- Cycle around much-loved Andean lakes including Lago Llanquihue and Lago Frías
- Ride the scenic Seven Lakes Road cycling route to San Martin
- See ancient monkey puzzle trees in Conguillio National Park
- Enjoy free time in Bariloche to hike or go rafting
- Visit the Batea Mahuida volcano crater in Villa Pehuenia

Cycling the Lake District of Chile & Argentina
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- Cycling the Lake District of Chile & Argentina
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Reviews
Add your own reviewBeautiful trip, great leaders
There is some stunning scenery on this trip, and a good mix of tarmac and gravel riding. Some of the gravel is harder going than others but the team really looked after us – no pressure on pace, and lots of options to hop on the bus or walk a little. Coffee stops and lunch were well paced. I highly recommend this trip which also included a nice amount of chill time in the evenings, and a couple of free days.
Most Inspirational Moment
The conguillio national park. The volcano, gravel tracks, lagoons, monkey puzzle trees, and eco lodge were all amazing!
Thoughts on Group Leader
An amazing team!!
Cycling the Lake District of Chile and Argentina
Thoroughly enjoyable, wonderful scenery, great guides, excellent food and beers (reminiscent of Belgian style). The cycling is physically demanding.
Most Inspirational Moment
Looking out over the Andes from window of Hotel Alma Del Lago in Bariloche. It was the most impressive view from a window that I have ever seen.
Thoughts on Group Leader
Taiel was completely excellent. Skilled, knowledgable, competent and affable.
Advice for Potential Travellers
Take your own bike saddle!
Suggestions
Part of my motive for going on this trip was to see the flora of this part of South America by bycycle. I was not disappointed. If this is your thing, expect a mixture of temperate and subtropical plants. A useful introductory field guide is 'Guia de Identificación de Flores de los Bosques (Andino-Patagónicos)' by Marcela Ferreyra and Javier Puntieri (2020), Editorial Artemisia. This little, pocket book includes photographs of many of the commoner species we saw. There are other books in the series (in Spanish). For a botanical cyclist (or cycling botanist), this is a great trip!
great holiday with fantastic scenery
I did this trip October 2022. It was great fun, with amazing views and interesting cycling. There were 2 long tarmac downhills which were exhilerating. I took the bus rather than do the long steep dirt road section over the border crosing – the other 7 in our group all managed that uphill, but the bus followed the same route. Our guides were great; father and two sons team, as well as the yellow school bus. I was very glad I took walking boots for the two free days, (volcano climb and ski resort climb near Bariloche) although more sure footed people could have done it in trainers. Food was very good; hotels a mix of quirky and luxurious. Do not miss the chocolate factory in Bariloche. We had a very sociable group, lubricated with local wines and beers. Bring your best camera and cycling shorts.
A fabulous trip … we’ll worth the wait
A fabulous cycling trip around the Los Lagos region of Chile & Argentina – gorgeous scenery, plenty of lakes, mountains, rivers, volcanoes, roads, gravel, dust, lava, monkey puzzle trees, sand, sunshine and a couple of border crossings.
Most Inspirational Moment
Difficult to single out a single moment, but cycling amongst volcanoes is something I don’t get to experience at home. The descent into St Martin de Los Andes was wonderful too, especially after all the hard work of the previous few days.
Thoughts on Group Leader
Diego, Karina and Mateus were all great. The group leader, Diego, was very friendly and helpful throughout, as were Karina and Mateus. Diego always stayed behind the group to ensure our safety, and was good company whenever I was at the back .. which was quite often!
Advice for Potential Travellers
The trip was rated moderate to challenging which was a fair rating. There was a lot of climbing but no more than expected based on the ride details in the trip notes. The gravel sections were more gruelling than I’d anticipated, and were quite long (in terms of time if not distance). Many of the early reviews refer to the gravel and now I can see why. However, even though I usually ride on roads rather than rough gravel, I’m so glad I didn’t let the gravel put me off. Yes, it was challenging, but the scenery was fabulous and I had a huge sense of satisfaction when I’d finished, so don’t let it out you off. Also, don’t worry unduly about day 3 … short in distance but lots of climbing. There are options, including being able to put the bike in the truck and walking up the steep bit, which meant I could do the whole day under my own steam.
Suggestions
After a couple of Covid postponements I completed the trip much later than planned but it was well worth the wait.
