En Cicloaustral creemos que el cicloturismo puede ser una fuerza positiva para las comunidades locales y los territorios que recorremos, minimizando el impacto ambiental. Por eso estamos en proceso de obtener el Sello S, la Distinción de Turismo Sustentable de Sernatur.
El Sello S es un distintivo que audita una tercera parte independiente y que cuenta con el reconocimiento internacional del Consejo Global de Turismo Sostenible (GSTC). Para postular hay que completar un autodiagnóstico, pasar por una auditoría externa y recibir la aprobación final de Sernatur.
Foto de autor. Cicloaustral Chile.
Principios de Comercio Justo
Los Diez Principios de Comercio Justo son la base de la World Fair Trade Organization (WFTO), una red global de organizaciones y empresas que trabajan por un comercio más justo y por modelos de negocio que ponen a las personas y al planeta en primer lugar. Su origen se remonta a 1989 y hoy es una de las principales referencias internacionales en la materia.
Estos principios dialogan con lo que buscamos en el día a día: priorizar proveedores locales, pagar de forma justa, no tolerar ninguna forma de explotación, promover la igualdad de género y cuidar el medioambiente.
Los Diez Principios de Comercio Justo de la World Fair Trade Organization.
Conoce nuestros compromisos
Como parte de este camino, hacemos públicos los documentos que guían nuestro trabajo:
Política de Sustentabilidad: Define nuestros principios y estándares mínimos en cinco focos: respeto por las comunidades, apoyo a la economía local, cuidado del medioambiente, protección de las personas y los animales, y compromiso de mejora continua y transparencia.
Declaración de Principios de Sustentabilidad: Resume nuestros compromisos con las comunidades locales, la reducción de la huella de carbono, la minimización de residuos, el turismo responsable y la equidad de género en el turismo de aventura.
Código Ético Mundial para el Turismo: El marco de la Organización Mundial del Turismo (ONU) que orienta un turismo responsable y que inspira nuestra forma de trabajar. Sus diez principios abarcan el respeto mutuo entre viajeros y comunidades, el desarrollo personal y colectivo, la protección del medio ambiente, el cuidado del patrimonio cultural, el beneficio para las comunidades de destino y el empleo local, las obligaciones de los agentes del desarrollo turístico, el derecho al turismo y la libertad de desplazamiento, los derechos de los trabajadores y empresarios del sector, y la aplicación conjunta de estos principios.
Photo by Cicloaustral Chile. Chelenko Gravel Backroads – Women Only. January 2026.
Gender Equity
Last season, we made the option to choose a women’s saddle visible in our bike rental service, at no extra cost. At first glance, it may seem like just another piece of personalized gear, but it is actually much more than that. It’s not just a saddle.
If you are a woman and have ever ridden a bike for more than an hour, you have probably experienced the discomfort of using a standard saddle. This brings us to our first point: bicycles and equipment are mostly designed for male physiology, women often have to invest additional money in order to reach a basic level of comfort and safety. The saddle is just an example. The cushioning for the sit bones (ischial tuberosities) is set closer together, while women generally need more space between them, because wider hips mean greater spacing between the sit bones.
The fact that the “standard” is actually male is nothing new, in many markets, especially in Chile, women specific equipment is harder to find and also more expensive, and it doesn’t happen only in cycling.
Bone spacing is only part of the story. Where the body meets the bike, there is a second mismatch. Men typically have a narrower pubic arch that leaves more natural clearance, while women tend to have a wider and shallower arch. On a saddle that isn’t designed with this in mind, that means more direct pressure on sensitive soft tissue instead of support from the skeleton. The result can be numbness, chafing, and pain that make long days in the saddle much harder than they need to be.
To understand why standard saddles often cause discomfort, it helps to look at how different designs handle pressure and support:
Standard / Traditional saddles: Designed around a narrower, male-centric geometry. For women, this often means friction, numbness, and pain, because the saddle ignores wider sit bone spacing and the way female anatomy meets the saddle.
