How to plan a Chile cycling tour: why Chile’s Lake and Volcano region is a must-visit

Part 1: Why go on a Chile cycling tour in Chile’s Lake District?

Chile is a dream destination for cyclists seeking raw nature, low-traffic roads, and incredible geographic diversity. You can go from the Pacific Ocean to the Andes Mountains in a single cycling tour!

But Chile’s Lake and Volcano region is especially astonishing because it combines some of the country’s most impressive scenery, including towering volcanoes, glacial lakes and monkey puzzle forests! These natural wonders combine with a network of peaceful rural roads, warm local hospitality, and an emerging cycling culture.

Chile’s Lake and Volcano region vs other regions in Chile

Milder climate and longer riding season

Chile’s Lake and Volcano District enjoys a temperate climate with warm summers and mild springs and autumns. This means cyclists can enjoy a longer riding season in Chile, typically from November to April. Find out more below.

In contrast, Patagonia’s unpredictable weather, strong winds, and shorter summer window make planning cycling trips more difficult. Northern Chile, including the Atacama Desert, experiences dry weather but faces extreme temperature shifts and high-altitude challenges that can be tough on riders who are not acclimatised.

Better cycling infrastructure and access to services

Chile’s Lake and Volcano District is increasingly well-equipped for cyclists. Popular hubs like Pucón and Villarrica offer bike hire, well-maintained routes, guided tours and cyclist-friendly accommodation. More on this below.

It is also worth mentioning that this is one of the few regions in Chile that has bike lanes on many roads, unlike other regions that do not have them.

Patagonia is far more remote, and services can be sparse, whilst Northern Chile caters more to hikers and general tourists.

More cultural interaction

Cycling in the Lake District offers meaningful cultural experiences. You pass through traditional Mapuche territories, where local families often welcome visitors with handicrafts, food, and stories about their way of life.

In Northern Chile, indigenous culture is also present, especially in areas like San Pedro de Atacama. However, in Patagonia, communities are more dispersed and interactions tend to be limited.

A variety of terrain

This Southern Chile region also offers a wide variety of cycling terrain, more so than in other areas of Chile. Cyclists can enjoy paved lakeside roads, challenging gravel routes through ancient forests, and technical mountain trails that wind through lava fields and up volcanic slopes.

This variety is harder to find in Patagonia, where cyclists can expect more rugged gravel trails and wind-blasted plains. Northern Chile offers dramatic desert landscapes but lacks the alpine diversity and forested routes that make the Lake District a paradise for road cyclists, gravel riders and mountain bikers alike.

Need more convincing?  Take a look at these videos to get a feel for what you can expect:

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This video highlights more of the off-road trails that can be found in this region:

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Sponsor Message

Sponsored

Are you considering cycling in Chile?

Amity Tours specialises in active tours throughout Chile's Lake and Volcano region, including road, gravel and mountain biking tours.

With over 20 years of experience, they deliver authentic experiences and world-class riding in this special region of Chile.

Interested? Head to the Amity Tours website to see their range of Chile cycling tours.

Part 2: The best areas of Chile’s Lake District for a cycling holiday

Chile’s Lake and Volcano District offers several standout locations for cyclists to consider basing themselves in. Each destination delivers exceptional scenery, delicious local food, and a deep connection to the region’s nature and culture.

Below, we share four of our favourite cycling hubs in the area and some of the rides you can experience in each place. Hover over the map pins to see the names of some of the key places mentioned in this article.

Pucón

Pucón lies in the southern part of Chile’s Lake and Volcano District, at the eastern edge of Lake Villarrica and beneath the dramatic cone of Villarrica Volcano. It is around 800 kilometres south of Santiago and a two-hour drive from Temuco, the region’s main transport hub.

Surrounded by mountains, lakes, and native forests, Pucón is widely regarded as Chile’s adventure capital.  For cyclists, there is an exciting variety of terrain here to explore, including smooth lakeside tarmac, technical gravel and forest trails.

Highlights

• One highlight is Villarrica National Park, where you can ride through ancient Araucaria forests and over hardened lava fields, with panoramic views of the Andes. The volcanic landscape is both challenging and rewarding.
• Cycling around the base of Villarrica, South America’s most active volcano, is a unique experience. You can see glacial peaks, lava flows, and the shimmering waters of Lake Villarrica all in one ride.
• For a more remote and culturally rich ride, head southeast towards Curarrehue. This route follows mixed-surface backroads through Mapuche territory, alongside the Trancura River, and into peaceful farmland framed by mountains. It’s ideal for riders seeking both natural beauty and meaningful local encounters.

