If you’re looking for the requirements to enter Chile in 2022, you’ve just arrived at the right place. In this post, we will report the latest updates regarding sanitary measures and the travel requirements you need to know before your trip to Chile.
The international terminal (T2) at SCL (Santiago Airport) is now located in a separate building than the domestic terminal (T1). 7-min walking distance.
Watch this video for detailed information about arriving at T2 and going to T1:
Here is the information regarding the current border situation in Chile.All this information is valid, starting December 1st 2022.
You don’t need to do any application to enter Chile. Just need valid passport.
Bring prof of vaccination (in paper or photo). This may or may not be required by local authorities.
Please note that the covid-19 vaccines recognized by the ISP (Chilean Institute of Public Health) are the following:
Pfizer-BioNTech
Corona Vac
AstraZeneca
CanSino
Janssen
SPUTNIK-V
mRNA 1273/Spikevax
Make sure your vaccine certificate is issued by an official body in your home-country. Vaccine certificate must have a QR code or barcode.
When booking your domestic flight, allow 3 to 4 hours between the arrival of your international flight and the departure time of your domestic flight, just to be sure you’ll be on time.
Once you enter Chile, you have 90 days to travel (normal tourist visa).
Upon arrival
Your flight has landed in Chile. As you leave the aircraft, local officials will indicate the line you need to follow for your passport control.
If you are flying into Chile, you may or may not be asked to take a PCR test here at the airport upon arrival (free of charge). As of March 10th, it is being performed randomly. However, if you are not pulled aside to take a PCR, you should proceed to Passport control. If you are selected to take a PCR Test, the results take up to 24 hours (our current guests have experienced getting the lab results within 10-12hours).
You will see QR codes to be scanned published on the walls of the airport hallway. This is the digital affidavit for the Agricultural Service and Customs. You can do it while you wait in line for passport control.
Followed by Passport control, you will go to Customs and SAG (Agricultural Service) control. There is a mandatory Digital Affidavit that all adults must fill-in. This is done online upon arrival (at the airport), you can access the form here: https://djsimple.sag.gob.cl/ Click on INICIAR TRAMITE and follow instructions.
Travelers will be able to make their domestic flight connections the same day they arrive in Chile. NO quarantine is required.
If you are coming from the USA or Europe, most international flights arrive at SCL between 7am and 10am. Make sure your domestic flight departs from SCL at noon (12:00) or later.
Collect all your luggage from the baggage carousels, and proceed to exit the automatic doors. If you are taking a domestic flight, proceed to Terminal T1 following T1 signs. It is a 7-min walk from T2 to T1.
As you already know, we are living through moments of constant changes. In this view, don’t hesitate to ask our team about the last travel restrictions when planning your next adventure in Chile.
Cycling in southern Chile is definitely a must-do if you are a bicycling enthusiast. More than just transportation, it allows you to access the hidden corners of the Chilean territory without contributing to climate change.
Bicycle riding is becoming more and more popular due to all the benefits it brings to people’s health and wellbeing. It is also a way of contributing to a more sustainable world. Moreover, it is the best eco-friendly way to visit Chile.
Geographically, Chile is one of the most versatile, safe and unique places to bike in the world. Furthermore, the fact that Chile is located in the Southern Hemisphere allows bikers from the northern parts of the world to enjoy a taste of summer in the off-season provides a great reason for a trip to check it out.
Noteworthy, and since 2016, Chile has won the award of “Best World Adventure Tourism Destination” at World Travel Awards. Correspondingly, you can find a great variety of world-class adventures in the famous Lake and Volcano District Scenic Route. Also known as the Interlagos Network, this southern part of Chile crosses areas booming with resources in terms of its landscapes, environmental and cultural value.
In other words, this 2.000-kilometers destination of (mostly) paved road connects six different circuits running through three regions, where you can see 26 large rivers, 22 lakes, 17 active volcanoes and 12 national parks.
As you can guess, this special part of Chile promises lots of fun rides with the breathtaking landscape. In this blog, we give you 3 reasons why cycling is an incredible travel adventure to do in Chile.
1) The Lake and Volcano District is Chile’s bike-friendly destination
From Temuco to Puerto Varas, we take you to bike the most scenic routes of the Lake and Volcano District. Your cycling adventure will be full of amazing landscapes composed of lakes, active volcanoes and the Andes mountain range. Moreover, you will observe some incredible endemic fauna and flora.
Cycling the roads of Chile’s Lake and Volcano District is the best way to explore this fascinating part of the country. Consequently, you will pedal alongside the Andes mountains, green rolling meadows and through national parks. In addition, you will visit local Mapuche villages and relax in soothing natural hot springs.
During our bike tours, you’ll get to explore the following highlights:
Kütralkura, Chile’s first UNESCO Geopark in the Malalcahuello National Reserve, always with the Lonquimay Volcano watching you.
The Andes Mountain Range at the Alto Biobio National Reserve.
Pucón the Capital of Adventure Travel and the Villarrica Volcano, the most active of the territory
The 7-Lake Route and the Huilo-Huilo Biological Reserve, an awarded land trust for conservation.
Puerto Varas, the Llanquihue Lake with the largest bike lane, the Osorno Volcano and the Petrohue Waterfalls.
2) Pick your style: MTB, Road or Gravel Bike
Thanks to the abundance of roads surrounded by active volcanoes, pristine lakes and the Andes mountain range, the Lake and Volcano District has a lot of biking trails to offer. You’ll absolutely get fascinated by the diversity of landscapes at the wheels of your bike.
As mentioned above, the special part of Chile is full of surprises. Indeed, this destination offers even a huge variety of biking trails. If you are an adrenaline seeker, an avid challenger, or an amateur cyclist, you will definitely be amazed by our bike travel adventures.
Mountain Bike
Our Mountain Bike Adventure was especially designed by Ernesto Araneda, one of our top cyclist guides. He is the former national champion of XC MTB in 2004 and three times winner of silver medal at the Pan-American Games of XC MTB.
This travel experience will take you off the beaten path, including the best bike trails of the Lake and Volcano District. You will absolutely love riding among endemic tree forests or descending the Villarrica Volcano in the famous national parks of the area.
If you’re more into paved roads, don’t worry. Our famous road cycling experience will make you ride the most beautiful and scenic roads of Chile. From the Malalcahuello National Reserve, through Pucón to Puerto Varas, this journey will never cease to surprise you.
Finally, our last ride in the Vicente Pérez Rosales National Park, gives you the opportunity to push your limits. Indeed, you will get to climb the Osorno Volcano and one of the steepest climbs of South America.
The group departure dates for our 8-Day Road Cycling Tour are already available for 2022-2023, check them out!
Gravel Bike
The last modality we added to our bike fleet, and by far the most versatile way to pedal the hidden off-the-beaten routes of the Lake and Volcano District. As a result, the gravel bike gives more possibilities when connecting sections and areas of both dirt and asphalt.
And this is where we see a great opportunity to explore the dirt roads of the Lake and Volcano District. For us, it is an extraordinary chance to add new routes in all circuits where bike tours are not operated today due to lack of asphalt.
But not everything is about physical activity, adventure and amazing landscapes. So, we also make sure our bikers’ belly gets well treated with our delicious Chilean cuisine. During the bike rides, you will have all the necessary snacks to refill energy. For lunch, you will either get to eat the typical Chilean food in our selected restaurants, or get to have a zero-waste buffet picnic, prepared by our drivers on a perfect scenic spot.
Food in Chile is, likewise, one of the highlights of our bike tours. Great wine, fresh and flavorsome produce, seafood and all kinds of meat will be part of the daily menus. We are prepared to cater vegetarian, pescaterian, gluten free and dairy free food.
On the other hand, and since 2019, we’ve been changing and improving our great picnic tables. Indeed, with the ambitious Zero Waste Challenge, we aim to reduce the generated waste during our travel adventures.
And to make it memorable, you will experience an indigenous encounter with the Mapuche communities. You will have the privilege to share a typical dinner, drink some YerbaMate and learn more about their ancestral culture.
As they are the first inhabitants of this ancestral territory, sharing with them is a great opportunity to really know the human identity of the Chilean territory.
Why choosing Amity Tours for your next bike adventure ?
Amity Tours, as a company, has been specializing since 2003 in active adventures such as hiking, trekking, skiing and cycling. Our headquarters are in the town of Pucón, located in Chile’s Lake and Volcano District.
Our main motivation to offer adventure experiences in this region is quite obvious. Along with being the best place for outdoor activities, we truly believe it is one the most beautiful regions of Chile. If not the most!
The philosophy of Adventure
First of all, we are proud to call ourselves a boutique adventure tour operator from Chile, where luxury nature tours are our standard.
At Amity Tours, we are all fanatics for new adventures. Our guides are living in a constant adventurous state, showing and sharing the most beautiful places of Chile to our fellow travelers. Our drivers are always on the move, they can’t stand still and love to explore new places on our scouting trips. Likewise, the whole office team spends its free time in a national park, or on a campground together with friends and family.
That is why one of the main cornerstones of our philosophy is ADVENTURE: We are an adventure travel company and we define “adventure” as an experience where culture and nature are the main elements.
At Amity, we aim to provide the best travel experiences in Chile. For us, it means that this comes with excellent service, comfortable hotels and great local food, beer and wine.
Secondly, we make sure you find a true friend in our team of experienced and professional guides and drivers. They will show the best of Chile. Along with them, you’ll get to meet local people at every destination. Finally, they’ll make sure you discover the best hidden places that will take your breath away.
As a responsible travel company, we want our travel adventurers to get the best experience possible. This is why we’ll make sure that safety always comes first.
Here are our most important measures taken during our bike trips:
Our professional guides and drivers always have with them a VHF radio. Communication is the main element in our staff.
We use SAG vehicles to carry all the food, water, snacks and all the gear needed for such activity. For those who can no longer ride, our vehicle is here to pick them up.
The helmet while riding is mandatory.
Van stops every 10 km or 20 km depending on group pace. Just to make sure everyone’s ok and enjoying the ride.
In our road cycling tours, for every 9 riders, 1 professional guide is in charge of guiding and support, and in our mountain biking tours, we use 1 guide per 6 riders.
At the beginning of our tours, we make sure a technical briefing is given regarding road rules and trail conditions.
Spring season has already arrived in Chile and we can’t wait for the upcoming bike adventures in Chile’s top destination! Discover the Lake and Volcano District, a fascinating part of the Chilean territory, where adventure meets nature and connects with the local human identity!
Have you ever heard about the Red Interlagos in Southern Chile ? Also known as the Lake and Volcano Scenic Route, it crosses through areas of immense landscape, environmental and cultural values. Without a doubt, visiting this part of the Chilean territory is a must-do as you can compare its natural beauty to other wonders like the Atacama Desert and Patagonia.
At the present time, the Lake and Volcano Scenic Route features more than 2.000 kilometers of roads. All together, they connect 6 tourist circuits passing through 3 regions: La Araucanía, Los Lagos and Los Ríos. There, you can witness some of the greatest natural beauties in Chile such as 26 big rivers, 22 lakes, 17 active volcanes and no less than 12 national parks.
Map of the Lake and Volcano Scenic Route
Moreover, there exist 7 ski resorts and more than half the thermal areas of Chile. All these elements and so much more await you, come and see what southern Chile has to offer!
Araucanía Andina Circuit
The first circuit of the Lake and Volcano Scenic Route starts in Curacautín. There, you can admire two mountain areas characterized by the presence of the Lonquimay volcano and the Llaima volcano. Both of them also corresponds to two huge river basins of the Cautín and the Bíobío rivers. Not to mention the most characteristic icon of the circuit: the Araucaria Araucana tree (commonly the monkey puzzle tree). Indeed, it is a tree considered sacred by the Mapuche-Pehuenche culture.
In the middle of spectacular landscapes dominated by ancient forests, rivers and mountains, you can find some protected areas. First, there is the Malalcahuello National Reserve surrounding the Lonquimay volcano where you can find the Corralco Ski Resort, Chile’s top place to practice winter sports.
Second, you can visit 2 incredible national parks, such as the Tolhuaca but also the Conguillío. Interestingly, the latter is part of Chile’s first geopark, the Kutralkura, which is part of UNESCO Global Geoparks since 2017. Thanks to the large number of sites of geological interest, this special place reveals part of the natural environment where dinosaurs lived.
Under those circumstances, The BBC (British Broadcasting Corporation) refers to the Conguillio as one of the last refuges in the World to preserve the landscape where dinosaurs lived.As a result, part of the documentary “Walking with Dinosaurs“ was filmed in the park.
Hence the high volcanic activity, the area allows the presence of various hot springs in the circuit. Among which there are the Malleco, manzana and Cañon del Blanco hot springs. By far, our favorite are the Malalcahuello hot springs, located in the Corralco hotel.
Tne Galletue Lake and Llaima Volcano
Truful-Truful waterfall in the Conguillio national park
If you love mixing active adventures in nature with relaxing rest at hot springs, we suggest you to take a look at our following travel experiences:
Furthermore, the Lake and Volcano Scenic Route is framed by the Villarrica volcano. In reality, Chile’s most active volcano is the great natural monument of the Araucanía Lacustre circuit. Bordered by the Lake of the same name, you can also find the quaint city of Pucón. It is the capital of adventure tourism.
Pucón dominated by the Villarrica volcano
Entrance of Villarrica city with the Villarrica volcano
As a matter of fact, this circuit stands as a safety pin in the Lake and Volcano Scenic Route. To put it differently, you can find an impressive list of outdoor adventures to do. For example, you can hike through thousand years old forests, or ascend the Villarrica volcano. As well as rafting on the Trancura river, in addition to relax in natural hot springs. Above all, you can get the chance to connect with the roots of the Mapuche culture. As they are the first inhabitants of the Chilean territory, sharing with them will allow you to learn more about their ancestral traditions and their cosmovision.
Obviously, the Huerquehue and the Villarrica national parks are the unmissable protected areas to tick off your travel bucket list.
Get to know this incredible area in the following travel experiences:
In the Sietelagos circuit, the lush evergreen forests of the Valdivian rainforest will always accompany you. Alongside the only temperate rainforest in South American, you can also appreciate the beauty of 7 surprising lakes such as Calafquén, Panguipulli, Riñihue, Pellaifa, Neltume and Pirehueico.
The countryside between the Calafquén and Panguipulli lakes
Scenic route alongside the Panguipulli lake
The circuit has a strong Mapuche cultural identity, and an historical past linked to old wooden ports. Moreover, there exists an ecosystem that has hardly been explored. For instance, The Huilo Huilo Biological Reserve is the natural icone of this circuit. There, areas of scientific and conservation interests overlap globally. In fact, it is home of a great natural diversity. Thanks to its particular geography, you can find lakes of glacial origin, eternal snow on the Mocho-Choshuenco volcano and countless water streams.
To visit the best of the Sietelagos circuit, we recommend you to take a look at:
To point out, the Ranco Lake is the third largest in the Chilean territory. With an extension of 442 square kilometers, large cattle farms, exuberant lush Valdivian forest, waterfalls and breathtaking cliffs surround the lake. The fully paved road passes through villages and corners full of history which refer to a valuable railway heritage.
On the other hand, the Futangue Park is one of our favorite places to visit around Ranco Lake. With more than 100 kilometers of trails, this place marks the beginning of North Patagonia. Close to the Puyehue National Park, Futangue is a private nature reserve is located at the feet of the Andes mountain range.
Important to realize, this area has some of the best preserved specimens of the Valdivian forest. Thus, it is one of the most biodiversity centers on the planet.
In the Lake and Volcano Scenic Route, NorPatagonia is the shortest and narrowest circuit. But not the least attractive. In fact, the Puyehue national park and the lake of the same name are both not-to-be-missed attractions of the area. Around them, you can visit natural hot springs, exuberant evergreen forests, ski center and active volcanoes.
The Puntiagudo and Osorno volcanoes with the Puyehue lake
The Puyehue lake
Like every parts of southern Chile, this area also features a great volcanic activity due to the presence of the volcanic complex Puyehue-Cordón del Caulle. they are two coalesced volcanic edifices that form a major mountain massif in Puyehue national park. Consequently, recent eruptions have left huge beds of lava.
For many, the Llanquihue lake circuit simply represents the golden brooch of the Lake and Volcano Scenic Route. Surrounding Chile’s second largest lake, this circuit traverses the shadow of the mighty Osorno, Calbuco, Puntiagudo and Tronador volcanoes. They are some of the most beautiful landscapes in southern Chile.
Without a doubt, Puerto Varas is the base of the Llanquihue circuit. This city, like the other cities around the lake, gives account of an architectural identity strongly marked by the German influence. This legacy was left by the first German settlers in the 19s century. Not without mentioning the city of Frutillar which is part of the Creative Cities Network by UNESCO.
Calbuco volcano and Llanquihue lake from Osorno volcano
Osorno volcano
Among the natural attractions of the Llanquihue circuit, we find the Vicente Pérez Rosales national park, the Todos los Santos lake, and Chile’s largest bike path.
Discover the Llanquihue lake circuit in our recommended travel adventures:
Because the natural diversity in the Lake and Volcano Scenic route is a must-do when traveling to Chile, contact us for more info! We’ll gladly help you plan your next trip in Chile’s top destination.
Chile is a paradise for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. Within the country, you can find a diverse variety of landscapes including vineyards, volcanoes, deserts, beaches, lakes, glaciers and ancient forests. Adventure, people, nature are just a few of the reasons to travel to Chile in 2022.
In South America, Chile is the gateway to some of the most beautiful landscapes. Whether you want to hike up glaciers, explore mountains or paddle down rivers, the Chilean territory has it all! As well as its natural beauty, it also has a rich cultural history and many interesting things for travelers to do and see.
Indeed, with the Andes on one side and the Pacific on the other, there exists a world-class list of adventures to do. It’s more, in the Lake and Volcano District, Chile’s top destination, you can witness a blend of indigenous culture and European heritages that combine for a welcoming embrace.
Here are five reasons to travel to Southern Chile in 2022!
1. Adventure Tourism in Chile
Can you guess what country has won the World Travel Awards Leading Adventure Tourism Destination for 5 consecutive years? Yes, Chile. It’s more, Chile has won the same title in South America for no less than 6 consecutive years.
To point out a few of Chile’s dazzling array of adventure experiences, you can:
Get your adrenaline working on a bike in the beautiful foothills, valleys and scenic routes
Hike the stunning national parks surrounded by ancient forests
Ascend some of the most active volcanoes in the world
Raft on the gorgeous and thrilling rivers and take on the heart-pounding runs of class 4 and 5 rapids
Kayak the pristine lakes
Skiing in the austral winter
And the list goes on and on…
2. Unexplored Travel Destination
Chile is a wonderful country full of contrasts and outstanding extremes. It is the largest and narrowest of South America. 4329 kilometers in length and 177 kilometers wide. Viewed from the map, it looks like a thin line drawn between the Pacific Ocean and the Andes mountain range; the longest and second highest of the planet.
As a result, Chile has been relatively cut off from the rest of the world due to its remote location. Therefore, the number of overseas tourists is not as overwhelming as in many other places, and there are areas in the country where you can find yourself to be the only visitor. People are friendly and there is no imminent danger.
Regarding the sanitary situation due to the global pandemic, Chile has become the first country in South America to inject the 4th dosis, and the second in the word after Israel. Consequently, Chile has positioned as one of the most effective countries worldwide to fight the covid crisis. Thus, ensuring a safe territory to visit.
3. Diverse Culture
Chile has a rich cultural heritage stretching back over 500 years. The Incan civilization was well established in the area when Spanish conquistador Pedro de Valdivia arrived in 1540 with soldiers and indigenous laborers. So, after independence from Spain in 1810, Chile began developing its own unique traditions and customs. Therefore, this reflects its complex history as an amalgamation of European culture with influences from the indigenous communities who have inhabited this territory well before the Europeans.
Under those circonstances, it’s hard to pin down a single cultural identity for Chile. Since the country opened up immigration to the Germans in the 1800s, entire towns in the Lake and Volcano District have been taken over by German settlers. There, you can find traditional homes, churches, and schools that will transport you to Bavaria.
From Santiago de Chile to Puerto Montt (the gateway to Patagonia), we find a wide variety of landscapes with lands covered with forests of araucarias and dotted with lagoons, rivers or lakes. Moreover, here and there, we can admire the active volcanoes of the Lake & Volcano District. Not without mentioning the northern beauties of the Atacama, the world’s driest desert in the world. Or even the Chilean Patagonia, a region of immense untouched beauty, where you will find some of the most jaw-dropping natural wonders in the world.
All in all, they are the perfect spot for nature lovers who enjoy outdoor adventures. Here’s a few suggestions of the best adventure travels you can experience when visiting Chile in 2022.
Hiking the most stunning national Parks of the Lake and Volcano District
In this 8-Day hiking tour, you will explore the most beautiful trails located in the national parks located in the unmissable Lake and Volcano District. Surrounded by mountains, pristine lakes and active volcanoes, you will explore the best hidden corners of Southern Chile, including UNESCO Kütralkura Geopark and Biological Reserve Araucarias.
The group departure dates are already available for the 2022-23 summer season!
Gravel biking the dirt roads of Southern Chile
Discover and pedal the hidden off-the-beaten routes of Chile’s Lake and Volcano District with the new gravel modality. During 8 days, you will explore the most famous national parks of the Lake and Volcano District, witnessing the most volcanic landscape between ancient forests and pristine lakes.
Moreover, you will also connect and share with the Mapuche communities, an authentic cultural encounter with the first inhabitants of this ancestral territory.
2022 group departure dates are already fully booked, save your spot for the 2023-24 summer season!
Explore by bike, by foot and kayak the northern and southern Patagonia
This multisport travel adventure is a true authentique experience, during which you explore the best hidden gems of both the Lake and Volcano District and Patagonia. In other words, this exclusive program covers and connects the wild and diverse landscapes of the Torres del Paine National Park, to the lush and exuberant temperate rainforest of the Pumalin Park. Not without mentioning a stunning starting at the foot of active volcanoes covered by unique forests of giant araucaria trees of the Conguillío National Park.
During 14 days, you will:
Bike between surreal lagoons, horseback ride through the wilderness, kayak pristine rivers and lakes with the best views of Torres del Paine Massif
Ride on the most scenic routes of the Lake and Volcano District, between snow-capped volcanoes
Discover the Patagonian Route of Parks and explore the Pumalín Park, an area run by the Tompkins Conservation.
Group departure dates are available for booking, don’t miss your chance!
5. Traveling with a local tour operator
When you travel, it’s important to support local businesses. One of the best ways to do this is by choosing a tour operator based in Chile. As a matter of fact, we are better able to provide a unique experience than the big foreign companies.
When visiting southern Chile with Amity Tours, our friendly team will allow you to explore this fascinating territory in a much more personal way. Plus, you’ll get to connect with the local communities, see how they make their living and respect their ancestral traditions. Thus, we are better able to provide you with a more authentic experience.
On the other end, we are fully commited to a responsible tourism. In effect, in 2019, we started our journey towards sustainability with our Zero Waste Challenge. This ambitious project aims to reduce the general waste generated during our travel adventures, creating a local circular economy and reinforcing a close connection we have with our local partners who share the same future vision of implementing a sustainable tourism in Chile’s Lake and Volcano District.
Not only we are working every day to minimize our impact on Planet Earth, we also taking part of an another ambitious project. Thanks to the Wiñolfe Anumka reforestation project, we recently manifested our wish to offset our 2019 carbon footprint in addition to our upcoming round trip to Switzerland to the Adventure Travel World Summit.
Together, with this local community based in Curarrehue, we planted 198 native trees and gave back to earth. It goes without saying that we plan on planting more and more each year that goes by.
Spring and summer seasons are getting closer. So, this means that a great high season will soon take place in Southern Chile! Follow our adventures on Instagram, and start planning your next travel plans in Chile by contacting us and we will provide you with the latest updates!
In 2019, going zero waste was the first step we took towards a sustainable tourism. But in 2022, we are taking our game up to the next level: offsetting our carbon footprint.
In our last post, we explained all the sustainable measures and changes we’ve applied since before the arrival of the global pandemic. We are always looking for improvement and how to minimize our impact on Mother Earth when visiting Chile’s Lake and Volcano District with our international friends.
The upcoming World Travel Adventure Summit event by ATTA will take place in the city of Lugano in Switzerland. On 3-6 October, our team member Angela will engage in networking opportunities in the marketplace. She will also hear from inspirational speakers regarding sustainable tourism as it will be the main theme of this yearly event.
As we are very conscious about the carbon footprint that this journey implies to travel from Chile to Switzerland and back, we partnered up with a great local reforestation project in order to neutralize this impact.
How it started
Shortly after starting our Zero Waste Challenge in 2019, we contacted a local partner, Rutas Ancestrales Araucarias in order to find a solution about offsetting our carbon emissions on a local basis. For many years, we have been working together with the award-winning community based project by connecting our international visitors from all over the world with the local culture. Togehter with Romá Martí, leader of this great community based tourism project in Curarrehue, we came up with the idea of a great project.
After sharing our future vision to become a carbon neutral company by supporting a local organization, Romá compromised with providing us a sustainable solution for our environmental issue. As some of his partners of the community-based tourism network already had years of experience in planting native tree species in the area, a new great project was born: Wiñolfe Anumka.
Wiñolfe Anumka: native tree reforestation project
The Wiñolfe Anumka local network was created as an alternative for the community-based tourism in Curarrehue. Indeed, after the drastic fall in the arrival of international tourists due to the coronavirus pandemic, this local project started with the construction of family greenhouses. It gave life to new native trees for their further reforestation.
Native araucaria tree plant
Unfortunately, in Amity, the negative effect of the global pandemic forced us to temporarily retreat from this great initiative. On the other side, the Wiñolfe Anumka network realized the potential of our wish to offset our carbon footprint. As a result, the idea of regenerating the native forests pursued.
Nowadays, the Wiñolfe Anumka counts on 4 family green houses, a thousand native plants along with the first native tree cores’ reforestation. Additionally, the network also designed a new financing model and is currently processing the first production areas.
Indeed, this incredible red invites each local and/or organization, regardless of the size and business model, to take the responsibility of the generated impact by the way of living and thus mitigating the damage on the regeneration of the native forests.
The Wiñolfe Anumka local members
The ancestral spirit of the native regeneration during a global crisis
All of the members taking part of the Wiñolfe Anumka project agree that the distinguishing attribute is the active role of the local community with a strong presence of the Mapuche culture in the process of the plant breeding and reforestation. In fact, it is an associative work, strongly connected to families and knowledge from diverse origins.
Rosa Parra Epulef lives near Curarrehue. She is one of the founders of the Wiñolfe Anumka network and a plant breeder. Before the pandemic, she received the tourists who hiked the trail crossing her land which is surrounded by an exuberant native forest. Nowadays, she combines her work in the field with her participation in the reforestation project.
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Rosa Parra
Rosa is responsible of one of the tree nurseries. She proudly says: “I take care of 188 plants. I have varieties like Hualle (Nothofagus obliqua), Chilean fire tree (Embothrium coccineum), Laurel (Laurus nobilis), Monkey puzzle tree (Araucaria araucana) and Mañío (Podocarpus nubigenus).”
