Lonquimay Valley, Chile

One of the most scenic places to visit whilst staying in Malalcahuello is Lonquimay Valley. To get there one must pass through a 4.5km one way tunnel that took 10 years to build back in the 1920´s and in its day was the longest in South America.

Lonquimay Valley is the northern-most part of Patagonia and one can recognize the barren steppe vegetation in many areas, particularly towards Ilcalma. The weather in Lonquimay tends to be colder than Malalcahuello, although the altitude above sea level is similar. Points of interest to consider during your visit:

• Birth of the famous BioBio River. It´s possible to stop at various places along its length
• Tours to hot springs along the route or River BioBio, horseriding
• Indigenous artisan products in Lonquimay
• Lakes Ilcalma & Galletue
• Cultural tours with local indigenous families
• Volcano Batea Mahuida on the border with Argentina
• Guided climbing tour of glacier Sierra Nevada

Travel routes of interest:

• Route to National Park China Muerta & Conguillio National Park. This can be a round trip of one day from Chile Wild cabins
• Route to Bariloche, San Martin de los Andes & Villa Angostura via the frontier crossings Ilcalma & Pino Hachado