Current as of: March 29, 2024 - 00:00

MAP

Cycling the Lake District of Chile & Argentina Trip Notes

  • Ways to Travel: Guided Group, Private Group Adventures
  • Destination: Argentina, Chile
  • Programmes: Cycling
  • Activity Level:

    4 out of 7 - Moderate / Challenging

  • 13 Days: Land Only
  • Ages: 16+
  • Trip Code: MAP
  • Carbon Footprint: 46kg CO2e

Trip Overview

Ride through the beautiful Lake District of Chile and Argentina

Discover a beautiful and fertile land at the northern gateway to Patagonia – a magical escape of active volcanoes, turquoise rivers, gigantic lakes and ancient native forests. See Andean condors swoop from the cordillera foothills as we cycle on some of the most scenic paved routes in South America. We’ll also gain cultural insight into both Chile and Argentina, including the European influences and indigenous customs that have shaped the region.

Offering a fantastic mix of paved roads and off-road gravel tracks, this two-country cycling route allows you to cross the Andes twice in spectacular fashion. Along with the challenging bike ascents and catamaran rides across Todos los Santos Lake, you’ll also enjoy staying at a charming ecolodge in Conguillo National Park.

At a Glance

  • 12 nights in hotels, all en suite
  • Nine days cycling with full vehicle support
  • 74 percent paved, 26 percent unpaved tracks
  • Routes mainly follow quiet roads
  • E-bikes available for an additional cost

Highlights

  • 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

Is This Trip for You?

This trip is classified Road and Activity Level 4 (Moderate/Challenging). For more on our trip gradings, visit our Activity Level Guidelines page.

  • Average daily distance: 25mi (40km)
  • Number of cycling days: Nine
  • Vehicle support: 100 percent
  • Total distance covered: Approximately 242mi (389km)
  • Some cycling experience and good fitness levels are recommended

Please note: Between Peulla and Puerto Blest, there is a section of the ride where our vehicle cannot take the same route; however, vehicle access is possible in an emergency.

Terrain and route

  • Approximately 72 percent paved, 28 percent unpaved roads
  • Some large elevation gains
  • Mixed cycling terrain
  • Variable weather conditions
  • Some remote locations

Most of the roads are in good condition, although there are occasional potholes and poorer conditions in some short sections. Come prepared to cycle on unpaved gravel/dirt roads.

The Andes crossing day from Chile to Argentina is the toughest cycling day on the tour as the unpaved road between the lakes involves a long climb up to the border crossing, which is potentially on rough terrain depending on recent weather.

The roads are generally free of heavy traffic until we reach towns, where we are more likely to encounter other vehicles. The traffic there will be worse during high seasons.

Note – Changes in local cycle route or distance may be necessary should our cycle team determine safety concerns due to increased commercial traffic and/or deteriorating road conditions pertaining to our originally advertised routes. 

Group

Our guides are local cycling tour leaders and experienced in working with cycling groups. They have good English and are very knowledgeable about the region.

Adult min age: 16

Min group size: 4

Max group size: 16

Itinerary

2022 MAP

Land Only

  • Start City: Puerto Varas
  • End City: Temuco

Land Only Itinerary

Day 1
Start Puerto Varas

Our journey begins in Puerto Varas, nicknamed the City of Roses. We’ll gather at the hotel for the first time this evening, enjoying a welcome briefing with our tour leader, bike fitting and welcome dinner.   This is an excellent chance to get to know your fellow travellers. There’s no cycling today, so take time to rest your legs before our two-wheel adventure begins in earnest tomorrow.

Accommodation: Casa Kalfu Hotel (or similar)

Meals included: Dinner

Day 2
Cycle around the edge of Lago Llanquihue to Frutillar

Our Lake District cycling adventure starts in scenic fashion as we navigate around the shore of Lago Llanquihue (the third biggest lake in South America) and stretch our legs for the more challenging days ahead.