Beautiful Scenery Tough Gravel Roads
The volcanos and the snow covered mountains are incredible. The guides were great and helpful in every way. But the “gravel” roads were tough, from river stones in Chile to washboard roads in Argentina. The pace on the gravel roads is very slow which meant that we spent lots of hours on arm and butt pounding roads.
Most Inspirational Moment
The views are unbelievable. From the first volcano to the last, I cannot describe. the beauty.
Thoughts on Group Leader
They were fantastic. Even when we gave up riding the gravel roads, they took great care of us.
Advice for Potential Travellers
Just be ready for very rough gravel roads.
A memorable journey
This was our first adventure with Exodus, but we are not new to cycle touring having used several other tour companies in the past. This was also our first time in South America and it was memorable for many reasons – the stunning scenery, the excellent guides and the surprising amount of rough surfaces we had to ride on.
Most Inspirational Moment
Waking up in the mornings and looking out at exceptional views in so many locations. The scenery in this part of the world is part Alps, part Dolomites, part Rocky Mountains, part South Island New Zealand. Then add perfect volcanoes and you've got the Lake District of Chile and Argentina! Riding the valley between Peulla and the border pass was my most breathtaking memory, partly because we saw our first condor, and partly because it was such joy not to be in yesterday's pouring rain! Conguillio National Park is the icing on the cake - so stunning it's hard to describe, and so different from the rest of the experience. On day one, because of the rain, our guides arranged a tour of Teatro del Lago. This should be part of the tour, it was an outstanding experience.
Thoughts on Group Leader
Our group leader was Alejandro and he was exceptional. His side-kicks Yal and Diego were too. The three made such a great team. We've never been disappointed with tour leaders, and these three were top-notch, and so much fun to be around.
Advice for Potential Travellers
Yes, plenty. There was so much good about this tour from the leaders to the scenery to the hotels to the food, but if you are a road cyclist then you might be in for a surprise. I know the trip notes say there's 26% of unpaved tracks but that doesn't even begin to describe how rough some of the cycling is. It's more like 30% anyway, and given the time it takes to navigate we reckon we may have spent 50% of our riding time on unpaved surfaces. You need to be prepared for this. There are only two days out of the nine riding days that are entirely spent on paved roads - and they are both heavenly rides, listed as day 7 and day 9 in the trip notes. There are also two days that are entirely unpaved from start to finish, that's day 4 and day 12. Strange there's no mention of this in the trip notes regarding individual days! These days were difficult, and yet they were also the must stunningly beautiful. The advice from our leader to lower your saddle when negotiating steep unpaved downhills with rocks and boulders was extremely helpful and made us feel safer. Quite a bit of walking was happening too. Everyone was in the same boat, but those with off-road experience obviously fared better. There's considerable elevation gain on this tour too. Funny that's not mentioned in the trip notes either. Cycling trip notes with daily distances but without daily elevation gains seems incomplete to us. We made enquiries and eventually got the daily elevations sent to us. Suggest you do the same. They are anywhere from 230 m to 984 m. It is hilly, every day!
Suggestions
Don't be put off by the trip notes for day 4 about the challenging 700 m climb. You can choose to ride up in the hotel pick-up truck that brings along the lunch. You can also choose to walk it, without your bike which will be taken in the truck. We were also give the choice of attempting to ride it and abandoning the bike if necessary and walking - the truck would rescue the bike. So there are options, and people in our group took all of them. The 3 km rocky descent on the other side of the border however has no options as the truck can't cross the border. The bikes we had were Giant, almost new, well maintained, front shocks, disc brakes, very suitable for the terrain. Another piece of advice is to bring a gel seat, and some kind of small handlebar bag for your camera, phone and sunscreen. It's not terrifically hot, but the sun is strong. Don't bother with power bars as the daily snacks are excellent; bananas, chocolate covered peanuts and raisins and more, coffee, tea, always at around 20 km. We also took our toe cages and they were happy to put them on our pedals for us, we were very glad to have them because did I mention that it's hilly?! We are now looking to buy the velcro-strap handlebar mirrors that some people had - these would have been very useful on the main roads; a flashing red rear light would be a good idea too, especially if you have some dark, rainy days; and you might! It was chilly at times, most people wore a Buff in the mornings and long-fingered gloves too. The van will take things as you remove them, no need to cycle with a day pack. Go with your eyes open to these conditions and you will love your Lake District tour.
