Published October 15, 2020 03:10AM
In February 2020, ultra-endurance cyclist Lael Wilcox, adventure rider Joe Cruz, and filmmaker Rugile Kaladyte traveled to the Colombian capital of Bogota to launch the Bikepacking for Conservation program. The goal: to explore and scout a bikepacking route that would connect the bustling metropolis of Bogota with rural communities and the Chingaza National Park. You can see a film from their adventure above.
It’s hoped the resulting route — the Ruta Chingaza — will help cyclists connect with nature and better understand the ecosystems upon which life and livelihoods in the area depend.
Chingaza National Natural Park is currently closed to cyclists, but Conservation International is collaborating with park authorities to make cycling a part of the park’s tourism strategy. They anticipate that cycling experiences will be permitted by sometime in 2021. The film and the route map are to be used as inspiration for future trips only. Please do not travel to the park at this time.