The Araucanía Andina by bike: adventure among volcanoes and ancient forests
In short: The easiest way to explore the Araucanía Andina by bike is the Manzanar–Malalcahuello bike path: 12 km on an old branch railway, with a gentle slope, suitable for families. For mountain biking there are roads in the Malalcahuello Reserve, the climb to Navidad Crater and the rural roads of Lonquimay, Icalma and Galletué. The best time is December to April.
Key facts: the Araucanía Andina by bike
| Manzanar–Malalcahuello bike path | 12 km, old branch railway, gentle slope; for everyone |
|---|---|
| Navidad Crater | Demanding climb over sand and volcanic rock; for experienced riders |
| Malalcahuello Reserve | Dirt and gravel roads among forests and lava fields |
| Lonquimay, Icalma and Galletué | Quiet rural roads by lakes and Pehuenche communities |
| Best time | December to April |
| Rental | In Malalcahuello and at some local lodgings |
| What to bring | Helmet, gloves, rain jacket, water, snacks and basic tools |
Information checked in October 2026. Opening hours, access and prices may change: confirm them before you travel.
Exploring the Araucanía Andina by bike is a unique experience for lovers of active travel and nature. This area of southern Chile, which includes the municipalities of Curacautín, Lonquimay, Melipeuco, Vilcún and Cunco, offers spectacular scenery, trails among ancient araucarias and routes of different difficulty levels for mountain biking.
The best-known bike routes
1. Malalcahuello – Manzanar route (former railway bike path)
- Distance: 12 km.
- Type: bike path on an old branch railway, gentle slope.
- Best for: families and beginner cyclists.
- Highlights: it crosses native forests, rivers and lava fields. One of the friendliest and most scenic routes in the area.
- Start: Malalcahuello or Manzanar.
2. Navidad Crater – Lonquimay Volcano (bikepacking)
- Distance: 20 to 40 km (depending on the route).
- Difficulty: moderate to hard.
- Best for: experienced cyclists.
- Highlights: the climb to Lonquimay's active crater, panoramic views of the valley and araucaria forests. You can combine it with a crossing toward Las Mellizas.
3. Malalcahuello-Nalcas National Reserve
- Distance: varies (depending on the trail).
- Type: inner routes, many on dirt or gravel.
- Best for: mountain bikers with some experience.
- Highlights: volcanic landscapes, trails surrounded by native vegetation, viewpoints and local wildlife.
4. Laguna Icalma – Ralco loop (mountain border)
- Distance: 50+ km (can be done in part).
- Type: gravel road with paved stretches.
- Best for: intermediate to advanced cyclists.
- Highlights: Pehuenche communities, mountain lakes, volcanoes and natural hot springs.
5. Conguillío National Park by bike
- Distance: 40 km (inner loop).
- Type: gravel roads and inner trails.
- Best for: mountain bikers and bike-hikers.
- Highlights: Llaima volcano, Lake Conguillío and trails among ancient araucarias.
Where to rent bikes in the Araucanía Andina?
In Malalcahuello there is bike rental for the bike path and the reserve: see bike rental in Malalcahuello. In Curacautín, Lonquimay and Melipeuco, ask at your lodging or with local tour operators, who offer guided rides.
Tips for cyclists
- Weather: be ready for quick changes; bring a rain jacket.
- Best season: summer and fall (December to April).
- Equipment: a bike with suspension if you ride technical trails.
- Safety: carry GPS, water and snacks, and always check road conditions.
- Respect the environment: stay on marked trails and respect protected areas.
More routes to ride
- Around Lake Conguillío: roads among araucarias and old lava flows, with Llaima in the background.
- Galletué and Icalma lakes: quiet rural roads, with stops for photos and to get to know the local culture.
- Tolhuaca and Malalcahuello roads: valleys and cold rivers around Lonquimay volcano.
Wildlife along the way: foxes, Magellanic woodpeckers and many birds are common. Take your trash with you and stay on authorized routes.
Frequently asked questions about the Araucanía Andina by bike
How long is the Manzanar–Malalcahuello bike path?
12 km, on an old branch railway with a gentle slope. See the Manzanar–Malalcahuello bike path.
Where can you rent a bike in the Araucanía Andina?
In Malalcahuello there is bike rental; you can also ask at your lodging. See bike rental in Malalcahuello.
Can you ride a bike in Conguillío?
Yes, on the park's gravel roads, with views of Llaima volcano and Lake Conguillío. Respect the footpaths and buy your ticket at pasesparques.cl.
When is the best time to ride?
December to April, with dry roads and long days. In fall the forests change color, but it rains more.
Which route is good for kids?
The Manzanar–Malalcahuello bike path: it is short, has a gentle slope and is separated from traffic.
More to see nearby: Manzanar–Malalcahuello bike path · Bike rental in Malalcahuello · Things to do in Malalcahuello · Icalma Lake
Updated on October 12, 2026