Cycling the Lake District of Chile & Argentina

Sally Bunning   -  Traveled, January 2024

Good Inspirational, beautiful, very well supported and organised, wonderful lodgings, good healthy food and moderate to challenging for active multi-sport persons. Highly recommend. Most Inspirational Moment Achieving the Andes crossing to puerto blest and cycling camino de Los siete Lagos and in Conguillio national park Thoughts on Group Leader Tai was super professional, very informative, fun to be with, supportive and conscientious and always in a good mood. Advice for Potential Travellers Take good quality hot, wet and cool gear even if like us you are super lucky and don’t have to face torrential rain or strong wind. Prepare to swim in cool unspoilt lakes. Suggestions Super active holiday and lovely group of like minded people, good mid couples and singles.

Source: Tour operator   Submitted: 02/17/2024

Karen Ratcliffe   -  Traveled, January 2023

Beautiful trip, great leaders There is some stunning scenery on this trip, and a good mix of tarmac and gravel riding. Some of the gravel is harder going than others but the team really looked after us – no pressure on pace, and lots of options to hop on the bus or walk a little. Coffee stops and lunch were well paced. I highly recommend this trip which also included a nice amount of chill time in the evenings, and a couple of free days. Most Inspirational Moment The conguillio national park. The volcano, gravel tracks, lagoons, monkey puzzle trees, and eco lodge were all amazing! Thoughts on Group Leader An amazing team!!

Source: Tour operator   Submitted: 01/28/2023

Paul Smith   -  Traveled, November 2023

Cycling the Lake District of Chile and Argentina Thoroughly enjoyable, wonderful scenery, great guides, excellent food and beers (reminiscent of Belgian style). The cycling is physically demanding. Most Inspirational Moment Looking out over the Andes from window of Hotel Alma Del Lago in Bariloche. It was the most impressive view from a window that I have ever seen. Thoughts on Group Leader Taiel was completely excellent. Skilled, knowledgable, competent and affable. Advice for Potential Travellers Take your own bike saddle! Suggestions Part of my motive for going on this trip was to see the flora of this part of South America by bycycle. I was not disappointed. If this is your thing, expect a mixture of temperate and subtropical plants. A useful introductory field guide is 'Guia de Identificación de Flores de los Bosques (Andino-Patagónicos)' by Marcela Ferreyra and Javier Puntieri (2020), Editorial Artemisia. This little, pocket book includes photographs of many of the commoner species we saw. There are other books in the series (in Spanish). For a botanical cyclist (or cycling botanist), this is a great trip!

Source: Tour operator   Submitted: 01/12/2023

Alice Dain   -  Traveled, October 2022

great holiday with fantastic scenery I did this trip October 2022. It was great fun, with amazing views and interesting cycling. There were 2 long tarmac downhills which were exhilerating. I took the bus rather than do the long steep dirt road section over the border crosing – the other 7 in our group all managed that uphill, but the bus followed the same route. Our guides were great; father and two sons team, as well as the yellow school bus. I was very glad I took walking boots for the two free days, (volcano climb and ski resort climb near Bariloche) although more sure footed people could have done it in trainers. Food was very good; hotels a mix of quirky and luxurious. Do not miss the chocolate factory in Bariloche. We had a very sociable group, lubricated with local wines and beers. Bring your best camera and cycling shorts.

Source: Tour operator   Submitted: 01/25/2023

Melinda Pruchnie   -  Traveled, November 2022

A fabulous trip … we’ll worth the wait A fabulous cycling trip around the Los Lagos region of Chile & Argentina – gorgeous scenery, plenty of lakes, mountains, rivers, volcanoes, roads, gravel, dust, lava, monkey puzzle trees, sand, sunshine and a couple of border crossings. Most Inspirational Moment Difficult to single out a single moment, but cycling amongst volcanoes is something I don’t get to experience at home. The descent into St Martin de Los Andes was wonderful too, especially after all the hard work of the previous few days. Thoughts on Group Leader Diego, Karina and Mateus were all great. The group leader, Diego, was very friendly and helpful throughout, as were Karina and Mateus. Diego always stayed behind the group to ensure our safety, and was good company whenever I was at the back .. which was quite often! Advice for Potential Travellers The trip was rated moderate to challenging which was a fair rating. There was a lot of climbing but no more than expected based on the ride details in the trip notes. The gravel sections were more gruelling than I’d anticipated, and were quite long (in terms of time if not distance). Many of the early reviews refer to the gravel and now I can see why. However, even though I usually ride on roads rather than rough gravel, I’m so glad I didn’t let the gravel put me off. Yes, it was challenging, but the scenery was fabulous and I had a huge sense of satisfaction when I’d finished, so don’t let it out you off. Also, don’t worry unduly about day 3 … short in distance but lots of climbing. There are options, including being able to put the bike in the truck and walking up the steep bit, which meant I could do the whole day under my own steam. Suggestions After a couple of Covid postponements I completed the trip much later than planned but it was well worth the wait.

