WILD PATAGONIA : Chile’s Lakes and Volcanoes  
March 19-29, 2027

DAY 1- Friday, March 19, 2027   Temuco -Pucon, hiking Villarrica National Park

You’ll be picked up at Temuco airport (ZCO) and transferred to Pucon town, the capital of adventure tourism in Chile. Following hotel check in and a local lunch, we’ll head to Villarrica National Park for an interpretative scenic hike. Tracing the path of volcanic caves and natural hot springs in forested valleys, you’ll have excellent views of nearby Villarrica Volcano and the Lakes Villarrica, Colico, Caburgua and Calafquén. In the distance are views of the volcanoes Lanin and Lonquimay over the Trancura River. We return to the hotel for a pre-tour briefing, bike setup and fittings, before our sumptuous welcome dinner. Hotel Casa Solaria (four nights) (L/D)

Day 2 - Mar 20 -  Pucon loop to Mahuil Malal Pass, cycling 43mi/3445’ 

We’ll cycle from Pucón - amidst fantastic views of Lake Villarrica and the imposing Villarrica Volcano - to Curarrehue, an authentic Mapuche village with local artisan shops.  Following the rapids of the beautiful Trancura River, you’ll enjoy amazing views of three Volcanoes. Passing waterfalls and placid lakes, we’ll approach the Argentinian border at the foothills of the Lanin Volcano. The landscape becomes increasingly rugged and dramatic as we ascend Mahuil Malal Pass amidst breathtaking views of the snow-capped peaks of the towering Andean Mountains. With condors soaring overhead and Andean foxes roadside, wildlife sightings abound.  (B/L/-)

Day 3 - Mar 21 - Pucon loop via Caburgua Lake & Huife Hot Springs, cycling 46mi/2950’
Cycling from Pucon, you’ll pass Ojos del Caburgua, a series of crystal-clear waterfalls and pools fed by underground springs. From here we’ll ride to the turquoise waters of Lake Caburgua at the foot of the Llaima Volcano. At Caburgua, we’ll follow the Trancura River, renowned for its white-water rafting. On most days you’ll witness smoke from the cone of the active Villarrica volcano.  Cycling through rolling hills, we arrive at the Huife Hot Spring Resort. Enjoy a soothing soak in a hot mineral bath, followed by a delicious lunch of local caught trout or salmon. Revived, we’ll cycle back to Pucon with the Villarrica Volcano towering beside us.  (B/L/-)

Day 4 - Mar 22  - Pucon, hiking Huerquehue National Park
Huerquehue National Park is a stunning sanctuary of four lagoons surrounded by Araucarias. It is managed to conserve the biodiversity of the Andean temperate forest through ecotourism, promoting socio-environmental education and local development. On our interpretive hike, you’ll explore a circuit of volcanic lagoons nestled in the Araucaria forest. We’ll climb a gentle slope through magnificent forest passing rushing waterfalls along the way. At the high viewpoint, you’ll enjoy spectacular views of volcanoes and lakes. Shuttle back to Pucon town. (B/BoxL/D)

Day 5- Mar 23 -  Panguipulli – Huilo Huilo, cycling 50mi/3280’ 

Our route begins at Panguipulli, the "City of Roses". From here you’ll cycle the shores of Lake Panguipulli and Neltume, surrounded by the snow-capped peaks of Mocho-Choshuenco and Villarrica Volcanoes. Our ‘7 Lakes route’ follows dense native forests of Coihue and Lenga trees, with waterfalls dotting the roadside. After lunch at Choshuenco town you’ll cycle to the Salto Huilo Huilo Waterfall whose base is easily accessible via a short trail. Then onto our hotel at the famed  Huilo Huilo Biological Reserve.  Hotel Nothofagus (B/L/D)

Day 6 - Mar 24  - Panguipulli – Futangue, cycling 42mi/2723’ 