Tell us about your bike tour

8-day gravel bike tour in Chile

This itinerary is designed for intermediate to advanced gravel riders. It weaves through lush national parks and across volcanic landscapes surrounding the Villarrica and Llaima volcanoes. You’ll traverse Conguillío and Kutralkura (Chile’s first geopark), pedal beside azure lakes and ancient Araucaria forests, and experience authentic Mapuche culture. Guided rides combine dirt trails and paved roads, while expert support sorts out the logistics.

More information

Puerto Varas

Located in the southern reaches of Chile’s Lake and Volcano District, Puerto Varas sits on the western shore of Llanquihue Lake. The town boasts commanding views of the Osorno and Calbuco volcanoes.

The town is known for its German heritage and alpine architecture because it was founded by German migrants in the 1800s.  It’s an elegant place to stay and a top base for cyclists who enjoy a mix of culture, road cycling, and beautiful scenery.

Highlights

• Road cyclists can tackle the Llanquihue Lake loop, an 80-kilometre ride through picturesque towns like Frutillar and Ensenada. Osorno’s dramatic snow-capped peak is reflected in the lake’s water!
• For those after more elevation, the climb to Osorno Volcano Ski Centre is one of the best paved climbs in Chile! This 12-kilometre climb has an average gradient of 8.5 % on smooth tarmac. Riders can expect sweeping switchbacks and unforgettable views over Todos los Santos Lake.
• Gravel riders can venture into lush rainforest routes, passing waterfalls and quiet rural villages with strong German roots, such as Frutillar, Puerto Octay and Las Cascadas.

Tell us about your bike tour

8 day road cycling tour in Chile

Starting in Temuco, you ride through UNESCO Kütralkura Geopark and the Malalcahuello Reserve, then cycle around Villarrica Volcano via the Conaf‑designated Seven Lakes scenic route.

During the tour, you’ll pass through Mapuche communities, stopping to eat at their restaurants and visiting rukas (traditional Mapuche houses) to learn more about their culture.  We also relax in natural hot springs, and soak up German‑heritage culture in Puerto Varas and Frutillar.

Other highlights include Huilo‑Huilo Biological Reserve, Petrohué Waterfalls and the impressive climb to Osorno Volcano. The tour includes expert guides, support vehicle, top‑quality hotels, meals and cultural experiences.

More information

Huilo Huilo / Neltume

Located at the southern boundary of Chile’s Lake and Volcano District, near the village of Neltume. Huilo Huilo is a private biological reserve that marks the transition into northern Patagonia. This remote, forested region is surrounded by temperate rainforest, waterfalls, and snowy volcanic peaks.

It’s one of the wildest and most enchanting corners of Chile’s Lake and Volcano District: a perfect base for adventurous road cyclists seeking nature, solitude, and a challenge on the bike.

Highlights

The Reserva Biológica Huilo Huilo offers an immersive experience. Dirt roads wind through dense native forest, taking riders past hanging bridges and cascading waterfalls.

You can also climb toward Mocho-Choshuenco volcano, where the terrain changes dramatically. Riders can experience lush forest, volcanic rock and sweeping alpine views.

Nearby gravel routes lead toward Puerto Fuy and Lago Pirihueico, where rides take place beside fjord-like waters.

Tell us about your bike tours

We offer this region as a tailor-made option for cyclists interested in exploring the region. We know the area well and love to share it with others!

Malalcahuello / Corralco

Malalcahuello and Corralco Mountain Resort sit in the northern reaches of Chile’s Lake and Volcano District, within the Araucanía Andina region. The imposing Lonquimay Volcano dominates the landscape; this remote area is known for its wild, untouched landscapes and remote, traffic-free roads.

This part of Southern Chile has been shaped by centuries of volcanic activity. The terrain features ancient Araucaria and Lenga forests, dramatic valleys, and snow-capped peaks. It’s a fantastic base for cyclists who crave big climbs, solitude, and a deep connection with nature. Whether on road, gravel, or trail, the riding here is beautiful and rewarding.

Highlights

One of the highlights is Cuesta Las Raíces, a 23-kilometre climb through forested ridgelines and rugged volcanic terrain.

Gravel riders can venture toward Icalma Lake, near the Argentine border. Or explore the wild trails of the Nalcas–Malalcahuello National Reserve.

