Mountain bike tour in Chile’s Lake District.

This beautiful area presents crystal clear-water lakes, verdant temperate rainforest and stunning snow-capped volcanoes. They frame this week-long tour. We bike through a network of national parks, with stops in rolling meadows, dense forests and on picturesque mountain sides.

Touring on a mountain bike has never been more accessible; we’ve got e-bikes for those who want a gentler ride through the Andes mountains. Need more? Occasionally, we’ll stop to soothe our muscles in natural hot springs — Chile’s lake region always provides.

Undoubtedly, this is a fabulous bike route that keeps on giving. We add in some walking days for a chance to see the temperate verdant rain forests. Ask for details of how we can arrange this tour to suit your abilities, budget and time available. We can tailor it to suit your group, it can be longer, shorter, tougher, easier.

 

More About Mountain Bike adventure in Chile

Nights are spent in guest houses and mountain lodges, while our experienced guides and support staff make sure the logistics run smoothly. Obviously, the delicious Chilean food, wine, and beers help, too.

But the activity levels and adventure remain on this biking and walking bike trip. We fit in some day hikes, so you can get enjoy the verdant temperate rainforest unique to Chile.

So, clip in and get ready for the best mountain bike tour in Chile, if not South America.

Our Bikes: The bikes can be 27.5″ or 29″, depending on the sizes you prefer.  We have small bikes with 27.5″ wheels. The larger bikes sizes L and XL have 29″ wheels.

Biking:  The technical level of mountain biking is generally considered to be intermediate.  For some days it is definitely more fun if you have some experience mountain biking – you will enjoy it a lot more.  It might be worth putting in some mtb days between now and your trip..

The tricky trails are on the volcanoes, but the routes can be slightly modified so that we take a less technical descent if required. On both Volcano Osorno and Villarrica Volcano there are various trails with different levels of difficulty. In Huilo Huilo, there are a couple of options, the bike path that goes to Lake Pirihueico which is gentle, and the bike park technical trails.

The programme is flexible and adaptable to your ability and requirements.



Trip Highlights

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  • Mountain bike or e-bike through Chile’s Lake District and volcanoes

  • Just bring yourself — top-quality bikes (or e-bikes available to rent)

  • Pedal past Lakes and Villarrica volcano

  • Mountain lodges for relaxing every night

  • Hot springs to soothe any tight cycling muscles

  • Your bike tour washed down with Chilean cuisine, wines, and local microbrewery beers

Our trip was fantastic. Many thanks for all your work in setting up the trip and ironing out the creases when they appeared.

As our friends did for us/you, I would not hesitate in recommending Andean Trails to anyone else planning a trip to Chile. Thank you.

A. MacArthur, Chile

Amy C., Mountain Bike Chilean Lakes, Oct 24
We had a wonderful time, I personally loved the two places that we stayed Zapato Amarillo and the hostal in Pucón The guides were wonderful. In terms of day trips, the first day was the most incredible. Thank you for everything!!! We would love to come back and the do the W route. We had a wonderful trip Thank you so very very much.

Amy C., Mountain Bike Chilean Lakes, Oct 24

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Full Itinerary

Day 1: Arrive Puerto Montt airport. Transfer in. Get bikes checked.

Our team will meet you in Puerto Montt airport. It is a short ride to Puerto Varas, the lovely lakeside town, where we get the bikes fitted.

For the first day, and after your arrival to the Lake district, we will meet in our office where we will go through the bike fitting and trip details.

Accommodation Hostal Zapato Amarillo, Puerto Octay.

 

Day 2: Mountain bike day on Volcan Osorno. (B,L,D).

Puerto Octay/Volcán Osorno Paso Desolación trail.

65 km on the bikes. 30 paved and 35 gravel and single trail.

First day on the bike, following one of the most beautiful roads of the area. Great views and all local culture. From Puerto Octay we follow the road by the lake to get to Puerto Clocker, where we start climbing to Paso Desolación. After 20 kms, we follow the trail down into Lago Todos Los Santos. 14 kms down, with technical sections and the best views ever. After lunch back to Puerto Octay by car. B/L/D.

Accommodation at Hostal Zapato Amarillo

Day 3: Trekking day, Alerce Andino. (B,L,D)

Trekking Alerce Andino National Park.