But more importantly, her work has a true ancestral meaning. Indeed, she explains that there’s no such thing as a difference between her and her territory. She expresses: “I was born in the countryside, my mom gave birth to her children here in this house surrounded by the native forest which still exists. I feel great satisfaction living here, which makes me keep on caring about this territory. Because I also have kids on my own, and grandchildren and I have to pass on this important value in order for them to learn to take care of it.”
The different tasks in the greenhouse are seasonal, and nature sets the pace. Rosa describes: “I have to maintain the tree nursery, like bagging up and making sure that the plants don’t dry, and water them.Moreover, I have to prepare the land and here we do have natural fertilizer.”
A climate action for a global issue
Moreover, it’s worth saying that two forest engineers lead the project, Martín Erdmann is one of them. He understands that reforestation responds to the emergency of the global climate crisis and our current way of life.
He explains: “Despite the great extensions of the native forests in the region, we mainly find them in the mountain range.But there also exist valleys, river banks and livestock-based farming which also need reforestation. So, planting native trees seeks to rebalance the ecosystems where we produce the necessary services of life.”
In addition, he details that they nurse the plants for 2 years before taking them to the definitive planting place. When reforesting, the core technique consists in planting 20 trees group wide. One tree occupies 1 square feet per space. Thus, this method imitates the natural reforestation or a forest, which differs from the traditional planting method in row.
More to come in the upcoming future
During 2022, the project is getting ready for the second season of native reforestation. During the first operational year, the process included collecting and conserving the native seeds. But also the work of the local families who reproduce the trees. Not without mentioning the great forest keepers. They are local women from the Mapuche community who facilitate their land. For the next 20 years, they will take care of the reforestation Curarrehue, in Chile’s Lake and Volcano District.
For 2023, the community hopes to reforest at least 23 tree centers, duplicate the planting production in greenhouses. They also wish to increase the number of people and organizations which collaborate in the project.
Angela our team member visiting a tree nursery in Curarrehue
Cristián, Amity Tours CEO, planting the first native trees of our carbon neutral project.
In Amity, we are very proud to partake in the reforestation initiative. Indeed, during the month of July, we will realize our first reforestation by planting 11 tree cores of 20 trees. It consequently represents 50 tons of CO2 carbons. By doing such action, we will compensate for our estimated 2019 carbon footprint, but also the flight emission for the upcoming ATTA event in Switzerland.
Over the last few months, Amity Tours has been working on new sustainable routes to explore in an eco-friendly way Chile’s Lake and Volcano District. This new multisport experience will delight you when exploring the stunning natural attractions. With the presence of the ancient native forests, lakes, rivers of multicolored waters, glaciers and active volcanoes, Southern Chile has a lot to offer.
Experiencing southern Chile is a singular and sustainable experience. Indeed, it allows you to encounter yourself with the unique beauty of La Araucanía, Los Ríos and Los Lagos regions. It’s more, you get to enjoy it all alongside the Mapuche indigenous communities, who have inhabited these ancestral territories for ages.
About the Lake and Volcano Scenic Route
The first scenic route in Chile, the Lake and Volcano Scenic Route, is a world-class destination powered by the CORFO, a production development organization. In fact, for the past 20 years, this governmental organization has been consolidating a network of 6 different circuits that allow every nature lover to explore the unmissable attractions of the Lake and Volcano District.
Paso Desolación hiking trail, Vicente Perez Rosales national park
With approximately 2000 kilometers of geography shaped by the force of volcanism and bathed by great pristine lakes, this scenic route has a unique layout that will take your breath away. But what makes this destination particularly interesting to visit, are the guided multisport experiences that have been purposely created for the international visitors to explore the Lake and Volcano Scenic Route in a safe way.
Since 2008, we have been working hand by hand with the governmental organization in the elaboration of the first scenic route of Chile. Our last collaboration led to the development of 6 guided and sustainable multisport experiences. In other words, it allows you to travel through the Lake and Volcano District by foot, bike, or water. Without mentioning the cultural encounters with the Mapuche indigenous communities who share with us their ancestral knowledge and cosmovision of the world.
Multisport Experience – Llanquihue Lake Circuit
Last March, CEO Cristián Levy went guiding the incredible multisport experience in the Llanquihue Circuit accompanied by Ladera Sur national press and SUDA, our app partner. For this occasion, we did an active tour that can turn into a more passive and contemplative experience for families with young children.
Discover the incredible multisport route we lived!
Day 1 – Kayaking Río Puelo
We kicked off this incredible adventure where geographical Patagonia begins in Caleta La Arena. The crossing of the Reloncaví Estuary emulates the routes that were used by the Mapuche and also the European settlers ages ago. Sadly, this area suffered from the massive exploitation of the Alerce Andino native tree, in order to build the churches of Chiloé Island in the 1700’s. Therefore, the presence of this ancient tree has consequently reduced in the coastal area of Cochamó.
Our first adventure started at Río Puelo, a mandatory stop for the practice of water sports such as kayaking. Indeed, this river of crystalline and multicolored waters has an extension of approximately 80 kilometers. It starts in Argentina in the homonymous lake, crosses the western side of the Andes and flows into the fjord of Reloncaví in Chile, where it meets the Pacific ocean.
Kayaking Río Puelo (Photos by Rodrigo Hermosilla)
Along the river, we could observe traces of the glaciers that gave rise to Río Puelo. At the same time, this beautiful water course could demonstrate to us that water has a key role in the connectivity of the roads in Patagonia.
We explored the last section of the river, before it connects with the Pacific ocean. For this, we paddle on kayak for approximately 7 kilometers, during which we could observe various waterfalls in addition to the local flora and fauna.
On the second day, we dived into the ancestral history of Cochamó and the Ralún area. Indeed, we explored the route anciently used by the Mapuche and the European settlers. Thus, the experience seeks to emulate a journey made by our ancestors, going through places they used to cross.
In Mapudungun, the Mapuche’s native tongue, Cochamó means “Union of waters”. This place connects the waters coming from the Andes mountain range with the Pacific ocean where the intermediate depression joins. Nowadays, Cochamó continues to be a place of connection since it is where ends the Lake and Volcano Scenic Route ends, and where starts the Route of Parks.
On the other hand, Cochamó and Puelo also allow the connection between the fishing culture and the Gaucho culture. Since the rivers are the veins, thus roads that local people traditionally use.
So, in order to better understand how Patagonia works, we went deeper into the Cochamó valley horseback riding one of the arms of the Cayutué lake towards the native forests. Carlos, our guide, highlights the fact that: “you start horseback riding thinking you’re leaving the fjord behind. But in reality, you’re going to its origin. The water is what connects the route.”
Horseback riding with the Gauchos (Photos by Carlos Chavez)
At some point of the Cayutué lake, we could appreciate a terrific view over the high peaks of the area. We continued on Río Conchas, a connecting dot between the Cayutué lake and the final destination of our day. After a few hours crossing native forests, we finally arrived at Todos Los Santos lake located at the Vicente Perez Rosales national park.
It is worth mentioning that this route has been used historically, and continues to be used by the locals naturally following the course of the river. Nowadays, the muleteers of the sectors still respect this tradition. Consequently, you can only live this singular experience carefully guided by the local guides.
Photos by Tamara (Ladera Sur)
Carlos, our local guide, concludes: “Thanks to this journey, you get to really see how Patagonia works. A place where the rivers are the roads. So here you will experience the local life, doing exactly as the locals, not what the typical tourists do. In Cochamó, for example, we can meet with both the muleteer and the fishing culture. The connection of the valleys allows the Gauchos and the fishermen to coexist. Only here in Cochamó, you have the possibility to contemplate that particular blend of cultures.”
Day 3. Paso Desolación hiking trail – Vicente Perez Rosales National Park
For the third day of our multisport adventure, we hiked the Paso Desolación trail at the foothills of the Osorno Volcano. The Osorno is a stratovolcano that forms a volcanic chain with La Picada and Puntiagudo volcanoes.
We particularly love this hike since we get to appreciate the Todos Los Santos lake with the high peaks around. Moreover, the culmination point reaches the surroundings of the Llanquihue lake, making this hike a complete experience contemplating new sectors.
The trail starts in a native forest, passing through flat areas and crossing up to three large alluviums generated by ancient eruptions. Product of the volcanic activity of the Osorno, the trail is mostly sandy and we can easily find volcanic rocks and pyroclastic material.
The Paso Desolación trail hike, Vicente Perez Rosales National Park
Day 4 – Cycling Llanquihue Lake from Las Cascadas to Frutillar
Our last day of this great multisport experience is full of adventures. Indeed, we cycled 45 kilometers around Llanquihue lake, Chile’s best bike-friendly destination. Great thing about living this experience: you can choose between cycling an e-bike, or gravel bike. Thus, it allows every traveler to experience the stunning opportunity to cycle around Llanquihue lake.
Cycling around Llanquihue lake with the e-bike modality allows every traveler to enjoy the multisport experience (Photos by Cristian Levy)
The ride never ceases to surprise, well we get to always appreciate the Osorno volcano in all its splendor. Not without mentioning the impressive Puntiagudo and Calbuco volcanoes. Alongside these great peaks, we pass Puerto Octay, before reaching the last point of this cycling ride: Frutillar.
And since not everything is about physical activity, we visit our friends at Cancagua SPA. This great project aims to provide the best bath relaxation with the least impact on the ecosystems around. As a result, we get to contemplate Llanquihue Lake while enjoying a relaxing bath.
The Concagua SPA is the perfect spot to relax after cycling around Llanquihue lake
Finally, after re-energizing our mind and body, the multisport experience ended with a 16-kilometers kayak paddling on Maullín river. This river offers great conditions for us to navigate on, and to also connect with the sound of nature. Actually, with a large extension of 85 kilometers long, it allows the connectivity between the different localities around Llanquihue lake.
The multisport adventure offers the opportunity to experience the Lake and Volcano District in a unique way. Indeed, you get to sustainably explore southern Chile by foot, by bike or by kayak; in addition to truly connect with the local people who have inhabited these ancestral territories for ages. We invite you to check out the best multisport experiences and get inspired for your next travel!
Discover the best hikes in Chile’s Lake and Volcano District!
If you are an avid hiker, nature lover or fellow traveler looking for some amazing landscapes, here’s a list of the best hikes you can find in Chile’s Lake & Volcano District!
Hiking through the Villarrica National Park at the heart of Chile’s Lake and Volcano
The Christmas Crater is a pyroclastic cone of the Lonquimay Volcano located in the Malalcahuello National Reserve. It was formed during the volcanic eruption on December 25 of 1988, and reaches a height of 190 meters from its base.
Christmas Crater, Malalcahuello National Reserve
The hike to the crater is not technical; but you’ll do require mountain gear to climb it in winter as it is covered in snow. However, in summer (from November to Early April), the hike doesn’t require any gear.
Regarding difficulty, it is relatively short, and takes approx. 2 to 4 hours back and forth depending on your walking pace. It is ideal for families with teenagers, or people with little hiking experience.
From the top, you can enjoy a panoramic view over the foothills of the Lonquimay Volcano. In addition to the lava field, extended araucarias tree forests, along with view over the Tolhuaca and the Callaqui Volcanoes.
Kutralküra Geopark & Tolhuaca Volcano – Lake and Volcano District
Coloradito trail hike – Malalcahuello National Reserve
Cerro Coloradito trail hike. Sierra Nevada and Llaima volcanoes at sight.
The Coloradito trail, located at the Malalcahuello National Reserve, is a place shaped by tectonic and volcanic processes with an interesting and endemic fauna and flora.
This trail is a good alternative featuring typical landscapes of the Andes mountain range under the watchful eye of the Lonquimay Volcano.
All along the way, you’ll pass through forests of endemic trees such as the araucaria and the lenga tree surrounded by the ground vegetation with a predominance of michay, quila and viola trees.
Called “El Coloradito”, it is unique access to the Lonquimay Volcano that ending near the Coloradito River. The landscape is dominated by the presence of the Lonquimay Volcano and the Sierra del Colorado. During the hike, you can observe the Llaima Volcano and the Sierra Nevada Mountain Range.
Cerro Coloradito Trail – Malalcahuello National Reserve
Sierra Nevada hike – National Park Conguillio
The ancient araucaria trees are the highlight of the Conguillio National Park
The Conguillio National Park is one of the most outstandings places Chile has to offer. With the stunning Llaima Volcano, Sierra Nevada, volcanic lakes everywhere, araucarias tree forests, endemic fauna and flora, it is a must-see for everyone who wants to visit Southern Chile.
The national park has a wide variety of trails, but without a doubt, the Sierra Nevada hike is the most accessible and offers a wider range of landscape, enough to get a good idea of the natural richness existing in the region.
The Sierra Nevada trail begins from one of the most beautiful beaches of the Conguillio Lake, passes through a spectacular endemic forest with several viewpoints facing the lake along the way. After 3 hours, the trail reaches a clear and an out-of-the woods viewpoint facing the Llaima Volcano and the Conguillío Lake.
The Llaima Volcano always at sight when visiting the Conguillio National Park
The hike is not technical, but does require a minimum of good health as the path can sometimes be steep. In winter, the trail is covered in snow, requiring mountain gear and good hiking experience.
This 10-kilometer long hike is recommended for active people.
Sierra Nevada Trail – Conguillio National Park
Andean Lagoons hike – Villarrica National Park
Villarrica National Park
Close to the Argentinean Border, and located at the foothills of the Lanín Volcano, this trail called “Lagos Andinos” is a must-see of the Villarrica National Park. During this amazing hike, suited for families, you’ll visit 3 lagoons in a large endemic forest with Coihues and Araucarias trees and end up in a volcanic landscape dominated by the majestic Lanín Volcano.
Lanín Volcano (3.747 meters) is the highest peak in Chile’s Lake and Volcano District
The hike begins at the shores of the Quillelhue Lagoon at 1200 meters above sea level. After 40 minutes of hiking on a flat terrain, you’ll arrive at the Huinfiuca Lagoon, the perfect spot for picnic.
Andean Lagoons Trail – Villarrica National Park
While you visit the park you will witness how the Lanin volcano has permanently shaped the landscape of the area with its eruptions and you’ll have the fantastic opportunity to see and walk on the lava flows that once came from the heart of the earth. You’ll also visit the pristine lakes Quillelhue, Escondido (Hidden), Huinfiuca and Verde (green) with its clear waters that reflect stunning colors.
That is to say, the hike is not technical and only requires a minimum of good health.
Huerquehue National Park
San Sebastian trail hike in the Huerquehue National Park
The Huerquehue National Park is located at the foothills of the Andes, 35 km (22 miles) from Pucón. The park covers 12.500 hectares (30.890 acres) with various lagoons, dense vegetation and gigantic trees that are the habitat of several endemic birds.
The hike, called “Sendero Los Lagos” starts easy but after a short distance the trail becomes rougher and sometimes steeper, but is still considered a relatively easy hiking level.
On your way to the lakes, you’ll get to see the Nido de Aguilas (nest of eagles) waterfall before the terrain gets steeper, surrounded by gigantic coigües (Nothofagus dombeyi) and mañíos (Podocarpus nubigena).
Los Lagos trail hike in the Huerquehue National Park
The first lookout point is where you’ll get to appreciate the views of Villarrica Volcano (2.847 m / 9.349 feet) and Tinquilco Lake which are absolutely stunning; here you’ll find great photo opportunities as well as chance to reenergize with a snack.
If you’re lucky, you can spot some birds that live in the forests of Nothofagus, such as chucao tapaculo (Selorchilis rubecula), black-throated huet-huet (Pteroptochos tarnii) and the magellan woodpecker (Campephilus magellanicus) among others.
Los Lagos Trail, Huerquehue NP
Once you pass the Trufulco falls, the hike gets a little more demanding. Once you’re over 1000 meters above sea level, you’ll see the first araucarias trees. You’ll then walk through a mixed forest before arriving at the first lake called Lago Chico. It is characterized by its clear waters reflecting the image of hundreds of araucarias, and the snow-capped peaks around.
After visiting the different lakes, you can then start to turn around and walk back to the entrance of the park.
El Cañi Reserve
El Cañi Reserve is located approximately 21 kilometers from Pucón. This 500-acre private reserve committed to the preservation of the Araucaria Araucania tree species.
This hike, although not technical, does require an overall good physical condition since you’d be constantly walking on a steep terrain until arrival to the final viewpoint. It starts with approx. 1,5 kilometer of flat terrain, and from there you’ll start the stiff climb for 3 more kilometers.
You’ll then arrive at Aserradero Refuge (1000 meters above sea level). It is the entrance of the reserve, with the first panoramic views over the valley and flora. You’ll pass through the Las Totoras Lagoon, Negra Lagoon surrounded by the thousands-year-old Araucaria, Lengua and Coihue trees.
The final path climbs until you arrive at the final viewpoint, your reward. You’ll have a 360° panoramic view over 4 volcanoes, two lakes and the valleys around the Reserve.
Moreover, you can walk around a small path that starts at Laguna negra and takes you to 6 mores lagoons.
El Cañi Sanctuary
Villarrica Volcano Ascent
Ascending Chile’s most active volcano is one of the best travel adventure when visiting the Lake and Volcano District
Without a doubt, the Villarrica Volcano (2847 meters) ascent is a must-do activities if you plan to visit Pucón. As of today, it is one of the most active volcanoes in South America. The climb to its open crater is definitely a one of a lifetime experience.
The adventure starts at approx. 6 am, when the van takes you to the ski center located at 1.300 meters. After putting on your mountain gear, the hike begins with 2 options: use the chairlift, or start walking immediately.
Depending on your walking pace, it will take you approx. 4-5 hours to reach the open crater. From there, you’ll get to have an incredible 360° panoramic view over volcanoes, lakes, mountains and valleys around.
The descent consists in sliding down until the base of the Volcano (approx. 2 hours) where the van awaits you before taking you back to Pucón for a well-deserved rest.
Villarrica Volcano Climb
Pichillancahue Glacier hike – Villarrica National Park
Hiking towards the Pichillancahue Galcier through ancient forests
The hike to Pichillancahue is not very famous but will surely take your breath away for its landscape. This is a hike suitable for everyone who seeks connection with nature, from children to elder adults.
This Glacier is located at the Villarrica National Park, Coñaripe side. Youll get to see several majestic snow-capped volcanoes such as Quetrupillan and Rucapillan. The vegetation changes from raulí and hualle forests to araucarias as you ascend to Chinay. The highest point of the day at 1.250 meters / 4.101 feet altitude.
Pichillancahue trail hike with the Quetrupillan and the Lanín volcanoes
After approximately 1.5 hour of hiking, you’ll arrive at the Pichillancahue Glacier trail. A good spot to relax and eat a good snack to refill energy if needed. The rest of the trail (3.5 hours round trip) leads to a phenomenal glacier covered by black volcanic ashes. Once again, you’ll be able to enjoy the stunning views of four volcanoes.
This hike is not technical and does not require any mountain gear. The best hiking time is during summer season.
Pichillancahue Glacier – Villarrica National Park
Visiting Chile’s Lake and Volcano District is definitely a must-do for every hiker & nature lovers.
Take a look at our hiking experiences in Southern Chile for some wild adventures!
Find out why Amity Tours will make your ski experience in Chile a once-in-a-lifetime trip you won’t regret!
skiing chile
Chile has a great variety of outdoor activities to do all along the territory. During winter in the Southern Hemisphere, skiing is the best activity to do in the Lake and Volcano DIstrict. Thanks to the proximity with the Andes mountain range, and the presence of the many volcanoes, this country counts on many ski resorts. They can be all appreciated by skiers of every level.
Find out why Amity Tours, as the leader in adventure travel in Chile’s Lake and Volcano District, will make you have an amazing ski experience.
In Amity Tours, all of our team members are passionate skiers. This means we perfectly know what an excellent ski experience has to be made of. As a tour operator providing ski trips since 2003, we make sure your needs are well taken care of. After these many years of experience, we know what our travelers expect of a ski tour.
All of our ski experiences were designed to take you to the best snow Chile and Argentina have to offer. In addition to the best powder, we provide the best prices and great offers for our clients in our ski packages. As a result, we’ve come to be the leading Tour Operator in Chile’s Lake and Volcano District.
Professional and all-inclusive service
We are aware that a great adventure can sometimes come with a little bit of risk. Skiing is “the art of catching cold and going broke while rapidly heading nowhere at a great personal risk”. However, in our company, we’ll always make sure your safety comes first no matter what.
Our English-speaking guides, besides being excellent skiers, are professional and expert in the field. In addition, they are experienced mountain guides & Wilderness First Responders. Finally, they always carry on with them radios, in case of any emergency.
In other words, our professional team will always provide a safe, friendly and professional service. If you want to get to know more about our guides, check out our staff page here!
On the other hand, we’ve designed our ski experiences in a way that you won’t worry about anything to make the most of your holiday. From luxury hotels & SPAs, good food in selective restaurants and great snow, you’ll surely enjoy each day of your ski trip.
Ski on Southern Chile’s active volcanoes
Villarrica Volcano’s open crater
Skiing is the best winter sport in the world, and we absolutely love the feeling when skiing down the slopes. But imagine yourself skiing on an active volcano, with incredible panoramic views over other volcanoes around…
In Amity, we make this dream come true. During our ski experience, you’ll feel the adrenaline of sliding down the most active volcanoes in South America, such as Llaima, Lonquimay or Villarrica Volcanoes.
The best of it ? We take advantage of the unique volcanic activity of the region. How ? We combine the ski activity with the most natural hot springs of the Lake and Volcano District. As a result, we provide the perfect combination of an active day and a deserved relaxing evening.
Uncrowded Ski Resorts
Daily view in Caviahue, Argentina
Worldwide, the most known ski resorts in South America are located around Santiago de Chile, such as Farellones, Colorado Valley & La Parva. With Amity, you’ll have a unique ski experience in the usually unknown and uncrowded ski resorts of Southern Chile & Argentina.
Indeed, as our company is based in Chile’s Lake and Volcano District, we have plenty of slopes to ski down on active volcanoes. Moreover, the proximity of the border with Argentina makes it easy for us to cross it and head towards excellent ski resorts.
During our 10-Day Ski Tour in Chile & Argentina, you will get to know the best of the ski resorts located in small mountain towns of Argentina and Chile.
Summer skiing
For many of us ski lovers, the snow season is always and all too short. In Chile, located in the Southern Hemisphere, we give you the opportunity to enjoy snow during summer in the Northern Hemisphere.
In fact, in Chile and Argentina, the snow usually starts falling at the end of June, making the ski slopes ready to ski on at the end of June. It is only until the end of September, with the arrival of Spring season that the ski resorts are closing.
What a great excuse to travel to Chile during winter!
Skiing in Corralco Ski Resort
Ski for any level of experience
If you are a beginner, intermediate or an expert skier, it doesn’t matter. Although most of our tours are designed for intermediate skiers, we make sure to design a tailor-made trip according to your level of experience. Indeed, our professional mountain guides will be your ideal teachers with great ski lessons if you want to give it a try as a beginner.
Don’t hesitate to contact us for any information you might need for your next ski trip in South America.
Group or Private Tours
We are perfectly aware that skiing is not the cheapest sport to practice in the world. This is why we offer both private tour and both departure dates for group tours.
If you are a group and want to have a private tour, we’ll get the best deals with excellent service. The most important, you get to decide your travel dates, and we make sure you choose the ideal travel dates to enjoy the best snow available.
You are a solo traveler, or you simply want to join a group to make the best of your trip ? Please ask us about our group departure dates available from July to September.
Ski in Huilo-Huilo Biological Reserve
If you liked this article, share it with your travel buddies! If you’re still hesitating, drop us a line and will give you the best information regarding this amazing sport called ski!
Don’t wait any longer and start planning the best ski experience Chile has to offer!
Después de meses de trabajo con emprendedores asociados a la tour operación en el Destino Lagos & Volcanes, los días 24 y 25 de marzo se realizó la “Primera Rueda de Negocios”, evento gestionado por Amity Tours y su oficina consultora Amity Lab.
Las empresas que participaron del evento fueron, principalmente, tour operadores locales que diseñan y operan experiencias turísticas (suppliers), operadores mayoristas de turismo nacional, receptivo y agencias de viajes de todo el país (buyers).
Volcán Osorno y Lago Llanquihue, Región de Los Ríos
La primera consultoría abordó el ámbito de diversificación de la oferta de los operadores del macro destino y la segunda estuvo centrada en herramientas para el área comercial de la tour operación. Se realizaron más de 10 talleres prácticos con diferentes temáticas y con foco en tour operación, logrando transferir conocimientos y técnicas de fácil aplicación entre los participantes.
La rueda de negocios contó con la participación de 64 suppliers y 24 buyers nacionales, generándose cerca de 300 reuniones en ambas jornadas.
Según los propios suppliers, tanto las jornadas de transferencia como la rueda de negocio, es un aporte en la sofisticación de su oferta, mejora de sus procesos comerciales y genera mayor visibilidad de sus experiencias, a través de la vitrina que representan los buyers.
Respecto a la Rueda de Negocio, la reconocida emprendedora Isabel Correa, propietaria de La Baita Conguillío, quien participó en este proceso, señaló que “Ha sido una gran oportunidad de poder aumentar nuestras redes comerciales y mostrar a potenciales compradores la oferta que tenemos en La Baita Conguillío, esperamos que estas iniciativas continúen para que podamos salir juntos de esta crisis.”
Otro hito a destacar, es la creación del primer “Club de Experiencias Turísticas” a nivel nacional, que cuenta con más de 60 empresas que hoy diseñan y operan directamente experiencias en el destino Lagos & Volcanes, en su mayoría asociadas a turismo de naturaleza, aventura y cultural.
Al respecto, el emprendedor Gonzalo Barros, co-fundador del tour operador Ranco Lauken considera que “La asociatividad generada a partir de este proyecto, y materializada en el “Club de Experiencias Turísticas”, debe ser el primer paso para construir un mejor destino con oferta de experiencias sustentables que generen beneficios concretos para todos en el territorio.”
Sobre el trabajo realizado por Amity Tours, Cristián Levy, CEO de la empresa, señaló “Estamos satisfechos con el trabajo realizado por nuestro equipo, creemos que fuimos capaces de transferir conocimiento que aporta directamente a los operadores locales, conocimiento que Amity Tours ha obtenido a través de su experiencia durante 18 años operando. Hemos abierto las puertas de la empresa para que vean cada detalle de nuestra operación. Esperamos que a través de Amity Lab, nuestra oficina consultora, podamos seguir participando en proyectos tan importantes como este”, puntualizó.
Para más información del proyecto, puede contactarse con Cristián Levy a cristian@amity-tours.com.
Hiking the Lake and Volcano District is one of the most rewarding travel experiences to live when visiting Chile. Last week, we had the chance to welcome our first international travelers after 11 months of long waiting. During 2 weeks, with our team of local experts, we explored the hidden corners of the national parks located in Chile’s world-class destination: the Lake and Volcano Scenic Route.
The first Scenic Route of Chile, also locally known as Red Interlagos, is a road network composed of 6 different circuits belonging to 3 regions: La Araucanía, Los Ríos and Los Lagos. Along with the breathtaking landscape of active volcanoes, pristine lakes and thousand-years-old endemic forests, this circuit aim to provide sustainable experiences allowing the encounter between the local inhabitants (Mapuche), the Colonos and Criollos culture, and the unique nature of Southern Chile.