From Nontuella, you’ll cycle to the shores of Lago Ranco, one of Chile's most picturesque lakes. Our route through dense forests and towering mountains continues to the  turquoise waters of beautiful Lake Maihue where we’ll enjoy lunch at Llifen Hot Springs. Afterwards, you’ll climb a challenging grade for a panoramic view overlooking Ranco Lake  Transfer to our lodge nestled in the peaceful Riñinahue Valley.  Futangue Lodge and Spa (two nights) (B/L/-)

Day 7 - Mar 25 - Futangue loop via Lake Maihue , cycling 42mi/1250 

From our lodge you’ll cycle Lake Maihue on rolling hills, stopping for lunch at the local restaurant Maqueo Sabores Etnicos. They specialize in Maqui, a wild Chilean tree with deep purple berries, known for its antioxidant properties and health benefits. Returning though dense forest, you’ll have time to indulge in our lodge’s famous Spa activities and local cuisine (B/L/-)

Day 8 -  Mar 26 -  Futangue – Puerto Octay - Frutillar – Llanquihue, cycling 59mi/1970’

From Lake Rupanco, we’ll cycle rolling terrain and scenic farmland  with views of Volcán Osorno and Cerro Puntiagudo dominating the horizon. You’ll visit the charming lakeside town of Puerto Octay, famed for its  German-inspired architecture and scenic volcano views.  Challenge yourself with a climb to the Rancho Espantapajaros Restaurant where you’ll enjoy a farm to table lunch surrounded by  views of Lake Llanquihue and Volcanoes Osorno, Puntiagudo and Calbuco. Afterwards, we’ll cycle rolling hills to the shores of Llanquihue Lake. Transfer to Puerto Varas, a beautiful lakeside colonial town. Hotel Cumbres  (3 nights) (B/L/-) 

Day 9 - Mar 27 - Puerto Varas loop via Ensenada – Ralún, cycling 46mi/2790 

Cycling the shores of Chile’s second-largest Lake Llanquihue, you’ll approach the perfect cone of the Osorno Volcano whose snow-capped peak appears to rise directly out of the water. After lunch at Ensenada, our route (on a new bike lane) follows a more rugged and lush landscape as we approach the Reloncaví Estuary, where the waters of the Petrohué River meet the Pacific Ocean. You’ll ride through temperate rainforests with views of rushing rivers, dense forests and small farms. At Ralún town, transfer to Puerto Varas. (B/L/-)

Day 10 - Mar 28 - Puerto Varas loop via Puerto Octay - Las Cascadas, cycling 43mi/1800’
Cycling from Puerto Octay town, our route hugs the eastern shore of Lake Llanquihue, passing rolling green hills and rural villages. As you approach Las Cascadas, the scenery becomes more dramatic, with steeper inclines and dense forests. This section of the Llanquihue Lake Route, considered the most beautiful route of the region, brings us close to Osorno Volcano as you enter Vicente Perez Rosales National Park, Chile's oldest national park. Here we’ll climb a seven mile grade, then hike a short distance to the dramatic Petrohue Falls. Witnessing this powerful, stunning 170’ high waterfall, set in a lush forest framed by emerald-green waters and volcanic rock, is an unforgettable experience. Transfer to Puerto Varas for a sumptuous farewell dinner. (B/L/D)

Day 11 - March 29, 2027  Departure

Group transfer from Puerto Varas to Puerto Montt El Tepual Airport (PMC) Fly to Santiago and home. 

Optionally, fly to Puerto Natales Airport in southern Patagonia to join Southern Patagonia Torres Del Paine  five day trekking adventure of the W route (B/-/-)

Joining the ride 

“Request to participate" by clicking the link “Go on this ride!” or make further inquiries by contacting the ride leader, Bruce Rayvid. Upon acceptance you will be asked to sign a waiver and pay the People Cycling registration fee, The deposit will be paid directly to  Ecotours Chile (EC) after ride confirmation and minimum riders reached..