Source: Tour operator   Submitted: 12/10/2022

Kevin Schoenfeld   -  Traveled, October 2022

Beautiful Scenery Tough Gravel Roads The volcanos and the snow covered mountains are incredible. The guides were great and helpful in every way. But the “gravel” roads were tough, from river stones in Chile to washboard roads in Argentina. The pace on the gravel roads is very slow which meant that we spent lots of hours on arm and butt pounding roads. Most Inspirational Moment The views are unbelievable. From the first volcano to the last, I cannot describe. the beauty. Thoughts on Group Leader They were fantastic. Even when we gave up riding the gravel roads, they took great care of us. Advice for Potential Travellers Just be ready for very rough gravel roads.

Source: Tour operator   Submitted: 11/15/2022

Veronica Allan   -  Traveled, January 2020

A memorable journey This was our first adventure with Exodus, but we are not new to cycle touring having used several other tour companies in the past. This was also our first time in South America and it was memorable for many reasons – the stunning scenery, the excellent guides and the surprising amount of rough surfaces we had to ride on. Most Inspirational Moment Waking up in the mornings and looking out at exceptional views in so many locations. The scenery in this part of the world is part Alps, part Dolomites, part Rocky Mountains, part South Island New Zealand. Then add perfect volcanoes and you've got the Lake District of Chile and Argentina! Riding the valley between Peulla and the border pass was my most breathtaking memory, partly because we saw our first condor, and partly because it was such joy not to be in yesterday's pouring rain! Conguillio National Park is the icing on the cake - so stunning it's hard to describe, and so different from the rest of the experience. On day one, because of the rain, our guides arranged a tour of Teatro del Lago. This should be part of the tour, it was an outstanding experience. Thoughts on Group Leader Our group leader was Alejandro and he was exceptional. His side-kicks Yal and Diego were too. The three made such a great team. We've never been disappointed with tour leaders, and these three were top-notch, and so much fun to be around. Advice for Potential Travellers Yes, plenty. There was so much good about this tour from the leaders to the scenery to the hotels to the food, but if you are a road cyclist then you might be in for a surprise. I know the trip notes say there's 26% of unpaved tracks but that doesn't even begin to describe how rough some of the cycling is. It's more like 30% anyway, and given the time it takes to navigate we reckon we may have spent 50% of our riding time on unpaved surfaces. You need to be prepared for this. There are only two days out of the nine riding days that are entirely spent on paved roads - and they are both heavenly rides, listed as day 7 and day 9 in the trip notes. There are also two days that are entirely unpaved from start to finish, that's day 4 and day 12. Strange there's no mention of this in the trip notes regarding individual days! These days were difficult, and yet they were also the must stunningly beautiful. The advice from our leader to lower your saddle when negotiating steep unpaved downhills with rocks and boulders was extremely helpful and made us feel safer. Quite a bit of walking was happening too. Everyone was in the same boat, but those with off-road experience obviously fared better. There's considerable elevation gain on this tour too. Funny that's not mentioned in the trip notes either. Cycling trip notes with daily distances but without daily elevation gains seems incomplete to us. We made enquiries and eventually got the daily elevations sent to us. Suggest you do the same. They are anywhere from 230 m to 984 m. It is hilly, every day! Suggestions Don't be put off by the trip notes for day 4 about the challenging 700 m climb. You can choose to ride up in the hotel pick-up truck that brings along the lunch. You can also choose to walk it, without your bike which will be taken in the truck. We were also give the choice of attempting to ride it and abandoning the bike if necessary and walking - the truck would rescue the bike. So there are options, and people in our group took all of them. The 3 km rocky descent on the other side of the border however has no options as the truck can't cross the border. The bikes we had were Giant, almost new, well maintained, front shocks, disc brakes, very suitable for the terrain. Another piece of advice is to bring a gel seat, and some kind of small handlebar bag for your camera, phone and sunscreen. It's not terrifically hot, but the sun is strong. Don't bother with power bars as the daily snacks are excellent; bananas, chocolate covered peanuts and raisins and more, coffee, tea, always at around 20 km. We also took our toe cages and they were happy to put them on our pedals for us, we were very glad to have them because did I mention that it's hilly?! We are now looking to buy the velcro-strap handlebar mirrors that some people had - these would have been very useful on the main roads; a flashing red rear light would be a good idea too, especially if you have some dark, rainy days; and you might! It was chilly at times, most people wore a Buff in the mornings and long-fingered gloves too. The van will take things as you remove them, no need to cycle with a day pack. Go with your eyes open to these conditions and you will love your Lake District tour.

