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Challeging slope towards Cochrane, cycling in remote Patagonia is not easy but definitely rewarding - Patagonia Cycle - Southern Austral, Chile
Challeging slope towards Cochrane, cycling in remote Patagonia is not easy but definitely rewarding
Amazing views in Patagonia National Park - Patagonia Cycle - Southern Austral, Chile
Amazing views in Patagonia National Park
Camping at Los Ñadis, Patagonia - Patagonia Cycle - Southern Austral, Chile
Camping at Los Ñadis, Patagonia
On the road cycling to Tortel and Yungay - Patagonia Cycle - Southern Austral, Chile
On the road cycling to Tortel and Yungay
Lake General Carrera is home to the marvellous Marble Caves - Patagonia Cycle - Southern Austral, Chile
Lake General Carrera is home to the marvellous Marble Caves

Patagonia Cycle - Southern Austral

Cycle Patagonia's remote Southern Austral Highway

Chile
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 2 reviews

11 Days from

$ 

Trip Code: NAS
View dates to Book
Essential Information
Duration
  • 11 Days
Activities
  • 8 days cycling
Style
  • In Comfort Adventures  
Accommodation
  • 4 nights hotel/cabins
  • 4 nights bed & breakfasts
  • 2 nights camping
Meals
  • 10 Dinners
  • 9 Lunches
  • 10 Breakfasts
Difficulty Grading  
6 / 10

Moderate to Challenging

Carbon Footprint  

44kg of CO2-e PP per day

(397kg of CO2-e PP entire trip)

Trip highlights

  • Cycle remote sections of the Carretera Austral through southern Patagonia
  • Ride beside General Carrera Lake and the Baker River
  • Explore Cerro Castillo National Park and Patagonia National Park
  • Marvel at one of the last remnants of the Patagonian Ice Sheet, the Northern Ice Field
  • Visit the remote boardwalk village of Caleta Tortel
  • Enjoy the culinary experience of a unique Patagonian BBQ

Overview

This cycling journey follows the southern section of Chile’s Carretera Austral from Coyhaique to Villa O’Higgins through some of Patagonia’s most remote landscapes. Ride a combination of paved and gravel roads past glacial lakes, hanging valleys, rivers and Patagonian steppe, with support vehicle assistance on selected sections. The route passes through Cerro Castillo National Park, General Carrera Lake, Patagonia National Park and the isolated settlements of Caleta Tortel and Villa O’Higgins. Combining challenging riding with wilderness scenery and small frontier towns, the trip offers an immersive exploration of southern Chilean Patagonia.

Itinerary

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Today the adventure begins. On arrival to Coyhaique we will meet at the hotel at 3pm for a meet and greet. This is where the team of guides will introduce themselves and provide general information about the route and services included in the tour, instructions, safety recommendations, equipment review, bicycle mechanics and final details of preparation for the tour will be adjusted. If you want to store some luggage in Coyhaique or send it to a southern town to continue your travel along Patagonia to El Chaltén or Torres del Paine National Park this is the opportunity. (Charges apply). Accommodation: Raices Bed & Breakfast or similar

Meals: D

Our first stretch will be a paved road of the Southern Way; riding along what is called the Chinese wall where the countryside of Coyhaique emerges passing through El Blanco town accompanied by a spectacular landscape of Patagonian steppe and rock formations. After the conjunction between Route 7 and Balmaceda, the road slightly starts to go up until Laguna Chiguay, perfect place for picnic lunch. We continue the ride along the dramatic Cerro Castillo National Park to reach its pass as the highest point of the Carretera Austral. The "devil's slope" downhill starts passing from the viewpoints of Ibañez River and we end our day when we arrive at Cerro Castillo Village. Accommodation: Ruta 7 Cabins or Senderos Patagonia or similar

Meals: B,L,D

15 km from Villa Cerro Castilo the asphalt ends, and we start on a road of high difficulty with loose gravel and corrugated surface. We can observe various attractions on the route, such as the Green Lagoon and the Dead Forest in the Ibañez River, a landscape moulded by the ashes coming from the Hudson Volcano eruption in 1991. The ride is supported with the minibus to approach Murta valley and ride next to the turquoise water of the second biggest lake in South America, the General Carrera Lake. The day finishes at the cozy Puerto Tranquilo town. Road type: Loose gravel Overnight: Turismo Don Hugo Cabins or similiar