Cutout saddles: Their central cutout was originally designed to relieve pressure on the male perineum. For women, the result depends on the design. A well-shaped cutout or relief channel can redirect pressure away from sensitive tissue and toward the sit bones. However, one study of competitive female cyclists found that cutout saddles can increase pressure in some women, especially when the saddle is also too narrow [1]. In other words, a relief zone only helps when it comes with the right width and shape.
Women-specific saddles: Designed around wider sit bone spacing and female anatomy, they combine a supportive platform with a relief zone shaped for women. But every body is different, and no single saddle works for everyone. Width, shape, and relief all have to work together.
That is exactly why we offer the choice. Finding the right saddle is deeply personal, and it is hard to predict which one will fit best just by looking at a rider or measuring sit bones. Being able to try and choose makes a real difference. Comfort is not a luxury. It is what allows you to enjoy every kilometer of the ride instead of just enduring it. The right saddle should be an option for every rider, not an extra charge.
The fact that the “standard” is actually male is nothing new, in many markets, especially in Chile, women specific equipment is harder to find and also more expensive, and it doesn’t happen only in cycling. From crash test dummies that do not reflect the shape and weight of an average woman [2], to scientific studies that exclude female subjects because hormonal cycles are considered “unstable,” many systems are still designed around male bodies [3]. However, in recent years, there has been a growing need for more in-depth research into women’s performance in endurance sports [4]. Evidence suggests that there are physiological differences that may make women more resilient in certain aspects of endurance performance. However, a significant knowledge gap remains in the existing research.
For us, that means a women’s saddle isn’t an upgrade; it’s intrinsic to the bike itself. You won’t pay more, and you won’t have to make an extra effort to request it.
So, it’s not just a saddle. We believe women shouldn’t have to choose a differentiated option just to ride comfortably —comfort should be a given. For us, that means a women’s saddle isn’t an upgrade; it’s intrinsic to the bike itself. You won’t pay more, and you won’t have to make an extra effort to request it. We know that a saddle alone won’t end gender inequality, but through this action we make tangible how we believe change should happen, small steps towards big shifts, and progress toward closing the gender gap through everyday decisions.
For decades, frame geometry has been designed around the male body, with top tubes that are often too high and frames that are too long for women. The current trend in the industry is abandoning the standard size and moving forward to recognizing the difference between sexes, but the problem is that this approach still has stereotypes, assuming women have longer legs but shorter arms which led to shorter top tubes, not considering the enormous variability of bodies.
This extends beyond bike design: the adventure tourism sector—at least in Chile—is still largely male-dominated [5]. Women are often relegated to administrative or hospitality roles, but we can also lead, guide, cycle, and respond in emergency situations. Women’s tours are also often “pinkwashed,” associated with very quiet activities and limited adventure. However, some of the top riders who have traveled with us have been incredible women who have accomplished remarkable goals.
Photo by Cicloaustral Chile.
Creating Spaces for Confidence and Autonomy
While a saddle alone cannot resolve systemic inequality, tourism companies have a significant power in shaping inclusive practices, ensuring representation in leadership and narrative. We have the option everyday to reproduce existing inequalities or contribute to transformative change. When women move from margins of adventure tourism into its most demanding and decisive roles the change stops being superficial and starts being structural.
This is also why we are creating women-only cycling experiences integrating a gender perspective into our design, risk management, communication system and accommodations. Women often experience outdoor spaces differently, and feeling safe is a fundamental condition for experiencing autonomy, confidence and empowerment in cycling travel.
Guiding is leadership, we choose whose voice shapes our experiences, active, adventurous and women-led. We are not just working in adventure tourism, we are shaping it.
Accommodations are one example of how we put this into practice. Our tours are based on shared double rooms, but we never ask a woman to share a room with a man she doesn’t know. If a woman is traveling solo and there is no other woman in the group to share with, she gets a private room—at no extra cost, and without having to pay a single supplement. Just like the saddle, feeling safe shouldn’t be an upgrade.