Leave Puerto Octay for a full day excursion in Alerce Andino National Park.  We depart at 8:30 am, we drive through Puerto Montt and take the Carretera Austral heading south.  After 40 km we arrive at the entrance to the park. Here we start a walk through the forest for about 2 hours. We arrive to the cascade of Río Chaicas where we see some fabulous 2000 years old alerce trees. If you would like we can continue the hike to some lakes. The first is Laguna Chaiquenes at 1 hour walking from the waterfalls, and the second Laguna Triangulo after another hour walking. Return the same way. B/L/D.

Transfer back to Puerto Octay. Accommodation at Hostal Zapato Amarillo

 

Day 4: Puerto Octay/Huilo Huilo bike park. (B,L)

Today we head to Pucón, and on the way we made a detour and go for a ride at Huilo Huilo bike park.  With amazing trails, we have the option to do some great MTB and also to ride the bike lane to Lago Pirihueico. Great views again.

Huilo Huilo Bike Park is located within the Huilo Huilo Biological Reserve in Chile’s Los Ríos Region.  we will have an exciting mountain biking day here, amid lush Patagonian rainforest. This park is known for its well-designed trails, stunning natural landscapes, and a commitment to sustainable tourism.

Huilo Huilo Bike Park has trails for both downhill and enduro riders, with a variety of routes catering to beginners and advanced riders alike.

Trails weave through dense rainforest, featuring obstacles like roots, rocks, and natural drops. The terrain varies from technical sections to flowy, scenic rides.

Some trails are specially designed to integrate jumps, berms, and technical features, making it ideal for those looking to practice their skills.

The park offers striking views of the nearby Mocho-Choshuenco Volcano, adding to the dramatic scenery.

After the ride, transfer to Pucón for about two hours. B/L

Accommodation at Hostal Ecole Pucón

Day 5: Pucón/Huerquehue National Park. (B,L)

We change from the bikes to hike again, today to explore Huerquehue National Park, which offers fabulous walking trails, of various lengths, through lush temperate rainforests, with views of pristine alpine lakes, and scenic waterfalls.

This park is celebrated for its rich biodiversity, featuring ancient Araucaria (monkey puzzle) trees, endemic to this part of the Andes.

We can choose form a range of trails and enjoy some stunning viewpoints and maybe even take a dip in one of the lakes. Keep your eyes open, you may be lucky and catch a glimpse of Chilean foxes, condors, and even the elusive puma.

We experience big, ancient forest too for this day off the saddle.

About 6/7 hours of hiking in total and about 1 hour transfer each way. B/L.   Accommodation at Hostal Ecole Pucón.

Day 6: Ride Villarrica Volcano (B,L)

For the last day of action, the cherry on the cake.

Volcán Villarrica is an active stratovolcano, and the mountain biking here offers a unique way to experience the area’s natural beauty.

We will explore the many options for MTB that Volcán Villarrica offers. From long free ride sections on the ashes, to the trails inside the native forest, amazing rides to finish this epic trip.

Many of the trails begin in lush forests at the volcano’s lower elevations, winding through scenic woodlands with varying levels of difficulty.

Higher up, trails traverse rugged volcanic landscapes, with sections covered in loose lava rocks and gravel, creating challenging and dynamic riding conditions.

The area offers both challenging downhill tracks and more manageable singletrack trails for different experience levels.

B/L.

Accommodation at Hostal Ecole Pucón.

Day 7: Transfer out to Temuco airport, fly out. (B)

Depending on your flight schedule, there may be time to explore Pucón to buy some souvenirs; the woollens are popular.

With the bike touring over, our transport team will take you to Temuco airport in time for your flight out (80-90 minute drive).


Prices From $3,000 / £2,439 per person

Enquire about booking

What's Included?

Professional biking guide, private transport, accommodation/meals/transfers as listed, use of bike, guided hiking, entrance fees to national parks.

What's Not Included?

International and domestic flights, travel and trip cancellation insurance, e-bike rental, drinks, any laundry services. 

 


Accommodation

We use comfortable guest houses and mountain lodges throughout the bike tour, so you can wake refreshed each morning. However, accommodation listed below is all subject to availability.

 

Tour Staff

All our guides are qualified, local and English-speaking and will help you get the most out of your trip.