Source: Tour operator   Submitted: 02/15/2020

Nigel Martin   -  Traveled, November 2020

Cycling in Argentina and Chile Lake District Overall a good trip with generally good accommodation throughout. Exceptional level of support from the brothers Ti and Yal together with the driver Mathias. There is more ‘down’ time than on previous Exodus trips of all sorts which is something to note. The focus is very much on scenery rather than a different culture which you are likely to get in Asia, for example. Compared with some grade 4 trips that I have done recently, this tends to be on the lower end of the scale (in my view), but please be aware of the amount of cycling on gravel. Most Inspirational Moment The first few days cycling were pleasant enough but the first day that provided a satisfying ride was on the '7 Lakes route'. However, cycling into the final National Park, amongst the lava flows and alongside the stunning volcano was without doubt the best day. The final lodge was also in a lovely setting. Thoughts on Group Leader As mentioned above, Ti was one of the best leaders that I have had. I am usually at the back of the group and spending time with both Ti and his brother Yal was always interesting and enjoyable. Advice for Potential Travellers It is unusual to have one day off let alone two as is the case here, on an Exodus holiday. If you want to do one of the typical trips (water rafting, kayaking, hot springs etc) then you are OK. If you want to walk, then it is more challenging to get the right level / accuracy of information. This is a notable surprise for the Refugio Frey walk which is mentioned in the trip notes. If you do not use WhatsApp, then it is more difficult to get the information on the route, options for days off etc. You will need to spend more time with the leader to obtain this information.

