Cycle the Lake District of Chile and Argentina

Itinerary Details

1. Day 1Arrival Chile - Puerto Montt - Puerto Varas

   After your arrival in Santiago, Chile, you will need to clear customs and immigration before heading to the domestic terminal (just upstairs) in order to catch your internal Chilean flight to the capital of the Chilean Lake District, Puerto Montt (PMC), where you are met by your guides.
   
   Following arrival, you'll be transferred to your hotel in Puerto Varas (transfer time 30 mins approx.). Situated around 20 km from Puerto Montt it occupies a lovely position on the shores of one of the largest natural lakes in South America Lake Llanquihue. From here the perfect cone of Osorno Volcano and the snowcapped peaks of Calbuco Volcano and Mt. Tronador are clearly visible from the lakefront.
   
   It’s a great place to take things easy after a long flight(s) and with this in mind, the day is spent resting up from your travels and preparing the bikes for the journey ahead.
   
   Your evening meal tonight is taken in one of the great restaurants that exist in Puerto Varas. With the area renowned for seafood, your guides will make sure this is an option. At a convenient point during the meal, you’ll discuss the programme for the tour in a little more detail and the guides will be happy to answer any questions you may have.
   
   

   • Puerto Varas Accommodation
   • Dinner

   • 

     Settle into Your Lakes Adventure

     Start as you mean to go on, with lakeside accommodation as you step off the plane

2. Day 2Puerto Varas to Puelo

   Following breakfast you'll load up the bikes and leave Puerto Varas by support vehicle. This initial section takes you southwards firstly through the small settlement of Chamiza and then shortly after passing through Lenca, you'll skirt the dramatic Alcere Andino National Park for the final few kilometres to Caleta La Arena.
   
   Here you'll board the small local ferry for the 40-minute crossing of the narrow Estuario de Reloncavi to Caleta Puelche. It’s here that you'll unload the bikes for the undulating unsurfaced track/road alongside Estuario de Reloncavi to Puelo. This is a truly stunning section and is a wonderful introduction to the trip and a fabulous way to begin your biking journey.
   
   Tonight you'll stay in the beautiful Patagonia Puelo Lodge.
   

   • 24.9 miles
   • 2,296.6 ft
     2,296.6 ft
   • Patagonia Puelo Lodge
   • Breakfast and Lunch
3. Day 3Puelo to Ensenada

   Leaving your cosy lodgings by bike and following a brief crossing of one of the arms of the Estuario de Reloncavi you'll continue your progress northwards towards Río Puelo and to Cochamó situated at the far tip of the Estuario de Reloncavi.
   
   You'll reach Cochamó after 32kms/20miles and then continue alongside the fjord for the last 14kms/9 miles, on an unsurfaced yet well-packed section. For the remaining 36kms/22 miles, you’ll be cycling on a superb smooth tarmac section and finish your cycling in Ensenada.
   
   During this last section of cycling, you’ll be able to see the incredible Volcan Osorno that now dominates the skyline, with your roadside accompaniment to the bright yellow shrubs of this region.
   
   Once the bikes have been loaded up, you'll visit the ever-impressive Saltos de Petrohué – a series of rapids and waterfalls passing over an impressive sculpture of extruded volcanic rock. You’ll now be in the center of Chile’s first National Park – Parque National Vincente Pérez Rosales (established in 1926).  Accommodation tonight is in the relaxed surroundings of Ensenada, your final stop of the day.
   
   Please Note – Although the cycling distance today is longer than other days, today’s riding will adhere itself to this longer distance. As always, the support vehicle is at hand for those wishing to do a little less time in the saddle.
   
   

   • 46.6 miles
   • 3,051.2 ft
     3,051.2 ft
   • Ensenada Accommodation
   • Breakfast and Lunch
4. Day 4Ensenada to Villa Angostura

   Dominating the skyline now is the impressive Volcan Osorno (2,660m) which you'll pass on the morning transfer from Cascadas to Salto del Indio. As you reach the edge of Parque National Puyehue it’s time to leave Chile at Paso Cardenal Samore and cross over by bike into Argentina.
   