Vicente Perez Rosales National Park, Los Lagos Region
The Vicente Perez Rosales National Park is the oldest park in the country. A key component of the Temperate Rain forests of the Austral Andes Biosphere Reserve, it is located in an area where volcanism has been, along with tectonic processes and glaciers, the main factors that shaped the Andes mountain range.
It covers an area of 251,000 hectares (619,970 acres), incorporating the park’s centerpiece: Todos los Santos Lake, Petrohué Waterfalls, Osorno and Puntiagudo Volcanoes.
Puntiagudo and Osorno Volcanoes (Photo credit: Ruta Escénica Lagos y Volcanes)
This trail crosses the national park from the North face of the Osorno Volcano towards the South-East, all the way to the Petrohue sector. Originally, it was a cattle trail used for animal transportation between the Todos Los Santos Lake and the Llanquihue Lake via the Desolación pass.
Entrance of the Desolacion Pass trail hike
From volcanic scorials to dense forests of nothofagus trees, this trail allows us to travel through dramatic changes in the landscape. Additionally, the excellent panoramic views of the Tronador and Osorno Volcanoes, La Picada hill and the Todos Los Santos Lake are the main prizes of the hike.
Hiking towards Todos Los Santos Lake
El Solitario trail hike
El Solitario traik hike is a simple, short and fairly flat route that allows its visitors to appreciate the Osorno Volcano from the Vicente Pérez Rosales National Park.
El Solitario trail hike
First, we started hiking through a native forest with the volcano on our right-hand during the entire route. Afterwards we continued passing by a valley covered with lava flows formed by old eruptions. After almost 2 hours of hiking, we finally arrived at the road that leads to Osorno Volcano.
Osorno Volcano from El Solitario trail hike
Crater Rojo trail hike
Crater Rojo trail
The Crater Rojo (Red Crater) is a natural attraction located on the South-West slope of the Osorno Volcano (1.400 m.a.s.l). The trail starts at the ski center. During this incredible journey, we could witness how the landscape has been shaped for thousands of years in the course of geological and volcanic actions.
Puyehue National Park, Los Lagos Region
The Puyehue National Park is located in an area of great and exuberant natural beauty of the Los Lagos region.With more than 100 thousand hectares, it is a territory where several active and dormant volcanoes are located. In addition, it belongs to the Biosphere Reserve Temperate Rainforests of the Southern Andes.
View of the Puntiagudo and Osorno Volcanoes
In ancient times, this area was inhabited by the Huilliche communities (the southernmost branch of the Mapuche culture). Created in 1941, the park has accumulated centuries-old legends that exist since before its institution.
During our adventures in Chile’s Lake and Volcano District, we had the change to explore the best parts of the Puyehue National Park.
Casablanca Volcano and Raihuen Crater
Also called Antillanca, the Casablanca volcano is located in the Puyehue National Park, 77 kilometers from the city of Osorno. This beautiful volcano, of typical conical shape, rises between Puyehue and Rupanco lakes.
View of the Osorno and Puntiagudo volcanoes from Casablanca volcano
Geologically, the Casablanca volcano is part of the Antillanca volcanic complex. Due to its low height and low glaciation, the ascent of the Casablanca does not present technical difficulties. As a result, it relatively easy to access one of the dominant summits of the southern Andes.
Casablanca volcano ascent
There are various alternatives to reach the top. During our visit of the volcano, we had the incredible opportunity to also visit the Raihuen Crater.
Raihuen Crater trail hike
Part of the Casablanca volcanic complex, the Raihuen Crater is located near the Antillanca ski resort. There are no records of eruptions. However, volcanologists believe that the last eruption occurred more than 10,000 years ago.
The hike towards is impressive, as you can witness the special nature of Chile’s Lake and Volcano District.
The presence of the Puyehue Volcano, the Puntiagudo and the Osorno volcanoes, the Cordon Caulle gives us an idea of how unique is this particular area of the Andes Mountain Range.
Paraíso Lake
Finally, we had the chance to discover a very special place called Paraíso lake. It is an Andean lake surrounded by an evergreen forest. This hidden corner of the Andes mountain range is a true paradise. Indeed, the pristine lake offers a solitary beach with incredible views of the exuberant surroundings.
Villarrica National Park, La Araucanía Region
Located in the Andes mountain range, the Villarrica national park is a protected wildlife area. The impressive volcanoes (Villarrica, Quetrupillan and Lanín), stunning endemic tree forests, rivers and lake are the top components of the landscape. The Villarrica Volcano (2.847 m.) is the main touristic attraction.
Downtown Pucón with the Villarrica Volcano in the background
The park boasts a total of 63.000 hectares of endemic tree forests such as araucaria, raulí, lenga, etc. The forested areas allow the existence of a diverse fauna like puma, chilla fox, pudu deer, and the small native marsupial monito del monte, among others.
Andean Lagoons trail hike
Very close to the border with Argentina at the foot of the Lanín volcano, the Andean Lakes trail is a must-see in Villarrica National Park. This easy hiking trail is a beautiful route, without difficulties and suitable for family.
During the hike, you get to know 3 Andean lagoons, a great native forest of coihues and araucarias. The cherry on the top is the volcanic landscape dominated by the great presence of the Lanín volcano (3.747 meters).
Lanín Volcano
While visiting the park, we could witness how the Lanin volcano has permanently shaped the landscape of the area with its eruptions. Also, we had the fantastic opportunity walk on the lava flows that once came from the heart of the earth. Lastly, we visited the pristine lakes Quillelhue, Escondido (Hidden) and Huinfiuca with its clear waters that reflect stunning colors.
El Cerdúo & Correntoso River
El Cerdúo is a fantastic place located at the slopes of the Villarrica volcano, the most active one in the Chilean territory. Visiting El Cerdúo is a unique experience, as we can observe the geological effect of the volcanic eruptions that participated in shaping this valley over the course of the years.
Ernesto (Amity’s top guide) and the Villarrica volcano
In addition to spectacular views of the Villarrica volcano, the valley also allows to observe the areas affected by ancient lahares and the lava flows that have created waterfalls. Moreover, we can clearly see the impressive contrast between the volcanic rocks and the dense forest areas.
We are facing a complex global situation due to the COVID-19 virus. At Amity Tours we want to assure a risk free and positive experience during all our tours. That is why we follow strict local and international protocols.
Van, masks and temperature check
First of all we ask our team, providers and guests to follow the rules of the sanitary authority which principally established the following obligations:
Frequent hand wash with water and soap
Use of face masks in all public areas
Social distancing at all times (min 1 meter)
Carry on a valid sanitary passport while traveling from one place to another
Sanitization of luggage getting to the hotel
In addition we did establish some Amity rules, such as:
Temperature check twice a day
Using the same seat in the van during the whole tour
Entering the van starting by the last row of seats
Following a strict emergency protocol in case of COVID-19 symptoms
We provide our guests with reusable face masks, some disposable face masks and gloves for emergency reasons, alcohol gel and a face shield. Our guides introduce all guests on their first meeting about our protocols and the local restrictions.
Social distancing while hiking
That is how we enjoyed an unforgettable and very safe trip in Chile this summer!
In Amity Tours, not only we operate every year unforgettable adventure experiences in Chile, but we also work as consultant in the local tourism industry. Today, we are currently transferring knowledge to micro and small tour operators all around the Scenic Route in the Lake and Volcano District.
The Lake and Volcano Scenic Route, Chile
Under the name “The Lake and Volcano District Scenic Route”, we do understand a tourist product that articulates attractions and experiences with a component of scenic beauty in southern Chile. The government of Chile has been developing the Interlagos Network for 20 years. It has six circuits and more than 2,000 km of roads that transport visitors along a spectacular geography. Shaped by the force of volcanism, bathed by large lakes, upholstered by the green of the oldest forests on the planet and inhabited by ancestral cultures. This network of roads has generated connectivity between potential poles of tourist development and other consolidated in the regions of La Araucanía, Los Ríos and Los Lagos. The First Scenic Route of Chile, has a unique layout, unmissable for lovers of pristine nature andadventure travellers.
Amity Tours is working hard to help reaching the ambition vision of this project. “To be the best positioned scenic route of Chile in the national and international market as a singular and sustainable experience that allows the encounter with the Mapuche, colony and criolla cultures and the unique nature of La Araucanía, Los Ríos and Los Lagos.”
At the moment, we are transferring our knowledge to micro and small local tour operators to help generate more sustainable tourism in the destination. An important part of the content we obtained from the useful workshops ATTA has been providing us until today.
Step-by-Step to a sustainable tourism destination
First of all, we were updating the database of the micro and small local tour operators forming part of the Scenic Route. Then, we offered all of them free courses separated by environments: Water – Mountains – Conventional tourism and focusing in sustainable tour operating.
Out of the tour operators who were participating in these first courses, we formed a “Club of Experiences”. The members are getting more classes for free. So they get prepared for the important Virtual Business Roundtable we are organizing on March 2021.
The three webinars will address the following topics:
Preparation of Commercial Actions. Here we will talk about the different formats to approach the B2B channel. With emphasis on the virtual business conference that we will have at the end of March.
Preparation of Commercial Material. Here we will dive into the Manuals and Tariffs that are presented at a business conference.
Preparation of the Commercial Pitch. Here we will talk about what a pitch is. How it should be built and used. Of course depending on the format of the meeting and who we have in front of in a business conference.
Virtual Business roundtable
The final objective of these courses is to bring local operators closer to the B2B channel. That is why we are organizing the First Business Roundtable of the Lakes & Volcanoes Scenic Route. It will be held in March, between Wednesday 24 and Thursday 25 2021, in a 100% online format through the Eventtia platform.
We want to bring the local operators together. As well as to transfer them valuable knowledge. That is how we want to promote our unique destination in a sustainable way.
Amity’s bike fleet: Trek Domane 7 SL model and Specialized Diverge Elite E5
Gravel has been almost on every cyclist gathering over the past couple of years, with everybody talking about wheel sizes, flared drop bars, tyre width and tread pattern, but for the most of the people, the road bike vs gravel bike question might seem strange at first, as they may not look all that different on the surface.
But riding a bike designed for multi-terrain excursions means you can link together gravel routes in new ways, taking in sections of gravel roads, forest tracks, trails, byways and bridlepaths. Or you can load up your gravel bike with camping kit for multi-day bikepacking adventures, what means more miles to get lost and enjoy.
Lanín Volcano (3.747 meters), the tallest peak in Chile’s Lake and Volcano District. Villarrica National Park
Road bike vs gravel bike: What are they supposed to do?
As you can probably work out from the name, road bikes are designed to be ridden on routes with a tarmac bias, while gravel bikes can be taken off-road, on gravel paths, dirt roads, fire trails, and even singletrack (if you are brave enough).
Road bikes ultimately fall into two camps, race bikes, and endurance bikes. Race bikes are what you see the pros pushing to the absolute limit, or your wealthy friend trying to look like these pros but clearly with more body fat, or those friends that come with Amity Tours to the Lake & Volcano district and we need to assign the strongest guide (probably Ruben or David) so he can follow them and not get lost!
Road cycling the German Settlers’ Route alongside Llanquihue Lake
Instead, endurance bikes are a bit more upright, feature more stable handling, put a premium on comfort, and most probably the profile of the rider that will use this bike with us will take more than 1000 pictures…per ride!
You can definitely use a gravel bike as a road bike. However, there are a few small limitations you might run into if you do this. Depending on how you like to ride, it could be important, or not important at all.
If you are a road bike racer, or your wealthy friend dressed in Rapha outfit with a Colnago C64 with Campy components, then a gravel bike probably won’t work as your primary bike. Many gravel bikes these days have a single chainring set up in the front. You’ll still get plenty of gears for most road riding, but you won’t have quite enough high gears for when the speeds get very fast, over 25 mph. You’ll probably spin out because you can’t pedal fast enough, and what is for sure, nothing can be worst to see than how the rest of the peloton leaves you behind, alone and talking to yourself for the rest of the ride.
Lake and Volcano Scenic Route
But if you’re mostly riding by yourself, or with friends who keep a more reasonable pace during our bike tours here in the Lake & Volcano district, then a gravel bike works just fine. In many ways it’s a lot more comfortable than a road bike, because you can use wider tires at lower pressure to give yourself some nice cushioning. You’ll also get better stopping and turning power from more rubber on the road.
Gravel bike tours in the Lake & Volcano district
Amity Tours, as a national leader in the development of road bike and MTB tours, we are sure that being able to include our new gravel tours in our offer ensures that we can satisfy the needs of these new customer segments seeking to get out of the paved route and look for more inaccessible attractions difficult to reach either by other kind of bike.
Coming soon in 2021: Gravel bike tour in one of the most outstanding parks of Chile
The Conguillio National Park is without a doubt one of the most appreciated parks in Chile’s Lake and Volcano District. It covers a surface of 150.319 acres, and ranges from 2.296 to 10.253 feet above sea level. It must be said that the landscape are spectacular:
Llaima volcano (3.125 meters)
The Llaima volcano is one of the most active volcanoes in Chile.
Conguillio Lake
The Conguillio Lake originated as a stagnation of waters produced by the constant eruptions of the volcano, the waters coming from the melting of the volcano Llaima and the Sierra Nevada generated over the years a lake of great proportions.
Arco Iris Lagoon
The lagoon was formed by the damming of the waters of an estuary, product of the lava coming from the Llaima volcano. This water reservoir flooded part of the nothofagus forest, which can be seen through the crystal clear waters of the lagoon.
Truful Truful Canyon
The canyon is a set of waterfalls located in the upper area of the Truful-Truful River. (Photo credit: Manuel Eduardo Fuentes Ramos)
Stay tuned for our next cycling adventures in Chile’s Lake and Volcano District, and get ready to discover the best of the Chilean territory on a gravel bike!
270 días han pasado desde que despedimos a nuestro último pasajero. El debió irse de vuelta a Estados Unidos porque las fronteras se estaban cerrando.
Ruta Escénica Lagos y Volcanes de Chile
Nunca pensamos que sería el último cliente que veríamos en todo el 2020.
Con esperanzas esperamos el invierno, concentrando nuestro esfuerzo en tener una temporada de ski, pero esto no pasó, seguíamos cerrados. Entre el equipo comentamos que era mejor, para así ya estar con nuestros bike tours rodando en noviembre, como todos los años, lo cual tampoco sucedió. Tampoco el eclipse que esperábamos compartir con los cientos de personas que ya nos habían reservado.
Eclipse solar total que ocurrió en la Región de la Araucanía el 14 de Diciembre del 2020. (Crédito de foto: Rubén Paillalef)
Pero así es el emprendimiento, no siempre se puede realizar lo planificado, siempre habrá algo que resolver, más aún en una industria dependiente de tantos factores.
La naturaleza, el juez más importante de la corte, se pronunció, y señaló que el Mundo tal como lo conocemos no puede continuar, no es sustentable, que si bien los viajes son importantes no podemos seguir contaminando todos los lugares a donde vamos. La condena para los emprendedores de nuestra industria turística ha sido la señalada: 270 días sin operación.
Parque Futangue – Lago Ranco
Confinados en nuestras oficinas, ad-portas de cumplir con la sentencia, hemos diseñado nuevos tours como nuestros gravel bike tours, women y family tours, poniendo aún más foco en nuestra política de Zero Waste y protocolos Covid-19, aumentando la participación real de las comunidades residentes que les permitan también generar ganancias a partir de la llegada de nuestros clientes.
Asado de cordero al palo con la comunidad Mapuche local y nuestros clientes. Región de La Araucanía.
El 2021 será duro, no cabe duda, pero Amity Tours lo enfrentará de manera renovada, más maduro y consciente, con el cariño y energía de siempre.
We have all suffered in these hard times from Covid-19, either by having close people who have lost their lives, sick relatives, locked down without being able to leave home for months, children unable to play with their friends, and why not to say, many losing their jobs and their will to live.
Although Amity Tours has not been oblivious to this misfortune, which has undoubtedly hit the company in various aspects, our team has not lost the desire to continue fighting it with everything they have available, enthusiastically seeing a vaccine on the near horizon, that will allow us to resume our lives and work, without any doubt in a different way and operating under extremely rigorous protocols.
Cycling Chile’s Lake and Volcano District
Amity Tours doesn’t give up, and renews its bike products in Chile
Within the DNA of Amity Tours, led by its CEO Cristián Levy, is the permanent gene of exploration, a gene that is stronger than any virus or bacteria, covered by a dense layer of fresh air and nature, and protected by volcanoes and seas that hit and battle anyone who tries to harm it. This is how we have not wasted time in our company, and we have decided to expand our offer of bike tours by creating the first gravel bike tour in Chile.
Gravel bike, the new cycling trend from the United States
Gravel bike tours were a real necessity for many: the trend finally arrived (as it so often does) from the United States, where pedaling on unpaved roads on a gravel bike is part of everyday reality. In the United States, in fact, due to high maintenance costs, almost all secondary roads are not paved. This has generated a new type of cyclist who is looking for new routes, tired of driving on roads with a lot of motorized traffic and missing a large part of the attractions located in rural areas.
Amity Tours has an explicit requirement for this new type of experience, nowadays non-existent in Chile, manifested by our main clients from the US, Canada, and Europe, for which we have put all our effort into making it a reality.
Our gravel bike tours consider an extensive use of local services run by small entrepreneurs and communities of native peoples willing to collaborate and do business with us, generating a wealth distribution effect among various stakeholders of the destination, which in the era post-Covid-19 is the best vaccine that we can contribute as a company to our local partners.
Among these collaborators, we can mention accommodations, mainly hotels located in the region and cabins, small restaurants characteristic of the region, communities of native peoples (Mapuche), local tourist guides, drivers and entrepreneurs selling organic food, handicrafts, and souvenirs, all of them positively impacted by the bike tours operation that Amity Tours develops. For you to know, if we take as an example a tour of 10 passengers for 1 week, the service and employment to be hired when you buy our gravel bike tour, are broken down as follows:
2 or 3 hotels
2 0 3 cabins
6 to 10 restaurants
1 or 2 local Mapuche communities
2 guides
2 drivers
3 local organic food supplier companies (to provide food during the tour while en route)
1 artisan market
They are the local partners waiting to welcome you again in 2021!
New gravel modality in the cycling world in Chile
On the other hand, the gravel bike gives more possibilities when connecting sections and areas of both dirt and asphalt. And this is where we see a great opportunity to develop new gravel bike tours, and by the way, an extraordinary opportunity for the Lake & Volcano district, being able to add routes in all circuits where bike tours are not operated today due to lack of asphlat. For example, our first gravel tour that will go from the Pacific Ocean to the Andes mountain range will pass through territories 100% Mapuche, where different groups coexist: Nagche, Lafquenche, Wenteche and Pewenche. This territory is the heart of the Mapuche people!
All our bike tours connect with the local Mapuche communities
We hope to receive you next season on our new gravel bike tours, touring the wonderful Lake & Volcano district, but now getting even deeper into the true Chile, the Chile away from the pavement and urbanity.
Todos hemos sufrido en estos tiempos duros por el Covid-19, ya sea por tener personas cercanas que han perdido la vida, familiares enfermos, encerrados sin poder salir de casa por meses y meses, los niños sin poder jugar con sus amigos, y por que no decirlo, muchos perdiendo sus trabajos y sus ganas de vivir.
Si bien Amity Tours no ha estado ajeno a esta desgracia, que sin duda ha golpeado a la empresa en varios aspectos, el equipo no ha perdido las ganas de seguir peleándola con todo lo que tienen disponible, viendo con entusiasmo una vacuna en el horizonte cercano que permitirá retomar sus vidas y el trabajo, sin ninguna duda de una manera diferente y operando bajos protocolos sumamente rigurosos.
Amity Tours no baja los brazos y renueva su oferta de Bike Tours
Dentro del ADN de Amity Tours, liderado por su CEO Cristián Levy, está el gen permanente de la exploración, un gen que es más fuerte que cualquier virus o bacteria, que está recubierto por una densa capa de aire y naturaleza, y protegido por volcanes, lagos y mares que golpean y batallan a todo quien intente dañarlo. Es así como no hemos perdido el tiempo en nuestra empresa, y hemos decidido ampliar nuestra oferta de bike tours creando el primer gravel bike tour de Chile.
Gravel bike, la nueva tendencia que llegó desde Estados Unidos
Los gravel bike tours eran una necesidad real para muchos: la tendencia finalmente llegó (como ocurre tan a menudo) desde Estados Unidos, donde pedalear por caminos sin asfaltar en una bicicleta “gravel” es parte de la realidad cotidiana.
En Estados Unidos, de hecho, debido a los altos costos de mantenimiento, casi todas las carreteras secundarias no están pavimentadas. Esto ha generado un nuevo tipo de ciclista que busca nuevas rutas, cansados de circular por carreteras con mucho tráfico motorizado y perdiéndose gran parte de los atractivos situados en áreas rurales.
Amity Tours tiene un requerimiento explícito por este nuevo tipo de experiencia, hoy inexistente a nivel nacional, manifestado por nuestros principales clientes extranjeros, para lo cual hemos puesto todo nuestro esfuerzo en hacerlo realidad.
La logística experta requerida para un tour inédito de gravel bike en Chile
Cicloturismo en el Destino Lagos y Volcanes de Chile.
Nuestros diseños de experiencias para gravel bike tours consideran un uso extensivo de servicios locales de pequeños emprendedores y comunidades de pueblos originarios dispuestos a colaborar y hacer negocios con nosotros, generando un efecto de distribución de la riqueza entre varios stakeholders del destino, lo cual en la era post Covid-19 es la mejor vacuna que nosotros podemos aportar como empresa a nuestros partners locales.
Dentro de estos colaboradores podemos mencionar alojamientos, principalmente hoteles emplazados en la región y cabañas, pequeños restaurantes característicos de la región, comunidades de pueblos originarios (Mapuche), guías de turismo locales, choferes y emprendedores en venta de alimentos orgánicos, artesanía y souvenirs, todos ellos impactados positivamente por la operación de los bike tours que Amity Tours desarrolla.
Para que ustedes sepan, si tomamos como ejemplo un tour de 10 pasajeros por 1 semana, el servicio y empleo a contratar se desglosa de la siguiente manera:
2 o 3 hoteles
2 0 3 cabañas
6 a 10 restaurantes
1 o 2 comunidades Mapuche
2 guías locales
2 conductores
3 empresas locales proveedoras de alimento orgánico (para proveer de alimentos durante el tour mientras está en ruta)
1 mercado de artesanos
¡Son estos partners locales que están esperándolos recibir nuevamente durante el 2021!
Modalidad gravel novedosa en el mundo del ciclismo en Chile
Por otro lado, la bicicleta de gravel otorga más posibilidades a la hora de conectar tramos y zonas tanto de tierra como de asfalto. Y aquí es donde vemos una gran oportunidad de desarrollo de nuevos tours de cicloturismo en modalidad gravel, y por cierto una extraordinaria oportunidad para el destino Lagos & Volcanes, pudiendo sumar rutas en todos los circuitos donde hoy no se operan bike tours por falta de rutas asfaltadas.
Por ejemplo, nuestro primer tour de gravel que irá desde el Océano Pacífico a la Cordillera pasará por territorios cien por ciento Mapuche, donde cohabitan diferentes grupos: Nagche, Lafquenche, Wenteche y Pewenche. ¡Este territorio es el corazón del pueblo Mapuche!
Todos nuestros tours en bicicleta se conectan con las comunidades Mapuche de La Araucanía.
Esperamos poder recibirlos la próxima temporada en nuestros nuevos gravel bike tours, recorriendo el maravilloso destino Lagos & Volcanes, pero ahora adentrándonos por un Chile más auténtico, el Chile alejado del pavimento y urbanidad, ese Chile profundo que enamora y sorprende.
Here we are sharing a report about traveling from Europe to Chile during COVID-19 pandemic.
Beginning of November 2020 our Key Account Manager, Angela and her 2-years old daughter, travelled back from Switzerland (Angela´s birth country) to her home in southern Chile. A lot of uncertainties accompanied the travel plans. This because traveling restrictions changed frequently due to the COVID-19 pandemic. In this blog we would like to share some recommendations, that should help organizing your next trip to Chile.
The most important fact first: The whole trip turned out to be completely stress free and almost more pleasant than before the pandemic! All the staff at the airports, the flight attendants and immigration officers were extremely friendly, helpful and happy to be able to attend tourists again. The fact, that less people are traveling at the moment makes the whole atmosphere at the airport and the planes more peaceful.
Our trip
We traveled with a private car to the airport to avoid using public transportation. While the baggage drop-off they already asked for our health declaration form for Chile. We boarded our plane in Zurich, had to change flight at Amsterdam and enjoyed then a direct flight to Santiago de Chile. Adults have to wear face masks all over the trip, while kids up to 10 years (depending on the airline) do not have to use them. Upon arrival to Santiago de Chile, we had to pass by a control station of the National Health Department. At that point, they measured our temperature. Here we had to informe, where we are going to pass the 14-day quarantine. This is not mandatory any more (for most travelers), showing a negative PCR test. (More details about the actual travel documents entering Chile at the end of this blog)
Passing this first control we continued to the immigration control and the baggage claim before passing the agriculture and livestock service (SAG) as usual.
Recommendations
Before you travel to the airport you should know the exact hour you should arrive. It is also good to know what to bring and what to leave at home. Everything begins with how you feel; if you have a fever, or minor complaints such as the common cold, runny nose, sneezing, sore throat or a mild cough, you should stay at home. Your health and that of your fellow travellers is what is considered to be the most important thing during this pandemic. That is why most airports/airlines require a health declaration form.
Prepare your flight:
Check-in online or via the application of your airline (Many airlines allow you to check in online, which means one less interaction. Then all you have to do is drop off your baggage in the departure hall)
Bring enough face masks (you should change them at least every 3 hours or whenever they get humid)
Carry your own hand sanitiser with you in your hand baggage. The capacity of the hand sanitizer container cannot exceed 100ml.
Check if you need a health declaration form for the departure, transit and final destination
Of course you will have to bring all mandatory documents (passport, visa if required and all documents required from your transit and final destination – Check all the travel documents entering Chile here)
If possible go to the airport alone and/or in a private transportation
Get to the airport with enough time (follow the recommendations of the airport and airline you are travelling with)
At the airports
Most of the restaurants and shops are open so you will always find something to refresh, eat or shop at the airports.
Throughout the flight
At the moment most of the planes are not fully booked. This allows the airlines to separate passengers from each others and give them more space. During our flight to Santiago de Chile with KLM, we could use a whole row of three seats, which allowed us stretch our legs throughout the whole flight.
Food is served almost as usual, only the snacks between the main dishes are served in plastic bags.
The airlines recommend to stay on your seat whenever possible. Whenever you need assistant, you can call the flight attendants, they will be happy helping you with your issues.
Aircraft are equipped with HEPA filters in their cabins, which remove 99.97% of particles and bacteria, including the Sars-CoV-2 virus. Moreover, the air inside an aircraft is completely renewed every 2 to 3 minutes. The airflow drags the particles from above to foot level (vertically), further lowering their concentration and preventing the air from mixing across the rows. That is why physical distancing is not decisive within the air cabins, according to the International Air Transport Association (IATA).