Source: Tour operator   Submitted: 01/12/2020

Peter Gomes   -  Traveled, November 2019

Cycle Lake District of Chile & Argentina : Great trip through stunning scenery Another terrific Exodus cycle trip comprising a mix of on & off road riding, flat & hilly sections in scenery that is simply beautiful. Enthusiastically led by Tai, ably assisted by his younger brother Yal, & side-kick Mattieu (the quiet one), our group of 16 bonded on the first evening, were buddies by lunch on the second day and firm friends thereafter. Excellent sea food and of course, steaks to be had and at bargain prices in Argentina due to the devaluation of their peso. Chile was more UK priced. Turquoise lakes & snow capped volcanoes were the centrepiece, topped off with the two day stay at the Eco lodge in the Conguillo National Park. We simply did not want to leave. Most Inspirational Moment As ever there were so many. Day 1: the view from the plane window as we flew alongside the Andes in the final run into Santiago. Day 2 : The sight of not one but three snow capped volcanoes from the lake shore by our first night's hotel set the tone for the superb scenery to come : a mix of Norwegian fjord, Scottish loch & English Lake with added volcano. Day 4: the first ferry ride and the discovery of an excellent hotel in the wilderness close to the frontier post - we were expecting a youth hostel given the remote location. Day 5: the off road climb to the frontier, and the supportive way in which all those at the top cheered on those further back as they arrived. Plus the rapid downhill that followed. Day 6 : The coastal ride round to Bariloche, passing Tai & Yal's house en route. Day 7 : the largest & tastiest steaks ever at Don Alberto's in Bariloche - not to be missed, plus lunch atop the view point at Cerro Campanario. Day 8: Racing along the downhill section of Route 40 (Argentina's Route 66) into San Martin. Day 10: the impromptu detour to spend the afternoon at the Termas (hot springs) en route to Pucon. Days 11 & 12 riding into and through the landscapes of the Conguillo National Park (volcano on my left, emerald lake on my right, monkey puzzle forest ahead of me - where do I look ?). Thoughts on Group Leader With perfect English, Tai & Yal (despite their youth - mid twenties) were experienced, enthusiastic and capable leaders. Tai, in particular, managed well the different personalities on the trip which comprised five couples, three pals and three singles aged from late thirties to early seventies. He made sure everyone was comfortable riding their way depending on fitness, terrain & general inclination. His restaurant & even individual dish recommendations were consistently excellent. He was confident in his role and thus able to flex the itinerary as circumstances (weather or indeed our whims) dictated. As a strong cyclist he readily earned the respect of those who tried to take him on. Fortunately, his skills as a qualified paramedic did not need to be tested. Advice for Potential Travellers The November weather was mixed - Take layers so as to be able to cater for hot, cold & in between - plus rain. On some days there was much adding and removing of kit, with Yal or Mati magically on hand at the right moment to deliver to or collect it from you. This is also true off the bike with cool winds from Patagonia belying bright sunshine at times. The road sections are straightforward with drivers polite, separate cycle tracks on larger roads and wide verges to ride on minor ones. Off road sections are not particularly technical (I'm no mountain biker) and, taken at whatever pace you feel comfortable, readily ridden on the new Specialized hard-tail mountain bikes supplied. Food-wise the emphasis is meat and fish with pasta/pizza available but vegetarian food is a bit limited. Good range of beer and wine to be had and we rekindled our love of Pisco Sour developed on last year's Peru trip. Suggestions My slowest ride was the final eight miles back to the eco-lodge on the final afternoon. It took well over an hour. Why ? Because I simply didn't want it to end. I was not alone - it was practically a competition to see who could ride the slowest. I guess that's a pretty decent endorsement of the trip overall. If you seek a well led trip with excellent company, good food (& drink), fabulous scenery, and varied (and thus interesting) cycling then sign up.

Source: Tour operator   Submitted: 12/12/2019

Brian Guest   -  Traveled, March 2019

One bike - two countries. The snow-clad volcanoes and emerald lakes of the Andes mountains. Gravel tracks, black lava fields and ancient forests of monkey puzzle trees. Most Inspirational Moment Crossing the Andes by bike: not once but twice! Thoughts on Group Leader Tai and his younger brother Yal worked tirelessly to support the group. They gave a clear briefing on each day's itinerary and generated Stava maps to show the route. On the road they shepherded us through the traffic and managed to control both those keenest to reach our destination and those more content to just enjoy the scenery and walk the hills. They coped very well with the inevitable problems which occurred: our punctures; occasional falls; late transfers; variable accommodation; wet weather; etc, etc. They were always ready to chat with the group and explain about the local people, their history and culture . Advice for Potential Travellers The trip notes are not always updated and itineraries may well change. Our mountain bikes were very good but with limited space for carrying spare kit or a camera. Although the support vehicle was close at hand, you might consider a ruck-sac or handlebar bag useful. Research beforehand. More options are available for your free days than may be advertised. We really enjoyed excursions to Mount Tronador from Bariloche and later to Huerquehue National Park from Pucon. Take a good camera with a wide angle lens as the landscapes are stunning. And it also pays to get up early for the dawn light. Breakfasts are sometimes meagre but expect your waistline to expand: portions for lunch and dinner are huge! ATM's in Argentina restrict you to 4,000 ARS and cost a lot to use. Santander Rio have branches in all the towns we visited. If you have an account, it gives you a much better rate. Spend a few days in Buenos Aires if you have the chance. It's pretty safe and easy to get around. There's some lovely Art Nouveau architecture, a lively café-culture, craft markets at the weekend, fine Opera and bookshops, tango dinner dances and lots of urban art. We would recommend a 5-hour cycle trip: Hidden Graffiti And Urban Art Tour. Suggestions If the weather is fine, as it fortunately was for us, cycling in Argentina and Chile is a joy. Traffic is generally respectful and the distances covered are easily manageable in the time. Where the trip notes describe parts of the route as gravel, be prepared for some pretty rough going. In places it was safer to walk. But the best is saved for last: the Parque Nacional Conguillío - with black lava field and forests of monkey-puzzle trees under the brooding Llaima Volcano.

