RECOMMENDATIONS FOR PARTICIPANTS
Answers to the most common questions to help you arrive ready for the Altiplano.
Reality of the Altiplano:
- Altitude (3,600+ m.a.s.l.): thinner air → cold mornings and intense UV radiation at midday.
- Surface: compact salt + gravel/dust sections. Good traction, but constant vibration.
- Wind: variable gusts; stability and eye protection matter.
In short: prioritize control and reliability over weight savings.
Fast Gravel
- For whom: you seek efficiency and a steady rhythm.
- Typical setup: 40–45 mm tires, rigid frame, comfortable aero position.
- Pros: speed, precision in handling.
- Cons: less cushioning against vibration.
Safe Gravel
- For whom: you prioritize control and a margin for error.
- Typical setup: 45–50 mm tires, reinforced casing, stem 5–10 mm shorter.
- Pros: comfort, grip, fewer punctures.
- Cons: slightly heavier.
Comfort MTB
- For whom: you want maximum control on gravel and corrugation.
- Typical setup: 2.1–2.25” tires, lockout within easy reach.
- Pros: superior control and traction.
- Cons: more weight and less aerodynamics.
Note: Any of the three options work if your bike is well maintained and fitted with proper tires.
Drivetrain: 1x with 38–44T chainring and 10–44/10–46 cassette; 2x gravel or compact setups are also suitable.
Brakes: 160/160 mm standard. Consider 180 mm front if you weigh over 85 kg or want extra braking power.
Critical spares: brake pads (1 set), quick link, 2 tubeless plugs + tool, CO₂ and/or mini pump, extra tubeless valve, 1 folded tube, tape, and zip ties.
Cold mornings: lightweight thermal base layer + wind vest or jacket.
Midday UV: short-sleeve jersey + arm warmers + SPF 50+ sunscreen.
Key accessories: cat. 3–4 sunglasses, dust buff, gloves with good grip.
GPS bike computer with stage tracks — mandatory.
Phone fully charged with offline maps; ideally use eSIM or local roaming for emergencies.
Daytime rear light: highly recommended — mandatory in dust, fog, or low visibility.
Minimal viable kit: multitool, plugs, quick link, CO₂ + pump, 1 tube, tape, zip ties, salts/electrolytes.
What you don’t need to carry: hydration and on-route assistance (provided at official support zones — see regulations).
Carbs: 75 g/h baseline (range 60–90 g/h depending on tolerance).
Fluids: 500–750 ml/h + electrolytes.
Bolsa de Hidratación: Obligatoria para Etapa 2
Plan: carry what you know works for you; use feed zones to refill.
Zero litter: respect nature and the environment. Keep your wrappers in your jersey and dispose of waste at feed zones or stage finishes.
Do not wash your bike or gear on the salt flats — use designated wash areas at the hotel or approved sites.
Respect marked routes and local wildlife.
Be kind to volunteers, staff, and the host communities.
RECOMMENDATIONS FOR PARTICIPANTS
Answers to the most common questions to help you arrive ready for the Altiplano.
Morning: lightweight thermal base layer + windbreaker.
Midday: cap or visor, sunscreen, cat. 3–4 sunglasses.
Afternoon: add a light extra layer for post-sun cooling.
- Light hiking shoes or sports sneakers with a firm, grippy sole.
- Pack an extra compact layer in your day backpack.
Water, salty snack, sunscreen, sunglasses, hat, windbreaker, and a power bank.
Your phone camera will probably be enough — but if you have a dedicated camera, this is an amazing chance to use it.
On bright white surfaces, try −0.3 to −1.0 EV exposure compensation to preserve details. Protect all ports and seals.
Wipe your gear with a dry cloth afterward; avoid spraying or rinsing water directly on the salt flats.
Bring an extra microfiber cloth for your lenses.
Protect all ports and seals.
Keep all areas free of litter and follow marked paths and signs.
Be kind to the staff and the local communities who make this event possible.