All these measures, together with proper and mandatory use of face masks, make the cabins as sanitary as an operating room. (source: Santiago Nuevo Pudahuel Airport)
Travel documents to enter Chile
These are the actual required travel documents for non-residents entering Chile:
Negative PCR test performed 72 hours before travelling. In flights with intermediate stops, this is considered from the last boarding.
Fill out the Traveler’s Affidavit electronically, and up to 48 hours before boarding at www.c19.cl
Health insurance that covers medical treatment for COVID-19 during your stay, with a minimum coverage of USD$30,000.
Between November 23th and December 7th anybody arriving from countries with community transmission of COVID-19 must go under a 14-day mandatory quarantine, even if you have a PCR (-).
Next December 14th, the sky will darken completely La Araucanía Region, and partially the rest of the Chilean territory. On this day, we will be marveling at a new total solar eclipse. This event will occur after the last total solar eclipse that darkened the Atacama Region of Chile on July 2nd, 2019.
What is an eclipse?
The word eclipse derives from the Greek word “ékleipsis” which means disappearance or abandonment, in reference to the absence of sun in the sky. This solar phenomenon happens when a planet or, like in this case, the moon stands in the way of the solar light, preventing it to reach the surface of planet Earth. On our planet, we experience both lunar and solar eclipses.
Will it be completely dark?
Yes, the 90-kilometer in diameter strip of light will cover great part of La Araucanía Region, and the northern part of Los Ríos Region, between Temuco city and Panguipulli village. In other words, the solar eclipse will be total in places like Puerto Saavedra, Carahue, Teodoro Schmidt, Nueva Imperial, Nueva Toltén, Gorbea, Lanco, Villarrica, Pucón, Freire, Pitrufquén, Temuco, Loncoche, curarrehue, Lican Ray and Panguipulli.
“300 more years will elapse before we see another total solar eclipse again at this location”, says José Maza, Chilean astronomer and physicist.
Will the total solar eclipse be visible throughout Chile?
Even though the complete darkness will occur in La Araucanía Region, the solar event will manifest partially throughout Chile.
The following percentages represent the total surface of the sun that will be covered by the moon depending on the location, during the next astronomy event on december 14, 2020:
Visibility of the total solar eclipse throughout Chile
The solar event will start at 11:41 am (UTC -3) and will reach its highest expression between 1:02 and 1:04 pm. We will be witnessing 2 minutes and 9 seconds of complete darkness before the phenomenon ends, at 1:31 pm.
Will it be possible to travel to La Araucanía?
This will mostly depend on the status of each commune, within the Paso-a-Paso plan created by the Chilean government. This step-by-step strategy was established to face the pandemic according to the sanitary situation of each zone in particular, and determines 5 different phases. Each of them include restrictions and specific obligations, and the progress and regression from one particular step to another is subject to epidemiological indicators, healthcare network and traceability of the virus.
“La Araucanía is in a rather delicate situation, as there are several communes still in lockdown. We hope that, by the date of the eclipse, the region will have advanced towards more progressive steps (phase 4 or 5). Because, in order to travel from one commune to another, it must be at least in the Preparation Step (phase 3)”, affirmed Paula Daza, the undersecretary of the Ministry of Health.
The visitors will be able to travel only to places in phase 3, with the respective travel permits. Before the pandemic, it was estimated that approximately one million tourists would be traveling to La Araucanía Region to attend the total solar eclipse. Now, we are expecting less than 300.000 tourists.
When will occur the next total solar eclipse?
This event will be the sixteenth total solar eclipse in Chile since the independence in the 19th century. The next one will take place on December 4, 2021 in Chile’s Antarctic Territory. The following eclipse will be on December 5, 2048 in Aysén Region. Afterwards, the regions of Valparaíso, Metropolitana and O’Higgins will be witnessing this particular event on August 12, 2064.
Without a doubt, a total solar eclipse is an incredible astronomical experience to see. Check out this article about the meaning of such event from the Mapuche indigenous cosmovision, the first inhabitants of La Araucanía Region.
Así como Violeta Parra le canta a la Vida, yo puedo cantarle a la bicicleta “que me ha dado tanto”.
No me considero ni cerca un ciclista, pero llevo casi dos décadas viviendo de este deporte maravilloso. En la forma de tours de cicloturismo, en Amity Tours me ha tocado vivir momentos inolvidables, realmente épicos, todo gracias al mountain bike.
Aquí te voy a contar tres historias que vale la pena recordar e inmortalizar en este blog de mtb tours en Chile, específicamente en el Destino Lagos & Volcanes. Todas tienen un denominador común: están relacionadas a marcas líderes de la industria del mountain bike mundial, todas ocurren entre volcanes y araucarias, e involucran a un grupo humano de riders de lujo. Y lo que se me pide es siempre lo mismo: una experiencia inolvidable en mtb, extraordinaria, memorable, épica.
Comencemos diciendo que en estas tres historias los personajes se repiten: Euan Wilson y Ernesto Araneda.
El equipo de Amity Tours y H&I Adventures, Paso Desolación, PN Vicente Pérez (Ernesto der. y Euan izq.).
Euan es un escocés experto en viajes en mountain bike. Literalmente ha recorrido todo el mundo a la cabeza de su empresa H&I Adventures, diseñando y guiando tours de mtb para fanáticos y expertos. En 2015 lo invitamos a conocer Chile y se enamoró en un día del país, de la gente y del terreno que hay para andar en mtb.
Ernesto, por su parte, es un destacado atleta nacional, oriundo de Temuco, multicampeón nacional de XC, vice campeón panamericano de MTB XC y medallista en el mundial de mtb cross-country. Además de ser un atleta de elite, Ernesto se especializó en turismo aventura y lleva más de una década guiando tours de mtb y ruta en Chile y Europa.
Con estos dos personajes me ha tocado vivir estas tres aventuras que llamaremos: YETI TRIBE, TRAIL HUNTER y EVOC SPORTS.
1. YETI TRIBE
Seguramente has escuchado hablar de las bicicletas Yeti, una mountain bike de alta gama diseñada en el estado de Colorado, Estados Unidos.
Euan llevaba trabajando con ellos por un buen tiempo, específicamente en uno de los eventos más importantes de la marca: “el viaje de la tribu”, o en inglés “Yeti Tribe”. Es marzo 2016, cuando recibo una llamada de Euan que me dice: “get ready Cristián, the tribe is coming to Chile weón”.
El grupo del Yeti Tribe en Chile, base centro de ski Pucón.
El Tribe de Yeti es un viaje anual que organizan los dueños de la marca Yeti: Mr. Conroy y Mr. Hoogendoorn. Dos gringos con pinta de hippie, pero ultra exigentes con el destino, pues también han recorrido los mejores senderos del mundo en mtb. A este Tribe, solo pueden venir personas que sean dueñas de una bicicleta Yeti y que sean lo suficientemente fit para llevarle el ritmo a los dueños de la marca.
Si vas a bajar disfrutando un sendero, debes ganártelo después de subirlo. Camino antiguo refugio centro de ski.
El Tribe ya había pasado por Escocia, Colorado y Nepal, por lo que la vara que se nos imponía era muy alta. De todas maneras, estábamos confiados en lo que Chile tiene para ofrecer, así que sólo nos dedicamos a dejar afinada la logística, ver que los hoteles del tour estaban bien, y preparar alguna que otra sorpresa para estos viajeros experimentados del mtb enduro.
Dentro de los invitados VIP del Tribe – además de los dueños – estaban dos personajes de la industria, Berne Broudy y Joey Schusler. La primera una escritora especialista en viajes en bicicleta, y el segundo un ex rider dedicado a la filmación y fotografía de aventura.
Ernesto liderando al grupo en la base del centro de ski Pucón, ingresando a sendero Lengas.
El itinerario del Yeti Tribe es muy similar a los tours de mtb que ya hacemos, que combina senderos en volcanes, bosques de araucarias, termas naturales y conocer la cultura local. Para esa ocasión, y junto a 20 gringos simpáticos, partimos en Pucón, con varios rides por los senderos en torno al Volcán Villarrica, nos tiramos un piquero en las termas Geométricas, probamos merkén y jugamos palin con los Mapuche, recorrimos Huilo-Huilo, pedaleamos en el centro de ski Antillanca y terminamos cruzando el paso Desolación junto al Volcán Osorno. Aquí puedes ver las mejores fotos de ese viaje: Yeti Tribe Chile
El Tribe jugando Palin en la casa de la familia Colipi en Pucón.
Mi recompensa fue escuchar de los dueños de Yeti dos cosas: 1) sus felicitaciones por un tour con un servicio impecable, que los hizo volver después con sus familias, y 2) que a pesar de haber estado pedaleando en tantas partes increíbles del mundo, Chile los había dejado impresionados por su belleza natural y por las condiciones ideales que tiene para andar en mountain bike.
Después de hacer la ruta transvolcánica por el PN Villarrica, llegamos a las termas Geométricas.
Estamos a mediados de Enero 2017, el Tribe ya había sido todo un éxito, y una nueva aventura se nos aproxima.
Esta vez, Euan lleva un buen tiempo hablando con su amigo Dan Milner, un súper conocido escritor y fotógrafo inglés, famoso por sus fotografías de naturaleza y aventura. Dan había cruzado de Pucón a Junín de Los Andes hacía ya 30 años, y había quedado impresionado con el paisaje que se tiene del volcán Lanín y de los bosques milenarios de araucarias.
Euan conocía también a Matt Hunter, un rider profesional de Canadá, que bajo el auspicio de las bicicletas Specialized, tiene un programa en Youtube llamado Trail Hunter. En este canal, muestran sus videos de aventura en mtb por todo el mundo, y Matt andaba en búsqueda de un nuevo destino para su canal. Con esa conjunción de astros, Euan une los cabos sueltos y llama a sus amigos para que vengan a Chile a recorrer el destino Lagos y Volcanes en mtb.
A este grupo se le suman dos riders profesionales más, ambos auspiciados por RedBull: Matty Miles de Canadá y el suizo René Wildhaber.
Sin embargo, justo en Chile estábamos viviendo uno de los incendios forestales más brutales del último siglo, con focos por todo el país, pero los más intensos y destructivos en las regiones de O’Higgins, el Maule y del Biobío. Con ello, gran parte de los parques nacionales estaban cerrados por orden de la CONAF, y en nuestro destino todos estaban en alerta roja (sin incendios, pero cerrados).
Euan había regresado a Pucón el 23 de enero y no podía creer lo que salía en las noticias, un desastre natural de grandes proporciones y los parques nacionales cerrados. Todos los preparativos estaban listos, y los riders ya tenían sus pasajes a Chile. Fue en ese escenario cuando entre todos decidimos seguir con lo planificado y esperar un milagro. Los distintos focos de incendio tuvieron una extensión gigante, provocadas por una alta velocidad del viento y unas olas de calor inéditas. El 26 de enero de 2017, se registró la temperatura máxima de la historia de Chile: 44,9°C en Quillón.
Es el 31 de enero, 7am y los riders extranjeros han arribado a Santiago desde distintos rincones del mundo, nos mandan un texto diciendo que está todo bien y que esperan aterrizar en Temuco por la tarde. Con Euan y Ernesto salimos al patio a tomar aire fresco junto a nuestro tazón de café, y al mirar al volcán Villarrica y verlo “con sombrero” se nos dibuja una sonrisa y creemos que ocurrirá el milagro.
Cuando nubes lenticulares se forman junto a la cima del volcán (en forma de gorro), es casi seguro que en Pucón lloverá en las próximas 12 horas. Y así ocurrió. Al momento de llegar los riders a nuestro centro de operaciones en Pucón ya ha comenzado a llover, y con Ernesto sabemos que esto es una muy buena noticia. Les damos la bienvenida con el clásico asado de cordero al palo y les contamos todos los planes que tenemos para los siguientes días.
A la mañana siguiente continúa la lluvia, y escuchamos por la radio que CONAF ha levantado la restricción en los parques de La Araucanía y Los Ríos. Tenemos LUZ VERDE para nuestra aventura.
Subimos nuestro equipo a las 4×4 y salimos rumbo al volcán Lanín. Una fina lluvia de verano crea una cortina densa que impide que nuestros amigos puedan apreciar el paisaje. Nosotros sabemos lo que está detrás de ese manto gris, pero preferimos guardar silencio y concentrarnos en el armado de nuestro campamento base-1, ubicado en un punto secreto a los pies del Lanín y protegidos por un bosque de gigantescas araucarias.
Dan y los dos Matt se concentran en organizar y chequear su equipo audiovisual, René, Ernesto y Euan preparan las bicicletas para dejarlas a punto, y a mi con José nos toca sorprender al grupo con un rico risotto de cena y música de fondo (esa misma que escuchas al inicio del video del Trail Hunter en Chile). La lluvia no ha parado, y eso nos tranquiliza mucho, pues reduce el peligro de incendio y así los parques se mantendrán abiertos. (José es el multifacético que toca el Hang en el video)
A la mañana siguiente, la ansiedad me despierta al alba y al salir de la carpa no puedo evitar decir un WOW que despierta a todos. Si bien este paisaje es familiar para mí, verlo a primera luz del día, con el imponente volcán Lanín cubierto de una fina capa de nieve me deja boquiabierto. Las carpas y bicicletas también están blancas, con una capa de escarcha que comienza a irse rápidamente a medida que vemos los primeros rayos del sol al amanecer.
Nuestro campamento base-1 en las faldas del volcán Lanín a 1.200m de altitud.
Ciabatta con huevos de campo, tocino y palta, bowl de frutas y un buen café de grano es el menú del primer “desayuno de campeones” que producimos con José. El aire está frío para ser una mañana de febrero, pero estamos en la montaña a 1.200 metros de altitud. El cielo no tiene ni una nube y el suelo humea a medida que el sol lo calienta y evapora la lluvia de la noche anterior.
Ernesto vaticina un día perfecto para andar en mountain bike, pues se levantará muy poco polvo y tendrán un grip ideal en el sendero. Como buen guía, reúne al grupo en torno a la cafetera y comienza con su charla técnica para el día que se nos viene.
Así pasamos los próximos cinco días, filmando, fotografiando, asombrándonos y pedaleando en las mtb, teniendo como telón de fondo a los volcanes Lanín, Quetrupillán y Villarrica. Recuerdo que Matt Hunter una tarde se emociona y nos dice: “no puedo creer que existan lugares así en la tierra y que se puedan recorrer en mtb; primero estás en medio de un bosque milenario con distintos tonos de verde, y después pasas por un terreno sacado de la película Lord of the Rings, con valles gigantes cubiertos de lava de antiguas erupciones”.
El resultado habla por si mismo, y aquí lo puedes ver:
3. EVOC SPORTS
Cuando conocí a Euan le vi usando muchos accesorios de la marca EVOC. No me tomó mucho tiempo comprender que son una marca muy innovadora, con productos muy bien pensados y de excelente calidad. Y con el antecedente de las otras marcas que ya habíamos atendido en Chile, asumí que era otra marca de Estados Unidos.
Una de nuestras camionetas cargada al máximo camino al volcán Tolhuaca.
Después de otro exitoso tour de mtb que hicimos en Chile para clientes de Euan, él me comenta que lleva tiempo hablando con los dueños de EVOC, persuadiéndolos para que vengan al destino Lagos y Volcanes de Chile. Y me envía un correo de un tal Holger Feist que le pide a Euan una locación que tenga un terreno volcánico y un árbol milenario que había visto hace unos años en Argentina en un viaje de ski (refiriéndose a la Araucaria araucana). Los directores de EVOC buscaban un paisaje único para ser de fondo del catálogo 2019 de los productos nuevos de la marca, que serían expuestos como primicia en la feria EuroBike (la más importante del mundo en la industria).
Euan no quería repetir las misma locaciones que ya habíamos utilizado para asombrar a Yeti y Specialized, y con toda tranquilidad le dije que no se preocupe, porque esta vez con Ernesto teníamos en mente concentrarnos en el Geoparque Kütralkura, un territorio con sello UNESCO, lleno de volcanes y bosques de araucarias ubicado en la punta norte del destino Lagos y Volcanes.
Sabiendo ya qué buscan este tipo de marcas y que siempre traen a un team impresionante de expertos audiovisuales y riders, el itinerario que creamos incluía lugares como: Laguna Blanca y volcán Tolhuaca, Cañón del Blanco y Sierra Nevada, volcán Lonquimay y Cordillera Las Raíces, Quinquén y lago Galletue, lago Conguillío y volcán Llaima, y como guinda final a Pucón y el volcán Villarrica. Todo esto combinado con termas, geiser, cabalgata, comunidad Pewenche, y una mezcla de hoteles pitucos, lodge de montaña y camping.
Jan Sallawitz de EVOC Sports probando el sendero junto a la laguna Blanca y volcán Tolhuaca.
Es el 1 de diciembre de 2018 y en el aeropuerto de Temuco es fácil identificar quienes serán nuestros mejores amigos por los próximos días. Son 5 gringos con gorra, polera, mochila y maletas EVOC. Los primeros en salir son Sebastian Bender y Benedikt Ruf, que por su equipo deducimos que son los expertos en audiovisual. Después sale Jan, Holger y Bernd (estos dos últimos los fundadores de la compañía). Junto a Ernesto y Euan les damos la bienvenida a La Araucanía y nos distribuimos rápidamente en nuestras dos camionetas, no sin antes hacer la primera sesión de fotos con las maletas Evoc World Traveler en el frontis del aeropuerto (las puedes ver en el catálogo).
Maletas EVOC en el Aeropuerto de La Araucanía
Nuestra primera parada es en Curacautín, donde pasaremos una noche para hacer las últimas compras y distribuir la gran cantidad de equipo y accesorios que han traído a Chile para probarlos en terreno. Uno de los accesorios EVOC que no tenemos permiso de fotografiar son los de bikepacking (por temas de secreto industrial), que serán la novedad de la marca para la feria Eurobike.
Y es en esta primera conversa-reunión con una cerveza Lonquimay en la mano que noto un acento extraño en los cinco extranjeros. Su inglés no es nativo, y yo sin rodeos les pregunto: ¿no son ustedes de USA? Los cinco sueltan la risa y me dicen “no Cristián, somos de Alemania, pero no te preocupes, somos unos alemanes especiales, más relajados”, y vuelven a soltar otra carcajada.
A la mañana siguiente ya tenemos ambas camionetas cargadas al tope, con carro de arrastre incluido. Salimos rumbo al fundo Laguna Blanca donde la familia Knust nos espera. Desde su lodge y centro ecuestre ponemos la marcha 4L y subimos por un camino de montaña áspero, que nos lleva a los pies del volcán Tolhuaca junto a la laguna Blanca. Aquí el entusiasmo es total, la sonrisa de la cara es imposible borrárselas a estos 5 alemanes atípicos. Nos pasamos todo el día en el lugar, siendo uno de mis spots favoritos el valle inter-volcánico que se forma entre el volcán Lonquimay y el Tolhuaca, es como el altiplano de Atacama, pero con sendas araucarias.
El grupo de riders de EVOC en el valle inter-volcánico de la RN Malalcahuello.
Luego de noche hacemos la transición hacia el “barrio de Manchuria” y nos internamos por el cañón del Blanco, donde mi amigo Cristián Parra nos espera con un asado criollo. Llevamos recién un día y el grupo está eufórico con lo vivido. A la mañana siguiente salimos a caballo hacia los geiser de la Sierra Nevada, y finalizamos la jornada en un pozón de agua termal.
Esta mañana amanecemos en Corralco, haciendo un vuelco en 180° desde la cultura criolla a un ambiente moderno y sofisticado. Muy temprano ya están todos en la terraza del hotel, fotografiando la cara sur del volcán Lonquimay. “This is unbelievable, amazing, crazy landscape” son algunos de los adjetivos que reiteradamente me dicen nuestros huéspedes de EVOC. Y con Ernesto nos reímos porque sabemos que todavía queda muchísimo más para sorprenderlos.
Cargamos el equipo en las camionetas y salimos en las mountain bike rumbo al cráter Navidad. Nuevamente resuenan diversas expresiones de asombro y felicidad. ¿Cómo es posible que hayamos salido de un bosque verde y milenario junto al hotel, y 10 minutos más tarde estamos en un paisaje que parece sacado de la Luna o de Marte?, me preguntan Holger y Bernd. “Así es el destino Lagos y Volcanes” – respondo cada vez que la misma pregunta se asoma.
Ernesto guiando al grupo en un “free-ride” hacia el cráter Navidad, de fondo el volcán Lonquimay.
Recorremos extensivamente los alrededores áridos del cráter Navidad y le explicamos a nuestros amigos como se formó este cráter para la navidad de 1988 en una erupción que duró 1 año. Después Ernesto los anima a regresar al hotel haciendo un free-ride por las faldas del volcán, llegando a la terraza donde unas cervezas heladas los esperan junto a la piscina y el SPA.
Hoy nos toca conocer a los Pewenche, la gente que salvó a la araucaria de ser cortada, y para eso nos vamos a pedalear a Quinquén, donde la familia Meliñir nos espera en su comunidad. Un asado de chivo con puré de piñón es parte del menú que nos tiene preparado Joaquín, el hijo del Lonko de la comunidad. Recorremos senderos con vistas al Batea Mawida y al lago Galletue, y sumamos más escenarios en nuestras mtb con los accesorios de Evoc. Al caer la noche, junto al fuego en la ruka, y con un mate compartido, escuchamos atentos la historia de como esa comunidad logró que se declare a la araucaria un Monumento Natural, prohibiendo así la tala.
Joaquín Meliñir recibiendo al grupo en la comunidad Pewenche de Quinquén.
Nuestro viaje ya ha llegado a la mitad y todavía nos queda lo mejor. Ahora toca acampar y poner a prueba todo el equipo de bikepacking. Armamos campamento en el sector el Hoyón junto al lago Conguillío y con la Sierra Nevada de fondo. La noche está muy estrellada y sin luna, ideal para esas time-lapse nocturnas. A la hora del desayuno, Holger y Bernd nos cuentan más sobre los inicios de la compañía, y lo significativo de este viaje para ellos, pues cumplen 10 años como empresa.
Preparando la cena para el grupo en sector El Hoyón del PN Conguillío.
Teniendo como campo base al lago Conguillío, Ernesto nos lleva a recorrer caminos y senderos del parque y una aventura un poco más extrema hacia el volcán Nevados de Sollipulli, en donde llegamos en mtb al cono Chufquén y al mismísimo glaciar del Sollipulli.
La Sierra Nevada y el lago Conguillío son el telón de nuestro “bikepacking camp”.
Finalmente, y ya un poco más cansados, nuestro tour llega a Pucón, donde concluimos el viaje por los senderos del centro de ski del volcán Villarrica, con las pistas Lengas, Flow y El Clásico. Por la noche vamos a uno de esos bares imperdibles del pueblo y hacemos incontables salud por el éxito del viaje y por haber coronado en mtb el destino Lagos y Volcanes.
Mira aquí el video de este viaje épico y profundo a La Araucanía.
Que tres reconocidas empresas del ciclismo de montaña del mundo te digan los mismos comentarios positivos de Chile como un paraíso para el mountain bike, no solo me llenan de orgullo, sino que me ratifican que tenemos todo para seguir desarrollando este deporte, en la naturaleza y con todo el respeto hacia ella.
¿Y tú, cuándo te animas a viajar con Amity y tu mtb?
El Martes 6 de Octubre 2020, Eduardo Silva de FullOutdoor – la multiplataforma digital de estilos de vida, actividades y deportes al aire libre en Chile – se reunió virtualmente con Cristián Levy y Germán Pino, los socios principales de Amity Tours.
Eduardo Silva (FullOutdoor) entrevistando a Cristián Levy y Germán Pino de Amity Tours
El COVID se instala en Chile y detiene las operaciones turísticas
Durante esta conversación, hablamos del impacto que ha tenido la crisis del COVID sobre la industria turística en Chile, y como han repercutido los efectos en la tur operación:
“Fue muy abrupto el corte de nuestra temporada, dice Cristián. Nuestra temporada de verano normalmente termina a fines de abril, pero ya el 15 de marzo tuvimos que devolver a un grupo de viajeros de Estados Unidos el mismo día que aterrizó en Chile, por orden del cliente emisivo. Fue complejo, y pensamos que iba a ser una cosa de semanas y al final se alargó un mes, dos meses, tres meses y ahora ya siete meses en eso…”
Luego comentó que, en Pucón (donde se encuentra la base principal de operaciones) afortunadamente por los pocos casos, el municipio y el área de salud local han podido llevar muy bien la trazabilidad de los casos. “Actualmente tenemos 12 casos activos, con un total de 110 casos en todos estos 7 meses, agregó. Aquí la mayoría de la gente vive en el campo, tú sales de tu casa y llegas al río, llegas a la montaña, llegas al bosque y esa conexión con la naturaleza no nos ha dejado como leones enjaulados… Al contrario, nos ha permitido reconectar, estar más tiempo con la familia, los hij@s, …”
Luego, Cristián nos explica como Amity nació de “un vuelvo abrupto en la vida” y como se le ocurrió a Alejandro Levy (el Papá de Cristián) hacer una empresa de turismo ligada a la naturaleza y al deporte. Alejandro es ingeniero textil de profesión, pero también amante de la montaña y del deporte. Tras la llegada a Chile de la crisis asiática en 2002, la industria textil en Chile empezó a morir y se quedó sin trabajo.
En este mismo tiempo, Cristián y Germán trabajaban como consultores junior en la Fundación EuroChile. Gerd Walther, jefe y mentor de estos jóvenes entusiastas, empezó a bromear sobre crear una empresa de turismo en Temuco, donde se había instalado la familia de Cristian a vivir, para así recibir a los clientes internacionales en esta zona del país.
La broma fue tomando seriedad cuando llegó la solicitud de una familia de Brasil, que quería venir a Chile a esquiar, pero no a los centros de ski típicos. Así, Alejandro y Cristián organizaron el viaje para esta familia, quienes se convirtieron en fieles clientes, viniendo a esquiar a Chile 10 veces más.
Los primeros clientes brasileños de Amity Tours: la familia Esteves Abreu disfrutando de la nieve del Destino Lagos y Volcanes
“Nunca pensé que hacer lo que más me gusta me pudiera dar dinero y con eso vivir!”, confesó Alejandro a Cristián.
Luego de eso, empezó a tomar vida Amity, con la compra de la primera van para poder recibir los primeros clientes de Inglaterra quienes vinieron a esquiar y conocer los volcanes del sur de Chile.
Los Levy y la primera van Amity Tours
Durante los primeros 10 años de operación, el fuerte de la empresa fue el mercado europeo de habla inglesa que venía a esquiar los volcanes activos de la zona, y de habla alemana que venía a conocer los parques nacionales además de la flora y fauna local y de conversar con la comunidad Mapuche.
Geoparque Kütralkura. La flora y fauna endémica de Chile es un atractivo importante para los turistas extranjeros quienes visitan Chile.