Guides and support staff are keen cyclists and have specialist knowledge of the areas you are visiting. They can help with basic bike repairs, set-ups, and will make your ride as enjoyable as possible.


Meals

Almost all dietary requirements can be catered for if we are notified in advance, please ask for more information.

Breakfasts at the hotels will generally consist of hot drinks, toast, jams, cereals, fruit, eggs & cake (Chilean speciality!). Boxed lunches will be sandwiches, crackers, meats, cheeses, cereal bars, and fruits.

Evening meals are taken out and about so you can sample local specialities.

Note: In remote areas meals may vary depending on availability of certain items.

Activity Level

This bike tour is open to active mountain bikers. You love cycling and lap up consecutive days with some off-road mixed in. Essentially, most weekends at home, you’re off on off road bike rides.

Occasionally, there are some challenging climbs and an active pace. Some descents come over rolling terrain. Nevertheless, consider hiring an e-bike if the distance is a worry.

 

Road Safety

Drivers in Chile are usually respectful towards cyclists. However, we recommend everyone wears a helmet and wears brightly-colours jerseys and gloves.

Generally, our support vehicle is on hand to assist with any issues.

Practical Information

An introduction to Chile

Chile is the land of contrasts, from verdant vineyards to driest desert, deep fjords and towering glaciated volcanoes.

A narrow but incredibly long, snake-like country, Chile’s unusual geography features more than 5,000km of South Pacific Ocean coast. The country is almost 4,400km long but barely more than 160km at its widest.

It is best divided into general regions, all of which offer spectacular landscapes and identities of their own.

This variety means Chile is the land where almost every activity is possible. Hiking, biking, rafting and kayaking.

Or climbing, cruising, fishing, horse riding, wine tasting.

Or simply eating great food, relaxing and exploring.

Geography of Chile

Patagonia

Trekking heaven. Paine National Park lies in Patagonia and features some of the best trekking in South America. With no altitude worries here, hikers enjoy an unrivalled mix of access to wild flora and fauna that exists in this massif. It is at once windswept, and then balmy. Paine National Park is a must see for walkers visiting South America.

Northern Patagonia is the least densely populated part of the country – spectacular virgin scenery make this a hidden gem and superb area for trekking, boating and horse riding.

And that’s before you think about possibly cruising through fjords, or kayaking them, flying to Antartica or staying at a working hacienda.

Easter Island

Iconic, Easter Island is an archaeological treasure. Here you will find the famous Moai stone statues, as well as caves and rocks decorated with etched petroglyphs and painted pictographs.

 

Northern Chile

Northern Chile features the Atacama, the driest desert with the clearest skies in the world, is alive with active volcanoes replete with spitting geysers mixed with archaeological wonders and fantastic rock formations.

Central Chile is the heart of Chile and includes the capital Santiago. With its Mediterranean climate of hot dry summers and mild wet winters, this central valley produces some of South America’s finest wines, Colchagua Valley to name but one.

Here, the Andean mountain chain soars more than 6,000m above sea level. Chile’s traditional symbols such as huaso (cowboy) and cueca (national dance) originate here, an area which is rich in agriculture and produces most of Chile’s export fruit.

In winter, skiers are attracted to this tasting the promise of some fabulous snow on the huge peaks which overlook Santiago.

Southern Chile and the Lake District

Lush and verdant, The Lake District area is the place to climb snow-capped volcanoes by day while relaxing next to stunning glacial lakes by evening. You can walk, bike, raft, cruise and drive your way around this beautiful region.

Central, southern and Patagonia Andes all present different challenges to mountaineers and trekkers. Options are varied in the central Andes with many of the Patagonian peaks remaining unexplored and unsummitted.

Weather in Chile

Chile’s climate varies greatly, owing to its sheer length, variation of terrain and varying altitudes and latitudes.

 

Lake District and Patagonia

In the south of Chile, here temperatures drop a little compared to the rest of Chile.

It can be better to go in the Austral summer (Oct-March). Daylight hours are much longer at this time, with Nov-Feb being popular times to visit. October and March can be very colourful and vivid with less visitors, but weather can be more blustery.