Cycling in Argentina and Chile Lake District
Overall a good trip with generally good accommodation throughout. Exceptional level of support from the brothers Ti and Yal together with the driver Mathias. There is more ‘down’ time than on previous Exodus trips of all sorts which is something to note. The focus is very much on scenery rather than a different culture which you are likely to get in Asia, for example. Compared with some grade 4 trips that I have done recently, this tends to be on the lower end of the scale (in my view), but please be aware of the amount of cycling on gravel.
Most Inspirational Moment
The first few days cycling were pleasant enough but the first day that provided a satisfying ride was on the '7 Lakes route'. However, cycling into the final National Park, amongst the lava flows and alongside the stunning volcano was without doubt the best day. The final lodge was also in a lovely setting.
Thoughts on Group Leader
As mentioned above, Ti was one of the best leaders that I have had. I am usually at the back of the group and spending time with both Ti and his brother Yal was always interesting and enjoyable.
Advice for Potential Travellers
It is unusual to have one day off let alone two as is the case here, on an Exodus holiday. If you want to do one of the typical trips (water rafting, kayaking, hot springs etc) then you are OK. If you want to walk, then it is more challenging to get the right level / accuracy of information. This is a notable surprise for the Refugio Frey walk which is mentioned in the trip notes. If you do not use WhatsApp, then it is more difficult to get the information on the route, options for days off etc. You will need to spend more time with the leader to obtain this information.
Cycle Lake District of Chile & Argentina : Great trip through stunning scenery
Another terrific Exodus cycle trip comprising a mix of on & off road riding, flat & hilly sections in scenery that is simply beautiful. Enthusiastically led by Tai, ably assisted by his younger brother Yal, & side-kick Mattieu (the quiet one), our group of 16 bonded on the first evening, were buddies by lunch on the second day and firm friends thereafter. Excellent sea food and of course, steaks to be had and at bargain prices in Argentina due to the devaluation of their peso. Chile was more UK priced. Turquoise lakes & snow capped volcanoes were the centrepiece, topped off with the two day stay at the Eco lodge in the Conguillo National Park. We simply did not want to leave.
Most Inspirational Moment
As ever there were so many. Day 1: the view from the plane window as we flew alongside the Andes in the final run into Santiago. Day 2 : The sight of not one but three snow capped volcanoes from the lake shore by our first night's hotel set the tone for the superb scenery to come : a mix of Norwegian fjord, Scottish loch & English Lake with added volcano. Day 4: the first ferry ride and the discovery of an excellent hotel in the wilderness close to the frontier post - we were expecting a youth hostel given the remote location. Day 5: the off road climb to the frontier, and the supportive way in which all those at the top cheered on those further back as they arrived. Plus the rapid downhill that followed. Day 6 : The coastal ride round to Bariloche, passing Tai & Yal's house en route. Day 7 : the largest & tastiest steaks ever at Don Alberto's in Bariloche - not to be missed, plus lunch atop the view point at Cerro Campanario. Day 8: Racing along the downhill section of Route 40 (Argentina's Route 66) into San Martin. Day 10: the impromptu detour to spend the afternoon at the Termas (hot springs) en route to Pucon. Days 11 & 12 riding into and through the landscapes of the Conguillo National Park (volcano on my left, emerald lake on my right, monkey puzzle forest ahead of me - where do I look ?).
Thoughts on Group Leader
With perfect English, Tai & Yal (despite their youth - mid twenties) were experienced, enthusiastic and capable leaders. Tai, in particular, managed well the different personalities on the trip which comprised five couples, three pals and three singles aged from late thirties to early seventies. He made sure everyone was comfortable riding their way depending on fitness, terrain & general inclination. His restaurant & even individual dish recommendations were consistently excellent. He was confident in his role and thus able to flex the itinerary as circumstances (weather or indeed our whims) dictated. As a strong cyclist he readily earned the respect of those who tried to take him on. Fortunately, his skills as a qualified paramedic did not need to be tested.
Advice for Potential Travellers
The November weather was mixed - Take layers so as to be able to cater for hot, cold & in between - plus rain. On some days there was much adding and removing of kit, with Yal or Mati magically on hand at the right moment to deliver to or collect it from you. This is also true off the bike with cool winds from Patagonia belying bright sunshine at times. The road sections are straightforward with drivers polite, separate cycle tracks on larger roads and wide verges to ride on minor ones. Off road sections are not particularly technical (I'm no mountain biker) and, taken at whatever pace you feel comfortable, readily ridden on the new Specialized hard-tail mountain bikes supplied. Food-wise the emphasis is meat and fish with pasta/pizza available but vegetarian food is a bit limited. Good range of beer and wine to be had and we rekindled our love of Pisco Sour developed on last year's Peru trip.
