El Sifón is Colombia experienced vertically. Over eight days, we ride from Scarab’s home in El Retiro to the tropical lowlands and, finally, into the high Andes along the world’s longest paved climb. The journey brings together Colombia’s changing landscapes, cycling culture, and mountain roads in a small-group experience with complete ride support.
Colombia, from bottom to top
El Sifón may be the reason to come, but it is only one part of the journey. Over seven days, we ride the roads around El Retiro, visit the Scarab workshop, experience Medellín, cross the country toward the Magdalena Valley, and discover Colombia through its food, towns, landscapes, and cycling culture.
El Sifón brings the journey together. Beginning in the tropical heat of the Magdalena Valley, it climbs into the cold, thin air of the high Andes. Along the way, the road crosses Colombia’s distinct thermal floors, where changes in altitude reshape the temperature, vegetation, light, and landscape. Few rides reveal so much of the country in a single day.
Two Ways to Ride El Sifón
Join one of our scheduled departures or plan a private experience built around your group.
Both options follow the same approach: small groups, carefully selected routes and accommodations, complete ride support, and direct access to the roads and places we know best.
Scheduled Trips
Join the Next Trip
An eight-day journey from El Retiro to El Sifón, shared with a small group of riders. The experience includes accommodation, meals, transfers, supported rides, in-ride nutrition, and photography.
Limited to 8 riders.
Next dates Feb 2027
Private Trips
Your Group, Your Dates
El Sifón is also available as a fully curated private experience for individuals, cycling clubs, dealers, and groups. Dates, routes, accommodations, and support can be adapted to the needs and riding level of your group.
Contact us to plan a private trip
Before you Join
El Sifón is designed for experienced cyclists who are comfortable with long days, sustained climbing, and changing weather. You do not need to be a racer, but you should arrive well prepared.
The group is limited to 8 riders. Our team manages the route, transportation, accommodation, meals, nutrition, mechanical assistance, and on-road support, allowing you to focus on the riding.
Dates and availability
Our next scheduled departure is February 2027. The trip is limited to 8 riders. Private departures can be arranged separately.
Fitness and experience
This trip is intended for experienced cyclists with strong fitness and confident bike-handling skills. Riders should be comfortable with long climbs, sustained efforts, mountain descents, and consecutive days on the bike.
The El Sifón climb
El Sifón is the defining ride of the trip. The climb begins in the tropical lowlands and finishes above 4,100 meters, with significant changes in temperature and weather. Riders receive on-road support, nutrition, hydration, and access to the support vehicle.
Acommodation
Seven nights of accommodation are included. Double occupancy is standard. Single occupancy may be requested for an additional charge, subject to availability.
Bringing or renting a bike
Riders may bring their own bicycle. A limited number of Scarab rental bikes can also be arranged at an additional cost. Fit information and availability must be confirmed in advance.
Price and booking
Scarab owners: $3,000
Non-Scarab owners: $3,500
A deposit of $1500 secures your place. The remaining balance is due 4 weeks prior before departure.
What is Included
ACCOMMODATION
Seven nights of carefully selected accommodation based on double occupancy.
RIDE SUPPORT
Guides, mechanical assistance, and support vehicles throughout all scheduled rides.
WORKSHOP EXPERIENCE
A private visit to Scarab Cycles and assistance assembling and packing your bicycle.
MEALS
All scheduled meals, with menus adapted to dietary requirements whenever possible.
RIDE NUTRITION
Hydration, snacks, and sports nutrition provided during every scheduled ride.
PHOTOGRAPHY
A curated collection of photographs and video from the trip.
Stay close to our journey
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