In Patagonia, the weather is, putting it mildly, variable, and variable on a daily basis. It is usually cool and windy all year round but seldom does the temperature fall below freezing point. Some days start with snow and end in balmy sunshine. It is always interesting, and can range from 10°C-20°C in the summer, although the wind can make it feel chilly.

The vast unbroken stretch of ocean to the west and south of the South American continent leaves the Patagonian Andes very exposed to the saturated winds that circle the Antarctic landmass. Also the South Patagonia Ice field influence makes the weather hard to predict. In spring or early summer fine weather may deteriorate almost without warning, bringing rains and eventually snow. Even in summer (Dec-Mar) you should come prepared to find cold, strong winds (up to 130 km/hr) and rainfalls. The summer’s average temperature is 11ºC/52ºF (24ºC max, 2ºC min).

Winter visits to these southern areas are possible, but many hotels close and not all trips are possible. Daylight hours can be very short, but the lack of visitors can greatly improve chances of seeing wildlife in parks such as Paine.

The Lake District’s temperate climate can be said to resemble that of the UK, with rain possible but also enjoying long spells of fine, fresh weather in the summer (Oct-March).

 

Easter Island

Although sub-tropical and essentially a year-round destination, Dec-Feb are the most popular times to visit Easter Island as it is summer there and temperatures average 24°C. There can be colder days and it can be humid too.

The winter months (Jun-Oct) on Easter Island are not overly cold, but they can be cool. The average low temperature is 16°C but there is usually a wind at this time of year that makes the temperature feel cooler than it really is.

The wind rarely stops blowing at this time of year.

 

Northern Chile

The north of the country lies in the tropical zone, but in the main is desert. It is dry and sunny all year round, but does get cold at night time in the high altitude areas.

In winter (June-Aug) the average daytime temperature is 22°C (72°F) and by night 4°C (39°F), descending to -2°C (28°F) in extreme cases.

During summer (Jan-Mar) the temperature fluctuates between 27°C (81°F) and a minimum of 16°C (61°F) at night, reaching maximums of 32°C (90°F), with occasional showers.

 

Central Valley

The wine growers love the central valley, which has a suitable Mediterranean climate of hot dry summers (Nov-March).

Then, temperatures range from 17°C in the evening and can go up to 30°C inland. It is cooler during the day on the coast.

During winter (May-Sept), which is essentially mild and wet, temperatures inland can vary from 5°C to 18°C during the day, and a bit warmer on the coast.

Autumn (Mar-April) and Spring (Oct-Nov) are lovely times to visit, although hotels in Santiago can book out in March, October and November, as it is conference season.

 

ATOL holiday protection

Andean Trails has 25 years of experience of putting together the best South America holidays.

We pay a fee to the CAA for every licensable passenger we book since we hold an Air Travel Organiser’s Licence granted by the Civil Aviation Authority. In the unlikely event of our insolvency, the CAA will ensure that you are not stranded abroad and will arrange to refund any money you have paid to us for an advance booking.

We also offer ATOL (Civil Aviation Authority) protected holidays to give our customers peace of mind when booking and travelling.

When you buy an ATOL protected air holiday package from Andean Trails Ltd you will receive a Confirmation Invoice from us confirming your arrangements and your protection under our Air Travel Organiser’s Licence number 6275.

You can read more about ATOL, who is covered and what protections you have if not ATOL-covered, on our ATOL page.

 

What is ATOL?

The CAA’s ATOL scheme offers protection to your money and your holiday if you book with us. Not everybody is covered (see ‘Who is covered?’ for more), as you must purchase an ‘air package holiday’ with Andean Trails to be protected.

And  ‘air package holiday’ is defined as including a flight and some ground services (hotel, transfer, trek etc). This is also known as an ‘ATOL-protected holiday’.

 

Who is covered?

To be covered by ATOL, you must book a flight and some ground services with us and be from the UK. If you are from the UK and only book ground services and no flights, you are not covered by ATOL (see below for more on how non-ATOL clients are covered).

If you are outside the UK and buy flights with us, you will be ATOL protected IF any of the flights booked with Andean Trails touches/stops in the UK at any point during your holiday package booked with us.

If you buy your flights elsewhere, please check with that agent if you are ATOL protected. Be careful with online flight purchases and make sure you know what protection you have, if any, before paying for flights.

