If you’re looking to experience one of South America’s most spectacular cycling competitions, Valparaíso Cerro Abajo is an unmissable experience.
In February, this event transforms the streets, stairs, and passages of the port city into a challenging urban downhill circuit, attracting thousands of spectators every year.
Beyond the adrenaline of the competition, a visit allows you to discover Valparaíso, a city declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO, renowned for its colorful hills, historic architecture, and Pacific Ocean views.
Cover photo: @fdnciclismochile
What is Valparaíso Cerro Abajo?
Valparaíso Cerro Abajo was created in 2003 by a group of enthusiasts led by Víctor Heresmann and Nicolás Barros, and has been sponsored by Red Bull from 2004 onwards. Growing year after year and attracting new talents, the event brings together the best international riders, who descend through the streets, stairs, and passages of the port city before thousands of spectators.
In the 2026 edition, held on February 15, Colombian Sebastián Holguín took first place after completing the course in 2 minutes and 15.43 seconds. Second place went to French rider Adrien Loron (2:16.22) and Chilean Felipe Agurto (2:17.72).
Although the route changes slightly each edition, the circuit runs through some of the city’s most emblematic sectors. In 2026, the course began on Cerro Cárcel and finished in Plaza Aníbal Pinto, in one of the city’s busiest areas. The route even passed through a house!
How to Watch Valparaíso Cerro Abajo Live?
Attending Valparaíso Cerro Abajo is very easy. The competition is free and open to all, so you don’t need to buy tickets or make reservations to enjoy the event.
For those planning to watch on-site, it is recommended to arrive several hours in advance, as the best spots to observe the descent—especially corners, jumps, and stair sections—tend to fill up quickly.
Additionally, during the event, traffic closures and access restrictions are implemented in various sectors of the circuit to ensure the safety of competitors and the public. Find detailed information on the event’s official website.
Where to Practice Mountain Biking in the Valparaíso Region?
Although many of the streets and stairs are part of daily life in Valparaíso, the Valparaíso Cerro Abajo circuit is not open for bicycle descents outside of the event. Each edition incorporates ramps, platforms, and safety measures that are installed exclusively for the competition and then removed.
If you want to practice downhill or mountain biking, it is advisable to do so on routes and spaces specially prepared for this activity. The Valparaíso Region offers bike parks and trails for mountain biking, enduro, and downhill for much of the year.
- Parque Ludiano (Quillota): Located in the El Boco sector, about 45 minutes from Valparaíso and Viña del Mar, this 280-hectare bike park offers cross-country, enduro, and downhill circuits for all levels.
- Cerro El Guindo (Maitencillo): This is one of the favorite routes among cyclists thanks to its pronounced elevation changes and panoramic views of the Zapallar coast.
- Rockford Route in Parque Aguas Claras (Cachagua–Zapallar): Considered one of the most demanding routes in the area, it crosses native forests and combines challenging ascents with technical descents.
- Merrell Route (Cachagua–Zapallar): With nearly 10 kilometers in length, this route traverses eucalyptus groves, scrubland, and native forest. It features marked trails and parking areas.
Currently, most of these routes are explored independently or within specialized facilities, so it is advisable to check access conditions, operating hours, and requirements for each location before planning your visit.
What Else to See in the City of Valparaíso?
In addition to enjoying Valparaíso Cerro Abajo, take advantage of your visit to explore some of the must-see attractions of this historic port city. Key highlights include:
- Cerros Alegre and Concepción: colorful streets, murals, art galleries, cafes, and local shops.
- Historic Funiculars: such as El Peral and Reina Victoria, icons of the port’s heritage.
- La Sebastiana: the emblematic house-museum of poet Pablo Neruda.
How to Get to Valparaíso from Santiago? You can take a bus from terminals like Alameda or Pajaritos on a journey that takes almost 2 hours. If you prefer to drive, take Route 68, which is 120 km (1 hour 30 minutes) long. You should consider paying tolls on the highway.
