyon and Chan Chan
Through the spectacular Duck Canyon, we ride our enduro journey back to the Pacific coast to Trujillo. Here we visit the partially reconstructed adobe ruins of Chan Chan, once the largest adobe city in the Americas. In the evening, we enjoy grilled fish in the nearby fishing village of Huanchaco and round off this day of contrasts between Andes and sea.
Cajamarca, in Atahualpa's footsteps
From Trujillo, the motorcycle journey takes us up to Cajamarca. Just a few minutes from our hotel is the room the Incas filled with gold for Pizarro in an attempt to ransom King Atahualpa. From Cajamarca, it's worth making a detour to Yanacocha, one of South America's largest and highest gold mines. History and mining shape this impressive day in the Andes.
Leymebamba, mummy museum
We continue through the mountains, first east, then north. On this stage of the enduro journey, we pass several Inca sites. In Leymebamba, we stop at the mummy museum, which preserves finds from Laguna de los Cóndores. Green Andean valleys, cloud forest and winding tracks make this day a riding and cultural highlight.
Kuelap, Inca fortress
Today we visit the great Inca and Chachapoya sites of the north. Revash and Karajia are on our route, as is Kuelap, the Machu Picchu of the north and one of the region's most important fortresses. The motorcycle journey through the Andes combines challenging mountain tracks with archaeological treasures off the main tourist trail.
Questions about the tour itinerary?
Our tour guide is happy to answer any questions about the day-by-day route, stops, and details.
La Balza, border ride to Ecuador
On winding tracks, we continue our enduro journey north to the border town of La Balza. Through dense mountain forest and along remote roads, we approach the crossing into Ecuador. This final day in Peru offers one last taste of unspoilt Andean landscapes before a new chapter of your La Paz Cartagena motorcycle journey begins tomorrow morning.
Ecuador
Ecuador is a surprise on this motorcycle expedition through the Andes, with its incredible biodiversity and the highest capital city in the world. Around 1,300 km take you along winding tracks from the Peruvian border to the threshold of Colombia.
Days 17-23
Podocarpus, border crossing to Ecuador
We cross the border into Ecuador and are immediately immersed in lush nature. On adventurous tracks with seemingly endless bends, the motorcycle expedition leads through Podocarpus National Park. Dense cloud forest, orchids and rushing rivers accompany you through the Ecuadorian Andes. A gentle yet intense introduction to the greenest country on your journey.
Cuenca, curves through the Andes
The enduro journey continues through the Andes to Cuenca, Ecuador's third largest city. The winding roads snake through highlands and páramo landscapes. Cuenca welcomes you with colonial charm, domed churches and cobbled streets. The contrast between wild mountain scenery and refined city architecture makes this riding day especially rewarding.
Riobamba, Ingapirca and Devil's Nose
Beyond Cuenca, we reach Ingapirca, Ecuador's most important Inca site. Before Riobamba, we park the bikes and take a small train over the famous Devil's Nose, the Nariz del Diablo. This stage of the motorcycle expedition combines Inca history with a spectacular rail adventure along steep Andean slopes. A varied day full of highlights.
Quito, over Chimborazo to the highest point
Today we reach the highest point of the entire motorcycle journey. We ride over the flanks of the Cotopaxi volcano at 4,000 m and Chimborazo at 4,500 m. The thin air and stark highland scenery are an experience in themselves. In the afternoon, we descend to Quito, whose well-preserved colonial centre is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Quito, equator baptism at Mitad del Mundo
Near Quito, in San Antonio de Pichincha, you can take part in the equator baptism at the Mitad del Mundo monument, the middle of the world. You stand with one foot in each hemisphere. This day of the enduro journey gives you time to explore the world's highest capital, tend to the bikes and recharge for the final stages to the Caribbean.
Otavalo, indigenous market
From Quito, our motorcycle journey takes us to Otavalo, home to the largest indigenous market in South America. The colourful fabrics, ponchos and crafts will captivate you. Volcanoes and crater lakes rise around the town. Between browsing the market and winding Andean roads, you experience a slice of authentic Ecuador today.
Papallacta, thermal baths and rest day
We ride back south to the thermal baths of Papallacta. In the hot springs at over 3,300 m, you can relax tired riding muscles and enjoy views of the surrounding Andean peaks. This rest day on the enduro journey is the perfect break before we set off on little-travelled roads north towards the Colombian border.
Colombia
Colombia is the grand finale of this Colombia Caribbean motorcycle journey: around 1,800 km from the Andes to Cartagena. Varied landscapes, the Magdalena Valley and the extraordinary Tatacoa Desert lead you all the way to the Caribbean coast.
Days 24-29
Mocoa, border crossing to Colombia
From Papallacta, we ride directly east and then north across the border into Colombia. For years, the country made headlines for all the wrong reasons, today, it welcomes you with exceptional hospitality. We pass through Mocoa, at 604 m, and wind our way up endless bends to 1,600 m in the mountains. A strong start to your Colombia stage.
Villavieja, Tatacoa Desert
Today, the extraordinary Tatacoa Desert awaits you, with its bizarre rock formations, giant cacti and the Valley of Wishes near Villavieja. The red-grey eroded landscapes look like another planet. On this stage of the Colombia Caribbean motorcycle journey, dry badlands alternate with wide vistas, a photogenic highlight of the trip.