Meals: B,L,D

We start the ride bordering General Carrera Lake, also known as Chelenko Lake in Indigenous dialect. From a distance we can admire valleys and glaciers that descend from Campos de Hielo Norte ("the Northern Ice Field"), and we will arrive at the General Carrera hanging bridge, where the Bertrand Lake and then the famous Baker River is formed. The road gets to the junction between Puerto Guadal and Chile Chico then follows the Carretera Austral in a section of climbs and slopes to reach the beautiful townscape of Puerto Bertrand. Road type: Loose Gravel Accommodation: Rapidos del Baker or similar

Meals: B,L,D

We continue along the Southern Way, following the Baker River in the middle of a Patagonian steppe landscape where the trees begin to disappear, and the grasslands take over the landscape amidst winding mountains. We will stop for a hike at the “confluence between the Baker and Nef rivers”. Admiring the impressive flow which descends from the depths of the Northern Ice Field. The journey continues passing next to the Patagonia National Park founded by The North Face owner’s Mr. Douglas Tomkins that made the largest donation of conservation lands in the world to the Chilean Government. In this spot, wildlife observation of Guanacos (Camelidae family) and other native species may be possible until we reach Cochrane. Road type: Loose gravel Accommodation: Rivera Cabins or similar

Meals: B,L,D

The initial ride starts with a paved road and then continues to a gravel surface while enjoying the view from the Emerald, Juncal and Chacabuco lakes in the middle of Patagonian steppe fields. It will be also possible to admire the view of Mount San Lorenzo. We then continue in the middle of native forests landscape until descending the Los Ñadis hill, going into one of the best kept secrets of Patagonia. In the middle of a unique scenery of this valley, handworker's pioneers who will hosting and preparing a unique Patagonian BBQ with a lamb on the spit and vegetables. Road type: Paved & gravel Accommodation: Camping La Araucaria (tent, camping mat and sleeping bag provided) or similar

Meals: B,L,D

We will continue through native forest, wetlands and peatlands. From this area, the transition of the Patagonian steppe to the evergreen forest emerges until we reach the picturesque townscape of Caleta Tortel, certified as one of the Best Tourism Village by the UNWTO. Famous for its footbridges of Guaitecas's cypress trees, which connect the houses with the civic center and the public services of the town. Admire this unique village as we will explore the village on foot before beginning the the return towards Coyhaique. Road type: Gravel Accommodation: Natureza Hostel or similar

Meals: B,L,D

After breakfast, take a final walk through Caleta Tortel, exploring the village’s network of elevated wooden boardwalks built from locally sourced Guaitecas cypress. We then transfer by minibus to the junction of Route 7 and Puerto Alegre, where today’s ride begins immediately with a sustained climb toward the pass. The route follows one of the more remote sections of the southern Carretera Austral, with sweeping views across dense Patagonian forest, rivers and rugged mountain terrain. A long descent leads to Puerto Yungay, where we board the ferry for the 45-minute crossing to Río Bravo. From here, continue cycling along an isolated gravel road through wilderness landscapes to our remote campsite, one of the most secluded overnight locations on the journey. Road type: Gravel Accommodation: Rio Bravo Maria’s Camping (tent, camping mat and sleeping bag provided) or similar

Meals: B,L,D

This final stage of the journey is both demanding and rewarding, featuring three major climbs and some of the most remote landscapes along the Carretera Austral. The gravel road winds through narrow valleys, dense native forest and open Patagonian steppe, with waterfalls cascading beside the route and glacial rivers cutting through the terrain. Along the way, changing views of lakes, mountains and wide wilderness landscapes highlight the isolation and scale of southern Patagonia. As the ride progresses south, the scenery becomes increasingly dramatic before reaching Villa O’Higgins, a remote frontier settlement at the end of the road. The cycling journey officially concludes at Bahía Bahamondes at kilometre 1247, the southern terminus of the Carretera Austral, where there is time to celebrate completing one of Patagonia’s most iconic cycling routes. Road type: Gravel Accommodation: El Mosco Hostel or similar

Meals: B,L,D

After loading the bikes and luggage onto the support vehicle, begin the return journey north along the Carretera Austral. The first stop is Puerto Yungay for travellers continuing independently by ferry toward Puerto Natales. From here, continue through the remote landscapes of southern Patagonia toward Cochrane and Bahía Catalina, travelling approximately 295km / 183mi by vehicle. Along the route there are opportunities to stop at scenic viewpoints overlooking rivers, mountains, forests and the vast expanse of General Carrera Lake, South America’s second-largest lake. The drive retraces sections of the Carretera Austral through landscapes that highlight the scale and isolation of the region. Concluding the day on the shores of General Carrera Lake, where the evening diiner is spent in a lakeside setting with expansive views across the surrounding mountains and water. Accommodation: Pared Sur Camp or similar

Meals: B,L,D

The tour concludes with the return to Coyhaique, where participants will be dropped off at Balmaceda Airport. We recommend scheduling your flight for after 2pm. It is also possible to return to Coyhaique. Please discuss at time of booking.

