Cycle Argentina Chile
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Cycle Argentina Chile holiday Overview
Tour Difficulty: 6/10 Challenging
Avg. Daily Distance: 70km (45 miles)
Off Road Cycling: 40%
Maximum Altitude: 1295mCycle Argentina Chile cycling holiday in the Patagonian Lake District is a cycle tour through one of the most magnificent landscapes in the world. This spectacular area spans 300km from north to south and overlaps the dramatic Andean Mountains that form the border between Chile and Argentina.
The ever-changing scenery on this Chile Argentina cycling tour, shaped by millions of years of volcanic activity, is a landscape of outstanding natural beauty. Smouldering volcanoes still dominate the skyline alongside snow-capped mountains and towering granite peaks. The lower slopes of the Andes are blanketed with ancient rainforest and lush vegetation whereas the deep valleys are filled with icy fjords, emerald lakes and tumbling waterfalls.
Setting out on our South American bicycle trip we leave civilisation in Puerto Montt and follow the Reloncavi Fjord towards Volcán Yate cycling on to Bariloche, the adventure capital of the Argentinean Lake District. We enjoy a rest day before tackling its famous circular cycle route. Our next stop is the tranquil Villa Tráful from where we embark on the stunning Seven Lakes Route (one of the most scenic in Argentina) to San Martin de los Andes with its breathtaking lakeside setting. Then it’s onto Pucón, the main adventure tourism hub of the Chilean Lake District with Volcán Villarrica as a simmering backdrop. We cycle past glistening lakes, verdant forests and snow-capped mountains.
Encompassing some of the most awe-inspiring panoramas in South America, our Chile and Argentina cycle ride of contrasts will leave a lasting impression. What better vantage point than the saddle of a bicycle?
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Day 1) Cycle Argentina Chile Puerto Montt
Arrive at Puerto Montt, a bustling harbour town and gateway to the spectacular Lake District. Here you will be met and transferred to your hotel in nearby Puerto Vares.
Accommodation: Hotel
Day 2) Cycle Argentina Chile Puerto Vares
Puerto Vares ‘the city of roses’ was founded as the main port, on the shores of Lake Llanquihue. With German colonial architecture, a stunning waterfront and flower decked streets there is plenty to enjoy here. Today we will have time to explore, try one of the many excellent restaurants and prepare the bikes for the tour.
Accommodation: Hotel
Day 3) Cycle Argentina Chile Puerto Vares – Puelo
Morning drive into the Chilean wilderness, passing Alerce Andino National Park, the largest surviving valdivian rainforest in the world. From Caleta La Arena we make a short ferry crossing to the tiny forested island of Caleta Puelche. We cycle on undulating off-road trails alongside the tranquil Reloncavi Fjord (Estuario de Reloncavi) to our overnight accommodation, near the small town of Puelo.
Accommodation: Lodge
Cycling distance: 65km
Day 4) Cycle Argentina Chile Puelo – Ensenada – Puerto Vares
After another short hop across the fjord we set off towards Cochamó, a beautiful fishing village which boasts Volcán Yate as a stunning backdrop. This thrilling off-road ride is followed by a tarmaced section towards Ensenada. The panoramic vistas are breathtaking with snow-capped Volcán Osorno (2652m) dominating the horizon. This afternoon we visit Saltos de Petrohué, a series of impressive waterfalls formed from layers of lava which cascade into the emerald waters of Todos Los Santos Lake. This area is protected by Chile’s oldest national park, Vincente Pérez Rosales.
Accommodation: Hotel
Cycling distance: 87kmDay 5) Cycle Argentina Chile Puerto Vares – Bariloche
This morning we journey by bicycle and boat to cross from Chile to Argentina. This is a lovely shoreside route, with a cycling distance of 68km before we take the ferry. Bariloche is the Lake District’s premier adventure sport destination at the entrance of Nahuel Huapi National Park. This charming town is known for its alpine architecture and many buildings are reminiscent of Switzerland. It is also the chocolate capital of Argentina.