From the lakeside road, we enjoy spectacular views of the volcanoes and the Andean range that lie to the east. Volcanoes Osorno, Puntiagudo, Tronador, Puyehue and Calbuco are all visible on a clear day. We’ll cycle to the lakeside village of Frutillar, a German-influenced settlement home to the modern Teatro del Lago theatre. The ride ends here; after lunch we’ll transfer back to Puerto Varas.

Today’s ride will be mostly paved: 18mi (29km) paved and 3.1mi (5km) unpaved.

Accommodation: Casa Kalfu Hotel (or similar)

Distance covered: 21mi (34km)

Ascent: 1,270ft (387m)

Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch

Day 3
Cycle from Puerto Varas to Petrohue; boat ride on the emerald waters of Todos los Santos Lake

We follow the shoreline of Lago Llanquihue once more today but in an easterly direction past Ensenada, straight towards the imposing Calbuco and Osorno volcanoes. Our journey from here across the mountain range takes us into more remote and spectacular environments.

We cycle onwards, following the banks of the emerald-coloured Rio Petrohue towards the Saltos de Petrohue waterfalls. Upon reaching Lago Todos los Santos, we are greeted by a beautiful view and we’ll swap our mode of transport and board a private catamaran ferry. Crossing the lake is a peaceful experience as we keep our eyes peeled for Andean condors overhead (journey time approximately 1hr 30min to two hours).

Today’s ride will all be paved. It will consist of approximately 28mi (45km) on flat terrain and a climb for the last 9.3mi (15km).

Accommodation: Hotel Natura (or similar)

Distance covered: 37mi (60km)

Ascent: 2,136ft (651m)

Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch

Day 4
Begin the Andes crossing to Argentina; lake crossing and some tough cycling sections to arrive at Puerto Blest

After breakfast, we start cycling towards the Argentinian border, which involves riding 12.4mi (20km) with a steady incline before a challenging climb (approximately 2,297ft/700m over 4.7mi/7.5km) to reach the frontier. There is then a short descent into Puerto Frias.

Depending on how the weather has been in the preceding days, the unpaved mountain roads can either be well compacted or sometimes loose and dusty. The final leg of today’s unforgettable journey across the Andes is a short ferry crossing on Lago Frias followed by a 1.9mi (3km) ride to your hotel in Puerto Blest.

Today is the most challenging day with 19.3mi (31km) unpaved. The border crossing involves a long steep climb on gravel followed by a fast downhill.

Accommodation: Hotel Puerto Blest (or similar)

Distance covered: 19mi (31km)

Ascent: 3,228ft (984m)

Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch

Day 5
Ferry across Lago Nahuel Huapi to Puerto Panuelo; cycle to Bariloche

Puerto Blest is on the westernmost point of Lago Nahuel Huapi and from here we board a catamaran to Puerto Pañuelo. Instead of cycling directly towards Bariloche, we take a scenic route on a paved road that loops via Punto Panoramico, a viewpoint with panoramas of the Argentinian Lake District. As we approach Bariloche, we board the bus for a transfer (approximately 20 minutes), linking up with the lakeside main road.

Today’s ride will be 9.3mi (15km) paved and 5.6mi (9km) unpaved.

Accommodation: Alma del Lago Suites & SPA (or similar)

Distance covered: 15mi (24km)

Ascent: 1,562ft (476m)

Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch

Day 6
Free day; explore Bariloche and ascend the nearby viewpoint of Cerro Campanario

After several days of travelling, today is a free day allowing a chance to relax. You may wish to look around the centre of Bariloche, a hub for ski and adventure sports with numerous chocolate shops.

There are plenty of adventurous activities available, such as guided stand-up rafting on Rio Limay or an independent trek up Mount Campanario to enjoy beautiful views from the summit.

