Pioneer Trail

Introduction
Lake District Chile

Start off with a night in the picturesque lake-side town of Puerto Varas. Then, enjoy the traditional hospitality of  Riverside and  Mountain lodges, as you ride through virgin rain forest, along a 200-year old trail; explore a remote valley, with waterfalls and granite peaks; and kayak and sail along Chile’s northern-most fjord, in the company of seabirds and dolphins.

Ride across the Andes onto a plateau of lakes, waterfalls, rivers and ancient forests. Follow the legendary 300 year old Pioneer Trail once used by Indians, Spaniards, and Missionaries. After a full day of river kayaking you arrive at the Riverside Lodge. The small group adventure continues on horseback into a forgotten world of pure nature far from the tourist track. Leading through dense forested valleys and high mountain passes, you will pass through a scenic blend of isolated pioneer farms, rivers, lakes, waterfalls and the ancient Alerce rainforest.

The ride goes up through the pristine wilderness to the Andean valley of La Junta often called the "Yosemite of Chile". Amidst the granite mountain peaks are stands of 1,000 year-old Alerce trees and an amazing variety of wildlife - condors, pumas and songbirds. A day of relaxation or hiking follows. Hike the six kilometer nature-trail into the Andean rainforest to a lagoon and/or to the La Junta Canyon. The next day we descent again on horseback and enjoy a candlelight dinner at the River Lodge. The following morning we board a fishing vessel (departure at 09:00 AM) you travel trough a great scenery of snowtopped mountains, volcano and bays. In the water we can see, sealions and dolphins. Via Marimeli island we reach the hot springs, which can only be reached by boat. Another night at the Riverside Lodge brings the end of a wonderful multi sport holiday and we transfer you back to Puerto Natales.

Accomodation

Riverside Lodge and Meals

About 1000 kms (550m) south of Santiago and 120kms (65m) East of Puerto Montt in Chile North Patagonia, is Campo Aventura. Located on 90ha (200ac) of untouched nature, there is one hostel and one mountain lodge. Campo Aventura offers several outdoor activities and cultural programs like Spanish lessons, suitable and available for families. Riverside Lodge is situated in the scenic valley of the rio Cochamo, and is an idyllic location to spend several days exploring the surroundings.

The quality and originality of the hostel and the lodge match the requirements of the client who likes comfort in harmony with the preserved natural beauty of the environment.

This unique place in Cochamo valley is a perfect location to spend several days - even if you wish only to relax and stay. Indulge in homemade organic cookery with ingredients bought from locals. We specialize in vegetarian cuisine and excellent fish dishes.

Full Breakfast includes:

Mountain Lodge and Meals

On horseback you have access to the Mountain Lodge with comfortable dormitory accommodation, located in the chilean Andes of north Patagonia.

This Site is spread over 80ha (180ac) in the middle of the "Valdivian" rainforest.

Original Chilean meals as well as a wood-fired hot shower awaits you in this rustic lodge. Explore the 6kms (4m) "Nature trail" in the middle of untouched rainforest with rare vegetation, enjoy waterfalls, watch birds like the Andean condor, try out excellent fishing possibilities and much more.

Traditional Breakfast includes:

This trip includes and can accommodate special dietary requests.

Riding

Fishing opportunities:
You can also add a day of guided fly fishing during or after your trip. Your guide will take you to the best places to catch salmon or trout. There are three nearby big fishing opportunities - the Rio Cochamo, the Rio Puelo and the Rio Petrohue. The extra guided day of fishing is $495. Fishing gear can be rented.

Itinerary

B – Breakfast; L –lunch; T– afternoon tea; D - dinner

Day 1: Arrive in Puerto Varas in the afternoon. Check into your hotel and enjoy a stroll to view the Volcan Osorno, and choose a restaurant to dine in. Overnight. (No meals included today).

Day 2: We transfer you from your hotel, to the kayak starting point, for a day on the Estuario Reloncaví, Chile’s northernmost fjord. Enjoy volcano views, seabirds, dolphins, and picnic lunch. Tide permitting, kayak up to Riverside Lodge, in time for tea. Overnight in cabana, with three-course dinner. (B, L, T, D)

Day 3: After breakfast we saddle up and ride through spectacular rainforest. Arrive at our Mountain Lodge by late afternoon.  Overnight at lodge with traditional dinner. (B, L, T, D)

Day 4: Today, enjoy a half-day ride to Val Verde and return in time for a walk, swim, or relaxation on the lodge terrace.  Overnight as previous. (B, L, T, D)

Day 5: Bid farewell to La Junta, and ride back down to the Cochamo Trail, to Riverside Lodge. Enjoy a drink by the beach and dinner, resting up for your next day's adventure. Overnight in cabana. (B, L, T, D)

Day 6:  Sealions & Hot Springs Boat Trip 
Today you will explore further south in the Estuario Reloncavi. Aboard a traditional fishing vessel you will get up close and personal to massive sea lions; enjoy a traitional curranto lunch with a local family; and visit a natural seaside hot spring. Return to Riverside Lodge for your last overnight stay. (B, L, T, D).

Day 7:  Another hearty breakfast will help ease your departure from Paradise. Transfer out provided to Puerto Varas or Puerto Montt. (B)
 
Fishing opportunities:
You can also add a day of guided fly fishing during or after your trip. Your guide will take you to the best places to catch salmon or trout. There are three nearby big fishing opportunities - the Rio Cochamo, the Rio Puelo and the Rio Petrohue. Ask for rates.

Rates and Dates for Pioneer Trail

Dates Note: arrival can be any day of the week

Other Info
Meeting: Puerto Varas
Airport: Puerto Mont
Transfer: private transfer Puerto Montt or Puerto Varas orpetrohue

Climate:

Heavy rainfall is a feature of the weather in Puerto Montt. It rains every month, but rainfall is more intense in June, July and August, with an annual average of 1,200 to 3,000 mm.

The climate in this area of Chile presents an average relative humidity of 80%, coupled with low temperatures, with a minimum of 4° Celsius (July through September) and a maximum of 21° C, with an annual average temperature of 11.2° C.