Suggestions
My slowest ride was the final eight miles back to the eco-lodge on the final afternoon. It took well over an hour. Why ? Because I simply didn't want it to end. I was not alone - it was practically a competition to see who could ride the slowest. I guess that's a pretty decent endorsement of the trip overall. If you seek a well led trip with excellent company, good food (& drink), fabulous scenery, and varied (and thus interesting) cycling then sign up.
One bike - two countries.
The snow-clad volcanoes and emerald lakes of the Andes mountains.
Gravel tracks, black lava fields and ancient forests of monkey puzzle trees.
Most Inspirational Moment
Crossing the Andes by bike: not once but twice!
Thoughts on Group Leader
Tai and his younger brother Yal worked tirelessly to support the group. They gave a clear briefing on each day's itinerary and generated Stava maps to show the route. On the road they shepherded us through the traffic and managed to control both those keenest to reach our destination and those more content to just enjoy the scenery and walk the hills. They coped very well with the inevitable problems which occurred: our punctures; occasional falls; late transfers; variable accommodation; wet weather; etc, etc. They were always ready to chat with the group and explain about the local people, their history and culture .
Advice for Potential Travellers
The trip notes are not always updated and itineraries may well change. Our mountain bikes were very good but with limited space for carrying spare kit or a camera. Although the support vehicle was close at hand, you might consider a ruck-sac or handlebar bag useful. Research beforehand. More options are available for your free days than may be advertised. We really enjoyed excursions to Mount Tronador from Bariloche and later to Huerquehue National Park from Pucon. Take a good camera with a wide angle lens as the landscapes are stunning. And it also pays to get up early for the dawn light. Breakfasts are sometimes meagre but expect your waistline to expand: portions for lunch and dinner are huge! ATM's in Argentina restrict you to 4,000 ARS and cost a lot to use. Santander Rio have branches in all the towns we visited. If you have an account, it gives you a much better rate. Spend a few days in Buenos Aires if you have the chance. It's pretty safe and easy to get around. There's some lovely Art Nouveau architecture, a lively café-culture, craft markets at the weekend, fine Opera and bookshops, tango dinner dances and lots of urban art. We would recommend a 5-hour cycle trip: Hidden Graffiti And Urban Art Tour.
Suggestions
If the weather is fine, as it fortunately was for us, cycling in Argentina and Chile is a joy. Traffic is generally respectful and the distances covered are easily manageable in the time. Where the trip notes describe parts of the route as gravel, be prepared for some pretty rough going. In places it was safer to walk. But the best is saved for last: the Parque Nacional Conguillío - with black lava field and forests of monkey-puzzle trees under the brooding Llaima Volcano.
A Volcanic Undertaking
Once again Exodus delivered. Our guides were fantastic, the bikes were well maintained, and the accommodation was for the most part great. The food was also better than some previous trips and only somewhat challenging for a gluten free/vegetarian. Power bars go a long way! Finally, the scenery was picturesque and breathtaking. Lots of lakes and Volanoes.
Most Inspirational Moment
Day 4 of the tour. We completed a 20km cycle on some serious gravel and then my husband and I opted to walk the 7.5km climb over 700 metre ascent versus cycling it. We passed a few people who ended up frustratingly walking their bikes but getting to the top felt like quite an achievement especially with blisters on both feet.
Thoughts on Group Leader
Tai was a very impressive young man who did a fantastic job. His brother Yal was a great support and eventually their dad, Marcello joined us making the group complete. Their obvious bond as a family just made our experience that much better.
Advice for Potential Travellers
A gel saddle wouldn’t go amiss as the gravel was sometimes more like boulders.
Suggestions
The trip notes need to be updated. For anyone interested in seeing southern Chile and western Argentina, I would highly recommend this tour.
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03 Jan 2025 04 Jan 2025
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17 Jan 2025 18 Jan 2025
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31 Jan 2025 01 Feb 2025
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14 Nov 2025 15 Nov 2025
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28 Nov 2025 29 Nov 2025
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30 Nov 2025 29 Nov 2025
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12 Dec 2025 13 Dec 2025
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21 Dec 2025 20 Dec 2025
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02 Jan 2026 03 Jan 2026
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