Meals: B

Ready to start your adventure?

5 scheduled departures between 19 Nov 2026 and 18 Mar 2027.

  • Departs 19 Nov 2026 – ends 29 Nov 2026 (11 days)
  • Departs 17 Dec 2026 – ends 27 Dec 2026 (11 days)
  • Departs 18 Jan 2027 – ends 28 Jan 2027 (11 days)
  • Departs 16 Feb 2027 – ends 26 Feb 2027 (11 days)
  • Departs 18 Mar 2027 – ends 28 Mar 2027 (11 days)
View dates to Book

What's included?

Included

  • 10 breakfasts, 9 lunches & 10 dinners
  • A mix of hotels, cabins and camping on a twin share basis
  • Mountain bike & front pannier and a cycle helmet
  • Tents, camping mats and sleeping bags provided
  • English speaking local guides
  • Ferry crossing to Río Bravo
  • Boat trip Marble Chapels
  • Support vehicle while cycling and mechanic
  • Group first aid kit
  • Transfer to Balmaceda airport or Coyhaique at the finish

Not included

  • International or domestic airfares
  • Travel insurance (compulsory)
  • Visa
  • Transfer on arrival
  • e-Bike upgrade
  • Personal expenses such as laundry and alcoholic beverages
  • Tips and gratuities
  • Items not listed as included

Video

Cycling the Carretera Austral, Patagonia | Chile Bike Adventure

Reviews (2)

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I’m not usually the type to enjoy organized trips, but this one was amazing. The local team is kind, knowledgeable, and professional. The scenery along the bike ride was incredible, and the lodging / restaurants were all excellent.

I highly, highly recommend this trip.

Yassine|New York, United States
11 Feb 2026
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This trip was such an amazing experience and I would highly recommend it for those who are into cycling and love seeing incredible scenery. For those wondering, some of the rides are long, the roads can be rough, and the weather can change quickly --and knowing that you could ask to ride in the van at any point was a plus! You can also request an e-bike. The trip logistics were well planned and I really appreciated the thoughtfulness that the guides put into the cycling routes as well as adding unique cultural/dining experiences and side adventures like kayaking. The guides were experienced, friendly, professional, knowledgeable, and extremely prepared. I can't express how impressed I am with how thoughtful they were in ensuring everyone had a pleasant time throughout and I was pleased with how much emphasis they put on participant safety. Another cool thing is that the guides were into photography and even set up a What'sApp group so we all could easily share memories and pictures.

Would absolutely do this trip again and would love to do the Northern tour in the future.

Reva Golden|Colorado United States
4 Mar 2025

Extra trip info

Who will I travel with?BikesTrail surfacesWill My Trip Run?FAQsWhy Book With Us
Group shot, 'African wilderness in comfort' trip | Peter Walton

Travelling with our local partners

This trip is run by one of our local partners, on a departure shared with travellers from other companies.

What's the benefit to you? More departure dates, and dates that reach their minimum numbers sooner, because bookings from several companies go into one group. Your guides live and work in the region.

Who is in your group? Expect a mix of travellers and nationalities, not only people who booked with World Expeditions.

What will we tell you when you book? We advise the name of the local partner at the time of booking, along with any terms of their own, such as an additional deposit. These apply alongside our Booking Terms and Conditions.

Travelling alone? On some partner-operated trips your own room is required. The room options on this page show which applies to this trip.

MTB Giant Talon 0

Mountain Bikes

The bikes used on this trip are modern aluminium framed, front suspension mountain bikes. Consistent and safe braking is ensured by disc brakes and the wide spread of gears provide the ability to ride up and back down the hills in comfort and confidence. If you have a saddle and clip in pedals you wish to bring and use, the mechanic would more than happy to fit them for you

Ebike (upgrade applies)

e-Bikes Available

Cycle hassle-free and climb mountains with ease, enjoy nature and landscapes without physical limitations. Electronic Bikes make it possible and are available to hire for the entire trip for an additional fee. The e-Bikes available feature Hybrid Cycling Technology, combining electric and human power to produce the most efficient, powerful and natural e-Bike riding experience. Consistent and safe braking is ensured by hydraulic disc brakes. If you have a saddle and clip in pedals you wish to bring and use, the mechanic would more than happy to fit them for you.