Accommodation: Alma del Lago Suites & SPA (or similar)

Meals included: Breakfast

Day 7
Villa Angostura, cycle the first part of the Seven Lakes Route and on to Villa Traful

Departing Bariloche, we transfer (approximately 1 hour) along a busy portion of the famous Patagonian Highway 40 bordering Nahuel Haupi Lake up to Villa La Angostura; beyond the town we start cycling along the first part of the “Seven Lakes Route” (Camino de los Siete Lagos).  From here we will first cycle paved road and then along gravel road along the shores of Traful lake, challenging ourselves to summit the Portezuelo Pass.  Today our destination is the small village of Villa Traful.

Today’s ride will be 13mi (21km) paved and 14.9mi (24km) unpaved.

Accommodation: Hotel Alto Traful (or similar)

Distance covered: 28mi (45km)

Ascent: 3,002ft (915m)

Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch

Day 8
Short transfer to start point; cycle the second part of Seven Lakes Route to San Martin de los Andes

We begin the day with a transfer (approximately 50 minutes) to our starting point for our second day cycling along the “Seven Lakes Route” (Camino de los Siete Lagos). This is a scenic route that winds northwards past lakes and forests, connecting the alpine towns of Villa La Angostura and San Martin de los Andes. Depending upon the exact start point, today involves us riding around 39.1mi (63km) through spectacular and rewarding landscapes. We will break up the ride with a lunch stop and should therefore arrive in San Martin de los Andes in the afternoon. Entering the picturesque small town involves a wonderful approach along the shore of Lago Lacar.

Today will be all paved and 39mi (63km) in total; the last 10.6mi (17km) is a fast downhill section.

Accommodation: Hosteria Monte Verde / Le Village Hotel (or similar)

Distance covered: 39mi (63km)

Ascent: 2,812ft (857m)

Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch

Day 9
Transfer to Rahue village; cycle along the Alumine River; transfer to Villa Pehuenia

After breakfast, we take a transfer (approximately two hours) to Rahue village. From here, we will start cycling alongside the Alumine River on what is known as La Ruta del Pehuen, named for the monkey puzzle forests in the area. We also pass many Mapuche houses and farms. After today’s ride we transfer to the small village of Villa Pehuenia. The next two nights are spent in the beautiful Posada La Escondida, by the shores of Alumine Lake.

Today’s ride will be 19.3mi (31km) paved and 9.3mi (15km) unpaved gravel.

Accommodation: Posada La Escondida (or similar)

Distance covered: 29mi (46km)

Ascent: 1,598ft (487m)

Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch

Day 10
Free day in Villa Pehuenia

Today is at leisure for you to choose from doing organised activities or resting. Your tour leader can advise which local agencies to use depending on what you would like to do.

Options include a popular kayak excursion on the crystalline waters of Alumine Lake or take a 4×4 up Batea Mahuida Volcano and enjoy the mountain views on a short hike to the crater lagoon.

Accommodation: Posada La Escondida (or similar)

Meals included: Breakfast

Day 11
Cycle to Icalma Village in Chile; short transfer to Melipeuco; cycle the lunar landscape of Conguillio National Park

After breakfast, we pedal goodbye to Argentina and cross back into Chile via the Icalma International Pass. Once we clear immigration, we stop for lunch in Icalma Village. After lunch we transfer (approximately 45 minutes) to the Mapuche town of Melipeuco for any last-minute provisions before cycling a lovely stretch of paved road towards Conguillio National Park. From the park entrance we cycle for 3.7mi (6km) on an unpaved road until we reach our charming accommodation.

The scenes we encounter today are vastly different from the rest of the tour. Clouds rise from surrounding valleys and quickly change form while passing over the volcanic lava. Llaima Volcano (10,253ft/3,125m) dominates the skyline and we spend the night in a remote ecolodge. The property restricts energy use as part of its self-sufficiency, meaning electricity and hot water are not available during the night.

Today’s ride will be mostly paved:  16.8mi (27km) paved and 5mi (8km) unpaved gravel.

Accommodation: La Baita Conguillio Ecolodge (or similar)

Distance covered: 22mi (35km)

Ascent: 2,474ft (754m)

Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch

Day 12
Ride through Conguillio National Park

It is our last day of cycling today as we continue riding further within Conguillio National Park and see several beautiful lagoons (Laguna Arco Iris, Laguna Verde) and Conguillio Lake. We will also visit the interpretation centre to learn more about the formation of the park. (Please note, the centre is sometimes closed during our visit).