Tell us about your bike tours

7-day mountain biking tour in Chile

Starting with a warm‑up ride from Temuco into UNESCO‑listed Kütralkura Geopark and ancient Araucaria forests, the tour continues through Conguillío National Park at the foot of Llaima Volcano and into the Malalcahuello reserve around Lonquimay Volcano. Riders also explore around Caburgua Lake, Ojos del Caburgua and Pucón beneath the active Villarrica Volcano.

More information

We offer two versions for this tour, including a classic MTB tour and one for electric mountain bikes.

Part 3: Tell us about your bestselling cycling tour of Chile’s Lake District

The 8-day gravel bike tour in Chile’s Lake and Volcano District is one of Amity Tours’ most popular cycling trips.

This fully guided and fully supported journey takes you deep into Southern Chile’s most iconic and off-the-beaten-track landscapes.

Designed for riders who want to focus purely on the experience, the tour includes everything from expert guides and vehicle support to handpicked accommodation and meals.

The routes follow remote gravel backroads with limited signage and no mobile signal. This means this isn’t a trip we offer self-guided. With decades of local knowledge and trusted connections, Amity Tours lets you access places few others can reach.

Best for Intermediate to advanced cyclists who want to discover wild, remote Chile on two wheels with full support.

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Key statistics

370 kilometres
5,800 metres of elevation gain

Highlights

• Pedalling under ancient Araucarias in Kütralkura Geopark: You ride through a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve where ancient monkey-puzzle (araucaria) trees tower above you, all framed by views of Lonquimay Volcano. It’s like cycling through a primordial forest steeped in both natural wonder and indigenous Pewenche heritage.
• Crossing the Conguillío Lakes beneath Llaima Volcano: In Conguillío National Park, you pedal past serene volcanic lakes, including Captrén, Conguillío, Arcoiris, and Verde, while Llaima Volcano looms in the background. The pristine landscape feels like stepping into a nature documentary.
• Scenic ride past Villarrica Volcano to hot springs: You cycle along the State Route “Scenic Route of Lakes and Volcanoes,” with the active Villarrica Volcano in view, before ending the day in natural hot springs by the Liucura River. It offers the perfect blend of adrenaline and relaxation.
• Loop ride with three volcanoes and Mapuche culture: On your final full ride, you cycle alongside the Trancura River with panoramic views of Villarrica, Quetrupillán, and Lanín volcanoes. It culminates in a deeply cultural touchpoint, a dinner with a Mapuche family in the village of Quelhue.

Day-by-day breakdown

Day 1: Temuco to Malalcahuello
Arrive in Temuco and transfer to the lovely mountain village of Malalcahuello, set in the Kütralkura Geopark. Meet your guides, set up your gravel bike, and enjoy a warm welcome dinner featuring local cuisine. The volcanic peaks of Lonquimay and Tolhuaca set the backdrop for the days ahead.

Day 2: Lonquimay Volcano Loop
Ride through ancient araucaria forests and scenic valleys under the shadow of Lonquimay Volcano. Tackle the Pino Hachado Pass’s rolling terrain and enjoy sweeping mountain views. A mix of gravel and paved roads takes you through pristine landscapes before returning to Malalcahuello.

Day 3: Malalcahuello to Conguillío National Park
Cycle into Conguillío National Park, known as “Chile’s most beautiful park.” Ride past crystal-clear volcanic lakes, Captrén, Arcoiris, and Verde, while Llaima Volcano towers above. The combination of deep green forest, turquoise waters, and black lava fields makes this a true highlight. You stay in a lakeside eco-lodge.

Day 4: Conguillío to Pucón
Pedal along the “Scenic Route of Lakes and Volcanoes,” crossing rural landscapes dotted with small farms and snow-capped volcanoes. Finish the day in Pucón, Chile’s adventure capital, at the foot of the active Villarrica Volcano. Relax in natural hot springs after the ride.

Day 5: Villarrica Volcano Ride
Cycle through Mapuche territory with constant views of Villarrica Volcano. Pass by sparkling rivers and native forests before reaching the lakeshore of Villarrica. Return to Pucón for the evening, with time to explore the vibrant town.

Day 6: Huilo Huilo Reserve
Ride deep into the Huilo Huilo Biological Reserve, a temperate rainforest alive with waterfalls, hanging moss, and rich biodiversity. The gravel roads here wind through untouched nature and offer glimpses of the Patagonian Andes. Overnight in a unique forest lodge.