There is evidence—and we have experienced it ourselves—that when women participate in outdoor activities, they often feel more confident taking risks and facing challenges. We want to create those spaces so more women can have that experience: feeling safe, confident, and empowered.
Guiding is leadership, we choose whose voice shapes our experiences, active, adventurous and women-led. We are not just working in adventure tourism, we are shaping it.
Photo by Cicloaustral Chile. Women Tour Roar, March 2026.
All this pointed us to another problem, finding women guides with the knowledge, experience, and skills required to lead cycling tours isn’t easy. It’s required that they have mechanical knowledge (an area where the STEM gap is still very present) and extensive training. However, this season we have found some remarkable women guides, and we couldn’t be happier. Still, if we truly want equal opportunities for women and men, we must actively provide the resources needed to close those gaps, so starting from the same place stops being a privilege and becomes the norm.
So, it’s not just a saddle. It’s a way of saying that we care—and that we act.
[2]Gender Innovations Project (2022). Inclusive Crash Test Dummies: Rethinking Standards and Reference Models. Gendered Innovations in Science, Health & Medicine, Engineering, and Environment. Stanford University. Available from: https://genderedinnovations.stanford.edu/case-studies/crash.html#tabs-1
[3] DeBruin, D. (1999). Justice and the Inclusion of Women in Clinical Studies: A Conceptual Framework. In Women and Health Research: Ethical and Legal Issues of Including Women in Clinical Studies: Volume 2: Workshop and Commissioned Papers. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK236575/
[4] Espasa-Labrador J, Sandbakk Ø, Cebrián-Ponce Á, Irurtia A, Carrasco-Marginet M and Osborne JO (2026) Female trail running: a systematic scoping review. Front. Sports Act. Living 7:1694925. DOI: 10.3389/fspor.2025.1694925
[5] Dujisin, P. N. R., & Briones, A. F. (2022).The participation of women workers in adventure tourism: a case study of the Valparaíso region, Chile. Pasos Revista de Turismo y Patrimonio Cultural, 20(1). DOI: 10.25145/j.pasos.2022.20.011
Cicloaustral Chile has conducted a study to better understand the size and potential of the cycle tourism niche along Chile’s iconic Carretera Austral. The goal is to foster collaboration between public and private sectors to position this remarkable route as a global capital for cycling tourism.
Source: Retrieved from Naviera Austral. The Jacaf Ferry disembarking in Chaitén.
A valuable indicator of this growth is found in the two ferry services that serve as key gateways to the Carretera Austral. These ferries not only transport cyclists to the route but also reflect the increasing popularity of bicycle travel and its contribution to sustainable tourism in Patagonia.
A World-Class Cycling Destination
The Carretera Austral—officially known as Route 7—is one of the premier cycling destinations in South America, running through the heart of Chilean Patagonia. In 2024, the Chilean government designated it a Scenic Route, reinforcing its status alongside international accolades. It was recognized by BBC Travel in 2025 as one of the most beautiful roads in the world, and in 2010, National Geographic ranked it the 3rd best cycling route globally in its “Journeys of a Lifetime” series.
Despite its growing reputation, few studies have attempted to measure the actual impact of cycling tourism along the Carretera Austral or assess the market’s size. This niche plays a significant role in sustainable development, especially in this remote and rural region. Cyclists travel with a light footprint, creating low environmental impact, and their presence supports local economies, including small lodges, campsites, hostels, restaurants, markets, and artisan businesses. Long-distance travel by bike also encourages longer stays, with riders journeying from one village to the next—generating meaningful social and economic benefits.
Measuring the Movement: Data from Ferry Routes (2017–April 2024)
Cyclist embarking on Bimodal Ferry towards Caleta Gonzalo in Pumalin Douglas tompkins NP.
To support coordinated efforts among local stakeholders, this report presents the number of cyclists transported via two ferry routes connecting to the Carretera Austral:
Hornopirén to Caleta Gonzalo (the “Bimodal Route”)
Puerto Montt to Chaitén
Data was collected through the Transparency Information System of the Chilean government in collaboration with the Undersecretary of Transportation, then refined and analyzed by Cicloaustral Chile and its co-founder, F.V. Padilla.
