Experience Patagonia like never before on our brand-new mountain biking itinerary, now exploring both Argentina and Chile—ride breathtaking trails, enjoy rafting and kayaking, and savor authentic local flavors. Your ultimate Patagonian adventure starts here!
Day 1: Arrival in San Carlos de Bariloche (BRC)
Your Patagonia mountain biking adventure begins in San Carlos de Bariloche, the gateway to Patagonia. We’ll pick you up at the Bariloche airport (BRC) or your hotel. Once settled into our accommodation, your guides will assist in building your bike or fitting you on your rental.
In the evening, we’ll take our bikes for a scenic spin along the iconic "Circuito Chico," a short and easy ride through the stunning Lake District. It’s the perfect way to stretch your legs, fine-tune your bike, and get excited for the days ahead. We'll end the ride at a local "cervecería" (brewery), where we’ll enjoy dinner and a cold brew while soaking in spectacular views.
Distance: 12 km Approx. Riding Time: 2 hours Highest Point: 877 m Elevation Gain: 448 m Elevation Lost: 400 m
Overnight: Bariloche Hotel Meals: Breakfast
Day 2: Villa Llanquín and the Enchanted Valley
Today we venture to the small village of Llanquín, located 60 km outside Bariloche. From here, we ride through the Enchanted Valley along secondary roads and past working estancias (ranches), all bordered by the crystal-clear waters of the Limay River.
This 30 km route features rolling hills, fast descents, and panoramic views of the valley and volcanic rock formations. We’ll pause for a picnic lunch by the river, and if the weather allows, enjoy a refreshing swim.
Distance: 30 km Approx. Riding Time: 4 hours Highest Point: 1338 m Elevation Gain: 317 m Elevation Lost: 920 m
Overnight: Bariloche Hotel Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Day 3: National Park Ride and Whitewater Rafting
Today we drive south along “Ruta 40” into the Manso River Valley. After a scenic drive, we ride gravel roads leading to 20 km of flowing singletrack and suspension bridges over the Manso River.
After a hearty riverside lunch, we trade bikes for rafts and tackle the thrilling “Frontera” section of the Manso River — a turquoise Class III–IV stretch. No prior rafting experience is necessary.
We finish at the Chilean border and return to our cozy Manso cabin for a traditional Argentine dinner.
Distance: 26 km Approx. Riding Time: 4 hours Highest Point: 556 m Elevation Gain: 226 m Elevation Lost: 69 m
After breakfast, we drive to the northern shore of Lake Puelo and begin our cross-border adventure on a remote singletrack trail through pristine forest to the Argentine border post.
Following border formalities, we continue toward Chile, crossing the Puelo River by lancha (small boat). On the other side, we ride a few final kilometers before meeting our support vehicle and transferring to our riverside accommodation.
Distance: 22 km Approx. Riding Time: 3–4 hours Highest Point: 580 m Elevation Gain: 340 m Elevation Lost: 290 m
Overnight: Chilean Riverside Hostel
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Day 5: Lago Azul and Sea Kayaking
Spend the day immersed in the beauty of Patagonia at a secluded, crystal-clear lake. Paddle across Lago Azul in sea kayaks, marveling at its clarity and vibrant hue. Take a plunge if you're feeling brave—the chill is invigorating!
Around midday, we gather for a traditional Chilean asado. Savor meat grilled over an open fire, paired with fresh salads and homemade bread.
The afternoon is yours to kayak, swim, explore, or simply relax on the shore.
We begin at the historic suspension bridge over the Correntoso River. From here, we ride a 15 km trail through the Ventisquero Valley—an area steeped in gaucho and settler history.
Expect a mix of flowing singletrack, grassy pampas, shaded forest paths, and open vistas of hanging glaciers. Our ride ends at Rincón Bonito, a private mountain house where we enjoy a late lunch with spectacular views.
For those eager for more, a challenging 3km extension offers steep climbs, technical terrain, and sweeping views.
