Lakes and Volcanoes of Chile Bike Tour

Itinerary Details

1. Day 1Welcome to Araucania, Malalcahuello Village

   Midday pick-up at Temuco Airport or in Temuco city, followed by a transfer to Malalcahuello. At 4:00 pm, participants and staff will meet in Curacautín for introductions and a brief overview of the cycling journey. You’ll then have the opportunity to check your bikes and equipment before enjoying dinner together.

   • Posada del Rio Lodge
   • Dinner
2. Day 2Conguillio National Park & Araucarias ancient trees

   In the morning, you’ll begin your first section heading east on a paved road surrounded by agricultural fields. As you continue, the landscape gradually changes, giving way to native forests as you ascend towards Conguillío National Park. Once you reach the gravel roads, you’ll pass by the beautiful Captrén Lagoon, known for its crystal-clear waters and abundant birdlife, making it a perfect spot for sightseeing.
   
   As you cycle through the heart of the park, you’ll be surrounded by majestic Araucaria, lenga, and coihue trees. During your descent, you’ll come across Conguillío Lagoon, the park’s main body of water. From here, you’ll continue downhill through forests of ñirre and Araucaria trees until you reach your accommodation at La Baita.
   
   With time available today, you can also explore the park on foot and enjoy some hiking in addition to cycling.
   
   

   • 32.9 miles
   • La Baita Cabins
   • Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

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     Elevation Profile

3. Day 3Alongside the Colico & Caburgua Lake

   Your route begins by travelling through the remnants of a volcanic eruption from Llaima Volcano, where ancient lava flows made their way through the valley, leaving behind a fascinating landscape that invites you to reflect on the power of geological forces and erosion.
   
   You’ll gradually leave Conguillío National Park via its paved southern access, enjoying views of the Allipén River basin as you descend. After approximately 10 kilometres, you’ll reach Melipeuco, a small town offering impressive views of the majestic Llaima Volcano.
   
   From here, you’ll head west along Route S-61, which follows the Allipén River through a beautiful valley surrounded by transverse mountain ranges to the north and south. After reaching the town of Cunco, you’ll turn south towards Lake Colico and cycle along its northern shore until you reach the far end of the lake.
   
   From there, you’ll transfer east towards Lake Caburgua, where you’ll see the lake for the first time before continuing onwards to your accommodation, complete with natural hot springs. It’s the perfect place to relax and soothe your tired legs after a rewarding day of cycling.
   
   

   • 52.2 miles
   • Rio Blanco Cabins
   • Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

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     Llaima Volcano Views

     Cycle and see one of the largest and most active volcanoes in Chile

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     Elevation Profile

4. Day 4 Curarrehue

   This stage of your journey will be one of the most challenging. The entire route follows gravel roads, with a significant climb beginning around the 20-kilometre mark. You’ll ride deep into the Andes on a quiet, lightly trafficked route surrounded by majestic Nothofagus trees and lush native forests.
   
   As you approach the border with Argentina, the route turns south, taking you through the Hualalafquén, or Villarrica National Reserve, with the Maichín River accompanying you along the way. These lands, home to the Indigenous Pehuenche communities of the mountains, will captivate you with their lush vegetation and spectacular scenery. Finally, you’ll reach your destination—a small town that reflects the enduring presence and culture of the Pehuenche people.
   
   

   • 38.5 miles
   • Kila Tai Tai Lodge
   • Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

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     Elevation Profile

5. Day 5Mamuil Malal pass & Pucón

   This morning, you’ll ride from Curarrehue towards Mamuil Malal Pass, climbing through ancient Araucaria forests and native Nothofagus woodlands, with serene Andean lagoons along the way. Spectacular views of the majestic Lanín Volcano will accompany you as you make your way towards the Argentine border.
   
   From there, you’ll transfer to Pucón, a vibrant lakeside destination known for its distinctive architecture, outdoor lifestyle, boutique shops, cafés, and lively atmosphere. After settling into the luxurious Hotel Park Lake, you’ll have time to relax before exploring the town and enjoying dinner together.
   
   

   • 23 miles
   • Park Lake Luxury Hotel
   • Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

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     Park Lake Luxury Hotel

     Unwind in luxurious comfort while taking in stunning views of the lake

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     Park Lake Luxury Hotel

     Unwind in luxurious comfort while taking in stunning views of the lake

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     Park Lake Luxury Hotel

     Unwind in luxurious comfort while taking in stunning views of the lake

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     Posada del Rio Lodge

     Stay in charming, cozy cabins surrounded by nature and peaceful scenery.

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     Posada del Rio Lodge

     Stay in charming, cozy cabins surrounded by nature and peaceful scenery

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     Elevation Profile

6. Day 6Coñaripe & Geometricas hot springs

   A scenic transfer brings you to Palguín Alto, where today’s adventure begins. You’ll ride along remote backroads through Villarrica National Park, tackling a challenging yet rewarding route through rugged terrain and pristine wilderness. Surrounded by ancient Araucaria forests and spectacular volcanic landscapes, you’ll immerse yourself in one of the most unique environments of the Andes.
   
   Your day concludes at your accommodation, where the renowned Geométricas Hot Springs offer the perfect opportunity to relax and recover, surrounded by the beauty of nature.
   
   

   • 41 miles
   • Los Picaflores cabins
   • Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

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     Geométricas Hot Springs

     Visit these superb pools with hot and cold water in the lakes district

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     Elevation Profile

7. Day 7Huilo-Huilo Natural Reserve

   Your final ride begins in Coñaripe, on the shores of Lake Calafquén, and takes you towards the village of Liquiñe. You’ll follow hilly roads offering panoramic views before tackling a challenging gravel climb that leads you towards Neltume and the renowned Huilo Huilo Biological Reserve.
   
   Once you arrive, you’ll have the opportunity to explore the reserve’s pristine natural surroundings and discover its beautiful network of trails.

   • 32.3 miles
   • Del Bosque Cabins Huilo Huilo
   • Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

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     Cascades at Huilo Huilo

     Discover the Huilo Huilo Biological Reserve on the penultimate day of the tour

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     Elevation Profile

8. Day 8Departure – Transfer to Temuco Airport

   On the last day, breakfast is included, and the minibus will take participants to Temuco airport. If you would like to connect with the Northern Carretera Austral tour or the Best of Carretera Austral Tour you can take a bus to Puerto Varas city. 

   • Breakfast