Day 7: Trancura River and Three Volcanoes loop
Enjoy a spectacular loop ride along the Trancura River with views of Villarrica, Quetrupillán, and Lanín volcanoes. End the day with a cultural highlight, a traditional Mapuche dinner in the village of Quelhue.

Day 8: Departure
After breakfast, transfer back to Temuco Airport for your onward journey. Say farewell to the Lake & Volcano District, carrying unforgettable memories of gravel adventures, volcano landscapes, and authentic cultural encounters.

More Information

Interested in the Chile cycling tour featured above? Head to Amity Tours’ website for full details, including dates and prices.

Looking for more cycle tours in Chile’s Lake and Volcano District? Amity Tours also offers the following options:

• 7-day EMTB tour of Chile’s Lake and Volcano District
• 7-day hike and bike tour in Chile’s Lake and Volcano District
• 8-day road cycling tour in Chile’s Lake and Volcano District

Sponsor Message

Sponsored

Are you considering cycling in Chile?

Amity Tours specialises in active tours throughout Chile's Lake and Volcano region, including road, gravel and mountain biking tours.

With over 20 years of experience, they deliver authentic experiences and world-class riding in this special region of Chile.

Interested? Head to the Amity Tours website to see their range of Chile cycling tours.

Part 4: Things to know before taking a Chile cycling tour

Practicalities of a Chile cycling tour

What are the best times of year to visit Chile?

The cycling season in Chile’s Lake and Volcano District runs from November to April. These months span spring through to early autumn in the Southern Hemisphere. This period offers the most stable weather, accessible routes, and the most rewarding riding conditions.

• Spring (October–November): Cyclists can expect blooming wildflowers, crystal-clear views, and fresh snow dusting the volcanoes. Trails are quiet and temperatures range from 12°C to 20°C, making it ideal for peaceful rides and striking scenery. Be aware! Some years, it’s difficult for us to operate in early spring (October) due to the snow that remains from winter.
• Summer (December–February): These are the warmest and driest months, with temperatures between 15°C and 28°C. Perfect for high-altitude routes, refreshing post-ride lake dips and enjoying long daylight hours.
• Autumn (March–April): The landscape turns golden with autumn colours. Days are calm and mild, with average temperatures from 10°C to 22°C. This offers riders cooler, comfortable riding conditions and fewer visitors.

Be aware! We suggest avoiding May to August for cycling trips. This is winter in the Southern Hemisphere, with rain, snow, and cold temperatures common, particularly in mountain areas. This makes many cycling routes muddy, icy, or even inaccessible.

Average temperatures can drop as low as 2°C to 10°C, especially in higher altitudes. If you are travelling in this period, consider one of our ski tours instead! The same volcanoes make for world-class backcountry skiing.

Is Chile safe for cyclists to visit?

Chile is generally very safe for cyclists.

You’ll find low-traffic rural roads, courteous local drivers, and no dangerous wildlife along remote routes. The towns are welcoming, and emergency and health services are available in all major urban hubs.

Volcanoes are a natural feature of the landscape, but all activity is closely monitored by Chile’s National Geology and Mining Service (also known as SERNAGEOMIN) If any volcano is active and poses considerable danger, the route will be adjusted. We also receive constant reports from the National Volcano Surveillance Network, which monitors all volcanoes daily to keep the population safe.

At Amity Tours, safety is always a top priority. We provide GPS navigation, radio communication, and full support vehicles with trained local staff to ensure a safe and enjoyable ride from start to finish. You can see updates on all of the volcanoes in the region here. The last eruption was in 2015 by the Villarrica Volcano, and then a few weeks after by the Calbuco Volcano.

What is the accommodation like on our Chile cycling tours?

Accommodation in the Lake and Volcano District is comfortable, welcoming, and often family-run, combining regional charm with modern comfort. Expect eco-lodges, boutique hotels, cosy guesthouses, and mountain lodges are typically located in peaceful settings surrounded by native forest, lakes, or with volcano views.

On Amity Tours trips, every property is handpicked for its quality, hospitality, and authenticity. All rooms are private with en-suite bathrooms, and breakfasts are hearty enough to fuel a long ride.

While most hotels do not have dedicated bike maintenance areas, they will always help store your bike safely. When travelling with us, we take care of all bike logistics, ensuring your bicycle is secure and ready for each day’s ride. Many properties also feature wood-fired hot tubs, fireplaces, and on-site restaurants serving fresh local cuisine, perfect for unwinding after a day in the saddle.

