Bike Trip from Mexico City to Tepoztlan via Volcanoes

Exploring the Bike Trip from Mexico City to Tepoztlán via Volcanoes

If you’re eyeing a mix of active adventure and culture in Mexico, this bike tour from Mexico City to Tepoztlán might just be your next highlight. Designed for those who enjoy a good challenge and love discovering new landscapes on two wheels, this journey offers a blend of scenic views, local flavor, and a sense of accomplishment.

What I love about this experience is how it combines cycling along historic routes—like the old trainline—with stunning natural vistas. Plus, the inclusion of drone videos and photos really adds a special touch, allowing you to relive the adventure in breathtaking detail. On the flip side, a potential consideration is the length of the ride—about 50 miles (80 km)—which is best suited for those with a solid fitness level.

This tour suits active travelers who want more than just sightseeing, and those eager to experience Mexico’s diverse landscapes while pushing their limits a bit. It also appeals to folks interested in regional cuisine and authentic village atmospheres. If you’re looking for a memorable, full-day adventure that combines physical activity with cultural highlights, this might be just right.

Key Points

• Scenic route along Mexico’s only cycling route on an old trainline, offering a unique historical perspective.
• Stunning views from the mirador “La Pera” of the Morelos mountains and lush forests.
• Delicious regional food at Tres Marias, with options for different dietary preferences.
• Incredible drone photography capturing the highlights of your journey, making for unforgettable keepsakes.
• Well-equipped bikes and food provided, with transportation back to Mexico City included.
• Suitable for those with good fitness, given the 80 km distance and varied terrain.

The Route and Its Highlights

Starting in Mexico City: Urban Meets Nature

Your day kicks off in the early morning at Simón Bolívar 889 in Mexico City, and you’ll quickly leave the urban hustle behind. As you cycle through neighborhoods, you’ll pass iconic spots like Avenida Insurgentes, lined with skyscrapers, including the unmistakable WTC. It’s quite a contrast to what awaits outside the city center—a landscape that shifts from concrete to country roads quickly.

One of the first things we loved was how smoothly the route transitions from city streets to countryside paths. You’re on bike paths, so you don’t need to worry about traffic, which makes the whole experience feel safe and relaxed. The route along the Ciclopista Ferrocarril offers lovely views of volcanic landscapes and the chance to appreciate the city from a different perspective.

Visiting San Angel and Diego Rivera Museum

Next, you pass through San Angel, a charming neighborhood with cobbled streets and art galleries, and a quick stop at the Museo Estudio Diego Rivera y Frida Kahlo. While the museum visit is optional, it adds a cultural touch to the day’s itinerary. If you love art, this is a nice bonus, and the guide typically includes it as part of the experience.

Heading South: Through Tres Marias

After a few hours of cycling, you arrive at the small town of Tres Marias, where lunch awaits. Here, the focus shifts to enjoying regional cuisine—think local dishes, with options catering to vegetarians, vegans, and gluten-free diets. The variety ensures everyone can find something delicious. Reviewers have appreciated the food, describing it as a highlight of the tour. One said, “There are many options of local, typical food, including vegan, vegetarian dishes and gluten-free,” which highlights the thoughtful planning.

This stop is also a great chance to relax and refuel before tackling the next leg of the ride.

Descending into Tepoztlán

The most exciting part of the ride follows—descending from an elevation of about 3,100 meters through lush forests on a gravel road. The descent isn’t steep, making it suitable for most riders with decent experience, and it offers spectacular views of the Morelos state from the mirador “La Pera”. The scenery is lush and green, with the forest providing a calming backdrop to your ride.

Arriving in Tepoztlán, you’ll feel the magic of this Pueblo Mágico. The town’s vibrant market, historic streets, and lively cafes make for an enjoyable exploration on foot. The sense of arriving at a special place, with its mix of history and local charm, is often described as a highlight.

Relaxing in Tepoztlán and Return Journey

After a few hours exploring, you’ll board a bus that takes you back to Mexico City. This is a good chance to unwind, review your drone footage, and reflect on the day’s adventures.

The Experience and What It Means for You

What truly differentiates this tour is the combination of cycling, scenery, and cultural stops. The full-day duration (around 13 hours) might seem long, but it’s packed with variety. The fully equipped bike, food, drinks, and transportation all contribute to a smooth experience, allowing you to focus on enjoying every moment without fussing over logistics.

We also appreciated the attention to safety and organization, with guides who are knowledgeable and caring. One reviewer even mentioned, “Lars is a very organised and caring guide and he was very mindful of our safety,” which speaks to the quality of the guiding.

The inclusion of drone photography is a clever touch—those panoramic shots of volcanic landscapes and lush forests are worth the extra effort. Plus, the fact that the tour is limited to just three travelers means you’ll likely get personalized attention and a more relaxed atmosphere than larger group tours.

Price and Value

At $143.49 per person, this trip offers good value considering the length, included amenities, and the unique experience. The price covers a full day of adventure, scenic views, regional food, and professional photography. Comparing this to the cost of organizing a similar self-guided trip—plus transport and meals—it’s quite reasonable.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is best suited for active travelers comfortable with long rides and varied terrain. It’s ideal if you’re looking for an immersive day that combines physical activity with cultural stops and stunning scenery. While not specifically tailored for families or children, those with a good fitness level and a love for adventure will find it rewarding.

Final Thoughts

This bike trip from Mexico City to Tepoztlán stands out because it offers more than just pedaling through beautiful landscapes. It’s a well-rounded adventure that combines history, nature, regional cuisine, and memorable photography. The thoughtful organization, scenic routes, and the chance to explore a Pueblo Mágico make it a compelling choice for those wanting to see a different side of central Mexico.

If you’re someone who enjoys staying active on vacation and loves discovering local culture at a relaxed pace, you’ll likely find this tour both fun and meaningful. Just ensure you’re comfortable with the distance and terrain, and you’ll be rewarded with unforgettable views and experiences.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for beginners?
Not quite. Because it’s about 80 km (50 miles) and involves some mountain biking, it’s best for those with a good physical fitness level.

What’s included in the price?
The fee covers a fully equipped bike, food and drinks during the trip, drone photography, and transportation back to Mexico City.

How long does the tour last?
It’s approximately 13 hours total, starting early in the morning and ending with a bus ride back in the evening.

Can I visit the Diego Rivera and Frida Kahlo museum?
Yes, the route passes by the museum, and you can choose to stop and visit if you wish.

What is the terrain like?
You’ll cycle along a combination of tarmac and gravel roads, with a gentle descent through forests and some mild ascents.

Are there any food options for special diets?
Yes, the lunch stop offers regional dishes with vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options.

Is the drone footage included?
The guide will take drone videos and photos throughout the trip, which you can receive afterward.

How many people are in the group?
The tour is limited to a maximum of 3 travelers, making for a more personalized experience.

If you’re up for a day of adventure, scenic beauty, and cultural discovery, this tour offers a memorable way to see Mexico beyond the usual tourist spots. Just pack your energy and curiosity—you’ll be glad you did.