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Explore the breathtaking landscapes of Chile’s La Araucanía Region in Northern Patagonia, cycling winding gravel paths through ancient Araucaria forests along an improved version of the famous Monkey Puzzle Tree Trail.
A special part of this journey is a cultural experience with the indigenous people of this region known as the Mapuche people who have called this land home for over 2500 years. You will share in some of their traditions, stories, and way of life while surrounded by snow-capped volcanoes and landscapes dating back to the Jurassic Period. This is your chance to embrace a rare living culture and the stunning beauty of this land while along the routes that connect them.
Arrival Day
Self explore Temcuo
Arrival to Temuco Airport (Aeródromo La Araucanía – ZCO).
Transport options:
- TransAraucania shuttle services- Shuttles run from the Temuco Airport to specific points in Temuco but dropoff at a specific location is available as well. Visit the booth in the airport upon arivall or check reservas.transaraucania.cl to prebook your ride. Tickets per person are 8.000 clp per person (about $8.50) or 9.000 per person ($10.00) for specific location drop off.
- Taxis- There are many certified and registered taxis at the airport available to use. Typically though unless you are with a group it will be cheaper to take the shuttle service due to the flat rate.
- Uber- Uber is an option for transport from the airport and will typically be about the same price as taxis if not a little cheaper. Although, as the airport is situated far outside the city it may take a long time for an uber to arrive.
If time allows after your arrival, we recommend exploring some of Temuco’s local sights:
- The vibrant Feria Pinto market
- Museo Nacional Ferroviario Pablo Neruda (Train Museum)
- Plaza de Armas Aníbal Pinto
- Parque Urbano Isla Cautín
For recommendations of local food
Mercato – Excellent hand made pasta dishes from the simple to the very complex with the best tiramisu in Chile
Club Radical Temuco- A well known classic restaurant in the heart of Temuco serving the true classics of chilean cuisine from Pulmay to Tablas to Pastel De Choclo
Hashigo Sushi- A highly rated japanese style sushi spot and centrally located. Distinct from the Chilean style sushi commonly found which often features chicken in lieu of fish. Gohan Sushi is a great alternative
Zuny Tradiciones Restaurant – A bit out of the way but features the somewhat difficult to find traditional Mapuche cuisine. Every meal is always interesting, delicious and fresh.
Biergarten Klein - You will need a short uber to get here but Klein offers an amazing outdoor sitting area, a wide selection of its very own craft beers and good food. The perfect place to spend an afternoon relaxing with a few beers.
Settle into your hotel and prepare for the adventure ahead.
Day 1
Temuco to Malalcahuello
We’ll pick you up at your hotel and gather for a safety brief before heading to Manzanar in our private vehicle.
A 12 km (7.5 mi) shakedown ride takes us to Malalcahuello along a railroad-turned-gravel path, including a few short tunnels. This first ride is a chance to warm up your legs and get familiar with your bike, gear, and fellow riders.
On our way out we will stop for a special lunch at a French restaurant run by a family that has been living in the region for 7 years and offer an amazing vegetarian menu.
We will spend the night in the mountain town of Malalcahuello.
Dinner that night will be at a local place in Malalcahuello that offers innovative Chilean sandwiches and fantastic pizza.
Today’s ride:
12 km (7.5 mi) · 30 m (98 ft) elevation gain · 160 m (525 ft) elevation loss
Accommodation:
Dos Volcanes Hostel and Campground in Malalcahuello
Day 2
Malalcahuello to Troyo
We start the day driving to the entrance of Malalcahuello National Reserve (no entrance fee). We immediately start our ride along one of the best part of the Monkey Puzzle Trail.
Today’s ride covers 36 km (22.4 mi) through the Malalcahuello and Nalcas National Reserves on very quiet, and at times challenging, gravel roads. This will be the most technical riding of the trip and confidence with riding a bicycle is recommended. The route passes around the base of the Lonqimay volcano with other volcano viewpoints, lava flows, and sections of Araucaria (Monkey Puzzle) forest.
We finish cycling in the tiny community of Lolco where we load the bikes and take a short drive to the village of Troyo. Here we will stay in the guest cabins of a family that operates the small corner store in the Troyo.
Dinner will be provided by the family which will consist of classic Chilean foods served in their true form.
Today’s ride:
36 km (22.4 mi) · 590 m (1,936 ft) elevation gain · 1,200 m (3,937 ft) elevation loss
Accommodation:
The Cabins at Delicias Caseras in Troyo
Day 3
Troyo to Lonquimay
Today’s ride is 39 km (24 mi), starting from the cabins in Troyo we ride through a tight valley along the Bio Bio river with towering mountains surrounding you until we reach the town of Lonquimay, set in the glacially formed Lonquimay Valley. The day immediately begins with two challenging climbs which may require pushing the bike through sections. If preferred, we can provide transport over the two climbs.
The route includes 25 km (15.5 mi) of gravel roads, followed by a final 14 km (8.7 mi) on paved roads into Lonquimay, all with little to no traffic.