Accommodation: Hotel
Cycling distance: 68kmDay 6) Cycle Argentina Chile Bariloche
If you want to cycle the Circuito Chico (scenic circular route) around Bariloche, today is an opportunity to do so. Taking a rest from the bikes today there are plenty of other activities to keep you occupied – horse riding, white water rafting, kayaking, fishing and paragliding to name but a few. You could make a short journey to the base of Cerro Campanario from where you can take a chair lift to the summit for spectacular panoramic views.Otherwise you may prefer to relax by the lake or sample some of the chocolate for which this area is renowned.
Accommodation: Hotel
Day 7) Cycle Argentina Chile Bariloche- Villa Tráful
Today we are back on the bikes. Leaving the lakes and mountains of Bariloche we cycle through the Valle Encantado (Enchanted Valley), an area of wild, towering rock formations. Be prepared for strong winds during today’s ride, which can make for a challenging day. For the final 35km we head off-road through more magnificent scenery of snow-capped mountains and rugged valleys. This outstanding part of the world is a destination for some of Hollywood’s elite, who have acquired properties in the area. Around 4km outside Villa Tráful the road climbs to Mirador de Tráful, a viewpoint overlooking Lago Traful below. We then cycle the perimeter of the lake all the way to the peaceful village of Villa Tráful. A long but rewarding day.
Accommodation: Lodge
Cycling distance: 98km
Day 8) Cycle Argentina Chile Villa Tráful – Villa La Angostura
We leave Villa Tráful along part of the stunning “Camino de los Siete Lagos” (Seven Lakes Route). An unforgettable day of cycling as we meander through a dramatic landscape of glistening lakes, verdant forests and snow-capped mountains. Our destination is the tranquil resort of Villa La Angostura on the north-west shore of Lago Nahuel Huapi.
Accommodation: Hotel
Cycling distance: 62kmDay 9) Cycle Argentina Chile Day Villa La Angostura – San Martin de los Andes
From Villa La Angostura we drive to Pichi Tráful, a point just north of where we joined the Seven Lakes Route yesterday. From here we cycle along this famous trail of rugged terrain, dazzling rivers and tumbling waterfalls. The route skirts several of the famous 7 sparkling lakes with shorelines of deserted beaches and panoramic lookout points. We pass the odd village or homestead glimpsing local life. Towards the end of the day the road winds on a thrilling descent into San Martin de los Andes. This picturesque alpine-like town on the shores of Lake Lácar is located in a natural basin surrounded by dense forests and snow-capped mountains.
Accommodation: Guest house
Cycling distance: 67kmDay 10) Cycle Argentina Chile San Martin de los Andes – Pucón
This morning we drive to the Chilean border for the next stage of our adventure. En-route we enjoy stunning views of Volcán Lanin (3776m) the centrepiece of Lanin National Park with its immense snow-capped cone. Once across the border we saddle up and descend into Villarica National Park, home to dense araucaria forests (also known as monkey puzzle trees). We transfer the last part of the day to Pucón, our base for the next 2 nights. This lakeside town is one of the main adventure tourism hubs of the Lake District. It is situated on the edge of Lake Villarrica, which unfolds in the shadow of the perfectly conical (and currently active) Volcán Villarrica.
Accommodation: Guest house
Cycling distance: 86kmDay 11) Cycle Argentina Chile Pucón
Rest day in beautiful Pucón with a choice of activities available. Those looking to relax should visit one of the many thermal spas which surround the town. The more energetic might opt for white water rafting or horse riding. Adventure seekers will want to climb beautiful Volcan Villarica (weather permitting). It is a challenging but not technical ascent to the summit for magnificent views across the surrounding area and into the bubbling lava within. Overnight in Pucón.
Accommodation: Guest house
Day 12) Cycle Argentina & Chile Pucón – Termas De Rio Blanco
Today we cycle to the settlement of Melipueco, southern gateway to the Conguillio National Park. We transfer in a north-easterly direction before riding on a mainly tarmaced road. Approaching Melipueco we are rewarded with views of Volcán Llaima (3125m) one of the 3 most active volcanoes on the continent which erupted as recently as January 2008. We see how the volcano has permanently shaped the landscape of the area and have the opportunity to walk on the lava flows that have formed here.