Distance: 15 km (+ optional 3 km) Approx. Riding Time: 4 hours Highest Point: 720 m Elevation Gain: 70 m (+900 m on optional loop) Elevation Lost: 180 m
Overnight: Chilean Mountain House Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 7: Packrafting – Ventisquero & Puelo Rivers
Today we swap bikes for packrafts and embark on a fun paddle down the Ventisquero and Puelo Rivers. These Class II+ rivers are ideal for beginners and experienced paddlers alike.
While your gear is carried by packhorse, you’ll navigate gentle rapids and calm stretches, pausing for a riverside lunch in the heart of Patagonia.
We finish the day back at Puelo Libre, where hot showers, local craft beer, and riverside relaxation await.
A scenic and moderately challenging ride that links the El Huemul sector with Lago Inferior. We pedal through forested trails and open valleys.
Before crossing back into Argentina, we’ll stop for lunch at an off-grid family farm where we’ll be served a hearty meal made from ingredients grown and raised right there. The highlight: a traditional Chilean lamb barbecue, slow-cooked over an open fire— this is a memorable cultural and culinary experience.
After crossing back into Argentina, a van will be waiting to take us to our hotel in Bariloche for a well-deserved rest. In the evening, you’ll have the opportunity to head into town to enjoy dinner at one of Bariloche’s many excellent local restaurants.
Distance: 28 km Approx. Riding Time: 4–5 hours Highest Point: 610 m Elevation Gain: 350 m Elevation Lost: 400 m
Overnight: Bariloche Hotel Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Day 9: Chasing Panoramas and Enduro Thrills
After breakfast, we begin our final and most exhilarating ride. A short drive brings us to the base of Cerro Otto, where we start a tough 742 m paved ascent.
At the summit, we switch to dirt trails and climb to the stunning Habsburg Rock for views of Cerro Catedral and Lake Nahuel Huapi.
Choose your descent:
Retrace the trail for a moderate return, or
Take a 3 km enduro-style descent—steep, fast, and packed with adrenaline.
Our last challenge is the legendary Paco Echegaray trail: 7 km of fast, flowy singletrack.
Tonight, after hot showers and time to unwind, we’ll gather at a popular restaurant for a lively and heartfelt farewell dinner. With delicious local cuisine, toasts to new friendships, and stories from an unforgettable week, it’s the perfect way to wrap up our Patagonian adventure
Distance: 20–30 km depending on route Approx. Riding Time: 3–4 hours Highest Point: 1780 m Elevation Gain: 850 m Elevation Lost: 1200 m
Overnight: Bariloche Hotel Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Day 10: Departure
After one final breakfast together, guests departing today can arrange airport transfers through the hotel. If you’re not quite ready to leave, we’d be happy to help you extend your stay in Bariloche.
Day 1: Arrive in Bariloche and enjoy a warm-up ride along the stunning Circuito Chico with dinner at a local brewery.
Day 2: Ride the rolling hills of the Enchanted Valley and cool off with a swim in the Limay River.
Day 3: Explore the Manso River Valley by bike and conquer Class III–IV whitewater rapids.
Day 4: Cross into Chile by bike and boat via Lago Puelo, ending at a remote riverside lodge.
Day 5: Kayak across crystal-clear Lago Azul and feast on a traditional Chilean asado.
Day 6: Ride through the Ventisquero Valley’s diverse terrain and enjoy a late lunch at a private mountain lodge.
Day 7: Packraft down the Ventisquero and Puelo Rivers with lunch in the Patagonian wilderness.
Day 8: Ride El Huemul to Lago Inferior with a farm-to-table lamb BBQ lunch, then return to Bariloche.
Day 9: Climb Cerro Otto and choose your thrill: scenic descent or epic singletrack finale, followed by a celebratory farewell dinner.
Day 10: Departure day—transfer to the airport or continue your Patagonian journey.
Accommodations
This trip includes 3 nights in comfortable hotels in Bariloche, 1 night in a cozy cabin in the Manso River Valley, 3 nights at a riverside hostel Chile, and 1 night at a private mountain house in the Ventisquero Valley. *inquire about private room upgrades
Expert bilingual local guide(s) 8 nights shared accommodation (inquire for single supplement) Daily breakfasts, most lunches, and some dinners (see itinerary for details) Assistance with bike setup and maintenance support Adventure activities: rafting, kayaking, and packrafting
Not Included:
Flight to Argentina/Bariloche Bike Rental
Alcoholic Beverages
Meals as indicated on itinerary
Sam, Utah USA
"What an amazing adventure and cultural experience. Julian and Katie did an incredible job planning our trip according to our wants and needs. We mountain biked, hiked, fly fished, and river rafted. Julian knows this part of the country inside and out. Because of his relationships with the locals I felt I received a "true" cultural experience."