Payments
The total eleven (11) day tour cost per person is  $4,390  based on two persons sharing a room. Ecotours Chile (EC) requires a minimum of twelve participants for the ride. Singles are welcome at a surcharge of approximately $1,290 per room (limited to 2 singles). If you do not have a riding partner, we will do our best to connect participants as roommates.  A deposit of $1000 is required on booking with the balance due 90 days prior to the tour.

Cancellations
Refunds of deposits and payments will depend upon whether a replacement rider signs up, and on costs that can be recovered. If the canceling participant is replaced, a refund will be made when the replacement has paid their fees. If the canceling participant can't be replaced there will be no refund. Ecotours Chile (EC) refund schedule: over 120 days if replaced: total refund less admin fee of $175 PP, under 120 days: 100% cancellation fee unless replaced. Refund calculations are based on the principle that a canceling participant will not increase the cost for others. All cancellations are subject to an administrative fee of $175, which EC will deduct from the deposit. If a participant that is sharing a room cancels and another roommate cannot be found, in addition to other costs that cannot be recouped, the canceling roommate may also be liable for the supplement for a private room of the roommate remaining on the tour. The People Cycling ride registration and membership fee is not refundable unless the entire tour is canceled. You are highly encouraged to purchase trip cancellation, medical and travel insurance. The itinerary and menus are subject to change depending on availability and size of group.

Tour includes: 

• 10  nights accommodation in boutique 3-5 * hotels 

• Meals outlined on itinerary: (10) B=breakfast, (10) L=lunch, (4) D=dinner)

• Private transportation and luggage transfer on comfortable vans, Mercedes Benz Sprinter

• Light snacks, fruit, energy bars, water and electrolyte powder in the van for the rides

• Entrance fee at Huife Hot Springs, National Parks and all activities according to the itinerary.

• English speaking cycling guide

• Basic spare parts and inner tubes , one water bottle

• Emergency vehicle support 

• TCX or GPX files for each day’s route, Map of the area 

• Not included: flights, bike hire, medical/travel/cancellation insurance which is strongly recommended, taxis, tips/gratuities, pre/post tour accommodations, laundry, alcohol, transfers and activities not mentioned above,
  
  

Bike Rentals
Road bike   Giant Contend 18-speed Road Bike, ALUXX-Grade Aluminum frame 

Shimano Tiagra, Crankset (50/34) and cassette (11-34) - $ 320

Hybrid bikes   Kona Dew 606, Aluminum Butted frame

Shimano Altus, Triple Crankset (48/38/28) and 8 speed cassette (11-34) - $ 320

E-bikes     Oxford Freeway E-touring bikes and 500Wh battery  - $ 350

All rentals include a helmet

Weather
March in the Lakes and Volcano district offers cool, crisp mornings and pleasant afternoons. Daytime highs anticipated in the mid-60s to low 70s, though mornings can start in high 40s; perfect for cycling but requiring attention to layering. Rain is common in foothills of the mountains; participants should come prepared with high-quality rain jackets and be ready to ride in variable conditions. Anticipate mixed sun and clouds with moderate-to-high UV levels

Arrivals, pre and post tour options:
The tour starts with a morning transfer from Temuco Airport (ZCO) to Pucon at mid-day.
It is highly recommended that you fly into Santiago (SCL) at least a day in advance and take the morning  flight to Temuco (ZCO) on March 19, 2027. We are happy to assist  in the booking of a hotel (approx $135) within walking distance from Metropolitan Park from where you can hike to Santiago’s highpoint for a panoramic city view.. With the subway close, you can easily explore downtown. Santiago airport (ZCO) transfers to/from hotel are approx $40

The tour ends with a morning transfer to Puerto Montt Airport (PMC).  From there you can fly to Santiago and onwards home

EcoTours Chile is offering a five day (either pre or post-ride depending on demand) trekking adventure of the famed W Trek in Torres del Paine National Park starting in Puerto Natales in southern Patagonia

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