Description

Area/Topic
Chile, Bicycling

Fernando Padilla
Co-Founder
Cicloaustral Chile

Fernando, is 34 years old. He was studying Ecotourism when he started Cicloaustral as a school project for a marketing and entrepreneurship class, and now runs one of the most respected cycling tourism companies in the Chilean Patagonia. In 2012 he traveled 2.200 km by bicycle in the Carretera Austral route, and fell in love with the area's natural environment and people. His trip inspired him to design a comprehensive self-guided trip that includes rental bikes, support services, and a detailed itinerary, in addition to their very popular fully guided tours. Fernando is currently living in Japan, studying for his Masters degree in Tourism and Hospitality Ritsumeikan Asia Pacific University. Among other things, he's working to understand cycling tourism and the impact it has both on participants and the local communities. To date, he's ridden more than 1.000 km while exploring cycling destinations in Japan.

https://www.cicloaustralchile.com/

Summary
Fernando Padilla, founder of Cicloaustral, discusses the transformative experience of cycling in Patagonia's Carretera Austral. He highlights the collaboration with local communities and the slow tourism concept. The route offers a challenging yet controlled adventure, allowing travelers to connect with nature, culture, and themselves. Fernando also mentions the potential for e-bikes in the future and the importance of sustainability in cycling tourism.

Takeaways

• Cicloaustral offers a transformative experience of cycling in Patagonia's Carretera Austral, connecting travelers with nature, culture, and themselves.
• The route is challenging yet controlled, allowing individuals to push their limits and experience personal growth.
• Collaboration with local communities is essential to provide logistics and interpretation of the destination.
• Cycling tourism in Patagonia promotes slow tourism, enabling travelers to fully immerse themselves in the landscape and connect with locals.
• The potential for e-bikes in the future may make cycling more accessible and sustainable.
• Cycling in Patagonia contributes to the local economy and fosters a positive relationship between cyclists and the community.

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