Do you need an organised cycling tour of this region of Chile?

While it’s possible to explore this region independently, there are clear benefits to joining a guided tour:

• All logistics, bike transport, and accommodation are handled for you
• Local bilingual guides who know the terrain, culture, and language
• Access to remote routes and trails you’d likely miss on your own
• Full support vehicle with hydration, snacks, and mechanical assistance

A guided or supported tour allows you to focus on the riding while everything else is taken care of. In a wild and remote part of the world like Chile, this can be invaluable!

For first-time visitors, we believe it’s the best way to enjoy a safe, seamless, and enriching cycling experience in Chile.

Are there bike shops in Chile’s Lake and Volcano District?

In larger towns such as Pucón and Puerto Varas, you’ll find bike shops that offer basic servicing, spare parts, and accessories. These towns are popular cycling hubs and cater well to both road and gravel riders. Shops can assist with adjustments, minor repairs, and in some cases, more complex maintenance.

However, once you leave these towns and head into rural or remote areas, bike support becomes limited or non-existent. For that reason, it’s essential to carry a multitool, mini pump, spare tube or patch kit, and any unique parts specific to your bike.

Be aware! Bike hire is not that common in this region, and it can be hard to find road or gravel bikes.

If you’re joining a guided tour with Amity Tours, high-quality bike rentals are available. Our team also take care of any mechanical issues along the way, even for guests who choose to bring their own bikes.

How long should you spend on a Chile cycling tour?

To fully experience Chile’s Lake and Volcano District, we suggest planning to visit for at least seven to eight days. This allows time to explore a variety of landscapes without rushing, including volcanoes, forests, lakes and rural backroads.

A weekend ride is doable. But it only offers a glimpse of what the Lake and Volcano District has to offer.

Top tip! To make the most of their trip, many guests combine their cycling tour with visits to other iconic parts of Chile, such as Patagonia, the Atacama Desert, or Chile’s wine regions. Adding these destinations before or after the ride can work really well and ensure you see even more of the country for a memorable Chilean adventure.

How do you get to Chile’s Lake and Volcano District?

The easiest way to reach the Lake and Volcano District is by flying from Santiago (SCL), Chile’s main international gateway, to one of two regional airports:

• Temuco (ZCO): Ideal for accessing the northern part of the region, including Malalcahuello, Curacautín, Conguillío National Park and Pucón. The flight takes around 1 hour and 20 minutes.
• Puerto Montt (PMC): Best for exploring the southern areas such as Puerto Varas, Frutillar, and the Osorno Volcano. Flight time from Santiago is approximately 1 hour and 45 minutes.

Both airports are well-connected with daily domestic flights operated by major Chilean airlines. Airport transfers can be arranged in advance, either privately or through your tour provider.

Highway code and travel information

As ever, it’s a good idea to check current travel information before you book and travel. For UK visitors, the UK government travel information pages for Chile are here.

You should also read and follow Chile’s highway code.

Travel vaccinations and insurance

Make sure you have all the recommended travel vaccinations. You should also ensure you have comprehensive travel insurance that covers all the activities you plan on undertaking.

Practical tips for cyclists visiting Chile

What should you pack for cycling in Chile’s Lake and Volcano District?

The weather in this region can change quickly, especially at altitude or near volcanoes. Even in summer, it’s important to be prepared for sun, wind, and rain — sometimes all in the same day.

A lightweight, waterproof rain jacket is essential. Sudden showers, mountain winds, or cooler temperatures can appear without warning, particularly in exposed areas. Choose a jacket that packs down small and fits easily in your jersey pocket or bike bag.

Other useful items include:

• Layered clothing (base layer, jersey, arm/leg warmers)
• Windproof gilet or shell
• Gloves and a buff or neck warmer
• Sunscreen and sunglasses: Beware! UV can be strong at altitude
• Hydration pack or bottles: Some areas have limited water access

Looking for more packing essentials? Don’t miss this useful guide.

Do you need to speak Spanish when cycling in Chile?

In hotels and main tourist areas, many people speak some English. But in smaller towns and rural parts of the Lake and Volcano District, basic Spanish will go a long way.

It can help you ask for directions, locate food or water, and connect with locals. Even if your pronunciation isn’t perfect, locals will appreciate the effort! It can often lead to more rewarding interactions too.