Honda, along the Magdalena
Heading north, we follow the Magdalena, Colombia's largest river, through its broad plain surrounded by mountain ranges. The enduro journey takes you to the small town of Honda, not to be confused with the motorcycle brand. Warm, humid tropical air, lush greenery and the wide river valley shape this relaxed riding day through Colombia's heartland.
Mompox, colonial riverside town
We continue along the Magdalena valley until we reach Santa Cruz de Mompox, a beautiful colonial town on the riverbank. The UNESCO-protected streets, white facades and churches transport you back to the Spanish colonial era. This stage of your Colombia Caribbean motorcycle journey combines long river stretches with a historical gem.
Magdalena Valley, heading for the Caribbean
On the final kilometres through the Magdalena Valley, we approach the Caribbean coast. The landscape flattens, the air grows saltier, and the anticipation for Cartagena builds. On this penultimate stage of the La Paz Cartagena motorcycle journey, you can reflect on the past weeks between Andes, desert and river as the tropical Caribbean draws near.
Cartagena, arrival at the Caribbean
On the last day of the journey, we reach Cartagena de Indias, the pearl of the Caribbean. After 6,800 km from the heights of the Andes down to sea level, your La Paz Cartagena motorcycle adventure comes to an end. We spend the evening together in the colourful old town with its colonial buildings and squares, a fitting finale to this great South American expedition.
Want a detailed description of all tour days?
Our expert will walk you through the full itinerary and answer all your questions.
PRICE
from
€ 7,829
/ person
Price Options
Expedition participants
€ 7,829
Additional Options
Rent motorcycle Yamaha Tenere 700 for this motorcycle trip
€ 4,639
Trip includes
- All accommodation in hotels and lodges on the South America Expedition
- Breakfast and dinner
- Experienced multilingual tour guide for the entire South America Expedition
- 24-hour emergency hotline via OVERCROSS
- Rescue service in case of evacuation up to a limit of €5,000
- Satellite phone specifically for the motorcycle expedition
- Travel security certificate (insolvency protection according to BGB §651r), obligatory for all OVERCROSS trips
- Online tour guide, connected to the group via satellite tracker
- Location and status updates for family and friends on request
- Maps for crossing South America
- Support with visa queries and their organisation
- Tour pack with all travel information to prepare for the motorcycle expedition
- Equipment and packing list for preparation
- If you choose the 'Yamaha Tenere 700 rental bike' option: transport of the rental motorcycle
- Expedition reunion
- Riding with your own motorcycle
FAQS
-
Is Colombia a safe destination for motorcyclists?
Colombia has significantly improved its security situation in recent years. We still avoid certain areas on this motorcycle tour, your experienced tour guide is fully informed about this. -
How is a motorcycle expedition different from a regular motorcycle tour?
A motorcycle expedition is a longer, often more adventurous journey. Unlike a more tourist-focused motorcycle tour, it’s about exploring remote places, riding unusual routes and overcoming challenges. See also the Wikipedia link to Expedition on this page. -
Do I need special visas or documents for this motorcycle tour in South America?
Yes, you’ll generally need a valid passport and, depending on your home country, possibly a special visa for the countries you travel through. The OVERCROSS team will be happy to help you with the formalities, such as applying for a visa. -
What kind of motorcycle do I need for the tour?
If you’re not using one of our Yamaha Tenere 700 rental bikes, we recommend a travel enduro or enduro under 1000 cc. Basically, you can ride any motorcycle you’re comfortable with, the limits are usually set by the rider, not the bike. -
What challenges might I face on the motorcycle expedition through South America?
This motorcycle expedition will challenge you on several levels: mental strength, riding long stages, cultural differences, language barriers and technical riding demands. -
What are the roads like in South America?
The road network ranges from well-developed motorways to unpaved tracks in rural areas. Main routes are usually well maintained, but it gets tougher in remote areas. On this expedition, you’ll ride a mix of different terrain. -
What tyres do I need for this motorcycle tour?
Manufacturers like Continental, Metzeler or Mitas offer high-quality tyres for this type of trip. The choice is ultimately very individual. On our bikes, we usually fit the Heidenau K60 Scout, as it has a centre strip on the rear tyre from a certain size upwards. -
What luggage system do I need on my motorcycle?
OVERCCROSS rental bikes come with an aluminium pannier system. Of course, you can also choose a soft luggage system if you prefer. -
What modifications do I need on my motorcycle?
We recommend fitting engine protection, crash bars and hand guards to your motorcycle. -
Do I need an extra fuel canister?
No, you don’t need an extra fuel canister, the capacity of your standard tank is sufficient for this trip. -
Do I need a credit card?
Yes, you’ll need a credit card with sufficient funds and the ability to withdraw cash for this trip. -
Should I take cash with me on the motorcycle tour?
It never hurts to have cash, but you can also withdraw cash on the road with your credit card. -
What equipment do I need for the motorcycle expedition?
You’ll receive a complete equipment list for this motorcycle tour in your tour pack before departure. -
How much time should I allow for shipping my vehicle?
Depending on the route (south or north), the vehicle will be shipped to Cartagena (Colombia) or Ushuaia (Argentina). To ensure all vehicles arrive before the tour starts, they must be shipped at least 2 months in advance.
OVERCROSS note on itinerary
The above travel description is a non-binding online proposal and does not represent a binding travel itinerary. We expressly reserve the right to make changes to the route, schedule, and accommodations (§ 651d BGB in conjunction with Art. 250 EGBGB). The terms and conditions of OVERCROSS apply.Terms and Conditions of OVERCROSS
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