Battle strong headwinds and deep ripio as you pedal directly toward the Andes before meeting up with the brilliant turquoise Río Futaleufú and tracing the river into Chile.
Do not underestimate this route between Trevelin to Futaleufú. Even though it doesn't contain any massive climbs, the route is certainly one of the more difficult routes on the Bicycle Patagonia Tour. On the Argentina-side of the border, the route navigates through open plains and pastured farmlands and is exposed to strong headwinds, which emerge from the Andes (to the west). These winds, coupled with frequent uphills and abysmal road conditions, can make for an extremely tough ride.
ATM in Futaleufú
There is an ATM in Futaleufú; however, it is frequently out of order and/or empty of cash. The associated bank is closed on weekends. The next ATM on the route is ~422 km south of here (in Coyhaique), so be sure to withdraw cash at the first available opportunity upon arrival in Futaleufú.
Border Crossing on Route
The Argentina/Chile border is 39 kilometers from Trevelin. From the crossing, it's 11 kilometers to Futaleufú, Chile. For info on the border and some tips on crossing it smoothly, check out this blog post.
Directions
 |
Trevelin |
|
|---|---|---|
| Head south on Ruta 259 (Trevelin's main road) | ||
| 3.5 km | Ripio commences as the road curves toward the southeast | |
| 7 km | Stay right at the fork (to stay on Ruta 259) | |
| 20 km | Molino Nant Fach historical museum | |
| 24 km | Cross Río Blanco and descend into the Futaleafú river valley | |
| 30 km | Hello Futaleafú river! Jagged up and downs commence, as the road follows the Fú | |
| 38.5 km | Puente Río Futaleafú | |
| 39 km | Argentina/Chile border crossing | |
| 40 km | Enter Chile’s Los Lagos Region; proceed on freshly-paved Ruta 231 | |
| 42 km | Sharp incline | |
| 49 km | Laguna Espejo (on your right as you enter Futaleufú); the Futaleufú tourist information center is on your left, just across from Plaza de Armas | |
|
Futaleufú |
Camping Recommendation
Río Futaleufú Wild Camp
While many cyclists may choose to complete the entire 50 km route from Trevelin to Futaleufú in one day (and forgo searching for camping), spending a relaxing day on the banks of Río Futaleufú is highly recommended. This is especially true if you have some fresh produce that needs to be eaten before entering Chile! We suggest camping at the wild/unofficial campsite just before the border crossing. The sites have fire pits, trash cans, trees for shade and wind protection, and best of all, they're next to the Fú, one of the world's most beautiful rivers.
Location |
|---|
| -43.173869, -71.750310 |
Category |
|---|
| Semi-organized |
Cost |
|---|
| Free |
Water Source |
|---|
| Río Futaleufú |
Highlights |
|---|
| Fire pits Trash cans Near border crossing |
Tour Total
The above route information is intended to be used as a guide in conjunction with your own due diligence. Although Bicycle Patagonia is a product of extensive research, we make no representations, guarantees nor assurances as to the accuracy of the above information or the associated .gpx and .kml files. Prior to beginning the route, be sure to check local weather forecasts & road conditions. While out riding, respect Patagonia – follow all public and private land use restrictions, carry proper safety and navigational equipment, and always #leavenotrace.