Here are some useful expressions to know:

• Hola: Hello
• Buenos días: Good morning
• Buenas tardes: Good afternoon
• Gracias: Thank you
• Por favor: Please
• ¿Dónde hay una fuente de agua?: Where can I find water?
• ¿Cuánto falta para llegar al pueblo?: How far to the next town?
• Tengo un problema con mi bicicleta: I have a problem with my bike
• ¿Hay una panadería cerca?: Is there a bakery nearby?

What food should you try while cycling in Chile’s Lake and Volcano District?

One of the best parts of cycling in Chile is discovering its local flavours. When you stop in small towns or finish a ride, there are plenty of delicious options to try.

Start with empanadas, a classic Chilean snack. They are usually baked or fried and filled with cheese, meat, or seafood. In rural areas, you might also find humitas (steamed corn cakes), sopaipillas (fried pumpkin bread), and freshly baked pan amasado (handmade bread often served warm).

For something heartier post-ride, look out for casuela (a rustic meat and vegetable stew) or pastel de choclo (corn pie with chicken and beef). And to top it all off, enjoy a pisco sour or locally produced wine as a reward.

How do you navigate while cycling in Chile’s Lake and Volcano District?

Navigation is an important part of any cycling adventure. In Chile’s Lake and Volcano District, it can be a challenge if you are not prepared. Signage in rural and remote areas is often limited or inconsistent.

For that reason, using a GPS navigation app like RideWithGPS is essential. These apps allow you to follow preloaded routes, track your progress, and avoid wrong turns, even when mobile signal is unavailable.

On guided Amity Tours, we provide GPX tracks for each ride, along with detailed briefings.

How can you be culturally respectful when cycling in the Lake and Volcano District?

Much of the Lake and Volcano District is ancestral land of the Mapuche, Chile’s largest Indigenous group. Their deep connection to the land, mountains, forests, and rivers makes this region culturally significant.

As cyclists passing through these landscapes, it’s important to do so with respect and awareness. That means sticking to marked routes, avoiding private or ceremonial spaces, and being mindful of local customs and traditions.

Cyclists on Amity tours have the unique opportunity to connect with the Mapuche, the Indigenous people of south-central Chile. We include a special visit to a Mapuche community, where guests are welcomed into a ruka (traditional house) to share a homemade lunch prepared with local ingredients.

During the meal, our hosts share stories about their customs, traditions, and deep connection to the land. It’s an intimate, respectful exchange that goes beyond sightseeing and gives riders a chance to listen, ask questions, and support the community directly. Many guests also purchase handicrafts or local produce, helping ensure that tourism brings lasting value to these important cultural keepers.

Is Chile an expensive destination for a cycling holiday?

Chile is generally more expensive than many other South American countries, such as Peru, Bolivia, or Colombia, particularly in terms of accommodation, dining, and transport. Prices are often closer to what you might pay in Europe, and can even be higher in remote or high-demand destinations like Patagonia or the Lake and Volcano District.

Compared to much of Asia, Chile will feel more expensive. However, the higher costs often reflect the country’s strong infrastructure, safety, high-quality services, and access to pristine, well-protected natural areas. For cyclists, that means smooth logistics, good roads, and a reliable support network.

Amity Tours are designed to maximise both value and comfort. We focus on small group experiences with high-quality accommodation, expert local guides, delicious meals, and full support. This means you can relax and enjoy the ride without worrying about logistics. Find out more below.

Sponsor Message

Sponsored

Are you considering cycling in Chile?

Amity Tours specialises in active tours throughout Chile's Lake and Volcano region, including road, gravel and mountain biking tours.

With over 20 years of experience, they deliver authentic experiences and world-class riding in this special region of Chile.

Interested? Head to the Amity Tours website to see their range of Chile cycling tours.

Part 5: Tell us more about your Chile cycling tours. What do you offer?

At Amity Tours, we pride ourselves on creating immersive, small-group experiences led by local riders who know and love Chile’s Lake and Volcano District. We’re not the biggest tour company, and we do not aim to be. Instead, we focus on being the most authentic, experienced, and detail-driven in the region.

We were among the first to offer high-end gravel and road cycling tours in Southern Chile (more on that below!), combining world-class routes with a deep respect for nature and local culture. Sustainability is also central to everything we do, and we are proud to be carbon neutral, fully licensed, and operating under Chilean law.

