Trekking The Jesuits Trail

From Puerto Varas (Chile) to Bariloche (Argentina)
6 Days / 5 Nights

Searching for the city of the Caesars, a mythical lost city with buildings of Gold in the XVI century, the Jesuits discovered a route that today unites Chile with Argentina through the Esperanza Valley. The journey across the Andes revives the history of the search for the Route of the Jesuits amidst virgin natural surroundings of ancient native forests, waterfalls and rivers and gives you the opportunity to experience the lives of the valley's rugged colonists.

Day 1 (Monday)
Morning departure from Puerto Varas towards Petrohué, located at the foot of the Osorno Volcano near Lake Todos Los Santos. Continue by catamaran to Peulla where you will take a boat towards the White River Valley. After lunch, start your horseback-riding adventure towards Bandurrias passing through pristine native rainforest and crossing an 18 meter high wooden bridge built by the colonists over Stony river. Arriving at Bandurrias you will be served a country dinner consisting of roasted lamb or lamb stew. Overnight in Bandurrias at a typical home of the area.

Day 2 (Tuesday)
After breakfast set off towards the Esperanza valley through native forest with Mañíos, Ulmos, Cinnamon, Tepas and Olivillos trees and cross the Bandurrias, Esperanza and White rivers which have an average width of 40 mts. Arrive at a colonist's home in time for a home-made lunch. In the afternoon bathe in the hot springs of Vuriloche. Dinner and accommodation at a typical home of the area.

Day 3 (Wednesday)
After breakfast depart towards the house of Don Aroldo, the first colonist of the Esperanza Valley, who will share his experiences of 50 years of life in these valleys. Continue by crossing a native forest to arrive at your destination with great views of Mount Tronador and take a walk in the surrounding area looking for thermal baths which are located besides the White River. After lunch at the home of Don Aroldo enjoy a free afternoon to explore the surrounding area. Overnight at Don Aroldo's home.

Day 4 (Thursday)
Departing early in the morning ride through native rainforest and skirt the White River. Cross Esperanza's Rock and stop for lunch with another colonist family. Remain with the colonists for a relaxing afternoon and overnight.

Day 5 (Friday)
Continue towards the Tronador Volcano refuge from where you will have a unique and spectacular view of the Chilean and Argentine Andes Range (weather permitting). After lunch cross through a native forest to the border with Argentina where the Jesuits passed to get to the mission of Nahuel Huapi. Overnight at the Hostal Pampa Linda.

Day 6 (Saturday)
After breakfast transfer by road to Bariloche.

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