Source: Tour operator   Submitted: 03/24/2019

Barbara Dean   -  Traveled, March 2019

A Volcanic Undertaking Once again Exodus delivered. Our guides were fantastic, the bikes were well maintained, and the accommodation was for the most part great. The food was also better than some previous trips and only somewhat challenging for a gluten free/vegetarian. Power bars go a long way! Finally, the scenery was picturesque and breathtaking. Lots of lakes and Volanoes. Most Inspirational Moment Day 4 of the tour. We completed a 20km cycle on some serious gravel and then my husband and I opted to walk the 7.5km climb over 700 metre ascent versus cycling it. We passed a few people who ended up frustratingly walking their bikes but getting to the top felt like quite an achievement especially with blisters on both feet. Thoughts on Group Leader Tai was a very impressive young man who did a fantastic job. His brother Yal was a great support and eventually their dad, Marcello joined us making the group complete. Their obvious bond as a family just made our experience that much better. Advice for Potential Travellers A gel saddle wouldn’t go amiss as the gravel was sometimes more like boulders. Suggestions The trip notes need to be updated. For anyone interested in seeing southern Chile and western Argentina, I would highly recommend this tour.

Source: Tour operator   Submitted: 03/29/2019

Will Potten   -  Traveled, February 2019

Stunning A simply beautiful trip. We were lucky with incredible weather throughout, giving us deep blue skies reflected in the lakes. The cycling was superb, giving a good mix of roads and gravelly off-road tracks. Some mountain biking experience would be useful for these sections, particularly the long climb across the border into Argentina. The scenery was stunning – volcanoes, lakes, forests, and the food throughout was incredible. I’ve never eaten so much top quality steak in so few days. Despite the cycling, you might not expect to lose weight on this trip. Special thanks to our guides, Alex, Tai (hope I spelled that right) and Leah who regularly had her bike cannibalised when one of us broke down. Most Inspirational Moment Too many to choose. The final days cycling through the lagoons and monkey puzzles. The incredible views on the seven lakes road, and the climb into Argentina with a beautiful lakeside hotel at the end of the day. Thoughts on Group Leader Alex was brilliant. Endlessly cheerful and enthusiastic and attentive to all our needs. A real asset to exodus. Advice for Potential Travellers I loved the off road sections but I’m not sure that everyone did. Although most of the trip is on paved roads of good quality, to enjoy the cycling to the fullest extent, be prepared for some bumpy, gravelly and loose surfaces, especially when climbing.

Source: Tour operator   Submitted: 02/28/2019

Richard Greenwood   -  Traveled, January 2019

Awesome Landscapes This was our fourth Exodus Cycling Trip over the last few years and my favourite so far. The landscapes that we cycled through were simply stunning with snow capped volcanos, lush green valleys, blue and emerald lakes, monkey puzzle woodland and black volcanic ash and lava. The cycling routes were occasionally challenging but never too long. The accommodation was generally good (with two exceptions) and we were expertly led by Tia, his brother Yell and Matteus. It helped that the weather was pretty much perfect throughout our trip with cool mornings making way for clear hot afternoons. We also benefitted from a great group of cyclists, most of whom were of a similar (oldish) age and fitness level! Most Inspirational Moment There were many, but I particularly enjoyed the Punto Panoramico ride with views of the Argentinian Lake District and the hike up (and rapid descent) of Villarrica Volcano. We also had a very special send-off from our hosts with drinks at sundown overlooking the Llama Volcano . Thoughts on Group Leader Tia was amazingly competent and patient as our group leader. The trip involves some incredibly tricky logistics with crossings from Chile into Argentina (and back again), numerous ferry rides, transfers by minibus, luggage checks at customs points and the constant shepherding of 16 cyclists. Despite these challenges the whole trip ran smoothly. His skills as a paramedic were also tested on a few occasions. Together with his brother and Matteus they formed a formidable team Advice for Potential Travellers 1. About 25% of the cycling is off-road, mostly on gravel tracks with ruts and stoney sections. It can therefore be tricky at times. Some experience of biking off road is necessary (though there was the opportunity to opt out of these sections and travel in the support vehicle). 2. Even with the fine weather that we experienced the mornings were cool and the afternoons very hot so we needed extra layers and lashings of suncream. 3. There were several opportunities for swimming on the trip so have swimming gear close to hand. 4. The lunches provided on the trip were often two and three courses- with large quantities- and it was sometimes difficult to do them justice without struggling to cycle in the afternoons! 5. Although American dollars could be used in several locations you do need some Chilean and Argentinian pesos for small purchases. Credit Card machines were fairly widespread in shops and restaurants. Suggestions There were a couple of glitches in the arrangements for the trip. The first hotel was changed at the last minute by the local host (and it proved to be disappointing) so hopefully the Hotel Patagonia in Puerto Varas will not be used again. There was also some confusion about which hotel had been booked on our last night in Santiago; a full list of the accommodation in each of our destinations would be useful in advance.