We then walk for an hour through native forest to see ancient monkey puzzle trees. Tonight will be the last evening together with group and staff; the perfect opportunity to look back over the fantastic journey while enjoying a meal and drinks.

Today will be a loop ride of 16.8mi (27km), all on unpaved gravel. The way out will be mostly uphill and the return will be mostly downhill.

Accommodation: La Baita Conguillio Ecolodge (or similar)

Distance covered: 17mi (27km)

Ascent: 1,227ft (374m)

Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 13
End Temuco Airport

Our adventure ends with a transfer from Conguillio National Park to Temuco airport. This transfer is timed to coincide with a chosen route to London, UK, via Santiago. Customers not taking this chosen route are welcome to join the transfer, although we recommend checking the timings with your sales representative before making your travel arrangements.

Meals included: Breakfast

Ascents, descents and distances

All ascents, descents and distances listed above have been measured by our local partners or tour leaders, in many cases with satellite-based mapping software. Please note, different GPS measuring devices can give differing results, particularly on winding paths or in mountainous terrain. Measurements stated throughout these trips notes are given to help you understand the types of terrain and distances you will encounter. Timings stated will vary depending on the pace of your group.

Accommodation

Hotels

We spend 12 nights in a range of hotels, all with and included breakfasts. Accommodation has been chosen to suit our group size and requirements. They are all cyclist friendly and strategically located for the best cycling route possible around the Lake District.

Worth Knowing

  • Day 8 – Jan/Feb 2024 departures will be accommodated at Le Village Hotel, in San Martin de los Andes.
  • We will provide twin rooms (2 beds) for non-couples and whilst we cannot always guarantee, double rooms (1 shared bed, as available) for couples. Please request preferred room type at the time of booking.
  • We can arrange single rooms throughout the trip for a supplement (subject to availability). Please ask your sales representative for details.

Single supplement from USD 1,035

Food & Drink

All breakfasts, nine lunches and one dinner included.

Hotel breakfasts are normally buffet-style, and lunches will either be at convenient restaurant stops during our rides or packed lunches. There is a variety of good-quality food in the hotels and local restaurants for the evening meals not included in the price of the trip.

Chile and Argentina traditionally have a lot of meat dishes in their cuisine; however, vegetarians and vegans can be well catered for on this holiday. Please inform us before departure of any dietary requests so our local team can be well prepared.

Transport

We have a support vehicle assisting our rides each day so you don’t need to carry anything while riding and you’ll have easy access to the vehicle at drinks stops. If you want to opt out of any rides or sections then you can board the bus. The itinerary is designed so most days involve a combination of cycling and road transfers – this is so we can cover the required distances and ensures we are cycling the most appealing sections that are applicable to the difficulty grading of the trip.

Weather & Seasonality

Departures are organised to take place between October and March to take advantage of the longer, warmer days of summer. During these months, temperatures in Santiago de Chile exceed 30C (86F), while in Puerto Montt and the Lake District region they are more likely to be around 20C (68F). The weather in this part of the world is very changeable and you should come prepared for some rain showers.

Joining Instructions

Key information

Start hotel: Casa Kalfu Hotel, Pje. Tronador 1134, 5550728 Puerto Varas, Los Lagos
Phone: +56 65 275 1261
Recommended arrival time: You can arrive at any time today. There will be a welcome briefing in the evening, but if you miss it the leader will update you separately
Airport: Puerto Montt Airport (PMC)

Getting to the start hotel

The start hotel is approximately 30 minutes’ drive from the airport. Your options for this journey are:

Take an Exodus transfer

Exodus provides one group arrival transfer from the airport, which is timed to coincide with the arrival of a chosen flight from London, UK. You may join this transfer at no extra cost, provided you can be at the airport before the transfer leaves. Speak to your sales representative for the group arrival transfer times or to arrange a private transfer, at an additional charge.

