Patagonian Crossing, 14-day Mountain biking tour in the Lake District of Argentina and Chile, from Bariloche

Arrival in Bariloche. Prepare bikes, trip and safety briefing, visit the city and enjoy a great meal at a local eatery.

Scenic mountain biking in the vicinity of Bariloche, on dirt roads and singletrack.

The day starts with a boat ride across the immense Lake Nahuel Huapito Peninsula de Arrayanes (ancient myrtle wood -Luma apiculata- forest) followed by exciting singletrack through this unique forest to a lake side picnic. In
the afternoon, more trails to arrive at the charming Villa La Angostura. In the evening, time to explore the town.

Fun riding in the vicinity of Villa La Angostura with some mild climbs and great views of the lush forest and crystalline lakes. Transfer along the well-known Seven Lakes Road. Spectacular downhill ride into town on the
shores of Lake Lacar. San Martin is a story book village of perfect log houses and beautiful scenery.

Delve into the forest for more great riding to Lago Escondido (Hidden Lake). The trail passes by a Mapuchi community (indigenous inhabitants of south-central Chile and southwestern Argentina) that maintains its
traditional way of life.

Scenic riding in Lanin National Park along Lake Lacar and the beginning of the first Andean crossing. Spend the night near Lake Nonthué in the heart of Patagonia.

Cross into Chile via Hua Hum Pass in the Valdivian rain forest of the Patagonian Andes. A two hour ferryboat ride across Lake Pirehueico allows for pictures and leisurely contemplation of the stunning landscape. In the afternoon, visit Huilo-huilo Reserve, a private protected area near the Choshuenco Volcano, and take a hike to
the wonderful Huilo-huilo Falls.

Traverse from Neltume to Coñaripe, a small village that serves as a meeting place for the many Mapuche communities in the area. Finish the ride at the hot springs of Termas Coñaripe Hotel and a night of luxury.

Pucón is a picturesque town with Lake Villarrica to the North and the impressive Villarrica Volcano to the South.
There are great cafes and restaurants for those wanting a day of leisure. But this is also the center of Chilean adventure tourism, perfect for those who want a chance to play in the water on a rafting excursion or get their
adrenaline fix zip-lining the woods.

Drive to the ski resort on Volcano Villarrica to enjoy an exhilarating downhill ride to the lake. In the afternoon, soak in steaming outdoor hot springs, a short ride from town. Then it is time to prepare for the crossing back into
Argentina.

Transfer to Curarrehue, where the riding begins deep in the Doctor Seuss-like forest of monkey-puzzle trees
(Araucaria araucana), Coihe and Lenga Beech trees. Spectacular views of the surrounding volcanoes abound.

Cross back on a dirt road into Argentina and Lanin National Park via the Mamuil Malal Pass. The highlight of the
day is seeing the majestic Volcano Lanin (12,460 feet) towering over the surrounding landscape.

Pedal mostly downhill from the forests and lakes of the past twelve days towards the drier Andean steppe and the town of Junin de los Andes. The riding has come to an end! Return to Bariloche after a two and a half hour drive.

Continue on to further adventures or enjoy a last steak and red wine before heading back home.
¡Hasta la próxima! (Until next time!)