With over 20 years of experience, we’ve welcomed cyclists from around the world, particularly the US and Europe. Most visitors are seeking something truly special: genuine hospitality, exceptional riding, and the freedom to explore remote landscapes with the confidence of expert support.

In short, we love showing others what makes this part of Chile so unique! Here are a few more reasons to ride with us:

Local expertise, global standards

We live and ride here! Our routes are built on decades of local exploration, not downloaded from the internet. We know every climb, shortcut, and scenic detour.

Private access to exclusive routes

Through long-standing partnerships with Mapuche communities and private reserves, we offer riders access to areas no other tour company can reach.

Sustainability at the core

We’re proudly carbon neutral, and every tour directly supports local economies, indigenous culture, and reforestation projects.

Legal, safe, and certified

Amity Tours is fully licensed and insured in Chile. Our guides are bilingual, certified, and trained in mechanical support, local knowledge, and first aid.

Tailored experiences, small groups

Our cycling trips are fully guided, with expert local guides, support vehicles, and all logistics handled so you can simply focus on riding. However, we are currently developing more self-guided options for independent travellers who prefer to ride at their own pace.

With a maximum of ten riders per tour, we offer flexibility, personalised pacing, and time to truly connect with the landscapes and people. We don’t want you to just chase distance and data!

At the moment, we offer one self-guided trip: a 6-day loop around Lake Llanquihue, one of Chile’s most scenic cycling routes with stunning views of Osorno Volcano and the surrounding countryside. This trip includes accommodation, breakfasts, route notes, GPS tracks, and luggage transfers between hotels, but no guide or support vehicle.

Chile cycling tour pioneers

We have been operating adventure tours in Chile’s Lake and Volcano District for 23 years, starting with ski and trekking trips long before the region became a well-known destination. In 2007, we operated our very first road cycling tour for a group of nine riders from New Jersey, USA . We became the first company to develop a road cycling product in Chile, designed 100% for international tourists.

Our ultimate vision was to connect the most beautiful routes between Lonquimay and Cochamó, at a time when only about 50% of the roads were paved. Many sections had to be covered by a van over gravel, which made logistics challenging. This drove us to work directly with the Ministry of Public Works to promote the construction of the “Interlagos Route”, now known as the Scenic Route of Lakes and Volcanoes, complete with viewpoints and bike lanes.

Today, the Lake and Volcano District stands out as the leading cycle tourism destination in the Southern Hemisphere. This is in thanks in large part to Amity Tours, which put it on the map of key international markets through our successful B2B business model.

We also pioneered the development of exclusive routes linking scenic backroads, gravel trails, and national parks, creating a truly unique riding experience between volcanoes and lakes. From the beginning, we set a new benchmark in Chile by offering the same level of service you’d expect from leading European or US operators, including expert local guides, full support vehicles, gourmet local food, and hand-picked accommodations. This combination of early vision, route innovation, and uncompromising quality is what makes us pioneers.

What’s included

• Two professional bilingual local guides (one riding, one driving support vehicle)
• Support vehicle with water, snacks, mechanical assistance, and a ride-along option
• Daily route briefings, GPS files, and route flexibility based on conditions
• Carefully selected boutique hotels and eco-lodges
• Private en-suite rooms and daily breakfasts
• All breakfasts, lunches, and most dinners included
• Meals made with fresh, local ingredients — including Chilean wine or craft beer with dinner
• High-quality gravel, road, or e-bike rentals are available
• Safe bike transport and assembly for guests bringing their own bikes
• Daily mechanical checkups and bike maintenance
• Entry to hot springs, national parks, and cultural experiences
• Luggage transport between hotels
• Airport pickup and drop-off from Temuco (ZCO)

How can you find out more about Amity Tours?

Head to the Amity Tours website for full details about their Lake and Volcano District bike tours.

What’s next?

A huge thanks to Luc Romersa for these detailed insights on cycling in Chile.

Love the idea of gravel roads that snake through Monkey Puzzle trees? Perhaps you like the idea of climbing routes up some of Chile’s most majestic snow-capped peaks? Either way, this South American region is jam-packed with options for adventurous cyclists!

Looking for more Chile cycling holidays? Don’t miss these:

• Guide to cycling in Chile, for more biking in Chile ideas
• Guide to cycling the Carretera Austral in Patagonia, for a legendary Chile cycling holiday

Love the idea of travelling in a way that supports local people? Amity Tours features in our article, the best bike tours for community based tourism