Make your own way

You can reach the start hotel relatively easily by taxi, which should cost approximately US$10-US$15. On arrival at the hotel, please make the reception staff aware that you are part of an Exodus group and they will have more details on meeting with your leader and group.

If you would like further information on joining this trip, please speak to your sales representative.

Catching your return flight

There’s a group departure transfer to Temuco Airport (ZCO) for customers who Exodus booked onto a chosen return journey to London, UK. Please speak to your sales representative if you wish to join. If the group departure transfer does not suit your flight time, speak to your sales representative to arrange an alternative transfer.

Customers taking the return to London, UK: Please note, the tour leader will not join the flight from Temuco to Santiago at the end of the tour. Those on the return journey will fly from Temuco to Santiago and depart Santiago for London, UK, on the same day, While this is our planned itinerary, occasionally an overnight in Santiago is required due to flight changes.

Full joining instructions including local emergency numbers will be sent to you as part of our Final Joining Instructions. If you do not receive these at least a week before departure, or require them earlier please contact our office or your travel agent.

Location start: Puerto Varas
Location end: Temuco

What To Take

Essential Equipment

  • Water bottle(s)
  • Waterproof jacket
  • High-factor sunscreen
  • Sun hat
  • Photocopy of passport (page showing name and number)

Just in case you experience any issues with your main luggage, we strongly recommend packing a set of your cycling clothes in your carry-on bags.

Optional Equipment

  • Walking shoes
  • Waterproof trousers

Equipment Hire

Included standard bike
The standard bikes for this trip are Specialized Rockhopper Elite, Giant Fathom 2 and Giant Talon.

We will take your height at the time of booking to reserve equipment. If you have a preferred bike size, please request when booking.

E-bike upgrade
Specialized Turbo Vado 3.00 (2022 model) e-bikes are available on this trip; prices start at £390/US$550/740 Canadian dollars. Speak to your sales representative for more information.

Bringing your own bike
If you’d prefer to bring your own bike, please advise us at the time of booking and you will receive a discount on the price of the trip. However, you will be responsible for any extra baggage charges; assembling and disassembling your bike; and bringing along spare parts and any tools specific to it. You should also ensure you have adequate insurance to cover loss, damage or theft.

Accessories and clothing

Bringing equipment from home
You’re welcome to bring your own equipment, such as SPD pedals or clipless pedals, your own saddle (excluding the seat post), or gel saddle cover for the hire bikes. Your leader will help you fit these when bikes are distributed.

Accessories Note – please advise your sales representative if you plan to bring additional accessories (e.g. end bars, bike computers, front bags, under seat bags, etc…). Knowing this in advance will help our local team speed up the bike fitting for the entire group.

Helmets
Helmets are mandatory for everyone on a guided Exodus cycling trip. You must bring your own as, following best safety practice, they are not available for hire.

Cycling clothing
For all cycling trips we recommend:

  • Padded cycling shorts: For destinations with more modest cultures, we also recommend loose ‘over-shorts’ for riding or rest stops
  • Eyewear: Either sunglasses or eye protection with clear lenses to protect the eyes while riding
  • Cycling gloves: Especially for riding off-road or on rugged surfaces
  • Cycling shoes: Cycling is more efficient with stiff-soled shoes. We don’t recommend open-toed shoes or sandals
  • Small close-fitting backpack or bum bag (fanny pack): To keep spare clothing or essential items to hand during the ride

Practical Information

Passport

Remember to check the expiration date of your passport if travelling internationally. Many countries require your passport to be valid for at least six months after the date of your scheduled return.

Visa

Argentina

Travellers from the UK, US and EU normally do not need a visa to enter Argentina. Please note, visa requirements often change and it is your responsibility to obtain any required visas for this trip. Therefore, we recommend that you check with the nearest embassy or consulate of your chosen destination(s), including any countries you may be transiting or transferring through.

Some local governments provide guidance on what visas their citizens need. To help, we’ve gathered a selection of useful links below.