Source: Tour operator   Submitted: 02/15/2019

STEPHEN Randell   -  Traveled, November 2018

Best trip so far This was our second Exodus trip as a family of four, all adults of course. The trip had a bumpy start as we were delayed and missed connections so ended joining the trip 24 hrs later, have to say Exodus were incredibly helpful and easy to contact outside of hours. We loved the scenery, saw loads of condors and some truly amazing views. The weather was perfect and the transfers mostly short. We also enjoyed some spectacular scenic lake crossings. Most Inspirational Moment Cycling along roads with lush pastureland one side and snow capped volcanoes on the other, sitting on a volcanic ash beach in Pucon and swimming in the lake on Christmas day Thoughts on Group Leader Taiel and his family were super guides, very knowledgeable, friendly and helpful in every way Advice for Potential Travellers We are vegetarian which was okay mostly especially in the towns, lunch stops a bit more challenging especially for our daughter who is vegan, we got by as we took lots of snack foods too. Be prepared for some rocky roads, lots of gravel at times but well worth it, especially near the lava fields. Suggestions Lovely varied accommodation which on the whole was very comfortable. Would definitely recommend this trip to anyone wanting cycling adventure in awesome locations with breath taking views. Some of the climbs were challenging but so worth the effort!

Source: Tour operator   Submitted: 01/15/2019

marion gray   -  Traveled, November 2018

Cycling the Lakes of Chile and Argentina Amazing scenery, excellent organisation and logistics. Superb guidance and information. A really interesting part of the world to visit and made me hungry for more. Most Inspirational Moment Seeing a condor,traversing fjord like lakes with snow capped volcanoes as a back drop. Cycling into the lava fields of Conguillo National Park and walking in the monkey puzzle fores. Thoughts on Group Leader Excellent. Very good knowledge of the area, geography, social history, fauna etc. Good sense of humour and very encouraging when cycling was more challenging. Advice for Potential Travellers The rides are short but hilly and it is worth doing a bit of training!

Source: Tour operator   Submitted: 12/10/2018

steven elliot   -  Traveled, October 2018

Excellent apart from the flights Its a bit difficult to describe this without using the usual clichés; this must be one of the most beautiful places in the World – at least when the sun shines! Massive mountains, huge lakes, amazing snow capped volcanoes. Its odd no one in the UK has heard of it. For the most part it is sparsely populated and there is a wonderful feeling of emptiness. As with similar Exodus trips the itinerary was interesting, fast paced and expertly delivered. We had a great time with a super bunch of people. We came away with a sense of awe. The cycling was good along quiet roads. The ride over the Andes was challenging (700m ascent in 7km) and a bit technical – we managed it by stopping every mile and survived Most Inspirational Moment There were several - the ferry across Todos los Santos - doing the Hokey cokey in the rain at the Chilean customs - cycling across the Andes in the drizzle - the journey from Puerto Blest to Bariloche - Conguillio NP - the steak at Alberto's in Bariloche - the red wine and craft beer everywhere (but not the fish which was cremated at every eatery we went to) - the impromptu disco in Choshuenco including the dancing on the tables Thoughts on Group Leader Tai and Jero are great guys - I think the ladies in particular admired them Advice for Potential Travellers The elephant in the room (another cliché) is the weather. We had about a third each of sun, cloud and rain. We actually felt lucky as we were told that the trip on this date in 2017 saw nothing apart from rain. The temperature rarely rose above 15C - presumably warmer in Nov - Feb. We felt we hade a great time but the moral of our very hardy group fell noticeably after two soakings on days 8 and 9. Thereafter mood improved as the Sun returned. Chile looks like Lancashire when the heavens open. We were really disappointed with the flights we were given: Manchester- Heathrow- Santiago- Puerto Montt. The transfer in Madrid was short and we nearly missed it. In addition both going and returning we were unable to get boarding passes for all the flights. There is a direct flight from Heathrow to Santiago - INSIST ON BEING BOOKED ON IT Suggestions I think we were very fortunate with the weather. A few more rainy days and I'm not sure we would have felt so positive about our experience. Having said that it was one of the best holidays I've ever had