Accommodation: Guest house
Cycling distance: 67kmDay 13) Cycle Argentina Chile Conguillio National Park
Today is a ride of contrasts as we head into the enchanting Conguillio National Park. The centrepiece of the park’s southern sector is Volcán Llaima which has established a lunar-like landscape. For millions of years, lakes, lagoons, rivers and lava flows have been created from its many eruptions. The northern part is characterised by lush vegetation, particularly the prolific spindly armed araucaria (monkey) trees. In fact another name for the park is ‘The Umbrellas’ due to its ancient araucaria forests. The area is criss-crossed by a network of well marked paths and trails making our ride a relatively easy and rewarding experience. We follow a circular route, returning to Melipueco in the afternoon. Transfer to our overnight accommodation in Temuco.
Accommodation: Hotel
Cycling distance: 60kmDay 14) Cycle Argentina Chile departure
Departure day sadly say farewell to your new found freinds. You will be transferred to Temuco airport for your flight home.
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Cycle Argentina Chile Prices and Inclusions:
Cycling support and grading
Our leaders carry a good tool kit and will help to fix any bike problems. However, we cannot guarantee that we will be equipped for all repairs, so you must ensure that your bike is in good working order before the tour. If in doubt, have it fully serviced by a bike shop before you travel.
This trip is designed for cyclists who are comfortable with doing 40 to 55 miles a day. The distances and gradient each day are not extreme, but the altitude and terrain can make this a tough trip. Although you do not need to be an athlete, it pays to spend some time before the trip getting into the best shape possible. This will ensure you get the most from your holiday. We can send you specific training tips on request.
Accommodation
During the trip, the group will stay in hotels, guest houses and lodges. All accommodation will be on a twin share basis. Single rooms are sometimes available at extra cost. We choose accommodation on the basis of comfort rather than luxury.
Food
All breakfasts and lunches are provided on the tour, dinner is provided on the first and last night. Food will be plentiful and nutritious, a variety of local and Western dishes will be provided.
Transportation and local guides
Within Chile and Argentina you will have the security of a back-up vehicle, either a bus or truck. The vehicles will carry our entire luggage and you if needed. You will also have a local and western leader if group sizes are 8 or more, if they are below this number our experienced local leader will lead the trip.
Entrance fees
All entrance fees to National Parks or sites which are an integral part of the itinerary will be included.
Bikes for this trip need to be:
Tough: bikes can take a bit of a battering so we recommend a low geared (such as a 22-tooth granny cog on the front crank driving an 11-32/34 block on the back). Comfort is important, as there are some long days, so make sure your saddle and riding position are appropriate.
A mountain bike is a good option. Front suspension will help with the washboard tracks and potholes, but it is not essential. Full-suspension is OK, but may be hard work on the tarmac stretches. If you have flat bars, fitting bar ends will give you a different hand position and help with the climbs. The trip can be done on a traditional touring bike, but it is important to ensure it has got strong enough wheels, sufficiently wide tyres (37mm is about the minimum) and low enough gearing. It’s worth investing in a pair of 36 spoke, hand-built wheels, using a good quality rim (e.g. Sun Rhyno, Mavic or Rigida).
Tyres
The route is a mixture of poorly maintained tarmac and very rough gravel tracks. The best tyre for the job is probably the Schwalbe Marathon XR. It’s very tough and hardwearing and has a decent tread for the gravel without being too knobbly for tarmac.
Spares
We would advise the following: a multi-tool, tyre levers, pump, 2 spare inner tube, spare spokes of the correct length to fit your wheels – check with a bike shop, brake pads, a few spare links for your chain, spares for any unique or high-tech items on your bike, e.g. fluid and bleed kit for hydraulic brakes.
Rates vary due to currency fluctuations, please ask for best rates and departure dates
Inclusions: As per day by day itinerary
Cycle Argentina Chile optional extras
Single supplement: Please ask for single supplements
Bike Hire from Local: BYO or please ask for rates and bikes available
Add an Iguassu Falls stopover package from Buenos Aires from just $450 per person twin share
Prices are per person twin share, single supplement applies, please inquire for further details. Prices subject to change and availability and currency fluctuations.