Tras la integración de Germán como socio de Amity Tours el 2011, la empresa se hizo miembro de la Adventure Travel Trade Association, que marcó un antes y después en la historia de Amity. Gracias a las cumbres anuales organizadas por la asociación, la captación del mercado norteamericano fue posible, lo que abrió muchas puertas de nuevos negocios. La adquisición de este nuevo mercado llevó Amity a atender a clientes extranjeros quienes buscan aventura, pero con confort de lujo.
Equipo Amity Tours en tour de bicicleta (de izquierda a derecha): Cristián, Germán, Luis y Alejandro
Nuevos programas de aventuras en el Sur de Chile
Dados los cierres de las fronteras, y la imposibilidad de recibir a turistas extranjeros, Amity Tours ha estado trabajando en adaptar los programas de turismo aventura para el mercado nacional.
El desafío no fue menor, pero se logró diseñar experiencias de viaje para clientes quienes buscan aventura y confort, con la seguridad de contratar a una empresa registrada en SERNATUR que cumple con los protocolos nacionales e internacionales.
Descubre aquí los programas increíbles que tenemos en el sur de Chile.
Eclipse solar total – 14 de Diciembre 2020
El próximo 14 de diciembre de este mismo año, ocurrirá un evento astronómico especial en los cielos del Destino Lagos y Volcanes. En efecto, se nos acerca el eclipse solar total, que se podrá observar al 100% desde La Araucanía.
Respecto al eclipse, Germán comenta: “Este fenómeno es tan importante que tiene que generar – nosotros lo hablamos de la óptica del turismo – riqueza para la comunidad local.Lo importante, es generar programas donde la comunidad local se involucra, y pueda participar de este reparto de ingresos. Porque si no, es un mal negocio para todos. Si uno no lo hace así, eso va a terminar siendo un desastre con mucha gente en el territorio dejando pocas lucas y muchas toneladas de basura.”
Desde esta visión, diseñamos un programa súper exclusivo. Pues, nuestra propuesta de Experiencia Eclipse Solar en la Araucanía Lacustre es ideal para familias aventureras, con un máximo de 24 huéspedes para hacer la observación del fenómeno astronómico. Tiene una duración de 5 días de estadía entre el 11 y 15 de Diciembre 2020.
La expertise con la que contamos del Destino Lagos y Volcanes nos dio la capacitad de elaborar una experiencia del eclipse “a contra-reloj”, es decir ingeniada para evitar el flujo de la gente y así evadir los inevitables tacos que se podrán generar debido al evento solar.
Amity Tours, Empresa líder del Destino Lagos y Volcanes
Cabe destacar que Amity Tours es local en el Destino Lagos y Volcanes. Y éste destino son 3 regiones: la región de La Araucanía, la de Los Ríos y de Los Lagos. En línea recta, son casi 500 kilómetros, que cuentan con una ruta escénica llamada Lagos y Volcanes, llena de volcanes nevados y miradores, acceso a parques nacionales, grandes lagos, termas, colonos europeos, y pueblos originarios, todo a muy poca distancia.
Los encuentros culturales con la comunidad Mapuche es parte importante de nuestras experiencias de viaje
“Es un parque de diversiones. A alguien que le gusta la actividad al aire libre. (…) Hay pocos lugares así en el Mundo”, Germán comenta.
Reserva Nacional Malalcahuello y Volcán Tolhuaca
Respecto a la riqueza natural del territorio, Cristián finaliza declarando: “lo que nos gustaría a nosotros, poder dejar en todos los clientes que nos visiten, que se enamoren de la misma manera que nosotros estamos enamorados de la naturaleza de Chile.“
Cabe destacar que internacionalmente, Chile no solamente se luce por la belleza natural de sus paisajes. En efecto, Chile fue elegido 4 veces como mejor Destino Mundial de Turismo Aventura por los World Travel Awards (2016, 2017, 2018 y 2019), y 5 veces como mejor Destino de Turismo Aventura en Sudamérica (2015, 2016, 2017, 2018 y 2019).
No te pierdas esta interesante entrevista, y entérate de las mejores sorpresas de viaje que tenemos para cuando se pueda volver a viajar!
For us at Amity Tours, a luxury nature tour is all about the experience, the disconnection and the unique feeling of freedom in a trip throughout Chile.
We’d love to share with you our definition of luxury!
The philosophy of Amity Tours
First of all, we are proud to call ourselves a boutique adventure tour operator from Chile, where luxury nature tours are our standard.
At Amity Tours, we are all fanatics for new adventures. Our guides are living in a constant adventurous state, showing and sharing the most beautiful places of Chile to our fellow travelers. Our drivers are always on the move, they can’t stand still and love to explore new places on our scouting trips. Likewise, the whole office team spends its free time in a national park, or on a camp ground together with friends and family.
That is why one of the main cornerstones of our philosophy is ADVENTURE: We are an adventure travel company and we define “adventure” as an experience where culture and nature are the main elements.
As George Morgan-Grenville once said: “Luxury travel today is defined less by thread count and Michelin stars and more by access to the people, places and experiences that represent all that is authentic about a destination. There’s no denying that comfort factors still apply and high standards of accommodation and dining will always feature on the luxury traveler’s wish list. However, today’s luxury traveler seeks more depth of understanding and immersion into local culture than ever before. People don’t just want to see – they want to participate. The sales process is also critical and whilst the online proposition can be an asset in terms of booking more simple arrangements, clients looking for luxury experiential travel require a deep level of sophisticated knowledge and confidence during the sales process.”
There is no better way in explaining our definition of luxury tours at Amity.
We definitely do not support luxury tourism without considering the impact it might have for the natural environment. Luxury tourism should never compromise nature, such as helicopter trips over national parks or high speed boat trips on pristine lakes.
To us, comfort doesn’t come in a “heli”. The negative impact of these kind of exclusive adventures for the wildlife is huge. There are many case studies, which prove the negative impact of helicopter flights for the natural surroundings. That is why we don’t think it is worth enjoying a short flight in a fragile environment while there are so many other great ways of connection to special places in the world.
We think that the real luxury on an adventure trip are the unforgettable experiences we make during the voyage. Experiences, which will leave a mark in our memories – as we learn more about a local place and culture.
Here are the luxury moments you can find during our nature trips in Chile:
Reaching natural thermal hot springs after a great cycling day over green rolling hills with the view of three volcanoes. No better luxury moment than relaxing our tired muscles in the thermal waters and listening to the sound of the cold river next to us. Check out this and much more unforgettable experiences in our bike tours.
Getting to a pristine beach after hiking through a thousand-year-old forests together with local indigenous guides. After the challenging hike in an almost unknown trail, a friendly local family is waiting for you in their typical housing, and offering freshly seafood – from the sea directly to the table. Interested in their ancestral seafood gathering? Join them during an afternoon on their simple wooden boats.
Mapuche Huilliche Indigenous community at Mapu Lahual Reserve
Enjoying a private Yoga session in Atacama, the World’s driest desert, with a professional instructor. After a mystical highlands tour that includes hiking around geysers, we will get back to our very special accommodation. Here we can enjoy a deep connection with the nature and our spirit. This unique Yoga session is one of the many highlights of our Bike and Hike Women Tour in the Atacama Desert.
Yoga session in Atacama Desert, the driest in the World.
Have you ever dreamed about Backcountry Skiing on an active volcano? When traveling with Amity Tours, you get the opportunity to spot lava after a challenging climb and then enjoy the unforgettable off-piste downhill skiing. A real once-in-a-lifetime experience.
Summer Skiing at Choshuenco Volcano, Huilo-Huilo Biological Reserve
Having a private Polo field, an exclusive lake front Lodge and stables full of polo horses to choose from. Santa Amalia Ranch is one of the most exclusive polo getaways in Southern Chile. It is situated next to the pristine Lake Colico, and immersed in the Araucarias Biosphere Reserve.
Santa Amalia Ranch – Colico Lake
Ready for an exclusive luxury experience?
Learning how to make an ancestral recipe from a famous Mapuche chef, while collecting the ingredients as we hike in the forest.
Embarking with local fisherman to birdwatching among the sunken forest in Chiloe Island. Feel the untouched nature and listen to the singing of the native birds. Our Conservation Tour is full of magical moments.
A great dose of adrenaline during the whitewater rafting on the Trancura, Fuy, and Petrohue rivers. No better way to experience the force of the water and the importance of good teamwork. We are sure that these are one of the luxury moments during our Family Adventures.
Petrohue River, Puerto Varas
Horseback ride with panoramic views of the Paine Massif in Patagonia. A truly luxury moment for every nature lover during our Multisport Tour in Patagonia.
Horseback Riding in Torres del Paine National Park, Patagonia Chile
In all of our luxury nature tours in Chile you will experience several “wow” moments.
Our bespoke team of travel designers are experts in curating the best tailor-made luxury travel experience for you. We know how to surprise you with details that make the difference.
What about a cold local brewed beer under an ancient Araucaria tree after an Andes climb?
Or what about a five-star picnic after an unforgettable mountain bike descent on an active volcano?
Or a Chilean folk-dance lesson in bicycle jerseys just because we passed by a traditional trade fair with live music?
We are not only trying to minimize our negative impacts. We even maximize benefits to the environment and local community through different practices such as:
Being part of the expert team while creating the first UNESCO Geopark in Chile, Kütralkura (Rock of Fire, in native language).
Implementing sustainable tourism practices for the local indigenous communities in Chile.
All this is part of our Responsible Travel Policy, which is defined as following:
We believe and work in the universal standards put forth by the Global Sustainable Tourism Council (Based on the UNWTO’s Global Code of Ethics for Tourism), and we adopted the criteria specifically in these four areas:
Demonstrating effective sustainable management
Maximizing social and economic benefits to the local community and minimizing negative impacts
Maximizing benefits to cultural heritage and minimizing negative impacts
Maximizing benefits to the environment and minimizing negative impacts
En Amity Tours estamos conscientes de la relevancia que tiene el servicio de alojamiento en la evaluación de la experiencia por parte de nuestros clientes. Por lo que, durante nuestros 17 años de vida como tour operador, hemos profundizado nuestras relaciones comerciales con los mejores alojamientos en Chile y en el destino Lagos y Volcanes.
Parque Futangue
¿ Cómo seleccionamos los alojamientos en nuestras experiencias de viaje ?
La selección de hoteles y lodges no es un proceso fácil en Amity Tours. En jerga chilena, seguramente entramos en el grupo de “tour operadores mañosos” ya que no nos conformamos con sólo entrar y observar que sus habitaciones, baños y lobby estén limpios y con una estética adecuada. O bien quedarnos una noche y verificar que el desayuno y la atención de su personal son buenos. Ni menos que nos dan una buena “tarifa” y comercialmente es conveniente. Para Amity Tours, todos los detalles que puedan incidir en la experiencia de nuestros clientes importan, desde lo más trivial hasta lo más complejo, desde lo más tangible a lo más intangible asociado. Por ejemplo, a las emociones que cada cliente pueda sentir durante su estadía.
Lago Colico, Rancho Santa Amalia
Dentro de los intangibles, uno de los temas más importante y que ha tomado mucha relevancia para nosotros en la última década, es la relación del alojamiento con el ecosistema, natural y social, donde se emplaza (para más detalle pueden ver nuestra política de “Zero Waste” y nuestro “Climate Emergency Plan”). Desde su relación con la comunidad local, el aporte a las economías locales a través del uso de productos generados por las mismas comunidades, y sin duda por su nivel de compromiso frente a los temas que afectan el medio natural y su manera de gestionarlos, hoy resultan fundamentales, ya que forman parte de la experiencia que viven nuestros pasajeros y son transmitidos, desde las emociones vividas, a nosotros cada vez que obtenemos el feedback de ellos al final de cada tour.
Según los testimonios de nuestros clientes, el Top 4 de alojamientos del destino Lagos y Volcanes que han superado sus expectativas, tanto por su nivel de servicio, emplazamiento y las emociones que les ha generado hospedarse allí son:
Santa Amalia Polo Ranch – Lago Colico, La Araucanía
Rancho Santa Amalia
Santa Amalia Polo Ranch es uno de los lugares más exclusivos del sur de Chile. Está situado en el prístino lago Colico, donde aún no se permite el uso de embarcaciones con motores diesel y está inmerso en la Reserva de la Biosfera Araucarias.
Amity Tours viene trabajando con Santa Amalia hace años, desde que se acercaron a nosotros para transformar esta hermosa vivienda familiar en un lodge – “ranch” para la actividad del polo y el descanso al más alto nivel. La confianza mutua ha generado un contrato de exclusividad para grupos de pasajeros de Amity Tours.
Habitación en Rancho Santa Amalia
Cada detalle del lugar y el servicio entregado, es gestionado por la familia propietaria con Felipe y Catalina a la cabeza, y que a su vez cumplen la función de anfitriones, lo que genera un sentimiento especial entre nuestros pasajeros.
El rancho Santa Amalia es el mejor lugar de Chile para aprender y practicar Polo
Santa Amalia Polo Ranch se incluye en nuestros principales productos de Hiking, Multisport y Family Tours, y sin duda será la estrella para todos los programas que hemos desarrollado para clientes privados para el evento estelar de este año 2020, el Eclipse Solar Total en el mes de diciembre.
Corralco Hotel & Spa – Reserva Nacional Malalcahuello, La Araucanía
Terraza en Corralco Hotel y SPA
Rodeado de antiguos bosques de araucarias, el hotel cuenta con 54 habitaciones exclusivas y espacios confortables que invitan a admirar el paisaje. En Corralco Hotel & Spa puedes contemplar la naturaleza desde casi cualquiera de sus instalaciones, incluso desde su Spa con piscina climatizada, desde su bar y su restaurante, el cual mezcla la cocina moderna con las recetas de la gastronomía local.
SPA en hotel Corralco
En los años cuando Amity Tours desarrolló sus primeros tours de Ski, que hasta hoy disfrutamos de poder operarlos, Corralco (sin Spa por supuesto) era un simple y encantador refugio de montaña en las faldas de un volcán con capacidad para 20 personas, y una cafetería de simple diseño que invitaba a sus pasajeros a juntarse a contar sus días de aventuras en ski… de eso ya han pasado ¡17 años!
Hoy Amity Tours es el principal operador de Corralco Hotel & Spa. Parada casi obligada para todos nuestros tours de ambas temporadas, invierno y primavera – verano, es un spot fundamental para nuestros tours de ski y mountain bike.
Piscina exterior en hotel Corralco
Futangue Hotel & Spa – Reserva Natural Privada, Lago Ranco, Los Ríos
Hotel & Spa Futangue
“El descanso perfecto en un paraíso escondido de la Patagonia Norte”, esto se puede leer en la descripción expuesta en sus catálogos, y nosotros lo hemos comprobado cada temporada desde que abrió hace algunos años.
Spa en Hotel Futangue
Nuestra historia con este hotel está llena de anécdotas. Cuando nos enteramos que toda la cuenca del Lago Ranco había sido asfaltada, comenzamos a buscar alojamientos que cumplieran con las cualidades que buscamos en un hotel, y no nos fue fácil. Después de pedalear con nuestros clientes desde Futrono a Lago Ranco, teníamos que subir a la van y continuar el viaje a Osorno o Puerta Varas, era matador.
Pero un día nos enteramos que se había abierto un parque privado cuya naturaleza era alucinante. Y así llegamos a Futangue y conocimos a Matías, su dueño y gerente quien nos llevó a conocer la reserva sin preguntarnos nada. Ahí nos enteramos que estaba construyendo un hotel y al ir a ver la faena nos dimos cuenta que sería perfecto para nuestros planes.
Hoy, al igual que en otros alojamientos, Amity Tours es el principal tour operador de Futangue Hotel & Spa, llevando cientos de pasajeros al año, en su mayoría extranjeros que vienen a disfrutar de nuestros productos de Bike Tours (de ruta y mountain bike) y Family Tours, encontrando en su reserva natural un parque de diversiones para los amantes de la naturaleza y conservación de los ecosistemas del sur de Chile.
Living room en Hotel Futangue
En su arquitectura destacan las maderas nativas que lo hacen fundirse con el entorno natural, asimilando los clásicos galpones y caballerizas del sur de Chile. La decoración usa telas étnicas, coloridos textiles inspirados en artistas nacionales y objetos provenientes de la cultura Mapuche. Las tradiciones locales y el legado natural de la zona se ven reflejados en cada esquina y detalle.
Hoy cuenta con 16 habitaciones, y desde la próxima temporada se le sumarán 10 cómodas habitaciones en su nueva Casa Exploradores, a pocos pasos del hotel.
Hotel Awa – Lago Llanquihue, Puerto Varas, Los Lagos
Hotel & Spa AWA
AWA se encuentra en las cercanías de Puerto Varas, literalmente encima de la primera ruta escénica de Chile y primer destino “bike friendly”. De gestión familiar e independiente, el carisma de sus propietarios, de profesión arquitectos, se plasma en cada rincón de este soñado alojamiento.
Una casualidad nos llevó a conocer este hotel. Como recorremos frecuentemente en bicicleta la cuenca del Llanquihue, ya llevábamos un tiempo viendo la construcción de algo espectacular junto al lago, pero no teníamos claro qué era. Hasta que un día la curiosidad pudo más y pasamos a ver e intrusear. Fue ahí que nos enteramos que este edificio moderno y estiloso era un hotel y que su apertura era el día siguiente. Con esa suerte, nos mostraron todo y nos dejaron invitados a la inauguración.
Una de las áreas de descanso del hotel, frente al Lago Llanquihue
Rodeado de parques nacionales y volcanes a orillas del gran lago Llanquihue y a menos de una hora del aeropuerto de Puerto Montt, su emplazamiento es estratégico y se transforma en un importante polo de operaciones para Amity Tour cada vez que tenemos un bike tour dando vueltas por el destino Lagos y Volcanes.
Una de las cosas que destacan más de su arquitectura, son que todas las habitaciones tienen una vista privilegiada del lago Llanquihue y el volcán Osorno, y todas tienen estas ventanas que van desde el suelo hasta el techo, literalmente metros y metros de ventanas!
Habitación en hotel AWA con vista al volcán Osorno
Cuentan con fuertes políticas ambientales y trabajan activamente con la comunidad. Un ejemplo de esto es su trabajo con colegios locales que poseen formación técnica, quienes acceden todos los años para hacer sus prácticas profesionales en AWA, facilitándoles así su futuro desarrollo como profesionales de la industria turística nacional e internacional.
En paralelo, desde el año 2017 trabajan en los protocolos para transformarse en una Empresa B, una de las pocas a nivel nacional en el ámbito de la hotelero.
¿Te gustaron estos hoteles? Los podrás conocer y disfrutar en muchos de los tours de Amity. Esperamos verte pronto!
In Amity Tours, we can’t stand still. We’ve just designed a complete new section with tours only for women. The first published hiking trip brings us through the beautiful Lake and Volcano District.
We will visit interesting local women, learn about their culture, history and daily life. Like in any travel experience designed by Amity Tours, there is a lot of adventure and adrenaline packed in this program.
Learn more about our promises for a unforgettable holiday experience. As well as our protocols for a safe trip during this difficult global situation with COVID-19.
8 reasons why choosing Amity Tours for your next adventure
Personalized and high-quality tourism. We make sure before, during and after your trip, that the travel experience with us is unique and authentic. You are our number one priority! From the moment you get in touch with us, until you safely make your way back home.
Technical briefing with Rubén, one of Amity’s top guides.
Safety. Nowadays, safety is crucial, and especially regarding the health area. As a local tour operator, we’ve adopted all the protocols issued by the local authority for the industry of tourism. In addition, we also closely follow the guidelines for health and safe practices generated by the Adventure Travel Trade Association for the active tourism businesses to safely operate.
Support vehicle during our cycling experiences
Professional and expert team. Our team of collaborators on the field is one of our biggest assets as a company. In addition to have a huge knowledge of the local fauna and flora, our guides have decades of experience in the wilderness such as mountains and rivers. They are also trained for first-aid assistance, with the Wilderness First Responder course.
Anual practice of first-aid assistance for Amity’s guides before high season in Southern Chile
Small groups. In Amity, we’ve never operated our travel experiences with big groups. We’ve always focused on small groups of travelers, in which the interaction between the guide and the guest is richer. Thus, it generates a unique experience, ideally for families or groups of friends that require spaces for encounters.
Villarrica National Park – Quetrupillán and Lanín volcanoes at sight.
High standard of accommodation. We have developed our travel experiences with accommodations that meet excellent quality and health standards, and are strategically located in each and every visited area. We understand that travelling is not only about the excursions, but also the comfort of the hotel after an active day spent in nature.
Cocktail time at Corralco hotel after an active day spent in nature.
Connection with nature. The Amity team is 100% composed of nature lovers. We’ll make sure you see, feel and discover the best of it during your visit.
Thousand-year-old araucaria tree in Villarrica National Park
Local culture. ATAmity, you’ll see and experience the true Chilean culture. Also, you’ll have the incredible opportunity to share and learn more about the indigenous communities that inhabit our country, in an authentic way.
Cultural encounter with the Mapuche indigenous community – Colipi Family
Fuel the local economy. All the products that you will consume during your trip are made by local entrepreneurs. Thus, when travelling, you help with contributing to the local economy.
On-field picnic table made with local products
Discover Southern Chile with a group of female travelers
During the last few months, we’ve been designing new travel products especially for all the adventurous women on the Globe. Our first women tour will be in Southern Chile, during which you’ll have the opportunity to explore the best hidden corners from the Conguillio National Park, to all the way down to Puerto Varas.
This brand new trip designed by women for women is the perfect match combining active adventure and relaxing atmosphere. There is nothing better than stretching your muscles in a hot tub after a day of hiking in the beautiful Conguillio National Park. During this trip, we make sure that you get exactly these great combinations.
The Geometricas hot springs, the best thermal waters in Chile.
Women Tour Highlights
Rainbow Lagoon at Conguillio National Park.
At the beginning we will spend two nights in the first Ecolodge of Chile: La Baita Conguillio. Isabel, the owner of the lodge, will be waiting for us with a typical Pisco Sour, a tasty drink made out of the famous Chilean licor Pisco. We will have the opportunity to learn more about the history of this place and her experiences as a female leader. Furthermore, we will show you one of the beautiful spots near the lodge, before enjoying a well-deserved sleep in the cosy rooms.
The Conguillio National Park is known worldwide for its abundant natural beauty full of ancient Araucaria trees, crystal-clear lakes and perfectly cone-shaped and active volcanoes. During a full day of hiking, we will enjoy this incredible landscape before finishing the day with a relaxing hot tub under the open sky.
The next destination of this trip takes us to Pucón, Chile’s capital of adventure tourism. This nice little quaint town with its small shops, restaurants and cafés is the perfect location for a break and some urban feelings.
Pucón and Villarrica Volcano
Every effort has its reward
We will then have to prepare for a very special excursion: climbing the Villarrica volcano. A true once-in-a-lifetime experience as you reach the top of the active volcano in Chile with its open crater. If we are lucky, we will even spot some lava, and we will enjoy for sure the panoramic view over the different volcanoes, lakes, mountains, hills and valleys around. The most fun part of the day ? Sliding on our rear ends the snow down to the base of the volcano.
Tourism as women empowerment
While in Pucón, we will meet other friendly and local entrepreneur women. They will show us the native forest of the area, from a culinary and indigenous perspective. After a nice walk through the forest, we will have enough plants and fruits recollected to accompany a great lunch under huge trees. Afterwards, we will jump on an inflatable boat to raft the Trancura River. Finally, at night, we will have a special cultural encounter with a local Mapuche family. They will be waiting for us, to share some of their ancestral traditions while having a typical dinner in their “Ruka” (house).
Lady Rosario in front of the traditional Mapuche house.
For our last day around the Villarrica volcano, we won’t miss the opportunity to visit a magical place. Taking advantage of the unique volcanic activity of the region, we will combine this active day with a deep bath in natural thermal hot springs. This place offers the perfect combination between thermal facilities and natural surroundings. Located in the environs of the Villarrica National Park, the Geometricas hot springs offer 16 strategically-located thermal pools, allowing the visitors to never feel overcrowded. The natural surroundings are exuberant and the facilities are simple but very cozy.
The Geometricas natural hot springs.
Relaxing hours and yoga
Our trip continues with us going South, towards the quaint city of Puerto Varas, located at the shores of Llanquihue Lake. We’ll have the chance to meet a professional yoga instructor. She will teach us some yoga lessons and give an insight of living in Chile as a foreign woman. Finally, our last full day will invite us to explore the beautiful area around the Osorno Volcano. We’ll hear an interesting story about the volcano and the legend of princess Licarayén. She is without any doubt one of the most famous women in the Mapuche folk tales.
Hiking in the Vicente Perez Rosales National Park, Puerto Varas.
Before leaving the amazing Lake and Volcano District, we will enjoy a nice morning yoga session. Afterwards we will get some time to explore the cosy town of Puerto Varas.
We are sure, this tour will fill you with adrenaline, positive energy and women empowerment!
Last, but not least, we would like to let you know about our commitment for a safe operation during all tours. Without any doubt, the world is facing a difficult time with the COVID-19 pandemic. It is affecting our daily life and traveling plans. At Amity Tours quality and safety are what define us. That is why we are making sure that not only us, but also all our local partners and suppliers walk in hand with us to apply new safety standards. That is how we will be able to best adapt to the post-coronavirus industry.
We have been working hard in order to be ready for the re-opening of borders and operations post Covid. We feel blessed and privileged to be living in Chile’s Lake and Volcano District, a remote but safe area, with good health centers very close by.
We are aware that planning ahead your next trip to Chile might be difficult in these extraordinary times. Rest assured, as we have updated our booking policies. This will allow you to purchase safely your next vacations. We have removed all none-refundable booking fees. All our rates have been locked-in until 2022. If you make a deposit and cannot travel, you can always use that money as a credit with us and use it within the next 24 months.
We are very confident that we will someday soon be sharing all together again.
In the meantime, don’t forget to follow us on Facebook and Instagram and stay tuned for the best travel adventures in southern Chile
Equipo Amity Tours, rumbo a la Cumbre Mundial de Turismo Aventura organizada por ATTA
Hace 17 años, cuando creamos Amity Tours, teníamos como uno de nuestros principales objetivos que todos los chilenos pudieran venir a conocer el destino Lagos & Volcanes y disfrutar de actividades al aire libre de manera segura y entretenida. Esta convicción que tenía Alejandro y Cristián Levy les permitiría poder vivir de lo que más les apasionaba, y que hasta el día de hoy es fuente de su energía emprendedora, el contacto estrecho con la naturaleza y la gente local.
Pues bien, más por azar que por mera convicción, la ruta de este emprendimiento familiar nos llevó por otro camino, el de la tour operación orientada al mercado extranjero, principalmente norteamericano, británico y brasilero.
Si tuviéramos que generar un paralelo con otro rubro, diríamos que Amity Tours es como un atleta de alto rendimiento que, desde joven, por condiciones locales, debe emigrar al extranjero a entrenar y prepararse para ser profesional, trabajando de manera silenciosa todos los días, mañanas, tardes y noches, para progresar, obteniendo logros importantes en el ámbito internacional, pero con poco reconocimiento por parte de sus connacionales.
