Lonquimay: Cycling Routes, Hiking Trails and Local Traditions

Those looking to include nature, outdoor activities and local culture in their travel plans will find plenty of options in Lonquimay: a roughly 20 km route through the Cordillera de Las Raíces, georoutes and hiking trails, as well as markets and local traditions in town. The town is located in the valley of the Río Lonquimay. Its surroundings combine a striking valley setting with routes through a landscape defined by araucaria trees.

Valley, river and distinctive road layout

The Río Lonquimay flows from west to east. The town is located in this valley, and the Plaza de Armas is another of the town’s distinctive features. Its layout is defined by elliptically curving streets. As you explore Lonquimay, you’ll encounter not only the region’s landscapes but also the distinctive design of the town centre.

From Lonquimay, you can take the roughly 20 km alternative route, Cuesta de Las Raíces. It crosses the upper section of the Cordillera de Las Raíces and passes through a landscape dominated by Araucaria araucana. The route offers a distinctive experience for travellers who want to combine a drive through mountain scenery with views of the native araucaria trees.

Georoutes and hikes

The 62 km Georoute 19 is a cycling route from Manzanar via Cuesta de Las Raíces and the town centre of Lonquimay to Sierra Nevada. Its length and route through several named places set it apart from routes that begin in town or lead from Lonquimay to a single destination. Those putting cycling at the heart of their trip can consider this route as a separate part of their itinerary.

Georoute 17 is the georoute through the Valle de Lonquimay and can be started in the town centre. Georoute 11, meanwhile, is a hiking route from Lonquimay to Salto Lonquimay. There are several ways to experience the region: a longer cycling route, a starting point in the town centre for the valley’s georoute, and a hiking route to a waterfall. The descriptions distinguish between modes of travel and destinations, but do not specify a particular walking or cycling time.

Distances from the town are also given for two nearby destinations: the wetland and Laguna San Pedro (G71) are 4 km away. Sendero La Cascada, also known as Salto Alaska, is 8 km from the town. These distances help put the destinations in context, while the georoutes and hiking route offer additional options for planning your trip.

Crafts and traditions in Lonquimay

The town’s cultural scene includes the Mercadito Campesino of the Mesa de la Mujer Rural de Lonquimay. It involves 18 women artisans and promotes traditional crafts such as Witral weaving and items made from native wood, including Picoyo and Roble. It offers a closer look at the materials and craft traditions associated with Lonquimay.

The Mercado Campesino is a separate market, where participating producers sell, among other things, processed agricultural products. The traditional Fiesta del Asado de Chivo y Las Tradiciones de Lonquimay was announced for 13, 14 and 15 February 2026. The programme was set to include roast goat, music, crafts and family activities. Another cultural feature is Plaza Ciudadana Bicentenaria, designed in keeping with Mapuche-Pewenche identity and suitable for outdoor activities.

A holiday rental as a base for planning your trip

Lonquimay’s tourist offerings include accommodation, restaurants, shops and various activities. When looking for a holiday rental, you can start by considering what you want to focus on during your trip: cycling the Cuesta de Las Raíces route, going for a hike, exploring the valley landscape, or discovering local crafts and products. Lonquimay brings these interests together in a destination where georoutes, markets and local features offer different ways to shape your stay.

For more travel inspiration, explore the town pages for Curacautín, Victoria, Traiguén, Collipulli, Lumaco, Purén and Ranquíl.

For the wider travel overview: Malleco.