Not all holiday or travel services offered and sold by us will be protected by the ATOL scheme. Please ask us to confirm what protection may apply to your booking.

For land only holidays not involving any air travel, in accordance with “The Package Travel, Package Holidays and Package Tours Regulations 1992”, all UK passengers booking with Andean Trails Ltd. are fully protected for the initial deposit and subsequently the balance of all money paid to us, arising from cancellation or curtailment of travel arrangements due to the insolvency of Andean Trails.

 

I’m not ATOL covered, what protection do I have?

If you are not ATOL covered, any payments you make to us go to a Trust account.

We can only access this money once your tour has been completed, meaning that if anything happens to Andean Trails Limited while you are on holiday, then your money is secure and you can either complete the trip or be able to make it home.

If you pay for your holiday with a credit card, some offer payment protection – please check with your cardholder.

You also should have cancellation protection written into your insurance (which we recommend you have at the time of booking) in case you need to cancel.


An introduction to Chile

Chile is the land of contrasts, from verdant vineyards to driest desert, deep fjords and towering glaciated volcanoes.

A narrow but incredibly long, snake-like country, Chile’s unusual geography features more than 5,000km of South Pacific Ocean coast. The country is almost 4,400km long but barely more than 160km at its widest.

It is best divided into general regions, all of which offer spectacular landscapes and identities of their own.

This variety means Chile is the land where almost every activity is possible. Hiking, biking, rafting and kayaking.

Or climbing, cruising, fishing, horse riding, wine tasting.

Or simply eating great food, relaxing and exploring.

Geography of Chile

Patagonia

Trekking heaven. Paine National Park lies in Patagonia and features some of the best trekking in South America. With no altitude worries here, hikers enjoy an unrivalled mix of access to wild flora and fauna that exists in this massif. It is at once windswept, and then balmy. Paine National Park is a must see for walkers visiting South America.

Northern Patagonia is the least densely populated part of the country – spectacular virgin scenery make this a hidden gem and superb area for trekking, boating and horse riding.

And that’s before you think about possibly cruising through fjords, or kayaking them, flying to Antartica or staying at a working hacienda.

Easter Island

Iconic, Easter Island is an archaeological treasure. Here you will find the famous Moai stone statues, as well as caves and rocks decorated with etched petroglyphs and painted pictographs.

 

Northern Chile

Northern Chile features the Atacama, the driest desert with the clearest skies in the world, is alive with active volcanoes replete with spitting geysers mixed with archaeological wonders and fantastic rock formations.

Central Chile is the heart of Chile and includes the capital Santiago. With its Mediterranean climate of hot dry summers and mild wet winters, this central valley produces some of South America’s finest wines, Colchagua Valley to name but one.

Here, the Andean mountain chain soars more than 6,000m above sea level. Chile’s traditional symbols such as huaso (cowboy) and cueca (national dance) originate here, an area which is rich in agriculture and produces most of Chile’s export fruit.

In winter, skiers are attracted to this tasting the promise of some fabulous snow on the huge peaks which overlook Santiago.

Southern Chile and the Lake District

Lush and verdant, The Lake District area is the place to climb snow-capped volcanoes by day while relaxing next to stunning glacial lakes by evening. You can walk, bike, raft, cruise and drive your way around this beautiful region.

Central, southern and Patagonia Andes all present different challenges to mountaineers and trekkers. Options are varied in the central Andes with many of the Patagonian peaks remaining unexplored and unsummitted.

Weather in Chilean Patagonia

Chilean Patagonia, in the south of the country, has a climate with lower temperatures compared to the rest of Chile.

 

Lake District and Patagonia

It can be better to go in the Austral summer (Oct-March). Daylight hours are much longer at this time, with Nov-Feb being popular times to visit. October and March can be very colourful and vivid with less visitors, but weather can be more blustery.

In Patagonia, the weather is, putting it mildly, variable, and variable on a daily basis. It is usually cool and windy all year round but seldom does the temperature fall below freezing point. Some days start with snow and end in balmy sunshine. It is always interesting, and can range from 10°C-20°C in the summer, although the wind can make it feel chilly.