We stay overnight in a charming hotel in Lonquimay along to the Plaza De Armas.
Dinner will be a traditional countryside-style parrillada BBQ at a classic restaurant in town. Chilean wine is highly recommended.
Today’s ride:
39 km (24 mi) · 610 m (2,000) elevation gain · 480 m (1,574 ft) elevation loss
If skipping the two climbs:
32 km (20 mi) · 370 m (1,213 ft) elevation gain · 400 m (1,312 ft) elevation loss
Accommodation:
Hostería Donde Juancho in Lonquimay
Day 4
Lonquimay to Quinquen
Today’s ride is a more relaxed 33 km (20.5 mi) along the valley floor, with a gradual climb to the Mapuche community of Quinquen. The route follows through rural countryside with wonderful views over the whole valley before climbing up over the mountains to a viewpoint with wide views of the Andes and, on clear days, into Argentina.
This shorter day is intended so that upon our arrival in Quinquen, we can take part in a Mapuche cultural program with members of the local community.
This cultural program is one of the cornerstones of our tour as we are excited to have such a wonderful community to host us. This gives us an opportunity to learn about their thousands of years old culture, the importance of the Araucaria Tree (Monkey Puzzle Tree) and the land they live on. This will include many different types of food, drinking of Mate and a short hike with our host who will teach us as we walk with him. There will be a chance to buy amazing crafts handmade by the people of the community also.
Dinner and overnight accommodation will be in guest cabins within the Mapuche community.
Today’s ride:
33 km (20.5 mi) · 550 m (1,804 ft) elevation gain · 310 m (1,017 ft) elevation loss
Accommodation:
Mely Ayin Cabins and Ruka in Quinquén
Day 5
Quinquen to Melipeuco
Today may be one of the more demanding rides of the trip. While the distance is 44 km (27 mi) and mostly downhill, the route includes frequent sections of loose volcanic sand and limited shade.
Despite the challenging conditions, today offers one of the most interesting ecological experiences as we ride through China Muerta National Reserve, an area heavily affected by fires in 2003 and 2015. We also make a short detour to visit the site of a major lava flow from the Llaima Volcano eruption of 2008
Our accommodation for the night is a cabin complex with access to a large spring which feeds Río Allipén, where there is the option to swim and cool off.
Today’s ride:
44 km (27 mi) · 370 m (1,213 ft) elevation gain · 1,060 m (3,477 ft) elevation loss
Accommodation:
Relmucura Hostel and Cabins in Melipeuco
Day 6
Day in Melipeuco
Today will be an opportunity to visit the most beautiful National park Northern Patagonia. We will take a visit to Conguillío National Park with a guided hike on the Sierra Nevada Trail, a 12 km (7.5 mi) round trip route to a viewpoint overlooking the park.
If a true rest day is what you need than you may relax the day away back at the cabins.
Today will be a well earned break before the final leg of the journey.
We will stay at the same place as the night before.
Accommodation:
Relmucura Hostel and Cabins in Melipeuco
Day 7
Melipeuco to Rio Blanco
Our final day of riding begins with a drive to the base of Sollipulli Volcano. From here, we ride 46 km (28.5 mi) partially along a rarely used route known as La Ruta del Baqueano (The Route of the Cowboy). The route circles the base of the volcano and passes through a section of Villarrica National Reserve, following glacial meltwater flows toward the Río Maichín.
We finish the ride along the Río Blanco, where the region’s well known hot springs await at the end of the day. With private tubs and larger pools that sit right on the edge of the river this is the only truly perfect way to end a perfect trip.
We spend our final night in quiet, remote cabins at Termas San Sebastián with access the best hotsprings in the whole of Chile until we leave the following morning.
Today’s ride:
45 km (28 mi) · 750 m (2,460 ft) elevation gain · 1,210 m (3,969 ft) elevation loss
Accommodation:
Termas San Sebastian Cabins in Rio Blanco
Day 8
Return to Temuco via Villarrica
After our final breakfast together, we load up the van and begin the return journey toward Temuco. Enjoy the beautiful view along the north shore of Lago Caburga,
After a three hour drive we arrive to the lakeside town of Villarrica, where views of Villarrica Volcano stretch across the beautiful lake. Here we will have lunch at a local restaurant overlooking the water as well as have a final chance to buy local crafts from the many stalls along the lake.
For those wishing to continue their travels independently, drop off in Villarrica is possible. The town offers a variety of activities as well as frequent short bus connections to the nearby well known town of Pucón.
After lunch, we continue on to Temuco, with drop off at the airport in time for departing flights or transport back to the city of Temuco.
All Tours Include
Accommodations
All nights of lodging listed in the itinerary.
Meals
All meals, excluding breakfast on Day 1 and dinner on Day 8.
Entrance Fees
Entrance fees to all national parks and reserves.
Guides & Support
- Experienced local guides with full route knowledge and on-trip support.
