The aim is to go through a route that was used by Indians and Jesuits and which has remained untouched during the last century.
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It is important to keep in mind that these valleys have been used by the settles for some 100 years and they have cleared some sections of the forest for agriculture. They also use wood to build bridges and homes. Most of the forest has been untouched though, so the only way to reach some of these places is through the paths used by settlers and their horses. It is a great opportunity to get in touch with nature and the local people and as we go deep into the valleys, we will find supplies – organic products grown by these people – and thus make a contribution to this place and its inhabitants.
The first three days we will be able to enjoy natural hot springs surrounded by exuberant vegetation, then on the fifth day we will ride along the valley of Blanco River which develops from hanging glaciers at Tronador Volcano (3,484 masl). We will have incredible views of the volcano, walk up its slope to get to Tronador Viejo mountain hut where it is not unusual to see Condors. We will then go through the Buriloche crossing (“people at the other side of the mountain”) where we will see Pampa Linda Valley, pass ancient Lenga and Ñirre forests and once in Argentina we will go to Hostería Pampa Linda to spend the night.
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| Day 1 Santiago/Puerto Varas |
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We will meet you at the airport in Puerto Montt and drive you to Greco Hotel in Puerto Varas. We will have coffee there and talk about details of the trip. Free afternoon.
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| Day 2
Puerto Varas/ Rio Conchas Hot Springs |
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| We will go to Reloncaví estuary and meet the local guide and his horses. You will be given safety instructions. After a few hours down the path we will visit the Cayetue Lake and later we will camp and visit the hot springs. |
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| Day 3
Conchas River Hot Springs/ Esperanza River Hot Springs |
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| This day we will cross several rivers and visit an old stone cave used as a shelter by Huilliche Indians and Jesuits. We will also see ancient forests. This is a long day with a 6 hour walk but it will be worth the effort since we will enjoy a Hot Spring bath by Esperanza River. |
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| Day 4
Esperanza River Hot Springs or Veranada Alvarado |
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| We have two options for this day. One is a free day for those who want to rest and enjoy the hot springs and the second one is to ride to Veranada Alvarado (a summer grassing area) where we will visit Alerce forests that are 3,000 years old and see some lakes that are above the tree line. Once we get back we can enjoy the hot springs and a delicious lamb barbecue Patagonia style or a good selection of vegetables grown by the settlers. |
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