Figure 1: Number of Cyclists Transported by Ferries (2017–April 2024)
Between 2017 and April 2024, a total of 4,985 cyclists were transported via these two routes:
Hornopirén–Caleta Gonzalo: 3,862 cyclists
Puerto Montt–Chaitén: 1,123 cyclists
The Bimodal Route clearly dominates, carrying over double the number of cyclists compared to the second route.
Trends Over the Years:
2017 marked a peak year for international arrivals and cyclists on the Carretera Austral.
A decline followed in 2018, due to national social unrest and a general downturn in tourism—only 278 cyclists were recorded.
2019 showed slight recovery before the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020–2021 sharply reduced numbers again, with only 320 cyclists in 2021.
Despite the pandemic, some adventurous riders still traveled, drawn by the remote, open landscapes and minimal contact with others.
In 2022, the tourism sector began to rebound, and by 2023, cyclist numbers nearly matched those of 2017 with 923 bikes transported.
The first four months of 2024 already show a strong upward trend, with 584 cyclists—mostly during the high summer season.
Beyond the Ferries: Total Volume Still Underestimated
While this ferry data is valuable, it doesn’t capture the full scope of cycling tourism on the Carretera Austral. Many cyclists access the route through other entry points:
Balmaceda Airport
15 overland border crossings from Argentina
Additional ferry routes from Chiloé and Puerto Natales
Thus, the actual number of cycle tourists is significantly higher than what ferry data alone reveals.
Understanding the Seasonality of Cycle Tourism
Figure 2: Seasonality of Cycling Tourism (2007–2024)
Clear seasonal patterns have emerged over the years:
High Season: Peaks in January and February (southern hemisphere summer). In 2024, the ferries carried 485 cyclists in January and 278 in February.
Shoulder Season: Continues through March (154 cyclists) and April (61). The scenery changes with autumn foliage, creating a unique and colorful backdrop for those who continue pedaling.
Low Season: From May to August, very few cyclists brave the harsh conditions—icy winds, heavy rain, and snowfall make it a challenge.
Spring Recovery: September marks the start of a new rise, with numbers gradually climbing. In September 2023, just 11 cyclists were transported and continues constantly increasing in October (37), November (98), and December (149) remarks the starting point of the high season for cycling in Patagonia chile.
Moving Forward: Strengthening Cycle Tourism
Recognizing this growing and recurring demand, local and national institutions have an opportunity to:
Support bike-friendly infrastructure in rural areas
Encourage road-sharing policies for safer travel
Consider implementing a dedicated cycling lane as part of ongoing paving projects—potentially creating the southernmost cycling corridor in the world
On the private side, tour operators, rental services, bike shops, and mechanical support providers should prepare to meet increasing demand. Enhancing hospitality and services along the route can greatly improve rider experience, support over 20 rural communities, and help integrate sustainable tourism into local development strategies.
Cicloaustral Chile will continue promoting and researching this unique destination, working with communities, government agencies, and travel businesses to ensure the Carretera Austral thrives as a beacon for responsible adventure tourism.
by Fernando Padilla. Co-founder of Cicloaustral Chile.
Demographics, Characteristics, and Trends of Cycle Tourists in Patagonia, Chile
The Carretera Austral is a 1,247-kilometer route stretching through Patagonia, Chile, connecting over 20 remote villages via a mix of 60% paved and 40% gravel roads. It crosses two regions—Los Lagos and Aysén—and has become an iconic journey for adventure cyclists seeking pristine landscapes, cultural richness, and a profound sense of remoteness.
The route’s fame is not accidental. National Geographic listed it in 2010 as one of the top 3 “Journeys of a Lifetime” for cycling. Its appeal has only grown with the 2021 creation of the Route of the Parks of Patagonia, a conservation initiative powered by the Thompkins family—founders of The North Face—who made one of the largest land donations in history to expand Chile’s national parks.