Source: Tour operator   Submitted: 11/14/2018

Neil McIntyre   -  Traveled, January 2018

As good as it gets This trip surpassed my previous Exodus bike trips by a country mile. The scenery was truly outstanding, the cycling manageable while challenging and it was organised and supported in the most exceptional way by the local team. I could not recommend it too highly. Most Inspirational Moment You never grew tired of the outstanding views of volcanoes, dotted amongst the most extraordinary lakes and dramatic scenery. Some of the off-road ascents were tough, especially with gravel interleaved with stones and in the heat, but the challenge was inspiring and the pace was comfortably pitched accommodate a diverse group. We did the trip in January 2018; the weather was exceptional (many days about 20-25 degrees, although it did get hot (over 35 degrees) on a few days. I don't believe a single person on our trip (15 of us in all) found it anything other than exceptional. Thoughts on Group Leader Our day to day leaders had a maturity and confidence that worked wonderfully for our group. They were continually thinking about the support for the group, and when issues arose, as they inevitably do, they addressed them quickly and efficiently. The back-up team with van, coffee stops, hotel support etc was also first class. Advice for Potential Travellers Rest days can be that if you want but there are so many opportunities to try other activities. We tried kayaking one day and climbed an active volcano on the other. Both excellently delivered by local guides who provided all the kit, advice and support you need. Suggestions A few of our days included long stretches on tarmac road with a bit of traffic, more so than I expected, but this was not a big problem. The few transit legs in the van gave us the opportunity to experience the best parts of the route. And some of the hotels were truly outstanding, including Porto Blest and the eco-lodge north of Pucon.

Source: Tour operator   Submitted: 02/24/2018

Desmond Smyth   -  Traveled, November 2017

A Memorable and Hugely Enjoyable Experience If you enjoy your scenery,and a good variation in your cycling ( mix of road and off-road ) then this trip is for you. It is quite challenging in parts,but is well within the abilities of a reasonably fit and competent cyclist ( I am 67 years old but reasonably fit,and I managed without much difficulty,although generally at back end of a very fit group of good cyclists ! ). We were exceptionally fortunate with the weather-dry,sunny,warm-unusual in an area noted for rainfall. Most Inspirational Moment Difficult to pick only one-but the first of anything generally sticks in your mind,so I will go for the first day in Puerto Varas where the views of Volcano Osorno and distant Tronador are quite stunning. Thoughts on Group Leader Yal was a really nice and likeable guy,and seemed quite efficient. His communication skills though were somewhat lacking,and most of the briefings were delivered by his very able assistant German,also a very likeable and helpful guy.The disappointment though was that there no commentary or information provided on the history,culture,economy etc of the areas visited. Advice for Potential Travellers I took insect repellant but didn't need it ( mosquitoes non-existent here at this time of year ( November ) so this would be worth checking before you leave. Be prepared for rapidly changing weather-fortunately for us it was sunshine all the way,but we were always prepared for the possibility of rain. The final day ( Friday ) was spent at the eco lodge in Conguillo National Park-if you are not on group flight bear in mind this is a long way from Temuco ( a taxi costs in the region US $ 110 ). Tap water is apparently safe to drink throughout the trip-I drank it with no ill effects as did many others in the group. Suggestions Our group size was 16,with a good international mix-everyone got on really well right from the start with plenty of humour throughout,so we were fortunate with that as well as the weather. It was a hugely enjoyable and memorable holiday,with scenery to take your breath away ( from snow-clad mountains and volcanoes to emerald reflecting lakes to majestic rivers ) . If you are thinking about it-I'd say go for it.