Kevin, Jan.2019
"Everything you could want out of an adventure outfitter, you get. Professional. Safe. Personable. Knowledgable. They simply made the adventure."
Lee, Victoria Canada
"I recently returned from a trip of a lifetime to Patagonia. Julian does an amazing job of delivering the best possible experience. He is a great communicator and planner. The safety, equipment, planning, and overall experience was top shelf! I highly recommend Paddle Patagonia!"
Mike: Mastermind Adventures, Toronto Canada
"Katie spent hours on email and Skype with me to help me design and develop a memorable and magical itinerary. When the event arrived, Julian and his co-guide Mirko were incredible leaders: professional and hard working yet also incredibly fun. We spent the week hiking, biking, rafting and exploring Patagonia, and Paddle Patagonia made it magical in every sense of the word."
Jessica, Utah USA
"I have spent the last few days bragging to all my friends and family about what an amazing trip we had. Honestly, I have to say this has been my favorite vacation (and I have been to a lot of places). The company was great, the food was amazing, everyday was a different exciting adventure, and hanging with Juli was always a good time. Katie, thanks for taking the time to customize a trip that best fit our needs. I would not have changed a thing."
Nat, Toronto Canada
"If you ever thought of travelling to Patagonia, Paddle Patagonia is the right team to help you organize the trip. 10 out of 10 for me and I can't wait to go back. It was my first time visiting Argentina's most captivating region and I don't think my experience could have been any better, truly. Over our 7 day stay with a group of 15 friends (all different physical activity levels and preferences), we experienced everything this magical region has to offer, with zero stress."
Kate, Harrisburg USA
"Paddle Patagonia worked with us to develop a perfect itinerary for our Patagonia and South American adventure. My husband and I paddle whitewater at different skill levels. They put together a 6-day river adventure that was exciting for us both. For 6 days we paddled exciting rivers in Argentina and Chile, including the Manso and Futaleufu. Each night we enjoyed great local food and relaxed at lodges with friendly hosts and surrounded by the gorgeous snow-capped Andes mountains. Our trip was simultaneously relaxing and exhilarating."
Josh, Toronto Canada
"What an amazing experience I had in El Bolson. From white water rafting to mountain biking to breathtaking hikes, this had it all. Our group had an absolute blast and a big part of it was because of the fun and energy that all the Paddle Patagonia guides had. A special thanks to Julian and Mirko for being the absolute best."
Sheri, USA Jan.2024
Bike and Paddle Patagonia is by far the finest adventure travel company I have ever used. The owners, Julian and Katie Tisato, customized an EPIC three week expedition for our foursome. We traveled by truck from Bariloche south through Patagonia in both Argentina and Chile ending in El Calafate. Every day was an adventure with highlights that included six days of whitewater on the Futaleufu River, more whitewater on the Manso and Rio Azul Rivers, sea kayaking, extreme hiking, sightseeing, delicious meals, amazing lodging and, most importantly, loads of laughter. Adventure travel is rarely perfect, but this trip was sheer PERFECTION!!
Carolyn, Canada - Jan.2024
Our trip with Julian and Katie was nothing short of outstanding! A week of fun, laughter and adventure! Katie was so organized and helpful through her communication via WhatsApp before our trip and on the ground too! She checked in everyday and it felt like we were part of the B and P Patagonia family! Julian, our guide, was amazing - charming, energetic, professional and very knowledgeable! He expertly guided us on our bikes, taking us on routes we would never have found ourselves. His kayaking and paddling skills are renowned and we really enjoyed our rafting experience! The hike he chose for us afforded us spectacular views of the valley and mountains around El Bolson! Our stay at La Confluencia was magical and the drive to get there will remain as one of my highlights of the trip. Thank goodness for the Toyota Hilux and Julian's expert driving skills!
