LA MINGA

LA MINGA – Puerto Varas, Chile

• Date: 11 October 2026
• Location: Cerro Philippi, Puerto Varas, Chile
• Distances: 60 km, 120 km, 240 km
• Event Type: Gravel Race

Set in the heart of the Los Lagos Region, La Minga is a gravel race in Chile that weaves sport, landscape, and local culture into a single, flowing experience. On October 11, 2026, the town of Puerto Varas becomes the backdrop for a day of riding that celebrates community and the wild essence of the south. The event is named for the traditional minga, a collective effort where neighbors unite to move an entire house, and it carries this spirit of collaboration and shared purpose onto the gravel roads.

Three distinct routes offer a challenge for every rider. The 60-kilometer loop is an invitation to those new to gravel or wanting a more contemplative pace. The 120-kilometer course finds a balance between endurance and adventure, while the 240-kilometer journey is a demanding test for those pushing their limits. Each path has been designed to connect cyclists with the soul of southern Chile, traversing native forests, quiet rural roads, and views of volcanoes, rivers, and the Patagonian coast.

The spirit of the event is perhaps best captured in its team format. Alongside individual entries, riders can form a team of three for the 'Modalidad Minga.' Each team member tackles a different distance—60, 120, or 240 km—contributing their effort to a collective result. It’s a format that mirrors the event's namesake, where individual strength comes together to achieve a common goal, making this more than just another gravel race in Chile.

Cerro Philippi, an emblematic landmark in Puerto Varas, serves as the central hub or 'Nuestra Casa' (Our House). This base camp is both the start and finish for all distances, but its role extends beyond logistics. Throughout the day, it will be a lively gathering place for riders, families, and the local community, filled with live music, regional food, and activities that celebrate the outdoor culture of this beautiful region.

The experience does not end at the finish line. In the tradition of a true minga, the conclusion of the ride marks the beginning of a celebration. Awaiting the returning cyclists is a great shared table, laden with food inspired by southern traditions. It’s a moment to gather, to share stories from the road, and to honor the collective effort in an atmosphere of warmth and camaraderie. This gathering is central to the event’s unique character, among other other gravel events in Chile.

La Minga is an invitation to discover a territory through the rhythm of the pedals. It is a day to challenge oneself against the backdrop of an unforgettable landscape and to feel the embrace of a community upon returning. The organizers believe the best adventures are built by sharing them with others. To learn more about the routes and registration, visit the official event website.