Atacama Chile Tours Desert Bike Tour in Atacama: San Pedro to Devil’s Throat
photo from our Bike Tour in San Pedro de Atacama

Desert Bike Tour in Atacama: San Pedro to Devil’s Throat

Mountain bike tour from San Pedro de Atacama: Catarpe Valley trails, Pukará de Quitor ruins, river oasis ride and exciting Devil’s Throat canyon descent, with bike, helmet, breakfast and small group max 6 included.

5
$ 74 per person
4 hours
796 + bookings
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Overview

Pedal through the hidden Catarpe Valley on a rented mountain bike, where the San Pedro River carves an unexpected green oasis amid stark desert cliffs.

Your guide leads at your pace—slow for photos of the ancient Pukará de Quitor fortress or fast for the thrill of dropping into the narrow Devil's Throat (Garganta del Diablo), a short, fun descent through Quebrada de Chulacao that feels like plunging into another world. Stop at San Isidro Chapel for a breather, then weave along river trails lined with tamarugo trees and rock formations sculpted by time.

This 4-hour self-paced adventure includes bike and safety gear, meets at the Cruz Verde pharmacy corner (Caracoles & Toconao), and ends back there.

Real talk: the Devil's Throat drop is exciting but manageable—no major technical skills needed.

Max 12 riders keeps it relaxed; bring water and layers for shifting desert temps. Book now.

What's Included

  • Mountain bike rental.
  • Safety equipment (helmet, gloves).
  • English/Spanish-speaking guide.
  • Entrance fee to Catarpe Valley (CLP 5,000 per person, payable on site in cash).
  • Breakfast or additional snacks.
  • Gratuities for your guide.

Itinerary

  1. Meet at the Cruz Verde pharmacy corner (Caracoles & Toconao) in San Pedro de Atacama.
  2. Walk to the nearby bike rental shop to pick up bikes and gear.
  3. Start the ride into Catarpe Valley via El Carmen entrance for wide views of the valley and Pukará de Quitor ruins.
  4. Cycle along river trails at your chosen pace, stopping for photos and to feel the oasis contrast with the desert.
  5. Reach San Isidro Chapel for a short break.
  6. Drop into the Devil's Throat (Garganta del Diablo) descent—short, fun, and highlight of the ride.
  7. Continue exploring Quebrada de Chulacao and other valley sections.
  8. Return to the meeting point in San Pedro de Atacama.

What to Expect from the Tour

Here's practical advice to help your bike ride go well, based on common experiences with terrain, weather, and pace. We've pulled this from what past guests told us after their trips.

  • Gear essentials. Comfortable clothes, sunglasses, hat, sunscreen, and water aren't optional. Several guests said desert sun hits hard—bring a light windbreaker for afternoon breezes. Water bottle essential; no shops en route.
  • Bike and terrain. Mountain bikes handle sandy and rocky sections well. The Devil's Throat drop is short and controlled—guests called it exhilarating without being extreme. Pace is flexible; guides match beginners to advanced.
  • Valley views. Oasis green contrasts stark cliffs—Pukará de Quitor looks impressive from the bike path. Guests loved stopping for photos; light changes dramatically.
  • Group setup. Max 12 spreads out naturally. Past riders said the size allowed personal pace without feeling rushed.
  • Best time to visit. Year-round, but May to October (dry) for cooler mornings and clearer skies. Guests early 2026 noted June-July rides stayed comfortable with golden light on rocks. December-April hotter—start early.
Month/Season Upsides Downsides Recommended Start Time
May-Oct (Dry) Cooler, firm trails Less green Early morning
Dec-Apr (Wet) Greener valley Hotter sun Very early to avoid heat

Common issues. Not for back problems, pregnancy, or heart conditions—terrain bumpy. Guests found moderate fitness sufficient; no major climbs. Weather rarely cancels; dress in layers.

FAQ

Do I need biking experience?

Basic comfort on a bike is enough. Guides adjust pace for beginners. Past riders with little experience handled the Devil's Throat drop with guidance.

How difficult is the Devil's Throat descent?

Short and fun—more exciting than technical. Guests called it the trip highlight; guides walk you through if needed.

Suitable for kids?

Yes for confident teens who handle moderate trails. Families said older kids loved the speed and views, but check fitness.

What if I get tired?

Pace is yours—guides stop often. Guests took breaks at viewpoints; no rush to finish.

Photos and scenery?

Incredible—Pukará ruins, river oasis, rock formations. Guides point out best angles; bring a phone mount for handlebar shots.

Why this bike tour?

Self-paced freedom in a hidden valley with the unique Devil's Throat drop. Past guests said the oasis feel and personal rhythm beat bus tours or guided group rides.

Book it today with Atacama Chile Tours or simply following this link.

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