Bike and Hike Tour Chile: Lake and Volcano District

This seven-day guided bike and hike tour explores Chile's Lake and Volcano District, home to ancient forests, an active summit and seven lakes. Starting in Temuco, you'll ride the almost flat Lonquimay River valley to Malalcahuello, then head into the Andes through the Kütralkura UNESCO Geopark towards the Argentine border, with thermal spa stays to recover.

Lace up your boots to hike Cerro Coloradito among araucaria trees up to 2,000 years old, before the highlight: a guided climb of the active Villarrica volcano to its 2,847 m crater, finishing with a snow slide on the descent. Back in the saddle, loop to Lake Caburgua and the Huife hot springs, then ride the quiet Seven-Lake Route past Lakes Calafquén and Panguipulli towards the Huilo Huilo Biological Reserve. Time with Pewenche and Mapuche communities adds cultural depth.

Highlights:

• Guided climb of the active Villarrica volcano to its 2,847 m crater, with a snow slide descent
• Andes ride through the Kütralkura UNESCO Geopark towards the Argentine border
• Hike among 2,000-year-old araucaria forests with views of four volcanoes
• Riding the quiet Seven-Lake Route past Lakes Calafquén and Panguipulli
• Lake Caburgua and the Huife hot springs
• Encounters with Pewenche and Mapuche communities

Surface and terrain:
Mostly paved roads with some rolling sections and short climbs. The Seven-Lake Route is smooth and quiet with little traffic. The Day 2 Andes ride reaches the Argentine border, with an optional climb to 1,884 m. The Villarrica hike crosses snow and ice.

Weather:
October to April is spring and summer. Expect mild to warm days of around 15-27°C, cooler in the mountains and freezing on Villarrica's snowy summit, with rain possible, particularly in spring. The volcano climb is weather-dependent.

Suitable for:
Fit intermediate riders comfortable with days of up to 95 km who also enjoy hiking. The Villarrica climb needs good fitness (4-5 hours on snow with crampons). Optional e-bikes and route extensions suit a range of abilities.