Please note, if you are crossing the border into Argentina from Chile on your trip, we will need to know your profession to provide when entering Argentina.

Chile

Travellers from the UK, US and EU normally do not need a visa to enter Chile. Please note, visa requirements often change and it is your responsibility to obtain any required visas for this trip. Therefore, we recommend that you check with the nearest embassy or consulate of your chosen destination(s), including any countries you may be transiting or transferring through.

Some local governments provide guidance on what visas their citizens need. To help, we’ve gathered a selection of useful links below.

Please note, a PDI tourist card will be given to you by migration at Santiago airport, upon arrival to Chile, and asked for upon departure from Chile (please retain this important slip of paper). The PDI certifies that you are a visitor and must be given back to migration upon departure from Chile.

If you are travelling via the USA and are eligible to transit under the Visa Waiver Program, you are required to register in advance for an ESTA (Electronic System for Travel Authorization). There is a US$21 charge, which is only payable online. Please see our website www.exodus.co.uk/usvisa for further information.

Please note, not all nationalities have the same eligibility for travel to or transit via the USA, and you may not be covered by the visa waiver program. Regulations stipulate that any person who has travelled to Iran, Iraq, Libya, North Korea, Somalia, Sudan, Syria or Yemen since March 2011, or have dual nationalities of these countries, may no longer qualify. In addition, if you have travelled to Cuba since 12 January 2021 you will not be eligible for the visa waiver program and should instead apply for a visa.

If you are in doubt of your eligibility, please check the visa requirements with your local US embassy.

To travel to Easter Island it is now compulsory to complete the single entry form to Easter Island (FUI). The form is available from LATAM.com Help Centre and also during online check-in. Customers may also complete it by accessing https://ingresorapanui.interior.gob.cl/

Vaccinations and Health

Argentina

There are no required vaccinations. However, recommended vaccinations include tetanus, hepatitis A, hepatitis B, rabies, typhoid, and yellow fever (strongly recommended if you intend to visit the Iguazu Falls due to a recent outbreak in the Misiones province). Please check all vaccination recommendations with your doctor or travel clinic.

Bilharzia is known to occur in some lakes or rivers in Argentina; follow advice from your guide or leader locally before venturing for a swim.

Dengue and zika, both mosquito‐borne viral diseases, are known risks in Argentina. There is currently no vaccine or prophylaxis available; therefore, the best form of prevention is to take the usual precautions to avoid mosquito bites.

Chile

There are no required vaccinations. However, you may want to consider vaccinations for tetanus, hepatitis A, hepatitis B, rabies and typhoid.

Dengue fever, a tropical viral disease spread by daytime biting mosquitoes, is a known risk in places visited. There is currently no vaccine or prophylaxis available, so we recommend you take the usual precautions to avoid mosquito bites.

We are advised that there is no risk of malaria on this trip.

The Travel Health Pro website recommends to have a rabies vaccination on this trip, as cycling is considered a higher risk activity.

Zika fever is a mosquito‐borne viral disease and a known risk in places visited on this trip. There is currently no vaccine or prophylaxis available, we therefore strongly recommend you take the usual precautions to avoid mosquito bites. 

Local Time

Argentina's time zone: America/Argentina/Buenos_Aires (UTC -03:00)

Chile's time zone: America/Santiago (UTC -03:00)

Electricity

Argentina's electricity: Plug types C (two round pins) and I (three flat pins) – 220V, 50Hz

Chile's electricity: Plug types C (two round pins) and L (three round pins in a row) – 220V, 50Hz

Money

Argentina's currency: Argentine peso (ARS)

Chile's currency: Chilean peso (CLP)

ATM Availability

Chilean Pesos are the national currency of Chile, and Argentinean Pesos in Argentina – therefore these are what you will require for spending money.

ATMs are available in Santiago, Puerto Montt, Puerto Varas, Bariloche, San Martin and Temuco. If planning to use your ATM or credit card overseas, as opposed to exchanging currency, then you should always inform your bank in advance to prevent problems with access.