Alejandro y Cristian Levy, Feria VYVA (Santiago de Chile, 2014)
Amity Tours, este atleta con deseos de ser mejor cada día, ha sido entrenado por décadas por los mejores tour operadores de turismo activo del mundo, generando en la empresa un capital humano que hoy representa su mayor activo, que lo posiciona como el principal tour operador del destino Lagos y Volcanes, pero seguramente, aún desconocido para el mercado nacional.
Con más de 17 años de experiencia en turismo activo y de atender a clientes principalmente extranjeros, Amity Tours está renovando su oferta de programas. En efecto, frente a la situación global producida por el COVID-19, estamos adaptando nuestra gama de productos turísticos para nuestros viajeros nacionales, permitiéndonos volver a nuestras raíces y enfocarnos en el principal objetivo cuando empezamos esta aventura de emprendimiento.
Este atleta de alto rendimiento vuelve ya maduro a su país con ganas de entregar su conocimiento a los chilenos, especialmente a las familias que requieren hoy de estos espacios de naturaleza para renovar energías y respirar lo que sólo los bosques, ríos, lagos, volcanes y gente del sur de Chile pueden generar.
Pero, ¿por qué viajar con Amity Tours, y no con otra empresa?
Bueno, acá te entregamos 10 buenas razones para elegirnos:
Turismo de calidad y personalizado. Nos aseguramos antes, durante y después del viaje, que la experiencia con nosotros sea única desde el momento que nos contactas hasta que vuelvas a tu casa. Tú eres el centro de nuestra preocupación y estamos a tu disposición 24/7.
Charla de seguridad con Rubén, guía estrella de Amity Tours
Seguridad. Entendemos que hoy la seguridad, principalmente en el ámbito de sanidad, es fundamental. Como empresa hemos adoptado todos los protocolos que la autoridad nacional ha dispuesto para nuestra industria, y que ATTA (Adventure Travel Trade Association) ha generado para la operación segura de empresas de turismo activo.
Vehículo de seguridad durante nuestras excursiones de cicloturismo
Equipo profesional especializado. El gran activo como empresa, nuestro equipo de colaboradores, además de tener gran conocimiento en fauna y flora local, tienen décadas de experiencia en montaña, ríos y ciclismo, y cuentan con los registros legales requeridos por la autoridad nacional y toda la capacidad necesaria en primeros auxilios. Cabe destacar que todos tienen la certificación Wilderness First Responder (WFR).
Práctica anual de primeros auxilios para nuestros guías antes de la temporada
Grupos pequeños. En Amity Tours nunca hemos operado con grupos grandes, siempre nos hemos concentrado en grupos pequeños donde la interacción entre guías y clientes es más rica y permite generar una experiencia única, ideal para familias o grupos de amigos que hoy requieren estos espacios de encuentro.
Parque Nacional Villarrica – Volcanes Quetrupillán y Lanín
Alto estándar de alojamiento. Gracias a nuestra trayectoria atendiendo a extranjeros, hemos desarrollado nuestras experiencias de viaje con alojamientos que cumplen con excelentes estándares de calidad, y sanidad, ubicados estratégicamente en cada área visitada. Entendemos que la experiencia de viaje no se limita solamente a las excursiones, sino también a la comodidad del alojamiento después de un día activo en la naturaleza.
Cocktail post-excursión en Hotel Corralco, con vista al Volcán Lonquimay – Reserva Nacional Malalcahuello
Conexión con la naturaleza. Nuestro equipo tanto en oficina como en terreno está compuesto al 100% por amantes de la naturaleza y trataremos que veas, sientas, y descubras lo mejor de ello.
Araucaria milenaria en Parque Nacional Villarrica
Cultura local. En Amity Tours, te mostraremos lo mejor de la cultura chilena. Además, tendrás la oportunidad increíble de poder compartir y aprender más sobre las comunidades indígenas que habitan nuestro país, de manera auténtica, sin maquillajes.
Encuentro cultural con la comunidad indígena Mapuche
Fomentar la economía local. Todos los productos que consumirán durante su viaje están hechos por emprendedores locales, así viajando contribuyes en el desarrollo de la economía local.
Mesa de picnic con productos locales: sirope natural, cerveza local y hortalizas de la zona
Tour operador registrado en SERNATUR. El hecho de ser una empresa formal y registrada en SERNATUR es un punto muy importante para nosotros y es nuestra manera de re asegurarte que tendrás una excelente calidad de servicio. Las empresas no registradas en SERNATUR son ilegales.
Equipo local Amity
Tour operador local. Al ser un tour operador local, te aseguras que NO estas pagando de más por intermediación, sino directamente a nosotros quienes operamos todos nuestros servicios.
Nueva oferta de productos turísticos Amity Tours
Después de unos meses de arduo trabajo, discusión dentro del equipo, y validación de estos diseños entre clientes nacionales, hemos diseñado varias experiencias, aquí te presentamos algunas:
Descubre los mejores destinos de Chile durante nuestras Aventuras en Familia.
Parque Nacional Villarrica, Región de La Araucanía
Viajar en familia es una experiencia en la que confluyen diversos sentimientos de quienes la desarrollan. Por un lado, existe una gran ansiedad por conocer y experimentar sensaciones nuevas en conjunto. Y por otro, puede que el nerviosismo y la incertidumbre se apoderen de nosotros al momento de realizar este tipo de viajes.
Sin embargo, lo que siempre acompaña a los viajes familiares, y en especial aquellos de aventura en contacto con la naturaleza y fuera de nuestros lugares cotidianos es la capacidad de asombro que podemos, como adultos, volver a vivenciar y la cual se agudiza aún más cuando la compartimos con nuestros niñas y niños.
Humedal Río Angachilla, Valdivia, Región de Los Ríos
Los viajes de Aventura en Familia en contacto con la naturaleza nos permiten conocernos en otro contexto. Dejamos atrás la rutina escolar, laboral y del hogar. Así, nos sumergimos en un mundo de experiencias y sensaciones nuevas. Además, permiten crear memorias y fortalecen los lazos familiares. De esta manera, nos disponemos a conocer lugares que nos conmueven y nos enseñan.
Parque Nacional Conguillío, Región de La Araucanía
Chile es un país que nos entrega una gran cantidad de opciones para realizar viajes de aventura. El contacto con la naturaleza en familia, nos ofrece un sinfín de lugares a visitar, conocer y experimentar. Desde el Norte Grande a la Patagonia, la diversidad de ecosistemas y por ende sus paisajes son el escenario perfecto para estas actividades.
Imagina una caminata que desciende por las altas dunas del Valle del Marte en el desierto más alto y más árido del mundo como lo es el Desierto de Atacama. Un recorrido por los salares de altura, y un atardecer excepcional donde el silencio y la amplitud son protagonistas, mientras el cielo de Atacama te ofrece experiencias astronómicas inigualables.
Quebrada de Guatin, Desierto de Atacama, Región de Antofagasta.
O bien, imagina un bosque antiguo de araucarias, rodeado de volcanes y formaciones geológicas que te invitan a conocer la evolución de la Tierra, a la vez de descender por ríos que fluyen desde la cordillera de Los Andes a la costa del océano Pacífico.
Sendero Glaciar Pichillancahue, Parque Nacional Villarrica, Región de La Araucanía.
Más aún, recorrer los bosques más australes del mundo y navegar por fiordos y lagos que han sido protagonistas de la evolución de las especies sobre la Tierra.
Lago Grey, Parque Nacional Torres Del Paine, Patagonia.
Sin embargo, no solo prístinos y vastos paisajes se pueden recorrer y experimentar en familia, sino que también encuentros genuinos con quienes habitan en sus territorios. Serán sus habitantes quienes aportarán a nuestro viaje un valor agregado y proporcionarán experiencias a nuestra familia de carácter trascendental. Podrás conocer algunas de las culturas ancestrales de Chile como son los Likan Antai (o Atacameños) y la cultura del pueblo Mapuche, quienes a través de sus actividades cotidianas nos enseñan su cosmovisión, amor y respeto por la Madre Tierra.
Encuentro cultural con la comunidad indígena Likan Antai, Desierto de Atacama, Región de Antofagasta
Junto a tu familia, podrás experimentar una caravana ancestral con llamas en el Desierto de Atacama, aprender a jugar Palín y hacer tortillas de rescoldo en el destino Lagos y Volcanes mientras escuchas las historias de cada uno de los territorios.
Partido de Palín, juego ancestral del Pueblo Mapuche. (Fotografía: Jonatha Jünge)
A través de actividades de senderismo, kayak, paseos en bicicleta, navegación y cabalgatas en familia, así también como los encuentros con otras personas y culturas fomentan el interés por descubrir, aprender y experimentar cosas nuevas en nuestros hijos.
Sendero Cráteres Parásitos, Parque Nacional Villarrica, Región de La Araucanía
En Amity Tours, creemos firmemente que las experiencias en la naturaleza fortalecen las dinámicas familiares. Todas nuestras aventuras para familias las hemos creado junto a nuestros niños y niñas, y hemos descubierto el potencial que estas actividades tienen para su desarrollo.
“Cuando un niño puede relacionar lo que aprende con sus propias experiencias, su interés vital se despierta, su memoria se activa y lo aprendido se vuelve suyo.” (Rudolf Steiner, 1923)
¿Dónde tendrá lugar el fenómeno del Eclipse solar total?
Chile es el lugar perfecto para observar las estrellas. Sin ir más lejos, es en nuestro país dónde los países líderes en temas de astronomía han establecido sus inversiones estratégicas para no perder la carrera por descubrir qué nos depara el Universo.
La carrera se inició, y no parece terminar en las décadas que vienen.
Sin embargo, el 14 de diciembre de 2020, el foco no estará en las estrellas, sino en el eclipse solar total. Fenómeno que, en Julio 2019, asombró a todos quienes tuvimos la suerte de observarlo. También, tuvo lugar en territorio chileno, pero mucho más al norte.
En este día especial, Pucón será el centro de atención. El evento solar durará 2 horas y 50 minutos. El eclipse comenzará a las 11:41 a.m. A las 1:04 p.m, la oscuridad será total. Durante 3 horas, las emociones aflorarán en nosotros, y recordaremos este momento por siempre.
Nuestra propuesta de Experiencia Eclipse Solar en la Araucanía Lacustre es súper exclusiva. Ideal para familias aventureras, con un máximo de 24 huéspedes para hacer la observación del fenómeno astronómico. Tienen una duración de 5 días de estadía entre el 11 y 15 de Diciembre 2020.
Además, este fenómeno es muy especial. Pues ocurre 884 años después de un evento astronómico similar en el área. En palabras más simples, nosotros, nuestros hijos, nietos, y quienes los seguirán, no disfrutarán un evento similar en el destino Lagos & Volcanes.
Ahora bien, no todo será observar el cielo. Debido a que estaremos en un territorio de gran riqueza cultural, con predominio de la gran cultura mapuche. Es más, este pueblo originario sabio nos tiene mucho que enseñar y decir. En especial respecto a este y otros fenómenos astronómicos, y que gran parte de nosotros desconocemos.
La cosmovisión mapuche, contada por ellos mismos, quienes son los protagonistas principales, generará una experiencia única.
Señora Rosario de la comunidad Mapuche
Significado de un eclipse solar en la cosmovisión mapuche
Muchos siglos antes de la astronomía moderna y sus sofisticados telescopios, los mapuche ya estaban relacionados con el cosmos. Siempre ha sido una herramienta importante para predecir el clima y las influencias en la tierra.
En Mapudungun, el idioma nativo de los mapuche, un eclipse solar total se llama “lai antü” o “lan antü”, que significa “muerte del sol”. También, este fenómeno se conoce como “malonji ta antü” (vinieron para cubrir el sol o atacar al sol) o “zumiñii antü” (el sol se oscureció). Este evento se espera con respeto, pues el sol representa la forma de entender el tiempo. El “lai antü” tiene un fuerte contenido. Por lo tanto, designar la muerte del sol implica la suspensión del tiempo, un cambio de ciclo para la estrella, un cambio en el proceso.
Un eclipse parcial generalmente significa un buen año para la comunidad. Sin embargo, un eclipse total es un mal augurio para la humanidad. De hecho, incluye hasta la posible muerte de un querido y respetado jefe.
Todo este relato, que sin duda contienen una serie de significados totalmente distintos a quienes no pertenecemos a este pueblo mapuche, es contado por sus protagonistas, dejando siempre la oportunidad de debatir de manera cordial con quienes nos reciben en su tierra.
A pesar de la interpretación negativa del evento por parte de los mapuches, en la cultura occidental este fenómeno natural es una experiencia única en la vida. Además de ser la capital del turismo de aventura en Chile, Pucón será el afortunado anfitrión del eclipse solar total 2020.
Recomendaciones de seguridad durante el eclipse
No mire directamente al sol sin los anteojos de eclipse adecuados (certificado ISO 12312-2)
No apunte al sol con su cámara, teléfono o binoculares, esto puede dañar la vista de manera permanente.
Los niños deben ser supervisados por un adulto durante todo el evento.
Pre y post opciones de viaje alrededor de Pucón
Sendero Pichillancahue, Parque Nacional Villarrica.
No pierdas la oportunidad de conocer las mejores opciones de viaje en Pucón y la Araucanía Lacustre. Descubra nuestras mejores experiencias de viaje. Son especialmente diseñadas para amantes activos de la naturaleza, ideales para familias que buscan un escape tranquilo a la vida a toda velocidad que llevamos en la ciudad.
¡Contáctenos para cualquier solicitud grupal o programa a medida!
Descubre las mejores caminatas del destino Lagos y Volcanes de Chile
Si eres un ávido excursionista, amante de la naturaleza o alguien que busca paisajes increíbles, aquí hay una lista de las mejores caminatas que puedes encontrar en el destino Lagos y Volcanes de Chile!
El Cráter Navidad es un cono piroclástico del volcán Lonquimay ubicado en la Reserva Nacional Malalcahuello. Se formó durante la erupción volcánica del 25 de diciembre de 1988. Alcanza una altura de 190 metros desde su base. Su visita permite, de manera fácil, introducirse al maravilloso mundo de la vulcanología en el extremo sur del planeta.
La caminata al cráter no es técnica. Sin embargo, necesita equipo de montaña para escalarlo en invierno ya que está cubierto de nieve. Siempre se recomienda hacerlo con el apoyo de guías con conocimiento de la zona y experiencia en caminatas sobre nieve y hielo. Por su parte en verano (de noviembre a principios de abril), no se requiere ningún equipo de montaña o de otro tipo.
En cuanto a la dificultad, el tiempo de caminata es relativamente corto. Toma entre 2 y 4 horas (ida y vuelta), dependiendo de su ritmo de caminata. Por lo tanto, es ideal para familias con niños pequeños. O personas con poca experiencia en senderismo que quieran maravillarse con los atractivos de esta zona.
Desde la cima del Cráter Navidad, puede disfrutar de una vista panorámica sobre las estribaciones del volcán Lonquimay. Además del campo de lava, se extienden los bosques de Araucarias, junto con la vista sobre los volcanes Tolhuaca y Callaqui.
Caminata al Cerro Coloradito – Reserva Nacional Malalcahuello
El sendero Coloradito es ubicado en la Reserva Nacional Malalcahuello. Es un lugar conformado por procesos tectónicos y volcánicos con una fauna y flora interesante y endémica.
De hecho, Este sendero es una buena alternativa con paisajes típicos de la cordillera de los Andes bajo la siempre atenta mirada del volcán Lonquimay.
A lo largo del camino, pasarás por bosques de árboles endémicos como la Araucaria y Lenga rodeados por la vegetación del suelo con predominio de árboles de michay, quila y viola.
Llamado “El Coloradito”, es un acceso único al Volcán Lonquimay que termina cerca del río Coloradito. El paisaje está dominado por la presencia del Volcán Lonquimay y la Sierra del Colorado. Durante la caminata, puede observar el Volcán Llaima y la Cordillera de la Sierra Nevada.
Caminata por la Sierra Nevada – Parque Nacional Conguillio
El Parque Nacional Conguillio es uno de los lugares más destacados que Chile tiene para ofrecer. Con el impresionante Volcán Llaima, la Sierra Nevada, lagunas en todos sus rincones, bosques de Araucarias, fauna y flora endémicas, es una visita obligada para todos los que quieran visitar el destino Lagos y Volcanes.
El parque nacional tiene una gran variedad de senderos, pero sin lugar a dudas, la caminata por la Sierra Nevada es la más accesible y ofrece una gama amplia de paisajes, suficiente para tener una buena idea de la riqueza natural existente en la región.
El sendero de la Sierra Nevada comienza desde una de las playas más bellas del lago Conguillio, pasa a través de un espectacular bosque endémico con varios miradores frente al lago en el camino. Después de 3 horas, el sendero alcanza un mirador despejado y fuera del bosque, frente al Volcán Llaima y el Lago Conguillío.
La caminata no es técnica, pero requiere un mínimo de buen estado físico ya que el camino a veces puede ser empinado. En invierno, el sendero está cubierto de nieve, lo que requiere equipo de montaña y una buena experiencia en senderismo.
Esta caminata de 10 kilómetros de largo se recomienda para personas activas.
Caminata a las lagunas andinas – Parque Nacional Villarrica
Cerca de la frontera con Argentina, y ubicado en las faldas del volcán Lanín, este sendero llamado “Lagos Andinos” es una visita obligada en el Parque Nacional Villarrica.
Durante esta increíble caminata, ideal para familias, visitarás 3 lagunas en un gran bosque endémico con árboles de Coihues y Araucarias, y terminarás en un paisaje volcánico dominado por el majestuoso volcán Lanín.
La caminata comienza a orillas de la laguna de Quillelhue a 1200 metros sobre el nivel del mar. Después de 40 minutos de caminata en un terreno plano, llegarás a la laguna de Huinfiuca, el lugar perfecto para hacer un picnic.
Mientras visita el parque, será testigo de cómo el volcán Lanin ha moldeado permanentemente el paisaje de la zona con sus erupciones y tendrá la fantástica oportunidad de ver y caminar sobre los flujos de lava que una vez vinieron del corazón de la Tierra. También visitarás los prístinos lagos Quillelhue, Escondido y Huinfiuca con sus aguas cristalinas que reflejan colores deslumbrantes.
La caminata no es técnica y solo requiere un mínimo de buen estado físico para poder disfrutar al máximo lo que nos brinda este maravilloso parque nacional.
Parque Nacional Huerquehue
El Parque Nacional Huerquehue está ubicado en las faldas de los Andes, a 35 km (22 millas) de Pucón. El parque cubre 12.500 hectáreas (30.890 acres) con varias lagunas, vegetación densa y árboles gigantes que son el hábitat de varias aves endémicas.
La caminata, llamada “Sendero Los Lagos” comienza fácil. Después de una corta distancia, el sendero se vuelve más duro y a veces más empinado. Sin embargo se considera un nivel de caminata relativamente fácil. Eso hace que sea popular entre los habitantes de la zona y familias que visitán Pucón y sus alrededores.
De camino a los lagos, verás la cascada Nido de Aguilas antes de que el terreno se vuelva más empinado, rodeado de gigantes Coigües y Mañíos.
Desde el primer mirador podrás apreciar las vistas del Volcán Villarrica (2.847 m / 9.349 pies) y el Lago Tinquilco, que son absolutamente impresionantes. Aquí, encontrarás excelentes oportunidades para tomar fotos y la oportunidad de revitalizarte con la comida que llevas. Recuerda que debes traer toda la basura que tengas y nunca debes alimentar a los curiosos animales!
Si tiene suerte, puede observar algunas aves que viven en los bosques de Nothofagus, como el chucao tapaculo (Selorchilis rubecula), el huet-huet de garganta negra (Pteroptochos tarnii) y el pájaro carpintero magallánico (Campephilus magellanicus), entre otros.
Una vez que pasas las cataratas de Trufulco, la caminata se vuelve un poco más exigente. Una vez que estés a más de 1000 metros sobre el nivel del mar, verás los primeros árboles de Araucarias. Luego, caminarás por un bosque mixto antes de llegar al primer lago llamado Lago Chico. Se caracteriza por sus aguas cristalinas que reflejan la imagen de cientos de Araucarias y los picos nevados de los alrededores.
Después de visitar los diferentes lagos, puede comenzar la vuelta y caminar de regreso a la entrada del parque.
Reserva El Cañi
La Reserva El Cañi se encuentra aproximadamente a 21 kilómetros de Pucón. Esta reserva privada de 200 hectáreas se comprometió con la preservación de la especie arbórea Araucaria Araucania.
Esta caminata, aunque no es técnica, requiere una buena condición física general, ya que estarás caminando constantemente en un terreno empinado hasta la llegada el último mirador. Comienza con approx. 1,5 kilómetros de terreno plano, y desde allí comenzará la fuerte subida por 3 kilómetros más.
Luego llegará al Refugio Aserradero (1000 metros sobre el nivel del mar). Es la entrada de la reserva, con las primeras vistas panorámicas sobre el valle y la flora. Pasarás por la laguna de Las Totoras, la laguna Negra rodeada por los milenarios árboles de Araucaria, Lengua y Coihue.
El camino final sube hasta llegar al del sendero, su recompensa. Tendrás una vista panorámica de 360 ° sobre 4 volcanes, dos lagos y los valles alrededor de la Reserva.
Además, puedes caminar por un pequeño sendero que comienza en la Laguna negra y te lleva a 6 lagunas más.
Ascenso al Volcán Villarrica
Sin duda, el ascenso al Volcán Villarrica (2800 metros) es una actividad obligada si planea visitar Pucón. Es uno de los volcanes más activos de América del Sur. La subida a su cráter abierto es definitivamente una experiencia única en la vida.
La aventura temprano, a las 06:00 am approximadatamente. Primero, se llega en vehículo al centro de esquí ubicado a 1.300 metros. Luego, se pone el equipo de montaña cual uso es obligatorio. La caminata comienza con 2 opciones: usar el telesilla, o comenzar a caminar de inmediato.
Dependiendo de su ritmo de caminata, le tomará aproximadamente 4 a 5 horas para llegar al cráter abierto. A partir de ahí, tendrás una increíble vista panorámica de 360 ° sobre volcanes, lagos, montañas y valles alrededor.
El descenso consiste en deslizarse hacia abajo hasta la base del Volcán. Dura aproximadamente 2 hora hasta la base. Al llegar, los esperarán para regresar a Pucón para un merecido descanso.
Esta caminata está regulada por el Municipio de Pucón. Por ende, sólo pueden acceder contratando los servicios de empresas registradas para realizarla.
Caminata al glaciar Pichillancahue – Parque Nacional Villarrica
La caminata a Pichillancahue no es muy famosa, pero seguramente te dejará sin aliento por su paisaje. Esta es una caminata adecuada para todos los que buscan conexión con la naturaleza, desde niños hasta adultos mayores.
Este glaciar está ubicado en el Parque Nacional Villarrica, por el lado del poblado de Coñaripe. Podrás ver varios majestuosos volcanes nevados como Quetrupillán y Rucapillán. La vegetación cambia de bosques de Raulí y Hualle a Araucarias a medida que asciende a Chinay. El punto más alto del día está a 1.250 metros de altitud.
Después de aproximadamente 1,5 horas de caminata, llegarás al sendero del glaciar Pichillancahue. Un buen lugar para relajarse y comer un buen refrigerio para recargar energía si es necesario. El resto del sendero (3.5 horas de ida y vuelta) conduce a un glaciar fenomenal cubierto por cenizas volcánicas negras. Una vez más, podrás disfrutar de las impresionantes vistas de cuatro volcanes.
Esta caminata no es técnica y no requiere ningún equipo de montaña. El mejor tiempo de caminata es durante la temporada de verano.
Visitar el destino de Lagos y Volcanes de Chile es definitivamente una visita obligada para todos los excursionistas y amantes de la naturaleza.
¡Eche un vistazo a nuestras experiencias de senderismo en el sur de Chile para algunas aventuras salvajes!
During all these years, many clients, guests, friends and colleagues have asked me the same question: “How did Amity begin?“
The answer is a long story and I will share it with you in this blog.
The story goes way back to 1948. My grandfather, Hector Levy, was an adventurer and his greatest passion was exploring the mountains of Chile’s central valleys. Together, with a group of friends and the Grez Family, they organized trips to the mountains near Santiago.
Only people with a deep love for the mountain could go on these journeys, as they were not easy nor comfortable. They used adapted livestock trucks to get to the foothills of the Andes. From there, they continued by mule-back and finally hiked or skinned up the last snow-capped section until they arrived at the mountain refuge. One of these refuges was the famous Refugio Gaston Saavedra.
Hector Levy (first on the left) and his family visiting the mountains circa 1948.
My grandfather was a travelling salesman. He traveled across the country in his Citroën 2CV, selling shoes made by his family’s shoe factory. In his free time, he would venture to the mountains or go on bike rides with his relatives.
Hector Levy (first on the left) and his brothers-in-law circa 1950.
1954
At a young age, my father Alejandro started to come on these trips to the mountains. For a little kid, the trip was even harder, but getting dizzy with the winding road was not a reason to miss out on the adventure. He became close friends with the Grez family, skiing all over the mountain in La Parva, El Colorado and Farellones.
Alejandro Levy posing with his ski gear circa 1956.
1960
My father joined the Boy Scouts at the Jewish Center in Santiago. His exceptional athletic skills made him stand out among the other kids. Thus, he was offered to go to Israel and join a sports program, but his family objected to his going.
1968
At the age of 18, my father was a very talented football (soccer) player, playing during his childhood at school and on the streets with neighborhood kids. In his last year of high school, he was awarded goal scorer of the inter-school football tournament.
Alejandro Levy (on the right) at school circa 1968.
1970-75
My father studied engineering at the Universidad Tecnica de Santiago, where he met Paty, my mom. Here he once again stood out for his athleticism. While he was playing football on the university team, he was recruited to play on Chile’s National Football team (amateur division). For 5 years, he traveled in Chile and Argentina playing for the Chilean Football team and played at the qualifiers for the Olympic Games.
Alejandro (first on the front left) at the Stadium circa 1974.
Alejandro in football jersey at the Stadium circa 1974.
1978
This is the year I was born. My father’s love for the mountain continued as he volunteered as a skiing instructor at El Colorado Ski Resort. As soon as I could walk, he took me skiing in the mountains and taught me to love and respect Nature.
Cristian in ski gear, Farellones circa 1983.
1982
My father Alejandro continued with his sports activities, joining the bicycle club of CDUC. Then in 1983, he biked from Santiago to Mendoza with the club, riding and climbing the Andes mountains from Chile to Argentina.
Alejandro in bicycle jersey crossing the Andes (Portillo Hotel, circa 1983)
1986
I followed in my father’s and grandfather’s footsteps and grew into a highly active boy, joining the swimming team at CDUC. This club became my second home during my childhood.
Cristian in CDUC uniform boarding a plane for a swimming tournament (Iquique, circa 1988)
1990
My father continued teaching skiing at El Colorado Ski Resort, mostly to friends and colleagues. On the weekends, I joined him as much as I could.
This year, my grandfather Hector planted the seed of entrepreneurship within me by lending me twenty dollars for a little business. He didn’t tell me what to do, only that I had to return the money. Then, with that money I went to buy candy and started selling it at school. Within a week, I sold all the candy and returned the loan to my grandfather. I remember feeling so proud of paying back my grandfather, and so I continued with the side business until my commercial activity was banned at school.
