The road between Vilcabamba, Ecuador and San Ignacio, Peru is close to 210 kms long. The first 43 kms from Vilcabamba is concrete and in good condition. After that it is rough, to very rough, gravel/rock road all the way to the border. Some parts, especially around road construction, can be very muddy and consequently quite slippery. I left Vilcabamba, riding with a British couple, around 9 am and we reached the first “real” town, San Ignacio, around 8 pm. In between there was a five minute wait for road construction and a one hour wait later on for more construction. We have heard of much longer waits. At approximately 123 kms there is a fuel station and more fuel on the Peruvian side of the border can be purchased at the store there from two large drums. The scenery is stunning and the trip was certainly an adventure, but we all agreed that riding it in the rain would not be wise. To check out of Ecuador was quick and to check into Peru was progressing well until the system at the Aduana crashed resulting in a 2 hour delay. Everything had to be done manually. The border staff on both sides were friendly and no money was exchanged. The Peruvian side is paved for about 5 kms then returns to rough road all the way to San Ignacio (about 40 kms). Was it worth it? Absolutely! It is one for the books. Take your time and expect the unexpected.

Regards, Mike.

Are there any recent reports on this road?
We are looking at this crossing in about a month from now (that makes it the start of August) but have heard rumors of it being closed.
Anyone out there done this recently?
Also there has been plenty of rain in Ecuador lately, has this turned the road to slush?

Thanks Folks?

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Mark and Carlie - a three year jaunt around the third rock.
www.rtwbymotorbike.blogspot.com.au

Mark,

As far as traveling it in August, that is about the driest time of the year so you should be good. After November I would not try it unless you are an Enduro rider with an enduro bike. I have not heard that it is closed, but then I live in Peru.

Cheers! Toby

Last reports late June it was closed due to slides.

That happens in the Dec to April rainy season, but then by July ti is fixed.