 Note – while in Argentina, we recommend exchanging US Dollars (USD) or using your credit card to get a “better than official rate of exchange” commonly referred to as the Blue Rate, as noted in the “Extras Expenses & Spending Money” section below.

Extra Expenses & Spending Money

Credit Cards – Visa/Mastercard are the most widely accepted cards and the most convenient option to use along the entire trip (restaruants, tourist shops, etc…).  In Chile using credit cards will get you the “official bank rate of exchange”.  Currently in Argentina, using foreign issued credit cards will get you the special “Tourist” exchange rate, which is higher than the “official bank rate of exchange”, and slightly less than the non-official “Blue” exchange rate used for USD (this special Tourist credit card rate is subject to change at any time at the discretion of the credit card companies).

Average meal prices in Argentina equate to about US$10-20 and in Chile slightly more in general US$20-30. The price of a beer in both countries is approx. US$3-4.

Cash – For spending money we recommend US Dollars cash, since GBP and Euros are more difficult to exchange, and the rates are not as good.  Large, clean notes of $50 and $100 USD are more widely accepted than smaller denominations. It is always wise to have some local currency for cafes, bars, snacks, incidentals etc. Your tour leader will give you more information on exchanging currency as you go along but do bear in mind that exchange facilities/hours can be limited particularly at the times you’ll arrive or depart.  Please ensure that you do not have any torn or damaged bank notes to exchange, as these are often not accepted.

Note – In Argentina large denomination US Dollars can be exchanged at the “Blue” rate, which considerably higher than the official bank rate of exchange – clean USD $50 and $100 notes are preferred (no tears or marks).  The “Blue”rate is subject to change at any time at the discretion of the Argentine government.  Your tour leader will give recommendations and assist group members in getting the best exchange rate in a safe way.

Optional Excursions

Prices given are correct at the time of writing but can fluctuate, the activities are also dependent upon availability.

  • Rafting on Rio Limay in Bariloche: Approximately US$70
  • Lake Alumine Kayaking: Approximately USD$20
  • Batea Mahuida Volcano drive & Crater walk: Approximately US$70 (Mapuche community fee not included)

Tipping

Our local staff are paid well and fairly for their work with Exodus. Although tipping is entirely discretionary, it is customary in this part of the world and as such we recommend an allowance of US$5 per day for your cycling leader plus US$2-US$3 each for the driver and assistant leader. The team may ask for a kitty at the start of the trip to cover tipping for hotel porters etc.

People, Places & Planet

 

We work hard to create trips that have a positive impact on the people and places we visit and look after the planet we explore. Learn more about our sustainable travel ethos and practice here and find out about the work of the Exodus Travels Foundation here.

Some sustainable travel highlights of this trip include:

People

How this trip helps improve life for local communities.

  • Local guides keep you well informed about local traditions and cultural-social sensitivities.
  • This trip brings income and opportunity to the destination community through the inclusion of locally owned hotels, restaurants, and other enterprises, and by championing locally produced food wherever possible. The accommodation throughout this trip is locally owned.
  • Guests are advised of craft fairs in Bariloche and Pucon which support the local communities.
  • Read more about our other initiatives here.

Places

How this trip helps protect and conserve local landscapes and nature.

  • By travelling in a small group we ‘tread lightly’ to minimise our impact on local resources and the environment.
  • We work with our partners on the ground to proactively reduce waste; this includes eliminating all single-use plastic water bottles by providing refills for reusable bottles.
  • The payment of entrance fees to natural reserves generates income which is used for upkeep and development of these important sites. On this trip the parks visited include Parque Nacional Nahuel Huapi (Argentina) and Parque Nacional Conguillio (Chile).
  • Our guides enforce a strict ‘Leave no trace’ policy in National Parks, which involves ensuring that no litter is left behind and that flora and fauna are left undisturbed by our tours.
  • We use an Ecolodge La Baita Conguillio where electricity is generator through water and sun power. The lodge also sorts their rubbish into organic and recyclable waste. Food served is organic seasonable produce.
  • When we have picnics we have reusable tableware.
  • We rewild 100 square metres per passenger to compensate for all trip and flight emissions.
  • Read about our commitment to nature protection and restoration here, including our rewilding commitment for every customer who travels with us.