The vast unbroken stretch of ocean to the west and south of the South American continent leaves the Patagonian Andes very exposed to the saturated winds that circle the Antarctic landmass. Also the South Patagonia Ice field influence makes the weather hard to predict. In spring or early summer fine weather may deteriorate almost without warning, bringing rains and eventually snow. Even in summer (Dec-Mar) you should come prepared to find cold, strong winds (up to 130 km/hr) and rainfalls. The summer’s average temperature is 11ºC/52ºF (24ºC max, 2ºC min).

Winter visits to these southern areas are possible, but many hotels close and not all trips are possible. Daylight hours can be very short, but the lack of visitors can greatly improve chances of seeing wildlife in parks such as Paine.

The Lake District’s temperate climate can be said to resemble that of the UK, with rain possible but also enjoying long spells of fine, fresh weather in the summer (Oct-March).

ATOL protection

Andean Trails has 25 years of experience of putting together the best South America holidays.

We pay a fee to the CAA for every licensable passenger we book since we hold an Air Travel Organiser’s Licence granted by the Civil Aviation Authority. In the unlikely event of our insolvency, the CAA will ensure that you are not stranded abroad and will arrange to refund any money you have paid to us for an advance booking.

We also offer ATOL (Civil Aviation Authority) protected holidays to give our customers peace of mind when booking and travelling.

When you buy an ATOL protected air holiday package from Andean Trails Ltd you will receive a Confirmation Invoice from us confirming your arrangements and your protection under our Air Travel Organiser’s Licence number 6275.

You can read more about ATOL, who is covered and what protections you have if not ATOL-covered, on our ATOL page.

 

What is ATOL?

The CAA’s ATOL scheme offers protection to your money and your holiday if you book with us. Not everybody is covered (see ‘Who is covered?’ for more), as you must purchase an ‘air package holiday’ with Andean Trails to be protected.

And  ‘air package holiday’ is defined as including a flight and some ground services (hotel, transfer, trek etc). This is also known as an ‘ATOL-protected holiday’.

 

Who is covered?

To be covered by ATOL, you must book a flight and some ground services with us and be from the UK. If you are from the UK and only book ground services and no flights, you are not covered by ATOL (see below for more on how non-ATOL clients are covered).

If you are outside the UK and buy flights with us, you will be ATOL protected IF any of the flights booked with Andean Trails touches/stops in the UK at any point during your holiday package booked with us.

If you buy your flights elsewhere, please check with that agent if you are ATOL protected. Be careful with online flight purchases and make sure you know what protection you have, if any, before paying for flights.

Not all holiday or travel services offered and sold by us will be protected by the ATOL scheme. Please ask us to confirm what protection may apply to your booking.

For land only holidays not involving any air travel, in accordance with “The Package Travel, Package Holidays and Package Tours Regulations 1992”, all UK passengers booking with Andean Trails Ltd. are fully protected for the initial deposit and subsequently the balance of all money paid to us, arising from cancellation or curtailment of travel arrangements due to the insolvency of Andean Trails.

 

I’m not ATOL covered, what protection do I have?

If you are not ATOL covered, any payments you make to us go to a Trust account.

We can only access this money once your tour has been completed, meaning that if anything happens to Andean Trails Limited while you are on holiday, then your money is secure and you can either complete the trip or be able to make it home.

If you pay for your holiday with a credit card, some offer payment protection – please check with your cardholder.

You also should have cancellation protection written into your insurance (which we recommend you have at the time of booking) in case you need to cancel.

Kit list, Chile General

Good kit is vital for every trip.

Book with Andean Trails and get 15% off Páramo’s fantastic ethical and high performance outdoor gear.

 

Overview

Chile has a wide range of climates from arid deserts to bracingly cold Patagonia.

When planning for these changeable climatic conditions you will encounter across Chile, layering is the most practical and versatile clothing system.

The sun is very strong throughout the country, so good sun cream, a hat and sunglasses are vital.

It can also get very cold at night time especially in the mountains. Jumpers, fleeces and warms hats – which you can buy there – are also essential.

Give plenty of thought to kit selection, and try to keep weight down.

Below is a more detailed guide.