   With your passport stamped, you'll take a superb well-surfaced and predominantly downhill route to Villa La Angostura. Situated on the edge of Lago Nahuel Huapi with its Alpine-style architecture set against a backdrop of snow-capped peaks and crystal clear waters.
   

   • 23.6 miles
   • 1,017.1 ft
     1,017.1 ft
   • Villa Angostura Accommodation
   • Breakfast and Lunch

   • 

     Pedal Tour South America

     Experience a fantastic bicycle tour with lakes and mountains your constant companion

5. Day 5Villa Angostura to Bariloche

   From Lake Nahuel Haupi you'll follow a largely flat route along the lakeshore. As you pedal make sure to keep your eyes peeled for Nahuelito, Argentina’s answer to the Loch Ness monster!
   
   Today’s ride really sums up what cycling in the Lake District is all about with views of snow-dusted peaks to the left and to your right serene brightly coloured waters. The ride will be around 59 Km in total with most of the cycling done before lunch, which is taken at Mirador de Bariloche. This is a great place to take a rest after the morning’s exertions with its stunning views over the Andes and Lago Nahuel Huapi, the perfect accompaniment.
   
   You'll end the cycling day in style with a fast 11 km downhill on asphalt to the junction of Ruta 40 where today’s ride ends. From here you'll hop aboard the support vehicle for the 20-30 minute transfer to Bariloche. With its Swiss-style architecture and chocolates, it is known as the St. Moritz of South America and the rest of the afternoon is set aside to explore this lovely place.
   
   There is perhaps only one way to end the day such a day – a juicy Argentinean steak and majestic Malbec, followed by some tasty chocolate treats.
   

   • 41.6 miles
   • 2,099.7 ft
     2,099.7 ft
   • Bariloche Accommodation
   • Breakfast and Lunch

   • 

     Lush Lake District Cycling

     Have a wonderful day exploring this beautiful area

6. Day 6Bariloche to Villa Tráful

   Having enjoyed the streets of chocolate shops, bars, and numerous restaurants offering Swiss fondue and huge steaks, you'll bid farewell to this little part of Switzerland. Initially traveling by support vehicle you'll soon start cycling on the road towards Confluencia.
   
   En route, there are wonderful rock formations high above you with equally wonderful names, – Tren Expresso, Centilla and Dedo de Dios. You are now in the Valle Encantado, and it certainly feels like it; the views are superb.
   
   From here you'll follow a gravel and earth track into another very pretty valley with more rock formations and the backdrop of snow-capped mountains- this is great cycling. Just before the cycling ends for the day, you'll spend a little time at Mirador de Lago, which offers not only spectacular views of Lago Traful but also of the route which you have cycled today.
   
   Pictures taken and superlatives exhausted, you'll cycle a series of enchanting dips, twists and turns along a wooded track that skirts Lago Tráful, for the final few km to reach your stop for the night, Villa Tráful. These cabanas will serve as your lodgings for the night, with dinner taken in the lovely surroundings of this small town.
   

   • 21.7 miles
   • 1,673.2 ft
     1,673.2 ft
   • Villa Tráful Cabanas
   • Breakfast and Lunch

   • 

     Always the Best Vantage Point

     Benefit from an experienced guide team giving you the best routes and views on a superbly crafted tour

7. Day 7Villa Tráful to San Martin

   You'll start the journey cycling directly from Villa Tráful along the beautiful and spectacular Ruta de Siete Lagos (the Seven Lakes Route).  The cycling route today is a real treat as you head towards the town of San Martin de los Andes. Again following a good earth road you'll roll and wind through woods, past beautiful lakes with snow-dusted mountains in the distance.
   
   Shortly before lunch, you'll hop in the support vehicle for a 30-minute transfer to a great picnic spot with beautiful views to help you digest another tasty lunch. This is a very tranquil and special area as you'll enjoy lunch amongst the surroundings and continue past the lakes.
   
   Back on the bikes the views again are spectacular as you ‘scoot’ along the smooth road towards San Martin de los Andes. Before reaching it you'll pause to take in the fantastic views and then set off on a ‘grin-inducing’ descent to San Martin along kilometers of winding road. Nestled by Lago Lacar and surrounded by mountains San Martin is a real treat.
   
   As you pull into San Martin, you'll be further enthralled by its prettiness. You'll take your lodgings at a nice hotel in town and suitably refreshed set off to explore the streets.
   