Supporting your trip along the Carreterra Austral, Patagonia

Support vehicle & mechanic

This cycling trip is fully supported. Sets of tools are aboard the support truck and your bike mechanic will assist with any difficulties. The vehicle support also allows you to take a break when you need it.

Challeging slope towards Cochrane, cycling in remote Patagonia is not easy but definitely rewarding

Cycling the Southern Austral, Patagonia

The route follows a combination of sealed and unsealed roads, with much of the cycling taking place on the Carretera Austral's gravel sections. Riders should expect a mix of compact gravel, loose stone and occasional corrugated surfaces, particularly on more remote stretches. Road conditions vary with weather and maintenance, adding to the adventurous nature of the journey.

Every departure date advises whether the date is confirmed, and roughly how full it is. Here is what each one means.

Is the departure confirmed?

Guaranteed to go This departure has reached its minimum number and will run.
It is the point travellers should wait for before booking any non-refundable flights.
Close to guaranteed This appears only when a date is close to reaching minimum numbers. If it shows 1 or 2 to guaranteed, book as a pair on a date needing two and it reaches its minimum. Your booking confirms the date for everybody already booked.

How full is the date I am looking at?

Space is filling or Space is filling fast This date has bookings and places are still open. Filling fast means limited spots available, so don't leave your decision too late.
Closing soon Down to its last few places, or close enough to departure that we are finalising numbers. Still bookable online.
Closed Not bookable online - either full, or inside the notice we need to arrange permits, flights and logistics. Ask us anyway, you never know!

Availability questions answered

Will this trip actually go ahead, or could it be cancelled?

If a date shows Guaranteed to go, it runs regardless of further bookings.

What does 2 to guarantee mean?

It means two travellers are enough to confirm the departure. It could be 2 more to add to the group, or the date only needs 2 people to run. Either way, if you book for two people, the date will become guaranteed to run.

What happens if my departure does not reach minimum numbers?

You will know the status before you book. Every date on this page is labelled, and dates marked “Guaranteed to go” are running regardless of further bookings. Where a date has not reached its minimum we either offer a surcharge to operate for a smaller group size so it can still run, or we cancel it. We contact you directly either way.

Will I get my money back if you cancel a departure?

If we cancel a departure due to not meeting minimum trip numbers, you receive a full refund of everything you have paid us less any non recoverable costs, where insurance may cover you. We cannot refund money committed elsewhere – additional non refundable deposits advised at the time of booking, flights, visas, vaccinations, gear - which is why it is worth waiting for “Guaranteed to go” before booking other arrangements around this trip date. Please read our Booking Terms and Conditions before you book.

Why can't I book some dates online?

Each trip closes online a set time before departure. Permits, internal flights and hut or campsite bookings all have to be arranged before we take payment. Call or enquire as it might still be possible to organise last minute places.

The date I want is closed. What are my options and why does it say to enquire?

Cancellations happen and places do open up on closed dates, so it is worth being on our list. We can also tell you which nearby date on the same trip has space, which is usually the faster route.

None of these dates suit me. Can you run this trip on another date?

Yes, as a private departure. We can run this trip on a date you choose, for your own group - family, friends, a club, or in many cases, just for the two of you. Tell us when you want to travel and who is coming, and we will build it around that.

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Moderate to challenging, with long cycling days and regular gravel road riding.

A mix of paved and gravel roads, including loose gravel and corrugated sections.

Yes, a support vehicle accompanies the group throughout the journey.

A mountain or gravel bike suitable for mixed Patagonian road conditions.

Yes you can make your life easier with an e-Bike upgrade for an additional cost.

A combination of cabins, hostels and remote camping locations reflecting the isolated nature of Patagonia.

  • Ride with vehicle support throughout the journey on one of Patagonia’s most remote cycling routes
  • Combine gravel road cycling with cultural and wilderness experiences across southern Chile
  • Travel through diverse landscapes including Patagonian steppe, forests, glaciers and lakes
  • Stay in a mix of hotels, cabins and remote camping locations
  • Cycle point-to-point through the southern Carretera Austral rather than returning on the same route

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