The Carretera Austral is exceptional in its environmental value: over 50% of Chile’s national protected areas are located here. Forests in this region absorb up to three times more carbon per hectare than the Amazon, according to Rewilding Chile and National Geographic (2022). Its high conservation value, low crime, and strong community culture also make it one of the safest and most transformative destinations for slow travel in South America.
Growth in Cycle Tourism
A recent article on our website highlighted the growing number of cyclists using ferry systems to access the Carretera Austral. Nearly 5,000 cyclists rode the route between 2017 and 2024 (Cicloaustral and Chile’s Undersecretary of Transportation, 2024), pointing to a clear upward trend. This growth signals a unique opportunity to promote sustainable tourism and community-based development in Patagonia.
A Groundbreaking Study on Cycle Tourists
To better understand this emerging tourism niche, Cicloaustral partnered with co-founder Fernando Padilla’s master’s thesis research to conduct the most comprehensive study to date on cycle tourists in the Carretera Austral. The study aims to offer actionable insights to communities, local businesses, and policymakers for sustainable tourism development.
Methodology
A post-trip survey was conducted during the 2024 high season (January–March), in both English and Spanish. It was distributed via QR posters in more than 80 bike-friendly hospitality services across the route. A total of 218 cyclists responded, offering a valuable dataset on cycle tourist demographics, preferences, and travel patterns.
Demographics of Cycle Tourists on the Carretera Austral
Age Range of Cycle Tourists
Source: Cicloaustral Chile & Padilla F.V., 2024
The 30–39 age group is the largest, accounting for 40% of all respondents, suggesting a strong presence of working-age adults who likely value long, immersive travel experiences.
21% are in the 18–29 bracket, highlighting younger adventurers, including students and early-career travelers.
26% are aged 40–59, showing that cycle tourism appeals to mid-career adults.
A notable 12% of cyclists are over 60, illustrating that this journey is also accessible to senior cyclists with the physical endurance and passion for remote exploration.
Gender and Trip Partner Correlation
Source: Cicloaustral Chile & Padilla F.V., 2024
Men make up 69% of the total respondents, while women represent 31%—a common pattern in long-distance cycle touring globally.
Among solo travelers, 77% are men, compared to 23% women, suggesting men are more likely to travel alone.
Conversely, 49% of women travel with a spouse or partner, reflecting a preference for shared travel experiences among female cyclists.
The vast majority of trips—87%—are self-guided, with a smaller portion (13%) participating in organized or guided bike tours.
Origin of Cyclists by Region
Source: Cicloaustral Chile & Padilla F.V., 2024
63% of cyclists are from international destinations, indicating strong global interest in Patagonia.
internationally Europe leads with 39%, followed by North America (14%) and Latin America countries including Chile (45%), showing the Carretera Austral’s broad geographic draw.
Chileans represent 37%, highlighting growing domestic cultural interest in exploring their own country in Patagonia and active tourism.
Top 10 Countries Represented
Source: Cicloaustral Chile & Padilla F.V., 2024
The USA and Spain (7% each) are the most common individual countries of origin, reflecting strong interest in adventure cycling from both North America and Europe.
France, the UK, and Canada follow closely at 6%, indicating a robust interest from countries with strong cycling cultures.
Germany accounts for 5%.
Chile ranks as the top Latin American country, with a solid 37%—demonstrating both growing national awareness and accessibility to domestic travelers.
The diversity of nationalities reflects the global appeal of the Carretera Austral and highlights its potential as an international destination for sustainable tourism.
Education Levels of Cyclists
Source: Cicloaustral Chile & Padilla F.V., 2024
Cyclist are very well educated. 50% hold graduate degrees; 45% have bachelor’s degrees.
High levels of education suggest opportunities for engaging riders in conservation and sustainability practices.
Annual Income
Source: Cicloaustral Chile & Padilla F.V., 2024
Middle-income travelers (USD 10,000–50,000) make up 46% of respondents.