Source: Tour operator   Submitted: 12/10/2017

Peter Moy   -  Traveled, July 2017

It would be hard to top this trip. This was my first Exodus bicycle trip and if the other are as good as this one it will not be my last. The scenery was spectacular. Each day was a different and new experience. This trip has it all; some moderately challenging gravel, relaxing riding on tarmac winding between rugged peaks, boat trips across beautiful lakes, good company, great food and drinks, excellent well-maintained equipment, and helpful staff. Most Inspirational Moment There were so many inspirational moment on this trip is impossible to single out one specifically. Cycling over the pass trough the Andes in the between Peulla and Puerto Frias was an achievement for me with my limited mountain biking experience. (I only fell off once!) Climbing the active Villarica volcano was a once in a life time experience, particularly as there was a small eruption while we looking into the crater. Thoughts on Group Leader This trip covered a lot of territory through some fairly tough country. The logistic for this trip were complex involving the coordination of boat and bus transfer in two very separate countries. Yet the whole show ran like clockwork. I was impressed. This was a very professionally run trip. Advice for Potential Travellers IF you do not enjoy a salmon or fillet steak then this trip may change your point of view. The Argentinian steal is sublime as is the Chilean salmon. I recommend Tony's Casa de Carne in Bariloche. I had the best steak I ever tasted in my life at Tony's steak house. (And I am an Australian!) Also, I recommend the frappe at the Chocolate Museum in Bariloche as well. I suspect my waste line would have expanded dramatically if I had stayed in Bariloche longer than a couple of days! Suggestions You are exposed to the wild weather of the roaring forties from the Southern Ocean in this region of the world. Be prepared for one or two days of solid weather. (Wind and Rain).

Source: Tour operator   Submitted: 08/12/2017

Gerlinde Bellefroid   -  Traveled, April 2017

Absolutely wonderfull!! As Belgians it was our first experience with Exodus Travel but it was an wonderfull experience. We absolutely loved the full trip, the magnificent nature every day again, the nice atmosphere within the group, the local guides who took good responsability. The combination of both countries, lakes, volcanoes, mountains, vieuws all over….the beauty just didn’t stop! Very good bikes (as new!) with front suspension. Most Inspirational Moment Every day was a new and beautiful suprise. The possibility of climbing an active volcano with some members of our group was unique, very special! Thoughts on Group Leader Thank you to all the guides and organisation. Advice for Potential Travellers Just enjoy!!

Source: Tour operator   Submitted: 05/13/2017

Melanie Ward  -  Traveled, November 2016

Cycling the Lake District of Chile & Argentina A great tour around the lakes of Chile and Argentina. The itinerary over the Andes and over the lakes via boats is fantastic. Great food and scenery. Most Inspirational Moment The day cycling over the Andes. It was a tough climb but very rewarding!!! Cycling in Conguillio National Park was also fantastic and a contrasting landscape to all other days - stunning! Thoughts on Group Leader The leader and his assistants were a great team, and worked well together. Advice for Potential Travellers Pack clothing for cool and wet weather. The first week was cold and wet, and I wish I had packed more clothes suitable for cooler weather both on and off the bike (think of what you're wear when cycling in November in London). The second week was warm and sunny, so save your shorts and t-shirts for that week. Make full use of the local launderettes in Bariloche and Pucon...costs only a few pounds for a bag of dirty clothes washed and dried in under 24 hours. Also, a number of people on the group flights missed their connecting flights and had their baggage go missing which was understandably very stressful. The main cause was due to short connections between flights (e.g. 2 hours in Madrid). Ensure you have lots of time for flight connections; we booked our own flights and allowed 3.5 hours in Madrid which worked ok. Packing some cycling gear in your hand luggage is also a good idea as the cycle clothing options are limited in Puerto Varas and surrounding areas. Suggestions Enjoy the steaks and Malbec!

Source: Tour operator   Submitted: 01/18/2017