This same year, I joined the Boy Scouts movement, where I remained actively involved for a decade. In this group. I learnt the values of friendship and teamwork, and my love for the nature deepened.
Cristian in ski gear (El Colorado, circa 1990)
1995
I graduated from high school and almost immediately searched for a seasonal job at a local retail store (wrapping Christmas presents), so I could generate my own income and be more financially independent. My parents encouraged me to do that just as much as my grandfather did. With the money I made, I went on my first self-supported trip to Pucon. I took my brother, Jano, with me.
Later, my Boy Scouts friends joined us as they became aware of my travel plans. At the time, I never imagined that Pucon would become my home and the headquarters of my adventure travel company.
1997
I enrolled at the SEK University in Santiago to study Tourism Planning. I didn’t totally understand the exact reasons for my decision to study tourism, but felt that this had been part of my whole life. Actually, since I was a young boy, I had always wanted to be a doctor, but it was clear that life had chosen a different path for me.
Cristian and friends exploring the Andes mountains (Cerro Provincia, circa 1998)
1998
My father Alejandro moved by himself to southern Chile for a job as an engineer at a mattress plant. There, my father discovered and fell in love with the landscapes of the Lake and Volcano District.
Meanwhile, the rest of the family stayed in Santiago. My mom’s love and support was key during this year. Reinforcing her teachings about how to be kind, self-sufficient and responsible.
Alejandro with his children discovering their new home in La Araucania. Kutralkura Geopark, Quinquen.
In the summer of 1998, my grandfather once again encouraged me to continue gaining experience in the business world and lent me 300 dollars. With this money, I opened a beachfront kiosk called La Ruka (the house) in Guanaqueros, in Northern Chile. That summer, our kiosk was awarded the sales point with the highest ice-cream sales in the region. At the end of the summer season, I paid back the loan to my grandfather and with the profits and my mom’s help, traveled to Rapa Nui, Easter Island.
Cristian and his brother Jano in the La Ruka kiosk. (Summer of 1998)
1999
My father finally felt settled in Temuco, and my mom and brothers went to live with him in southern Chile. I stayed in Santiago to finish college. This was a very hard decision for my family, but it turned out to be a great change of lifestyle.
The summer of 1999 I applied for an internship at the regional Tourism Board, SERNATUR Araucania, and just like my father did, fell in love with the nature and people of the region. I fondly remember my first visit to Conguillio National Park, where I was completely amazed by the Araucaria forest.
Alejandro and Cristian during his internship. (Summer of 1999)
2001
I graduated from University with honors and my Tourism Planning degree. Shortly thereafter, my classmate, German Pino, and I started to work as junior tourism consultants at EuroChile Foundation (German later joined Amity as partner in 2011).
This foundation specializes in promoting and consolidating economic, commercial and technological links between public and private institutions from Chile and the European Union. Tourism is one of their main pillars. Our mission there was to create and develop Chile’s first inbound ecotourism operator.
Cristián working for Ecoaustral (Chile’s first ecotourism operator, circa 2003)
2002
The Asian economic crisis hit Chile hard and my father lost his job at the mattress plant. Despite many attempts to find a job in his field, he couldn’t find one. My mother became the family’s primary breadwinner, working as a financial advisor at a local bank in Temuco.
I couldn’t stop worrying about my father’s situation, so I mentioned this to my boss and friend Gerd Walther. He suggested we start a tour company with my father in southern Chile, but I didn’t take him seriously. However, I told my father about my boss’s idea and he only smiled quietly.
My boss and dear friend Gerd Walther (RIP)
2003
While working at EuroChile developing the inbound ecotourism operator, we received a particular request by email: a family of four from Brazil wanted a 12-day trip to Chile with skiing lessons included. They didn’t want to visit the classic ski resorts in central Chile. Instead, they wanted to explore the small and less known ski centers located around the southern volcanoes. I immediately told my boss about this request and he didn’t hesitate to put me in charge of the request and organize the whole trip. He told me to ask my father to work as a ski instructor during the tour and run it on behalf of the company.
The month of July arrived, and my father and I went to greet the Esteves Abreu Family from Rio de Janeiro. We delivered a 2-week guided skiing trip visiting the southern volcanoes: Llaima, Lonquimay and Villarrica. The tour ended up being a total success, with Eder, Mônica, Beatriz and Eduardo learning how to ski and promising that they will return the next year for more skiing lessons. This family became Alejandro’s first client, repeating their skiing trip to Chile for the next 10 consecutive years. To this date, the Levy and Abreu families remain great friends and continue seeing each other.
The Esteves Abreu family with their private guide and instructor Alejandro.
It was after this first trip that Alejandro realized that he could do what he loved most and earn a living at the same time. Here, my father made an important decision, selling the family’s house in Santiago and partnering with me to create our family-owned tour company in August of 2003.
By then, I was working in Santiago on a project with a travel book writer from the USA named Pete Nelson, with the goal of writing a new edition of a Chile travel guide. Pete was a senior marketing expert who had worked for important world-wide hotel chains such as Hilton and Intercontinental. It was here that I saw an opportunity to validate a list of potential names for our tour company.
But Pete didn’t pay attention to that list and instead gave me a great piece of advice: “if you want people to find you first pick a name that starts with the letter A, and make sure anyone can easily pronounce that name no matter which country they are from”. So, I took out my pocket Spanish/English dictionary and found the word “amity”, which means friendship, friendly, concord, good vibrations. And with this meaning as a central value, we began our tour company.
My father Alejandro, my brother Jano, and me with our first van and logo (September 2003)
Finally, as an established tour company, in September 2003 we received the first group of foreign travelers. The group consisted of seven guests from the UK coming with Phil Smith, an international all-mountain skiing instructor and director of the skiing company Snoworks.
Snoworks is one of the UK’s leading providers of all-mountain ski courses to destinations around the world. This group of British skiers represented Amity’s first business account, and remains one of the Levy family’s favorite and dear clients.
Our first B2B group with Snoworks (Pucon, September 2003)
My father Alejandro with Phil Smith
If you liked this story, please share it! Maybe someday my father will tell it to you in person as you go on a chairlift with him or while hiking on the trails of our beloved country, Chile.
Alejandro and Cristian summiting Lonquimay Volcano.
Lately, the world has been going through tough times. Either socially, financially or naturally. What could seem unpredictable for the majority of us, might not be for some other cultures with a strong connection with the planet Earth. As a result, the Mapuche culture and vision of the cosmos predicted the current global situation. In this article, you’ll find out how this indigenous community knew what we would be going through in 2020.
Mapuche lady pouring a traditional mate yerba
Brief history & presentation of the Mapuches
As of today, the Mapuches is one of the most notorious native group of Southern Chile & Argentina. In Chile, it is the largest and the majority of the groups inhabits the southern regions & Santiago capital city. Throughout the beginning of their existence, they have mastered the ability to adapt in different types of climate. From the Andean mountains down to the coast, from warmer temperate climatic zones to cold rainy ones. They adapted to them, developing their culture in unique ways.
Historically, they are the most tenacious people. Indeed, neither the Incas or the Spanish settlers could defeat nor dominate them, despite their war efforts. Thus, in 1691, the Spanish King recognized the independence of the Mapuches.
Photo Source: The Museo Chileno de Arte Precolombino, Santiago de Chile.
In Mapudungun, their native language, the word “Mapuche” means “people of the land”. Their culture is based on the oral tradition. Indeed, the Admapu (set of ancient traditions, rights, laws and norms transmitted from generation to generation) governs the social and religious conduct.
The Mapuche Flag with the Meli witran mapu, representation of the Earth and the 4 cardinal points.
Religiously, the Mapuche beliefs are based on the existence of a world populated by Gods and Spirits. However, this polytheism is summed up under the existence of an Almighty Being. The “Pillán” (Volcano), or “Neguechén” (Supreme Being), who lived in the heavenly heights and had the power to grant life and death.
In addition, they associate manifestations of nature, such as thunder, fire, volcanic eruptions and earthquakes with their duality view of the world. In a few words, the religious beliefs are based on the union between the spiritual world and the concrete world. Moreover, they see the universe as a serie of superimposed platforms in space, all grouped in 3 zones:
Meli ñom wenu (the 4 places above), also weno mapu (the land above). It is the platform of good where live the Gods. From the highest platform, they are distributed hierarchically: the Spirits (Gods’ minor employees), then the ancestors; both authentic (the protectors and brokers of the lineage) and mythical (the common ethical counselors).
Anka wenu (half up), also miche mapu(the earth below) where inhabit evil beings that don’t have any relation with each other.
Mapu (Earth), the natural world summarizing the permanent conflict between the two prior zones.
According to the Mapuche, the harmonic relationship between all the elements of the Earth without the humane intervention is the base of their cosmovision. Thus, the respectful use of the natural resources is fundamental for the overall well-being of the community.
The Mapuche cosmic vision is dualistic and dialectical. The wenu mapu represents the good, whereas the anka wenu & minche mapu represent only the evil. On Earth, both the good and evil coexist in a synthesis that does not imply fusion, but rather a dynamic juxtaposition. So, true polarity leads to union, and the conjunction of two opposing forces is a necessary condition to achieve a dualistic cosmic balance.
What happened in 2019 revealed the current global situation
As people of the land, the Mapuche are well-connected with planet Earth. Their deep knowledge of the native fauna & flora, along with the strong connection with the cosmos, enable them to read and interpret natural events.
In a recent post, we explained why a total solar eclipse means bad omen for the future. This extraordinary event happened recently in Chile on July 2 2019. A few months after, since October 14, social protests have been taking over the streets of big Chilean cities. As a result of this strong social and political crisis, the Chilean government had to cancel some important internacional events. Indeed, both the 2019 APEC and the UN Climate Change Conference were either cancelled or organized in another country.
This singular and natural event might seem a simple coincidence for us. But not for this wise indigenous community. As a matter of fact, another natural event took place but went unnoticed through the eyes of the common.
In the Mapuche culture, the Earth always delivers messages and warnings. There exists a belief about the Quila, which is a perennial bamboo growing in the humid temperate forests of Chile and Argentina. History has demonstrated that when the Quila comes into bloom (only every 70-90 years), and the Colihue gets dry after then, it is bad omen. According to the mapuche, the Earth tries to warn us about “great battles coming”, and with it famine and drought. But after that come new buds and “young land”.
The quila, Chilean bamboo
Here’s a few historic examples demonstrating how the quila has been warning us without knowing:
When the Spanish conquerors arrived from the north of Mataquito, the quila came into bloom throughout the south of the Bío Bío Region.
When Cornelio Saavedra invaded Malleco, the quila blossomed from Villarrica to Boroa on the shores of the Toltén River.
Before the financial crisis of 1929, it blossomed in all its splendor.
In early November of 2019, it occurred once again. What has been happening globally was announced, but we failed to see it as the modern cultures turn a blind eye regarding the damages we are causing to Mother Earth and to ourselves.
With their millennial experience, the Mapuches have been able to accumulate rich knowledge in the different areas of life. Starting with its ancestral historical heritage, such as art, socio-political organization, health, the spirituality, religion, economy, culture, politics, philosophy, education, organization social, among other components.
Chile is the perfect place for star gazing. On December 14th 2020, the focus will not be on stars but on the total solar eclipse.
Pucón is going to be the center of attention during this special day. The solar event is going to last 2h 50min. The eclipse will start at 11:41am with a total darkness at 1:04pm.
This very special phenomenon occurs 884 years after a similar astronomic event in the area. The Araucanía región is the territory where mainly resides the indigenous Mapuche community.
Signification of a solar eclipse in the Mapuche cosmovision
Señora Rosario, member of the Mapuche community Foto credit: Jonatha Jünge
Many centuries before modern astronomy and its sophisticated telescopes, Mapuche people were already related to the cosmos. It was an important tool to predict the weather and influences on the land.
In Mapudungun, the Mapuche’s native language, a total solar eclipse is called “lai antü” or “lan antü”, which means “death of the sun”. This phenomenon is also known as “malonji ta antü” (they came to cover the sun or attack the sun) or “zumiñii antü” (the sun darkened).
This event is expected with respect, since the sun represents the way of understanding time. The „lai antü“has a strong content, so designating the death of the sun implies the suspension of time, a change of cycle for the star, a change in the process. Faced with this phenomenon of time suspension that affects nature.
A partial eclipse usually means a good year for the community. But a total eclipse is a bad omen for humanity, including the possible death of a dear and respected chieftain.
Despite the negative interpretation of the event by the Mapuches, in the occidental culture this natural phenomenon is a true once in a lifetime experience. In addition of being the capital of adventure tourism in Chile, Pucón will be the lucky host of the total solar eclipse 2020.
Safety recommendations during the eclipse
Do not look straight at the sun without proper eclipse glasses (certified ISO 12312-2)
Do not stair at the sun using your camera, telephone or binocular
Kids have to be supervised by an adult during the whole event
Pre and post travel options around Pucón
Do not miss your chance of getting to know the best travel options around Pucón. Take a look at our toptravel experiences especially designed for active nature lovers.
Contact us for any group request or tailor made program.
As we all know, traveling has a huge impact on the environment. Here is a helpful list of sustainable practices you can adopt if you plan a trip to Chile in 2020
As 2019 is coming to an end, Amity Tours has taken a new challenge towards becoming a zero waste company. These are the first steps we are currently taking.
The current problem
Our current lifestyle generates each year billions of tons of waste. Most of them end up causing natural damages for our fragile environment. Likewise in Chile, more than 40% of all the generated waste ends up in landfills without a minimum of sanitary requirements. This means that the groundwater and the river streams are affected directly, as well as the Pacific Ocean.
In the travel industry, this issue is affecting us on a daily basis. As an inbound tour operator established in Chile since 2003, Amity Tours organizes active trips in wilderness and protected areas, where responsible practices are fundamental. Since the beginning of our operations, sustainability has always been an important aspect of our travel experiences. As of today, it has become a number one priority for us.
Our first steps
As a company offering responsible tourism in Chile for 16 years, we decided to take a new challenge towards becoming a zero waste company. As a result, we are implementing the following measures:
“Reduce, Reuse, Recycle” Practice
Reduce: In order to prevent the production of waste, we have partnered up with local & organic food suppliers. This allows us to buy in bulk. Thus, it avoids the use of disposable plastics but also fuel the local economy.
Reuse: We donate all of the remaining reusable water bottles after each operations’ season. In 2019, approximately 450 were donated to local sport clubs (Bagualitos Park, & TeamPucón). For 2020, we plan to give away another 500 more. In the future, we will work with our partners on finding a sustainable solution regarding this issue. Moreover, we highly encourage our clients to bring their own water bottles. This will reduce the amount of plastic generated by our tours.
Recycle: At our main office we did install a recycling point where we separate Plastics, Cans, Glasses, Paper/Carton and of course all the organic waste generated at our office, the cabins and part of the waste generated during the trips. During the trips our guides and drivers set up an dismountable recycling point where clients and staff can dispose the residues to be collected at the hotels visiting during the voyage. In addition, we separate and collect the organic matter to be transform into compost. This compost will be used for our vegetables garden located at Amity Headquarter.
Recycling Point Amity Tours
Coming soon
Even though our efforts towards becoming a zero waste company are already making a change, we still have a long road ahead. For 2020, we plan to measure all the waste and recycled materials generated during our tours from November 2019 to April 2020. Based on the collected information, we´ll make sure to reduce our waste production for the 2020/21 season.
In addition, we will keep integrating and handpicking new local suppliers that also apply sustainable practices in order to eliminate waste directly at the source. Moreover, we are integrating our selection of hotels / restaurants in our efforts, as they will receive part of the generated waste during the tours.
Last but not least, our friendly team will be the main protagonist in our challenge of becoming a zero-waste company. Indeed, they will share and implement on the field the company’s efforts, and hopefully create a huge impact on our guests’ minds.
Soon, we’ll keep you posted on the upcoming zero-waste solutions and share with you our progress.
Join us on this great adventure by sharing this article with your travel buddies. Let’s go for a greener travel industry!
Have you ever wondered what it feels like to climb Chile’s most active volcano ? Find out why this experience is truly unique and a must-do excursion if you plan to visit Pucón!
Without a doubt, you’ve definitely heard about the incredible diversity of landscape inside the Chilean territory. If you like going on adventures in nature, Chile should appear on your next travel destinations list. Thirsty for thrilling and unique excursions ? Then climbing the Villarrica, Chile’s most active volcano, is for you!
Description and last eruption
The Villarrica Volcano (2.847 meters), or Ruka Pillañ in Mapundungún, is a Chilean stratovolcano located in the southern section of the Western Andes. It is situated at the limit of the Araucanía Region and Los Ríos Region, between the Villarrica and Calafquén Lakes. The slopes of the volcano are divided between the cities of Villarrica (North-West), Pucón (North-East) and Coñaripe (South). Finally, it is one of the most beautiful volcanoes of Chile because of it is perfectly cone-shaped, in addition to have a snow-coated summit all year long.
Currently, it is administered by the CONAF (Corporación Nacional Forestal or National Forest Corporation). The volcano and surroundings form the Villarrica National Park which is a protected area.
With an open crater of 200-meter of diameter, where at the bottom lies a permanent magma lake with a varying depth of 50 and 100 meters. The level of the lava constantly goes up or down. This lake always presents an intense fumerole, frequently accompanied by a weak eruptive activity.
Since 1558, there have been at least 90 volcanic eruptions registered. The most recent happened on March 3rd of 2015 at about 3:00 am. The most energetic phase lasted approximately 55 minutes, characterized by an eruptive column that reached between six and eight kilometers in height. Vertically from the crater, the emission of lava reached up to 1,5-kilometer high.
Following the eruption, the Villarrica National Park around the volcano was closed until the end of the year. As of today, the ski center opens for the ski season every year, along with the organized excursions to the top.
The Villarrica Volcano or Ruka Pillañ in the Mapuche’s cosmovision
In the Mapuche’s native language, Mapudungun, the Villarrica Volcano is named Ruka Pillañ, which means “House of the ancients’ spirits”. For them, the volcano is inhabited by the main spirit of nature who owns it. It is a kind of spirit from of the hills and volcanoes. Alongside this tutelary presence, there would inhabit some other minor spirits in relation to nature, but extremely powerful.
In other words, the Villarrica and its inhabitants take a very special place in the Mapuche’s cosmovision. The simbolism is clear: associated with the good, in opposition with the Llaima volcano that they associate with the bad. As a result, the propitious Rucapillan inspires beneficial dreams and “good weather”, whereas the Llaima transmits bad omens.
Finally, the Villarrica is symbolically related to a group of other elements associated with the positive. For examplethe colors violet and green, the Moon, the stars in general, the South and the East.
The Mapuches are the people of the land.
Ascent to Villarrica Volcano’s open crater
Open crater with a view
If your next travel destination is Chile, you definitely have to add the visit of Pucón and the excursion to the top of Villarrica Volcano. Not only the amazing 360° panoramic view will blow your mind, but you will feel the unique sensation to step on Chile’s most active volcano.
As this activity requires optimal conditions, the hike mostly depends on the weather. A clear sky and a minimum wind are the required conditions for the hike to be safe. During this excursion, 3 professional mountain guides and assistant will accompany the ascent, along with a mountain gear. This includes: gloves, helmets, snow pants, mountain boots, crampons, ice axe, and mountain bag.
The ascent is available almost all year long, but the level of difficulty mostly depends on the season. In summer, the hike is easier for the snow only covers the crater, thus making the climb accessible to every hiker. In winter, the snow fully covers the Villarrica volcano and the hike gets more difficult. It usually requires a good physical health since hiking on snow during 6 hours can be exhausting, but definitely worth the effort.
Excursion
Villarrica volcano ascent
Usually in Amity, we set the departing hour early in the morning. At 6:30, we gather with our mountain guides and leave towards the ski center. Once arrived, we put on our mountain gear, and then the ascent begins.
In summer, we use the ski lift, in order to gain approximately 1 hour of walking. Then begins the hike, which lasts roughly 4 to 6 hours depending on the group’s walking pace. All along the climb, the view is mind blowing as the summit gets closer. Before reaching the open crater, we’ll take a pause to enjoy the view, relax, and get to refill energy with a picnic lunch.
At around 1 pm, we reach the summit which is the ultimate reward of the hike. A stunning view over 8 different volcanoes, 6 lakes and the valley surrounding the volcano awaits you. If you’re lucky, you’ll be able to observe some lava flows depending on the magma lake’s level.
After then, we begin the descent. It basically consists in sliding down the volcano. In winter, enjoy skiing down the slopes of the volcano which is truly an incredible to live for every ski lover!
Open crater with fumerole
If you’re interested in climbing the Villarrica volcano, we highly suggest you to take a look at our hiking tours.
Don’t hesitate to contact us if you want a tailor-made trip in the Lake and Volcano including the climbing of Chile’s most active volcano!
If you like this post, share it with your friends and start planning your next holiday filled with adventure!
In this article, you will find out why Amity Tours is the leading tour operator in Chile’s Lake & Volcano District. Moreover you will understand why our core values will make travel to Chile an unforgettable experience!
Amity Tours is a Travel Company based in Pucón. Since 2003, we specialize in travel experiences in Chile such as hiking, trekking, skiing and cycling. More than just a simple trip to Chile, we make the best of it when visiting this amazing and fascinating country.
ADVENTURE
As an adventure travel company we understand “adventure” as and experience where culture and nature are the main pillars. Adventure is a key concept when defining and creating our trips in Chile and Argentina..
Active explorations in remote areas surrounded by nature will free our visitors to become part of the place. Adventure trips by Amity Tours will unfold meaningful experiences. We will enable our guests to discover and explore hidden corners, meet local communities and immerse themselves in the local culture.
Imagine yourself cycling Chile’s southern back roads, or discover a beautiful Geo park with pristine lakes and rivers. In addition to share with local indigenous communities while learning about their ancestral knowledge.
Moreover, you will envision yourself discovering Chile’s most impressive sights. Throughout the territory, the variety of landscape is fascinating. Mainly composed by ancient forests, glaciers, fjords, rivers, old shepherd trails, huge dunes, salt flats, lakes, etc. Not to mention the impressively surprising loca fauna & flora.. With species like flamingos, vicuñas, condors, foxes, guanacos, pumas and endemic birds inhabiting the forests.
Finally if you love skiing or snowboarding, visualize yourself slowing down and speeding up at will, controlling your descent on ice, knowing how to cope with fresh snow, handling uncrowded slopes and narrow paths in the most beautiful ski centers of Chile and Argentina.
We believe that experiencing adventures trips will enhance your attachment to nature and enhance your world view. Travel actively with Amity Tours will make you experience a fun cultural exchange.
PEOPLE
Lady Rosario, member of the Mapuche community, sharing the mapuche cosmovision
You’ll find a true friend in our experienced and professional team of guides and drivers. They will show you the best of Chile and Argentina. You’ll get to know our country and meet local people at every destination.
A commitment made to our travelers, it is also a conservation mission for us to help the local and indigenous communities present in the Chilean territory. We believe encounters with local communities can be life changing as a travel experience.
Our travelers enjoying a game of Palín, the traditional game in the Mapuche culture.
NATURE
Majestic Lanín Volcano (3,747 m.a.s.l), the tallest in the Lake and Volcano District.
The best part is how grateful we are to be in a country with amazing nature. We’ll make sure you see the best of it exploring the breathtaking hidden corners.
Nature, as a concept, has been socially constructed as an object and a subject providing people with meaningful experiences. Accordingly, leisure activities in nature enhance the interaction between people and natural environment. Thus, increasing their attachment to it.
People will become more conscious about the conservation of protected areas and become more sustainable as travelers.
Concept in our experiences
Each of our trips has been planned with the idea of providing tranquility and spiritual well-being. We love to provide invaluable memories by hiking through a native forest, kayaking on pristine lakes and rivers, or biking through rolling hills and skiing in active volcanoes…
We operate our most popular tours in Chile’s Lake & Volcano district. Recently labeled as Biosphere Reserve by UNESCO. it is home of stunning National Parks such as Conguillio, Villarrica, Huerquehue, …
Thousand-years-old endemic trees in the Villarrica National Reserve
Share this article if you identified yourself in our values! Contact us for an unforgettable trip in beautiful Chile!
Below you will find the 5 main reasons why Chile should be in your travel plans for this year 2019!
In this article, we made you a list of the reasons why you should definitely travel to Chile.
Chile is a wonderful country full of contrasts and outstanding extremes. It is the largest and narrowest of South America. 4329 kilometers in length and 177 kilometers wide. Viewed from the map, it looks like a thin line drawn between the Pacific Ocean and the Andes mountain range; the longest and second highest of the planet.
In other words, you will find a huge diversity of climate within Chile as well as breathtaking landscape. Thanks to this, it allows the worldwide travelers to visit it all year long, and explore the amazing natural wonders Chile has to offer.
Santiago de Chile
The Chilean capital city is full of natural charms and easily enjoyed by travelers from all over the world. Thus, you will find a perfect mix of the both Latino-American and the European culture, through the arquitecture, vibes and historical monuments.
In some neighborhoods, such as Lastarría or Bellavista, are important cultural centers, libraries, galleries, coffees and restaurants. All of them with both innovating and interesting concepts. Of course, the city center concentrates some of Chile’s most important historical monuments and museums.
Moreover, Santiago has ample and diverting green spaces. Biking around the various parks of the city is an excellent eco way to get to know the Chilean capital.
Around the city, you can easily connect with nature if you are an avid hiker, or a nature lover. Indeed, located 80 kilometers South-East Santiago, the Cajón Del Maipo is the best place to explore. This canyon offers various types of outdoor activities such as trekking, horseback riding, rafting and even natural thermals.
Central Valley of Chile
Internationally, Chile is considered one of the world’s main producers of wine. Mainly because of the rich grapes produced in the Central Valley and the sunny weather all year long. These elements allow the existence of excellent wineries located in the different valleys: Maipo Valley, Casablanca Valley, Aconcagua Valley, Colchagua Valley and San Antonio Valley.
If you are a wine lover, you will definitely enjoy the tastings in some prestigious and world-class wineries located in the different Valleys. Definitely an unique experience not to be missed. Moreover, where you’ll understand why the Chilean wines have earned such many prices. As well as earning a great worldwide reputation.
Also a bike lover ? Ask us for the bike tours available in the region!
Casablanca Valley
Valparaíso
The colorful coastal city of Valparaíso, is very well appreciated by Chileans and international travelers.
The incredible street art movement has made the city famous. Wandering around the various streets filled with incredible graffiti is definitely a must-do. You can observe the art of many local artists, writers and international musicians who have been adding their work to the hills of Valparaíso.
The hills are precisely one of the reasons why the city is unique and amazing. Cerro Concepción and Cerro Alegre are the most incredible and famous hills. From there, you’ll be able to enjoy a 360° panoramic view over the bay. In order to make easier walking these steep streets, you can use funiculars around the city. Since 2013, they are part of the Historic Quarters of the Seaport City of Valparaíso in the World Heritage Site.
Along with the street wonders, you’ll find one of the best boutique hotels in Chile. Valparaíso has maintained a small town charm seducing every visitor. The small hotels are located in the heart of the colored hills with stunning views over the bay.