- Van support during most portions of the rides is available, with limited exceptions in short, remote sections where vehicle access is difficult. A Garmin InReach is carried at all times by your guide for safety and communication.
Equipment & Extras
- All bicycles and standard riding equipment are provided. If you wish to use clip in pedals, please inform us in advance so we can accommodate.
Our philosophy is to use Chilean made equipment whenever possible to showcase the quality of the local outdoor industry. Personal equipment is welcome. - Each guest will receive a reflective, breathable athletic windbreaker handcrafted by ContraLuz, an independent maker based in Santiago.
- On hiking trips, gear will be provided such as hiking poles if desired
Logistics
- All scheduled transportation during the trip.
- Luggage transfers throughout the entirety of the trip.
- Entrance fees for included activities, events, and parks.
- Comprehensive trip materials, including daily route GPS files.
At the end of the tour, transport is provided to Temuco Airport (Aeródromo La Araucanía – ZCO), Temuco, or Villarrica for those wishing to extend their time in the region.
Photos & Videos
Your guide will carry a camera and GoPro to capture the experience , allowing you to stay focused on the ride.
What’s Not Included
Travel & Transportation
- Airfare, both international and domestic.
- Airport transfers upon arrival in Temuco.
- Accommodation before or after the official trip dates.
Extra snacks & Personal Expenses
- Personal items purchased during the trip.
- Extra snacks during the day.
- Alcohol with meals.
Trip Protection
Travel insurance is not included but is strongly recommended.
Guide Gratuities
We believe the trip price should cover the full cost of guide and support staff services, and no additional gratuity is expected. Gestures of appreciation are always welcome but never required.
These trips are designed for people who are active and comfortable on a bike. A solid level of fitness will help you better enjoy the journey, but what matters most is feeling comfortable riding varied and sometimes challenging terrain.
Additionally returning to the saddle each day for multiple hours can have a strain on your sitting bones so spending time in the saddle beforehand will do you huge favors.
While most of the route is along well-maintained gravel roads, specifically day two and day seven require a level of comfort with bike handling. Those who aren’t strong technical riders can still navigate these sections safely with patience, care, and basic bike riding experience.
We are committed to supporting Chile’s growing cycling industry, we ride customized Satiro Hybrid Silene bicycles equipped with Microshift 10-speed drivetrains and Shimano hydraulic brakes which are reliable machines built to handle the diverse landscapes of southern Chile.
The route travels across surfaces including loose sand and occasional rocky sections, so your bike should be well suited to mixed terrain and long downhills. Because we travel through remote areas, it is also important to consider spare parts and maintenance needs if bringing personal equipment.
No. Unfortunately due to the remoteness of the riding, E-bikes will be unavailable at this time.
Daily distances are moderate, but the terrain includes frequent climbing. Preparing with hill training is helpful, though riders without access to hills can still prepare effectively through steady endurance riding. As said before, time in the saddle will also guarantee a painfree ride for your sitting bones.
Life in these mountain communities moves at its own pace, and sometimes that means a little flexibility with food or lodging. But no need to worry, we partner with incredible locals who are passionate about keeping your experience at their cabins smooth and unforgettable.
Chile offers a wide range of food, from traditional dishes to more modern cuisine. In the remote reaches of the Andes Mountains, however, meals tend to be more meat forward. We will be in true cowboy territory, where seeing a baqueano working on horseback is part of daily life, and the food reflects this, by being hearty and filling.
Vegetarian, vegan and most other dietary requirements can be catered for, but unfortunately we may not be able to cater for severe allergies or restrictions. Feel free to drop us an email if you have any concerns.
On our rides, we typically opt for a simple picnic style lunch on the route featuring delicious sandwiches with high quality meats and fresh cheeses. Short efficient stops to refill our water bottles and give us the fuel to finish our rides and get us to our destination.
Being during the dry season, rainfall is typically only a handful of days each month and rain gear is rarely needed.
Daytime temperatures are around 26°C (78.8°F), though the strong sun and periods with little shade can make the experience feel hotter. Light, breathable clothing and sun protection are strongly recommended.
With temperatures often dropping to around 7°C (45°F) at night a warm layer or jacket is recommended.
Getting off the beaten path means there will be limited services during gravel rides. There may not be traditional restrooms available in many areas, but there will be plenty of trees. We practice leave no trace principles.
Like many places in our world forest fires, influenced by climate and poor forest industry practices, do occasionally occur. While usually small, there is always the possibility they could affect our planned route. If this happens, we will adjust the route whenever necessary, creating an alternate path that still captures the spirit, beauty, and sense of adventure that defines this region. We hope to avoid any cancellations but if absolutely necessary refunds will be issued.
The Chilean Peso is the currency of Chile. Cash is typically only necessary in the small villages where you may want to buy snacks at the local mini-markets or for some crafts bought outside of the towns, so carrying large amounts of cash is unnecessary. ATMs will be available at the larger towns.
Visa, Mastercard and American Express are accepted just about anywhere except the smallest villages.