Why Rent a Bicycle for Exploring Cafayate Vineyards?

Cafayate sits in the heart of the Calchaquí Valleys. Most of the famous wineries are within three miles of the main plaza. This proximity makes a car unnecessary for most visitors. Check our guide on renting bicycles in Cafayate for price ranges. Biking allows you to stop whenever you see a beautiful vista. You won't have to worry about finding parking. It also lets you enjoy the sun of the high desert.

The terrain is generally easy for casual riders. Most roads are paved or consist of firm gravel. The mountain scenery is stunning from a bike seat. You can smell the grapes and the trees. It is a very cheap way to get around. You can find many shops near the town center. Most bikes come with a front basket. This is perfect for carrying a bottle of wine home.

9 Best Stops When You Rent a Bicycle for Exploring Cafayate Vineyards

These selected locations offer a mix of history and taste. They are all reachable by a standard bicycle. If you prefer a guided group, see the best Cafayate winery tours. Here are the top items for your itinerary:

• Name: Bodega El Esteco
  Type: sight
  Why go: This is one of the most beautiful estates in the valley.
  Best for: Iconic architecture and history.
  Where: North edge of town on Route 40.
  Time: 1.5 hours.
  Cost: Moderate.
  Getting there: A five-minute ride north from the plaza.
  Tip: Book a tour of the historic cellar which dates back to 1892.
• Name: Bodega Vasija Secreta
  Type: experience
  Why go: It is the oldest winery in the valley.
  Best for: A rustic, traditional atmosphere.
  Where: Entrance of the city.
  Time: 1 hour.
  Cost: Affordable.
  Getting there: Ride toward the city entrance on Route 68.
  Tip: Visit their small on-site museum to see ancient wine-making tools.
• Name: Bodega Nanni
  Type: experience
  Why go: They specialize in organic wine production.
  Best for: Health-conscious travelers and central location.
  Where: High-end street near the plaza.
  Time: 1 hour.
  Cost: Low to moderate.
  Getting there: Just two blocks from the main square.
  Tip: Try their organic Malbec in the shaded patio garden.
• Name: Bodega Las Nubes
  Type: viewpoint
  Why go: It offers the best panoramic view of the valley.
  Best for: Sunset glasses of wine.
  Where: High ground in the El Divisadero area.
  Time: 2 hours.
  Cost: Moderate.
  Getting there: A steep 3km ride uphill from town.
  Tip: Order a cheese platter to enjoy with the view.
• Name: Museo de la Vid y el Vino
  Type: museum
  Why go: It explains the unique climate of Cafayate.
  Best for: Understanding wine before you taste it.
  Where: Main avenue near the plaza.
  Time: 1.5 hours.
  Cost: Low entry fee.
  Getting there: An easy ride on the main asphalt road.
  Tip: Visit the official Museo de la Vid y el Vino site for current opening times.
• Name: Bodega Quara
  Type: sight
  Why go: The colonial-style mansion is a photographer's dream.
  Best for: Colonial history and wide-open spaces.
  Where: Route 40, South.
  Time: 1 hour.
  Cost: Moderate.
  Getting there: A flat ride heading south through the vineyards.
  Tip: The llama statues on the estate are a local landmark.
• Name: El Porvenir de Cafayate
  Type: experience
  Why go: This boutique winery offers high-end, personalized tastings.
  Best for: Travelers looking for premium wine.
  Where: Downtown Cafayate.
  Time: 1.5 hours.
  Cost: Premium.
  Getting there: Located in the town center on Belgrano street.
  Tip: Reservations are essential for their private laboratory tastings.
• Name: Piatelli Vineyards
  Type: day trip
  Why go: A grand, modern facility with a top-tier restaurant.
  Best for: A full lunch stop.
  Where: Route 2.
  Time: 3+ hours.
  Cost: Expensive.
  Getting there: A moderate uphill ride west of town.
  Tip: Reward your uphill cycle with their legendary steak lunch.
• Name: San Isidro Trail
  Type: nature
  Why go: See the wild side of the valley away from the vines.
  Best for: Adventure and river views.
  Where: West end of the valley.
  Time: 2 hours.
  Cost: Free.
  Getting there: Follow the path toward the mountains from the town edge.
  Tip: Bring plenty of water as there is no shade here.

Practical Tips for Your Cycling Route

Most rental shops are listed in our guide on where to find bicycle rental shops in Cafayate. Always check the tire pressure before you leave the shop. Test the brakes on a side street first. The sun in the Andes is very strong. Wear high SPF sunscreen even on cloudy days. A wide-brimmed hat is a lifesaver here. Learn more about the city on Wikipedia for general context.

Remember that you are at high altitude. You might get tired faster than usual. Drink twice as much water as you think you need. Pace yourself if you are visiting multiple wineries. It is easy to dehydrate in the dry weather. You can also bike toward the Quebrada de las Conchas stops if you are very fit. However, that route is better for experienced cyclists. Most casual riders should stick to the valley floor.