High-income travelers (>50,000) make up 28%.
Domestic cyclists report significantly lower incomes than their international counterparts, however, also linked with the young generation of cyclists/ students that travel their own country.
Nevertheless, long distance cyclist even having high, middle or low-incomes, tend to spend consciously understanding their significant contributions to small and medium local business in rural villages along Patagonia.
Characteristics of the Bike Trips
Trip Features
Source: Cicloaustral Chile & Padilla F. V., 2024
The bike trip frequency shown in the table reveal that first timers 180 (83%) dominated, whereas second timers embody 33 (15%).
Trip length both, more than 21 and over 30 days comprise 122 (46%). This fact very impressive thinking about the cyclist contribution due to long stays at the destination.
Daily expenditure cyclists spending between USD 20 to 50 is by far the main contributors of the destination, however, those who spend less than USD 20 with 127 (58%) that represent the budget trips, hence an important contributor for locals due to long extensions of their trips.
Type of bike trips, self-guided bike trips 190 (87%) explains the phenomenon of cycling, when just 10% represent guided bike tours.
Travel Companions
Source: Cicloaustral Chile & Padilla F. V., 2024
Solo and pair travel are the most common formats, reinforcing the independent nature of these trips.
Main Starting and Ending Points
Source: Cicloaustral Chile & Padilla F. V., 2024
Trips generally begin in the north (Puerto Montt) and end in the south (Villa O’Higgins), (Coyhaique) also draws important half-way exit of Carretera Austral due to Balmaceda Airport connection and new trend shows how (caleta tortel) positioned as ending point connecting with torres del Paine Destination through navigation ferry.
Services and Preferences
Bicycle and Equipment
Accommodation Preferences
Source: Cicloaustral Chile & Padilla F. V., 2024
Food and Meals cyclist preferences
82% cook their own meals.
72% buy snacks/lunches locally.
70% eat in restaurants occasionally.
Recreational Activities while cycling
Hiking (81%)
Photography/Video (54%)
Flora & Fauna observation (36%)
Kayaking, hot springs, and rafting also popular.
Main Challenges and issues along the ride.
Source: Cicloaustral Chile & Padilla F. V., 2024
Cyclists reported as they main issues along the cycling experience in the Carretera Austrral:
Bad weather (36%)
Slopes and long distances (33%)
Mechanical issues (25%)
Gravel roads, dust, and accidents (18%)
Language barriers (17%)
Physical fatigue (10%)
These challenges are also part of the transformative experience of cycling through one of the world’s most remote and majestic regions.
Conclusion
This study offers the most detailed profile to date of who is riding the Carretera Austral, how, and why. It reaffirms that this route is an emerging hub for sustainable, educational, and meaningful travel. Cicloaustral is proud to contribute data-driven insights to support public institutions, bike-friendly businesses, and local communities.
As we move forward, our mission remains clear: to promote sustainable development in Patagonia by bridging the needs of cyclists with the unique culture and environment of the Carretera Austral. Together, we can grow this destination responsibly and inclusively.
Linking Chile’s Epic Carretera Austral with Mount Fitz Roy
Last updated:
Collaborative guide by:Cicloaustral, Surí and Ruedas de la Patagonia — local companies committed to sustainable travel and cycle tourism in Patagonia.
Introduction
In the heart of remote Patagonia, Chile and Argentina meet among mountains, glaciers, and impossibly blue lakes. Here, at the southern end of the Carretera Austral, begins one of the most legendary crossings in South America: the Villa O’Higgins to El Chaltén route.
This adventure connects Chile’s Carretera Austral with Argentina’s Mount Fitz Roy, combining two scenic boat rides and a 21 km trekking section between Candelario Mancilla and Lago del Desierto. Every year, hundreds of cyclists and backpackers take on this unforgettable journey between November and April, when the border crossings are open.