Planet

How we seek to keep the carbon footprint of this trip low.

  • Accommodation and restaurants in the itinerary use locally sourced food which has not been transported long distances.
  • Cycling trips like this have very little detrimental impact on the environment and the locals, as it is a quiet, low impact activity requiring comparatively few resources to support
  • Our local partners are members of the National Parks Association and their annual fees contribute to reforestation and protection of the local parks.
  • Read about our climate action here, including our carbon reduction and compensation commitments.

Tips for sustainable travel on this trip

  • Leave no trace: we do all we can to ensure we leave no rubbish in the wild and beautiful places we visit; we ask that you do the same. If there are no recycling facilities in-country, consider bringing recyclable materials home with you.
  • Plastic waste reduction: please bring a reusable water bottle on this trip, also consider avoiding single-use hotel toiletries, which generate a large amount of plastic waste.

 

 

Important Information

Water safety

This trip includes time by a lake, river or sea, where there may be opportunities to swim. You should always seek local advice before deciding whether to swim. Open-water or wild swim spots should be treated with extreme caution. Information on how to keep yourself safe while swimming is shown here.

Important Information

Your safe participation 

When booking this trip, you should be confident in your ability to participate in all activities described in these Trip Notes. If you have any doubt about your suitability, please call the Exodus office and ask to speak to one of the experts on this itinerary. 

Although our leaders are well trained to deal with different capabilities, if they have any concerns about someone’s ability to safely take part in an activity, or their impact on other people’s enjoyment, we authorise them to take necessary action which, in some circumstances, may involve asking someone to miss that activity. 

By booking this trip you agree to our Booking Conditions which clearly state that our leaders have the authority to do this. In these rare instances we will ensure anyone sitting out is safely provided for and offered alternative options where possible. Refunds will not be provided for activities missed and customers may be liable for additional costs incurred. 

How to Book

  1. Check availability: Go online to check availability, or contact us by phone or email.
  2. Secure your place: You can provisionally hold a place on this trip, usually for between three and seven days.
  3. Complete your booking and payment

When you’re ready to book, go to our website for online bookings, book over the phone or you can complete a booking form (available online or on request by calling us). We accept all major credit and debit cards, or you can pay be cheque.

After booking

You will receive your booking confirmation letter and invoice, which includes extra information and guidance about your travel arrangements.

Full joining instructions, including local emergency numbers and details of how to reach the start point, will be sent to you approximately two to three weeks prior to departure. If you do not receive these at least a week before departure, or require them earlier, please contact our office or your travel agent.

Trip Note validity

These Trip Notes are valid from the “Current as” date on page one. They will occasionally be updated after booking and before departure; if there are any updates that significantly impact the inclusions or itinerary, customers will be written to separately. They will also receive a link to the most up-to-date Trip Notes with their Final Joining Instructions before travelling.

The information in these Trip Notes is given in good faith. Where differences exist between the Trip Notes and our current brochure or website, the Trip Notes supersede the brochure and website. All holidays can be subject to unexpected changes; to enjoy them you should be prepared to be flexible where necessary. Occasionally, it may not be possible to follow the itinerary as planned. This may be for a variety of reasons – climatic, political, physical or other. In these circumstances we will make the best-possible alternative arrangements that maintain the integrity of the original itinerary.

Licensing

Exodus is fully licensed and bonded as a tour operator. We hold Air Traffic Organisers Licence (ATOL) number 2582, issued and bonded with the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA). We are also bonded to the International Air Transport Association (IATA) and we are members of the Federation of Tour Operators (FTO) and ABTA – The Travel Association. This means you can book your Exodus holiday with confidence, as all money paid to us for your trip is fully protected.