The Lake and Volcano District
Villarrica Volcano – Pucón
This district is also well-known for being the hikers’ paradise. Indeed, it is filled with National Parks and natural wonders. You’ll enjoy hiking among endemic tree forests between volcanoes and lakes composing the main landscape. Along with the local and diverse flora, you’ll also be able to spot an incredible flora.
Pucón, the Lake and Volcano District’s capital of adventure travel, will surely give you a lot to explore. You’ll find a diverse offer of outdoor activities to do such as hiking, biking, skiing, horseback riding, rafting and kayaking. Among much more!
In addition, you’ll have the opportunity to enjoy the exceptional volcanic activity of the region. Around Pucón, there exists one the best hot springs of Chile. The Geometricas Hot Springs are the most natural of Chile, and it is the perfect spot after an active day. They are naturally heated by the Villarrica Volcano’s lava; and the water contains all the minerals the body needs to relax.
The Atacama Desert extends from Northern Coquimbo Region, up to Arica and Parinacota Region. It covers an area of 105.000 km2 and it is one of the best known places in Chile. Accordingly, it is also considered one of the biggest deserts in the world. Not to mention that it is the driest.
In addition, the Atacama Desert is very rich in minerals. You might have heard about the famous Atacama Salt Flats around San Pedro de Atacama. In effect, copper, iron, gold and silver are one of the many minerals composing the Andean salt flats.
In addition, from San de Pedro de Atacama, you can visit some incredible natural attractions that will take your breath away.
For the astronomy lovers, the Atacama Desert is the perfect place for star-gazing. The reason why is the geographic situation. First, there’s almost no humidity in the air and the sky is completely clear. Second, the light pollution is non-existent. All these elements make the Atacama Desert the perfect spot to observe the sky.
On the other hand, you will find stunning landscape in the Atacama Desert. Because of the geographic situation and chemical composition, the formed scenery gives the impression to be from a completely different world. The Moon Valley and the Death Valley will definitely fascinate your eyes and will make you feel like you’re on Mars planet.
Check out our active trips available in the Atacama Desert. Don’t miss your chance to explore San Pedro and surroundings!
If you are still wondering if Chile is going to be your chosen destination for this year 2019, send us a mail and we’ll make sure you get the best advices!
Envie de vous balader en plein milieu de forets d’arbres millénaires avec vue spectaculaire sur un des volcans les plus actifs du Chili ? L’équipe d’Amity Tours a fait de cette idée une excursion spectaculaire, avec une randonnée dans le parc national Conguillío.
Au départ de Pucón dans la matinée, nous sommes dirigés avec notre guide local en direction du Parc National Conguillío, a environ 2h15 de route au Nord. Avant d’arriver au fameux parc, nous sommes passés par des villages chiliens, dont l’un d’eux s’appelle Villa García, connu pour son architecture suisse fruit de la colonisation.
En arrivant au Parc Conguillío, je me rends compte vite de l’imposant Volcan Llaima qui domine le paysage avec ses 3125 mètres de haut. Nous arrivons au bureau de la CONAF, administration actuelle des parcs nationaux du Chili afin de nous enregistrer et faire un petit détour par un petit circuit appelé « El Cañadon del truful ». Ce sentier offre de superbes vues sur les formations rocheuses dues aux nombreuses éruptions des 13000 dernières années, une belle expérience géologique qui nous fait toucher le temps en plein cœur du Canyon.
Ensuite, nous avons repris la repris la route pendant environ 20 minutes en direction du secteur Playa linda, d’où débute le circuit principal « Sierra Nevada ». Nous faisons un bref arrêt afin de voir le lac Arcoiris, d’eau de couleurs turquoise et cristalline qui nous permet de voir des troncs d’arbres millénaires jonchés au fond.
Commence enfin la randonnée, et nous nous enfonçons de plus en plus dans la foret constituée de Coihue, Raulí, Araucarias, arbres millénaires endémiques de la région chilienne. La neige, toujours présente en cette période de l’année, recouvre complétement le chemin jusqu’aux genoux, rendant encore plus puissant le silence d’or qu’offre la nature. Au fur et à mesure que nous nous approchons du mirador, la neige commence à tomber, rendant plus intense cette excursion avec un vent léger. Une fois arrivés au mirador, situé plus haut que le point de départ du circuit, nous pouvons admirer le Lac Conguillío, bordé par le Complexe Volcanique Sierra Nevada. La vue est spectaculaire, les nuages et la brume hivernaux la rendent mystique et sur cette dernière sensation nous rebroussons chemin, bloqués par la neige abondante.
L’aventure touche sa fin, et je reste avec l’envie de revenir au parc afin de le connaitre sous toutes les couleurs des saisons…
Les thermes naturelles Geométricas au Chili sont un enchantement naturel. Elles se situent aux pieds du Volcan Villarrica à 96 kilomètres de Pucón dans la région des lacs et des volcans.
De ce fait, le trajet dure entre 1h40 et 2h. Une fois sur place, une seule envie : s’immerger dans ce paradis thermal.
Les “Termas Geométricas” se situe au bord de l’estuaire d’Aihua. L’eau est chauffée naturellement, grâce à la lave du Volcan actif Villarrica. Puis, émerge directement dans les gorges d’Aihua à une température de 80°C.
Passage oblige par le restaurant rustique, de bois couleur rouge. Quelques metres plus loin, vous trouverez une passerelle principale. De 450 mètres de long, elle relie les bassins.
La température va de 30°C à 45°C. A chaque bassin, vous disposez de toilettes, vestiaires et casiers pour garder vos affaires.
Pour la baignade, vous avez le choix car le centre possède de 17 à 20 bassins de différentes températures.
Et bien sûr, l’eau contient tous les minéraux indispensables que le corps a besoin pour se détendre, garantissant une expérience relaxante physique et mentale.
Au fur et à mesure du canyon, entouré de végétation naturelle, vous rencontrerez des cascades d’eau froide. Pratique pour varier entre température chaude et froide.
Ce changement est nécessaire pour profiter au maximum des thermes. Le clou du spectacle, est sans aucun doute la cascade d’eau géante, située au fond des thermes au bout de la passerelle.
Seuls les plus téméraires oseront se mettre dessous…
L’eau vous donne faim ? Pas de problème. En effet, le « quincho », restaurant rustique vous servira une nourriture délicieuse faite maison : pizza, sandwich, soupe, tartes, …
Et vous pourrez déguster votre repas autour d’un feu. De l’eau avec citron et concombre est à disposition et gratuite en cas de soif.
Les thermes ont l’avantage de pouvoir nous faire profiter de son enchantement à chaque saison de l’année.
L’été, il n’y fait ni trop chaud, ni trop froid. L’hiver, la neige et la pluie donne à ce lieu une atmosphère mystique.
La visite des thermes Géométricas est une expérience à ne pas manquer. Lors de votre passage a Pucón, elle sera une excellente option pour se détendre. Idéal apres une randonnée dans le parc national Villarrica.
A Amity Tours, vous pourrez profiter de cet enchantement naturel durant nos circuits randonnée dans la région des lacs et des volcans. Si vous êtes amoureux de la randonnée et de la nature, je vous le recommande définitivement!!
For the last 9 months, Amity Tours has been working with local communities in Mapu Lahual Reserve, developing a new trekking tour.
We’ve been focusing on creating a different trekking option to Torres del Paine, that is completely overcrowded during our Summer.
The Epic Pacific Coast trek passes through Larch ancient forests as well Temperate Rainforests, fishing coves and pristine beaches. It is a hut to hut trekking staying with local Mapuche families. Thus, we will learn about ancient traditions and cosmovision. As we are guided by local guides, it is a really good example of community based tourism.
Highlights
This amazing trekking experience includes trekking hut to hut by the Pacific Coast, an area very difficult to access. Scuba diving with the local fishermen. 2 nights stay with local fishermen families, eating seafood & fish for lunch and dinner. Chilean dolphins, sea-lions, and sea-otters watching (permanent residents). River crossings by foot and boat. Trekking among ancient Larch tree forest (Fitzroya cupressoides). uncrowded off-the-beaten-path trails. Host community belongs to the Williche indigenous ethnic group.
The final test will be from February 5th 2018 till February 10th 2018th, including national and international tour operators.
Our team, lead by the product manager Stef Carmody, is developing the final itinerary and we will have it live on our website soon.
At Amity Tours, every year we encourage our local team to take the best photos of each tour, so our guests can have great memories of their trip in South America.
Bike tours, hiking tours, skiing tours and conservation tours where the occasion in which both guides and drivers were on the hunt for great action photos.
And the Winner for this Spring & Summer 2016 2017 Season is….
Orlando Gonzalez, one of our best drivers and tour leaders.
We thank all our Facebook friends who voted for the best photo.
Congratulations to Orlando for capturing this fantastic photo. You are the best example of what PEOPLE means to Amity Tours, and we are happy for you. Here is your prize!!
Chile is a great and diverse country that offers incredible places for hiking. From the Atacama Desert to Patagonia, we have designed the most fascinating hiking tours in order to provide you with an unforgettable experience.
During our experiences, you will be surrounded by the driest desert in the world, active volcanoes, ancient glaciers, pristine lakes and the Pacific Ocean. Moreover, you will learn about ancestral cultures, history and astronomy, as well as the captivating Chilean endemic flora and fauna.
This 2017, imagine yourself hiking the Atacama Desert through old shepherd trails. Getting the chance to see petroglyphs while walking through a ravine following a salty river and admiring huge ancient cacti.
In addition, we can also take you, your family and friends to hike through the amazing national parks of Chile’s Lake & Volcano District. Here you will hike through ancient Araucaria and Nothofagus forests, discovering beautiful bodies of water such as lakes, waterfalls and rivers.
Another interesting hiking option is a trip in Patagonia, specifically to Torres del Paine National Park. This protected area is home of the world’s most epic trekking routes. It encompasses ancient forest, glaciers, fjords, lakes and rivers.
Furthermore, we offer you the chance to climb active and non active volcanoes, from North to South. You will experience being at the top of the world, listening to the silence, and connecting your soul with the spirit of the Andes.
Don’t miss the chance to discover these amazing natural areas. You can also combine two or more destinations. We can help you to design a memorable experience that you will keep forever.
Amity tours has designed the best Family Adventures in Patagonia, Chile’s top destination.
Patagonia is one of the most pristine places in the Southern hemisphere. Glaciers, Forests, Fjords, Mountains and Lakes compose this area. Thus, they make it the perfect place for an adventure family trip. The Chilean Patagonia is home to some of the most impressive sights on Earth. Also to some of the world’s most classic trekking routes encompassing unusual landscapes and fauna.
During 2016, we have been working on designing family adventures in Chile. This adventure tour in Torres del Paine has different daily hiking options. As well as horseback riding and navigation excursions. The easy hiking options are not strenuous and can be enjoyed by anyone in reasonable physical shape. The best part? You can choose each night which option appeals to you most for the following day, depending on how that day’s trek has left you feeling!
At Amity Tours, we believe that travelling as a family provides for a great experience while discovering and enjoying nature and its landscapes. We also believe that family trips expose children to different cultures and experiences. Thus enhancing their relationship with the environment and raising consciousness about conservation issues.
Finally we are happy to announce that we already had our first guest family trying out this new product in Patagonia. They had an amazing time discovering one of the most remote areas in Chile amid the incredible Torres del Paine National Park. Don’t miss the chance to travel with your family. Also, we will be happy to help you design an extraordinary experience in nature. We can create a tailor-made family adventure just for you and your family, or you can join a group with other families. Contact us at info@amity-tours.com or visit our website.
This coming season, Amity Tours is launching new travel experiences in the Atacama Desert
During the past weeks, we went scouting to San Pedro de Atacama in order to re-design incredible experiences in the Atacama Desert. We hiked through amazing ravines in the Salt Mountain Range and in an ancient cacti valley. Moreover, we were able to witness amazing sunsets in the Atacama Salt Flat and enjoy the clearest sky while stargazing.
Sunset at the Chaxa Lagoon, Atacama Salt Flat
Furthermore, we were able to visit Andean villages such as Socaire, Toconao, Caspana, Machuca, Rio Grande and Ayquina. We also shared with the local Lickan Antay communities and become impressed with the amazing landscape that surround the quaint village of San Pedro de Atacama.
Encounter with Likan Antai Indigenous community
We are designing a great 7-day hiking tour in the Atacama Desert. Our hikes will cover all of the ecological features around San Pedro de Atacama:
The Salt mountain range and its magnificent geological formations
The Atacama Salt flat and its different lagoons (located 2.400 meters over the sea level)
The ravines (located between 2800 – 3400 meters above sea level) where we will discover great flora species
The Altiplano, where we will discover particular ecosystems composed by birds species, plants, mammals and bacteria. Here, over 4000 meters over the sea level we will hike through the Tatio Mallku geothermal field and trough high salt flats immersed in the Andes Mountain Range.
This trip will be a great experience that will connect you with the silence and spaciousness that only exist in the desert.
Moreover, we are designing a cultural bike trip. This experience will be perfect for those travelers that love to bike, and learn about an ancient culture. During this tour, you will discover how the indigenous communities are try to bring their traditions back.
Encounter with the Likan Antai community
The goal of this trip is not to use vans. All of our activities will start and finish in your hotel using only bikes. We will discover great archeological sites with our specialized guides. Also, we will learn from the Lickan Antai people as they share their traditions, cosmovision and typical food. We will be able to bike towards the salt flat discovering an amazing landscape and biodiversity. We will learn the most hidden secrets that exist in the tiny oasis located in highest and driest desert of the world.
To learn more about our travel experiences please check out our website
Nothing compares to the outstanding sense of journey you experience during a Bike Tour. It’s the excitement of discovering under your own capacity, riding from one amazing place to the next. It’s the freest way of travel you’ll come across, giving you the chance to choose how your day unfolds. You can pedal at your own speed, discovering and experiencing amazing natural areas in Chile.
Bike season in southern Chile
7-Lake Route Ride
This upcoming Spring, (October and November 2016) we will be launching our bike programs at Amity Tours! We have designed the best experiences for those who want to discover and ride through The Lake & Volcano District and the Atacama Desert. Check out our 8-Day Road Cycling Tour, where you will be able to bike along the Lake and the German Settlers route. Moreover, you will experience riding alongside rivers and valleys, enjoying unique views of volcanoes and discovering the Vicente Perez Rosales National Park and the Huilo-Huilo Biological Reserve.
Lanín Volcano in the Villarrica National Park
Bike experience in Northern Chile
If you want more adventure in Chile, try out our 7-Day Bike and Hike Tour in the Atacama Desert. This special tour will take you off the beaten path, and into areas not accessible by vehicle and trodden only by local natives and their llama or goat herds.
Cultural encounter with the Likan Antai indigenous community in the Atacama Desert, Northern Chile
We will encounter small villages, geysers, altiplanic lagoons, valleys, archaeological remains, Andean wildlife along with the most spectacular desert and mountain landscapes, always crowned by high dormant volcanoes.
Cejar Lagoon ride – San Pedro de Atacama, Northern Chile
We also have designed a 7-Day Mountain Bike Tour in the Lake & Volcano district. You will ride through protected areas such as the Conguillio National Park and the Villarrica National Park. In this area, you will discover magical places like Las Raices range and the Ojos del Caburgua waterfalls.
Ojos de Caburgua, Pucón
Our Bike & Hike Tour has been especially made for intermediate and advanced road bikers and hikers. This is a perfect blend of activities that bring the Lake & Volcano district to life. You will experience thousand-year-old Araucaria and Nothofagus forests with an intimacy that is only possible when you travel on foot or bike. You will be able to connect with local communities and natural history.
The most astonishing sightings await you when you bike & hike with Amity Tours! Check our website for further information.
Family Activities in Valdivia, Family Adventure trips.
Amity Tours has designed a Family Trip in the Valdivian Jungle located in The Lake and Volcano District. Most of the activities have been planned in national parks, and private reserves, all of them wilderness protected areas. However there are some fun activities that we chose within the city. Valdivia was crowned the capital of Chile´s newest 14th Region of Los Ríos. It is the most important university town in southern Chile and, as such, offers a wide variety of venues and activities related to the arts, cafes, restaurants and bars. It also boasts of having Chile´s best craft beer culture and a refreshing dose of youthful energy and German effervescence.
River Market in Valdivia
One of the experiences we will offer is a visit to the River Market or “Feria Fluvial”. After a ride in a solar water taxi along the Calle Calle River, we will arrive at the Feria Fluvial. This is a lively riverside market located to the south of the Valdivia Bridge, where vendors sell fresh fish and seafood, fruits, veggies and local products. Waterfront sea lions have discovered the Promised Land here, as they float around all day, eating as fish mongers throw them scraps from the daily catch.
Carpa de la Ciencia in Valdivia
Another activity we have chosen for our clients is to visit the “Carpa de la Ciencia”. In this place there are always exhibits regarding different scientific areas. For example there have been exhibits about the evolution of communications in the past century and every year it has been used as the meeting point for participants of the Valdivian International Film Festival. The place was built in 2010 with the idea to bring science closer to the community, providing a good opportunity for families to learn and experience new things.
Chocolate and Marzipan Factory in Valdivia
Finally we would like to bring our guest families to the Entrelagos chocolate factory. This is a traditional place located in one of the main corners of the city center. It was created in 1976 and since then the owners have been working to develop the best artisan chocolates and marzipan in the south of Chile. Don’t miss the chance to enjoy this beautiful city with your family and Amity Tours. We are launching this tour and more tours throughout Chile on our website in September 2016.
You can find similar tours in our Conservation Tours section. One of the most popular tours is called Valdivian Jungle Ecotourism, a 4 day tour that visit this fantastic area in the Pacific Coast.
For further information and details check out our website www.amity-tours.com.
Tour Operator of the Year 2016 Luxury Travel Guide
We are very proud to announce that Amity Tours has been awarded Tour Operator of the Year for Pucón, Chile in the 2016 Holiday & Tour Specialist Awards.
The Luxury Travel Awards recognize and celebrate excellence across all sectors of the affluent travel and tourism industry in Europe, The Americas, Asia & Australasia, and Africa & Middle East .
Their team of experts have scoured the globe and traveled extensively in order to identify everything from the very best hotels, airlines and tour operators through to highlighting the most reputable tourism service companies.
According to Mr. Benjamin Pugh, LTG Awards Coordinator, the Awards Program selects winners based on their achievements and strengths in the travel industry.
All winners of the 2016 Holiday & Tour Specialist Awards were subject to the same rigorous assessment criteria, carried out by the Luxury Travel Guide Award experienced in-house professionals as well as a number of celebrity guest judges.
This ensures that only the most deserving teams, businesses and individuals walk away with one of these prestigious accolades. The Luxury Travel Guide Award represent the pinnacle of achievement, championing the best in their respective fields, therefore to come out as a clear winner is an achievement to be proud of.
Hiking in Chile Early Bird discount up to 300 USD.
Hiking in Chile, Kutralkura Geopark
If you are one to get connected with nature through hiking experiences you must visit Chile and try what Amity Tours had prepared for the coming 2016-2017 season. Imagine yourself hiking through ancient forests, desert trails, glaciers, lakes, rivers and volcanoes. You will be able to discover amazing places, getting the chance to learn about ancient cultures and about flora and fauna native species. You will discover Chile with an experience that will surprise you day by day. Chile is home to some of the most impressive sights in the Southern Hemisphere and to some of the world’s most classic trekking routes.Continue reading
We are happy to announce our first group of hikers coming from Estonia and the first group from the Ladies Trekking Club.
Heli, Neeme and Tom jumped on an airplane from Estonia with the plan to get to Chile to hike through ancient forests and volcanoes. They have been preparing for this trip for a while and their expectations were high. They didn’t know that they would be able to explore one of the most fascinating parts of Chile, dominated by clear water lakes and live volcanoes. They arrived to Temuco on the 29th of March, 2016. At the airport they met Patrick (professional guide) and Orlando (professional driver) and started their fabulous adventure towards Malalcahuello, a little village part of the UNESCO Biosphere Reserve “Araucarias”.
In the following days they hiked the trails of the Andes mountain range with friendly locals. They have reached Cerro Coloradito, visited the Truful Truful canyon and the pristine Arcoiris Lagoon with its clear water that reflects stunning colors at Congullio National Park. Furthermore, they were able to spot endemic birds such as the chucao tapaculo and the noisy slender-billed parakeet. In Pucon, the main adventure tourism destination in the Lake & Volcano District, our new Estonian friends had another great experience. They hiked towards ancient Araucaria and Nothofagus forests at the Villarrica National Park. Moreover, they reached the Pichillancahue Glacier and the Andean lakes also located at the afore named protected area. Then Heli, Neeme and Tom relaxed in soothing natural hot springs. Towards the coast, our visitors went to temperate rain forests at the Valdivian Jungle at Pilonkura and Curiñanco Indigenous Reserves and the Valdivian Coastal Reserve, a conservation project developed by the American NGO -the Nature Conservancy. Finally, our guests were able to enjoy the Huilo Huilo biological reserve and all its amazing surroundings.
We feel that this first encounter with Heli, Neeme and Tom from Estonia is the first of many other gatherings to come. They enjoyed hiking around the Lake and Volcano District, and we were able to feel how happy they were within the landscape, lakes, trails and volcanoes. We look forward to meet our new friends again, hiking in Easter Island, Atacama Desert or southern Patagonia. We wish them a safe trip back home!!!!
Check out our Hiking Tours in Chile. Season October 2016 – April 2017
Amity Tours is proud to announce that we are supporting the Torres del Paine Legacy Fund.
Since our first year of operations in 2003, our commitment has always been to contribute to the sustainable development of our country through the practice of “Responsible Tourism”. This is one of our most important values.
Amity Tours is fully committed to the people of Chile and the World in order to conserve the ecosystems that are present within the Chilean territory. One of the most spectacular destinations in Chile is Patagonia, the region where you can explore and discover Torres del Paine National Park.
However and without a doubt, tourism in Torres del Paine National Park is growing. Increased traveler visitation is directly correlated to positive economic benefits for the region and provides a strong opportunity for community development. To ensure the long-term sustainability of this growth investments are needed for the responsible management of the destination’s unique cultural and environmental assets. The park has suffered three major man-made forest fires since 1985, and the increasing foot traffic from the growing number of travelers along the iconic W and Circuit treks has put the trails in need of repair.
The Legacy Fund believes that each new traveler to Torres del Paine represents a new opportunity to give back, and seeks to transform each arrival into a reason for hope and action. In partnership with public and private entities that cater to travelers in the region, the Legacy Fund works to promote social and conservation issues before, during, and after stays while also investing both financial and human resources into action projects that promote solutions for long-term destination growth.
Amity Tours’ commitment with this cause is to allow every traveler going to Torres del Paine to support the conservation actions in Torres del Paine National Park. This can be done by donating money or your time and work, if you can, to participate in some of the conservation actions.
The Legacy Fund Mission is to work with travelers, businesses and local residents to prioritize sustainable development concerns and solicit resources to invest in the long-term health of Torres del Paine National Park.
The Legacy Fund Vision is for Torres del Paine National Park to be seen as a world-class destination where visitors work in parallel with residents to promote conservation through travel and tourism.
Legacy Fund Objectives:
Repair the ecosystem and minimize visitor impacts
Update and improve tourism infrastructure
Support community development
Enhance recreation opportunities and tourism product
Confirmed Departures – Chile 12 days Bike Tour, December 2015 and February 2016
Discover the Lake & Volcano District cycling Chile’s southern back roads and the brand new Lake & Volcano Scenic Way. Explore this fascinating part of the country dominated by clear-water lakes and amazing live volcanoes. Together with friendly locals, you will pedal alongside the Andes mountains, green rolling meadows and through national parks. You’ll also go hiking surrounded by ancient monkey puzzle trees, visit local ethnic villages and relax in soothing natural hot springs.
Dem Winter in Deutschland entfliehen und einen einzigartigen Urlaub verbringen geht ganz einfach: und zwar mit unseren Rennradreisen in einer der schönsten Regionen Chiles, dem Vulkan- und Seengebiet.
Entdecken Sie das Vulkan- und Seengebiet Chiles auf die bestmögliche Art und Weise – auf einem Cannondale Rennrad. Unsere einzigartigen Touren führen Sie zu den schönsten Orten im grünen Süden Chiles. Auf Strecken von durchschnittlich 50-80 km am Tag fahren Sie entlang glitzernder Seen und Flüsse und haben dabei einen atemberaubenden Blick auf die gewaltigen Anden. Und werden außerdem schnell merken, dass an jeder Ecke ein aktiver Vulkan darauf wartet von Ihnen bestaunt zu werden! Diese einmaligen Touren werden Ihnen noch lange in Erinnerung bleiben.
Corralco is one of Chile’s newest ski centers but in just a few years, it has become a very popular place for skiers and snowboarders from all over the world. All of our ski tours in Chile include a couple of days in this wonderful ski center. From beginners ski tours to backcountry skiing around active volcanoes, this ski center is one place we don’t leave out the itinerary. Not to mention, this place has the best powder snow in the south of Chile.
If you are here on our Chile Luxury Tour, we spend a couple of days skiing and backcountry skiing assisted by snowmobiles.
Araucarias Ski Resort (Llaima Volcano)
This beautiful Ski center is inside the Conguillio National Park. This national park is surrounded by Araucarias, Chile’s famous tree. The name says it all, you will be skiing in a forest of these unique umbrella-like trees that only grow on high altitudes.
This ski center is on the slopes of the Llaima Volcano, one of the most active volcano in Chile.
Here you can count on having a good time skiing whether you are taking lessons for the first time or if you’re back in Chile for your second or third ski tour.
Bosque Nevado Mountain Resort (Mocho-Choshuenco Volcanoes and Huilo Huilo)
This magical mountain center located in the middle of Patagonia offers you the best back country skiing in the south of Chile. If you want to do some off-piste skiing, there are snowmobiles available too. These snowmobiles can also take you to the glacier of the Mocho and Choshuenco Volcanoes. Because of this ski resort exceptional beauty, whether you are backcountry skiing or just taking a ride on the snowmobiles, you will feel the mesmerizing beauty of its surroundings all over you.
Colchagua Valley is one of the most up raising wine valleys worldwide. Amity Tours Bike and Wine tour will take you to ride the Apalta Area, the area towards Peralillo, Lolol, Pichilemu and Bucalemu villages on the Pacific coast.
Our tour is very exclusive, so we invite you to contact us for private departures and cycle the Colchagua Wine Valley.
with very little hassle for us and everything was perfect on the honeymoon, we cant thank him enough for what he did.
Highlights
During 6 days you will visit the following places:
Visit top wineries in Colchagua Valley: Viu Manent, Casa Lapostolle, Neyen, Montes, Laura Hartwig and La Playa.
Amazing cuisine paired with Colchagua Valley wines
Bike a hybrid bike on quite and small roads, next to vineyards; you can ride inside wineries too !
Biking from wine country to the Pacific Ocean and visit Pichilemu, Chile’s Surf paradise
Make your own wine and take it with you back home
End the bike tour with lunch and wine tasting at the most prestigious winery in Colchagua valley
Great Hotels next to vineyards
Support vehicle while biking and English speaking guides with great knowledge on Chilean wines
