Road Cycling: Chile Lake & Volcano District

Lakes and Peaks is an eight-day guided road cycling tour through southern Chile's Lake and Volcano District, with Villarrica, Osorno and Lonquimay volcanoes in view for much of the route and hot springs to finish many riding days. Set at a steady pace for experienced cyclists, it combines demanding climbs, long rolling descents and quiet, smooth roads.

From Malalcahuello, ride through the UNESCO Kütralkura Geopark along the Lonquimay River to the Argentine border, then hike Cerro Coloradito before heading to Pucón for a Caburgua Lake and hot springs loop. The 7-Lakes Route leads past Calafquén and Panguipulli to the Huilo-Huilo Biological Reserve, before the German Settlers Route reaches Lake Llanquihue and Puerto Varas. The finale follows the lake to Petrohué Falls in Vicente Pérez Rosales National Park, beneath Osorno Volcano, with an optional climb for those wanting more.

Highlights:

• Riding the quiet 7-Lakes Route past Lakes Calafquén and Panguipulli
• UNESCO Kütralkura Geopark and the Andes ride to the Argentine border
• Petrohué Falls and Osorno Volcano in Vicente Pérez Rosales National Park
• Huilo-Huilo Biological Reserve and German-influenced villages around Lake Llanquihue
• Caburgua Lake, hot springs and Pucón beneath Villarrica Volcano
• Mapuche cultural exchange with Chilean food and wine

Surface and terrain:
Sealed roads throughout, with rolling hills, steady climbs and long descents. The 7-Lakes Route is smooth and quiet with little traffic. The optional Osorno climb gains 1,143 m over 11.7 km.

Weather:
October to April is spring and summer. Expect mild days of around 15 - 25°C, cooler in the mountains and around Puerto Varas, with rain possible at any time in this wet, temperate region.

Suitable for:
Experienced road cyclists comfortable with days of 42 - 95 km, demanding climbs and long descents, who also enjoy a short hike. Ride extensions and the optional Osorno climb suit stronger riders, while an e-road bike upgrade suits those wanting assistance.