 

Detailed kit list

  • Medium weight parka or a down jacket.
  • Waterproof jacket and trousers. The jacket needs to be water proof and roomy. Side-zip pants are recommended.
  • 2-3 long-sleeve shirts – no cotton
  • 2-3 short-sleeve T-shirts – no cotton
  • 2 pair of hiking trousers- cotton or synthetic material (no jeans)
  • 1 fleece or sweat trousers (for cold evenings)
  • 2 pair hiking shorts
  • Long thermals – synthetic or wool – light to medium weight top & bottoms.
  • 2-3 mid-weight (wool or synthetic) socks.
  • 2-3 liner socks if needed
  • Athletic-type socks, several pairs, city use
  • Hiking boots that are waterproof and well broken-in.
  • Running/tennis shoes or sandals are very comfortable when you are in cities
  • 1 lightweight wool sweater or windproof fleece
  • 1 wool or synthetic warm hat.
  • 1 light sun hat with a wide brim.
  • 1 pair of medium-weight wool or synthetic gloves
  • Broad-brimmed sunhat, essential.
  • Sunglasses with UV filter.
  • Scarf for cold.
  • Bandanna – to protect neck from strong sun.
  • Daypack (at least 30 litres). Comfortable and with waterproof lining or cover.
  • Water bottle (2 litres approx.) & purification tablets.
  • Personal first-aid kit to include: painkillers, plasters (band-aids), moleskin, anti-biotic cream, general antibiotics (ask your GP), after-bite (tiger balm), anti-diarrhoea tablets, throat lozenges, re-hydration salts & personal medication.
  • Insect repellent (just in case)
  • Towel & wash-kit.
  • Wet Wipes/antiseptic hand-wash cream.
  • Sunscreen (factor 30+) and lip salve.
  • Head-lamp (plus spare bulb and batteries).
  • Penknife.
  • Travel alarm clock.
  • Plastic bags – ‘Zip-loc’ & tough bin liners.
  • Camera and film / memory cards (take at least twice the amount you think you will need!).
  • Book, e-book, mp3 player/ipod or other to help pass the time.
  • Binoculars.
  • Spanish/English phrasebook.
  • Extra snacks i.e. cereal bars or favourite chocolate bars.

 

Miscellaneous others

  • Money belt.
  • Passport.
  • U.S. dollars cash, mixed-denomination notes, undamaged and unmarked.
  • ATM cash/credit card.
  • Any inoculation certificates.
  • Personal & medical insurance certificates.
  • Presents e.g. Postcards from home.
  • Comfortable clothes for travel, smart clothes for night life, especially in big cities.

Chilean Patagonia

Chilean Patagonia is a pristine wilderness of fjords, glaciers, plains, mountains and forests.

Southern Patagonia’s main attraction is the Torres del Paine National park. The granite spires attract many visitors to what some have called the 8th Wonder of the World. The park is a trekkers paradise with two classic treks, the Paine W and the Paine Circuit.

Northern Patagonia, the Aysen region,  is one of the least populated parts of the country and is blessed with spectacular countryside.

The main airport is Balmaceda near the city of Coyhaique and must see places include Lake General Carrera and the Marble Caves, The San Rafael Glacier,  the Quelat Hanging Glacier as well as driving the Austral Road.

The Futaleufu River is a must for white water enthusiasts.

The region also offers great horseback opportunities as well as kayaking ones. Nature enthusiasts can admire the impressive scenery, imposing glaciers and fascinating wildlife and flora.

Chile Lake District

The Chilean Lake district is an area of snow capped volcanoes that overlooks pristine lakes surrounded by forests and rolling countryside.

The Northern gateway is Temuco Airport. A short drive is Villarrica Lake overlooked by the volcano of the same name. The monkey puzzle tree is autochthonous to the region and can be found all over particularly in Conguillio National park.

The town of Pucon is a great base from which to explore the nearby National parks, hot springs, Mapuche indigenous settlements and for the more adventurous rafting, canopy, trekking and climbing.

In the middle of the region you will find the private Huilo Huilo Biological Reserve, a protected area of Patagonian cold rain forest.

The Southern sector, whose gateway is Puerto Montt, is dominated by Lake Llanquihue and the conical Osorno Volcano.

A popular base is the town of Puerto Varas on the lake shore from where one can visit the local beauty spots or set off on adventures that include biking, kayak, trekking, rafting and much more.

This area combines very well with the Argentine Lake district and the towns of Bariloche and San Martin de Los Andes.

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