   • 46.6 miles
   • 3,182.4 ft
     3,182.4 ft
   • San Martin Hotel
   • Breakfast and Lunch
8. Day 8San Martin to Pucón

   Today you'll re-enter Chile! By vehicle you'll pass through Junin de los Andes and head for the border at Paso Tromen, unloading the bikes at Mamuil Malal. En route, you'll get your first views of the stunning Volcan Lanin, with its almost perfect snow-covered cone.
   
   After the border crossing, you'll soon be in Parque Villarica where the ‘monkey puzzle’ tree forests abound. Today, as with all days, there is the option to cycle as much or as little as you wish, with some people opting to cycle all the way from the pass to El Turbio. It’s here that you'll re-board the support vehicle for the short drive to Pucón and your lodgings.
   

   • 32.9 miles
   • 1,476.4 ft
     1,476.4 ft
   • Pucón Lodgings
   • Breakfast and Lunch
9. Day 9Pucón - Rest day or Volcan Villarica

   Pucón is a pleasant town with a good climate which stands on the shores of the beautiful Lago Villarica. You'll spend the day here exploring the surrounding countryside by bike. Popular routes include rides to one of the many beautiful waterfalls in the area.
   
   For those looking for more adventure, there is always a spot of white water rafting or the option to climb Volcan Villarica, a fantastic guided climb up its snowcapped slopes. Please note there is an additional cost of 100,000 Chilean Pesos to cover the guide and equipment rental.
   
   This is a truly memorable experience as you mount the top and stare into its molten centre. Literally staring into the center of the earth is a very special feeling. The sulphur fumes are not so special but the ‘surprise’ descent is simply the icing on the cake – certainly a must-do! Overnight in Pucón again.
   

   • Pucón Lodgings
   • Breakfast

   • 

     Volcan Villarica

     Spend your 'rest' day hiking up a volcano if you wish

10. Day 10Pucón to Conguillio N. Park

    Breakfast finished, you'll jump into the support vehicle for the transfer to the start of today’s ride. Today’s riding is mostly on smooth tarmac and largely flat with a gravel climb towards the end of the day, taking you into the beautiful Parque Conguillio National Park. Today’s ride follows the bottom of a valley devoted to agriculture and makes for a gentler day on the bike.

    Your lodgings are in a beautiful wooden lodge in the heart of the park, where you'll be sure to receive a warm welcome, set in a very private and tranquil setting.
    

    • 31.1 miles
    • 1,952.1 ft
      1,952.1 ft
    • Parque Conguillio National Park Wooden Lodges
    • Breakfast and Lunch

    • 

      Parque Conguillio National Park Lodges

      Stay in a tranquil location in the national park

11. Day 11Conguillio to Temuco

    So if you thought you had seen it all, think again! Parque Conguillio is an absolute gem, as within it stands Volcan Llaima, one of the most active volcanoes in South America!
    
    Initially, the riding is through woodland and then suddenly, as if the trees had been blown away, you are confronted with a barren, rocky and ash landscape, the contrast is incredible.
    
    This is the solidified lava flow from previous eruptions and the track of the solidified ‘rivers’ of lava has spread out like fingers over the landscape destroying all in its path. Soon the route re-enters the untouched forests of beech and araucaria where the sun is obliterated by its denseness.
    
    Also passed are the wonderful and tranquil spots of Lago Verde and Lago Conguillio, which serve as a truly fitting end to your cycling as you reach the town of Curacutin. Once here you can change from your cycling clothes and after a celebratory beer or hot drink, make a transfer to your lodgings in or near to Temuco.
    
    Your last night is spent reminiscing about the cycling adventure, with perhaps another glass or ‘two‘ of lovely Chilean or Argentinean vino which you’ve been no doubt enjoying during your trip.
    

    • 31.1 miles
    • 2,296.6 ft
      2,296.6 ft
    • Accommodation in or near to Temuco
    • Breakfast and Lunch
12. Day 12Departure

    Having rested at your lodgings and had a final glimpse of the mountains and volcanoes you'll make your way to Temuco Airport (ZCO) (transfer time 30 mins approx.) to catch your flight home.
    

    • Breakfast