Step 1: Ferry from Villa O’Higgins to Candelario Mancilla
The adventure starts with a 1.5-hour boat ride across the majestic and bi-national O’Higgins / San Martín Lake, one of the deepest lakes in the Americas. The ferry departs from Bahía Bahamondes pier, located at km 1,247 the final point of the Carretera Austral.
If you’re traveling by bike, you’ll need to pedal about 7 km from Villa O’Higgins to the port.
On board, enjoy a hot coffee and stunning views of this binational lake surrounded by mountains and fjords until reaching Candelario Mancilla, one of the most remote and magical corners of Chilean Patagonia.
Here you’ll find the Chilean border post, where you’ll complete the exit procedures before entering Argentina.
Exit permit (“Salvoconducto”): Must be completed online before leaving Villa O’Higgins check this link
Travel insurance: Since July 2025, it’s mandatory to have travel insurance to enter Argentina. You’ll be asked to present it at the Argentine border post by Lago del Desierto.
Weather conditions: The weather here changes quickly. Always plan for at least one extra day. And as locals say “Those who rush in Patagonia, lose time.”
Where to stay in Candelario Mancilla:
Estancia Santa Teresita camping site / Surí Micro-Shelters (capsules) / Candelario Mancilla Guesthouse
It’s highly recommended to book ahead, especially in high season.
Step 2: Trekking from Candelario Mancilla to Lago del Desierto
This 21 km trek connects Chile and Argentina via the Ruta de los Glaciares (Route of the Glaciers), crossing the Dos Lagunas Pass. It’s a challenging but spectacular trail, featuring forests, rivers, mountains, and the first glimpses of Mount Fitz Roy.
Section 1: Candelario Mancilla → Border Marker (16 km)
A public gravel road with moderate incline. The first few kilometers climb steadily with views of O’Higgins Lake and the Southern Icefield. Around km 6 the path levels out, and on clear days, Fitz Roy appears in the distance. You’ll pass an old airstrip, two wooden bridges, and then reach the Chile–Argentina border marker.
Section 2: Border Marker → North Shore of Lago del Desierto (5.4 km)
Once in Argentina, the trail descends through dense, humid forest, crossing small rivers, muddy patches, roots, and log bridges. Along the way you’ll spot Laguna Larga and a natural viewpoint overlooking Lago del Desierto, before reaching the Argentine border post and ferry dock.
The trail can be rough and muddy due to limited maintenance and changing weather. But if you’ve made it this far, you’ve got everything it takes to conquer it!
Step 3: Lago del Desierto Ferry and Transfer to El Chaltén
From the north shore, take the ferry across Lago del Desierto — a 45-minute boat ride surrounded by waterfalls, glaciers, and towering peaks.
Schedule
Daily departures (except Wednesdays, Christmas, and New Year) until April 15.
10:00 am and 4:00 pm — North → South (Chile to Argentina) and South → North (Argentina to Chile).
Price: 40,000 clp + 20,000 for bicycle (~USD 60)
* You can get the tickets along with our rent a bike booking, or directly from ruedas de La Patagonia or Suri crossing service.
From the south shore, El Chaltén is 37 km away. You can take a minibus usually timed with ferry arrivals, or continue cycling along one of Patagonia’s most scenic routes, with campgrounds and refuges offering incredible views of the Los Glaciares National Park.
Final Cycle Tips
Respect the environment: This area is fragile and lacks waste management or emergency services. 🚫 Do not camp between border posts, light fires, or leave trash behind.
Plan with flexibility: Weather can shift fast — always allow a buffer day or two.
If crossing from Argentina → Chile, you’ll only reach the 4:00 pm ferry if you move quickly. Otherwise, stay overnight at the local campground and enjoy the scenery.
A Journey Like No Other
The Villa O’Higgins–El Chaltén crossing is more than a border route — it’s a passage between two Patagonian worlds, where nature sets the pace and every kilometer is earned through effort and wonder. Whether on foot or by bike, this adventure is the perfect finale for those traveling the Carretera Austral and continuing toward Mount Fitz Roy.
Writen by Fernando Padilla from Cicloaustral & Javier Perez from Suri
