Colombia vs. Italy for Cyclists: A Better Ride, From Every Angle
Italy is the classic choice stunning scenery, storied climbs, rich culture. We get it.
But if you’re coming from the U.S. or Canada, you may want to pause before booking those Dolomites.
Because there’s a country just south of you where cycling is sacred, the climbs go longer, the people wave as you pass, and the experience feels less scripted and more real.
Let’s break it down. Colombia vs. Italy not just for riding, but for the entire journey.
6 Reasons Colombia Might Be the Better Ride
1. Closer, Easier, No Jet Lag
Colombia is in the same time zone (EST or CST), meaning no jet lag, no weird ride schedules, and flights from most U.S. cities take 4–6 hours. You’ll be eating arepas for breakfast before most people land in Europe.
Italy? You’re facing 8+ hours of flight, jet lag, and a whole day lost in transit and adjustment.
2. Perfect Weather, All Year Round
Colombia doesn’t have seasons it has altitude.
That means you can ride every month of the year, with mountain mornings in the 60s–70s°F (15–22°C) and no need to plan around summer heat waves or winter closures.
In Italy, unless you’re there from May to early October, many climbs are snowed in or too cold.
3. Alto de Letras vs. Stelvio: The Climb You’ll Never Forget
Everyone talks about the Passo Stelvio in Italy 24.3 km, iconic switchbacks, 2,757m elevation.
Now meet Colombia’s Alto de Letras:
80.5 km of non-stop climbing, reaching 3,800 meters (12,467 ft).
It’s not just a climb it’s an expedition. One that most cyclists will never even attempt, but you will. Supported, cheered, and changed by the end of it.
4. Cycling Isn’t Just a Sport — It’s a Way of Life
Italy loves cycling. Colombia lives it.
From tiny mountain towns to major cities, cyclists are heroes. Roads are full of weekend warriors and local legends. Children wave. Abuelas shout encouragement. You are not just a tourist you’re part of the ride.
5. Geography That Keeps Giving
Italy has the Alps and Dolomites. Colombia has three mountain ranges the Andes split into Cordillera Oriental, Central, and Occidental each with their own climate, terrain, and culture.
You’ll ride from jungles to cloud forests to alpine páramos.
From banana trucks to condor sightings, every hour feels like a new country.
6. The Tour Experience: Authentic, Intimate, Premium
With Arriba.travel, you don’t just ride epic roads.
You live Colombia with locals who know the terrain, the culture, the food, the language and how to deliver a flawless experience.
– Boutique hotels
– All meals included (not just a sandwich)
– Support vehicles and expert guides
– Airport transfers
– Optional TIME bikes or e-bikes
– And routes designed for adventure, safety, and story
And all of this at a lower cost than most European cycling tours without sacrificing service.
The truth? You could ride anywhere. But only one country offers altitude, authenticity, and adventure in equal parts and welcomes you like family.
→ Download the full tour guide and discover why your next great ride might not be across the Atlantic but just across the equator.
👉 Find out more about our Alto de Letras tours here.
Road bike tour
Bogotá to Cartagena
Heroica
The most comprehensive cycling tour of Colombia. Travel from the mountain-shielded, cloud-protected Bogotá to the sunny, sea-bathed Cartagena. Experience the vibrant energy of Medellín. This adventure spans over the diverse landscapes and cultures of Colombia, making it a journey as big and varied as the country itself
Road bike tour
Bogotá to Medellin
Escarabajos
Two vibrant cities, one epic ride! A breathtaking route that will feature all the things we love about riding in Colombia: epic days against the backdrop of the memorable Andes while at night we relax in one of our premium accommodations.
Road bike tour
Alto de Letras
Weekend
Short on time but with big goals? Take the weekend off to challenge yourself on the mighty alto de Letras, It’s long relentless climb will be a test that will only want to come back for more to Colombia and explore the big climbs the Andes have to offer