Meet the Mapuche - "the people of the land" - and their culture. You can only fully appreciate their customs and traditions if you take time to immerse yourself in their culture by participating in it. A decisive factor in Mapuche culture is the great reverence for the land and the environment; in Chedungun, the Mapuche language, the word "mapuche" actually means "people of the land." 'Mapu'- 'Land' is considered sacred. and is intrinsically linked to the supernatural. Thus, 'Mapu' can never be owned by an individual, but always belongs to the entire community. Mapuche culture is rich in folklore and music, musical instruments like the Trutruca and Kultrun testify to this. These instruments are used during ceremonies that involve traditional tunes, dances, songs, and sports (e.g. Palín).

Day 1: Concepción - Lago Lanalhue

Your guide will pick you up from the airport in Concepción and the journey begins with a drive to Cañete in Arauco Province, where our Mapuche guide Armando will join you. Enjoy a guided tour through the Mapuche Museum, which will you familiarize yourself with this culture from an historical perspective. You will also have the chance to get to know the traditional Ruka - the Mapuche home - its functionality and architecture. Later on, you will be taken to Hotel Licahue, which overlooks peaceful Lake Lanalhue. (D)

Day 2: Meet the Mapuche Culture

After breakfast you will depart to the Ruka Lelyun in the Elikura Valley and visit the Lonko - the Mapuche leader - Miguel Leviqueo, who will receive you with a welcome ceremony; the inhabitants of the ruka and you will be introduced to each other. At the ruka you will learn about the Mapuche philosophy of life, the different instruments used in ceremonies and clothing. You are welcome to participate in the various dances. During lunch you will sample a traditional Mapuche dish prepared by the wife of the Lonko, and afterwards learn to play the Mapuche hockey game called "Palín" . Then you will go on to Huentelolen, where the Mapuche artisan Mrs. Ester Astorga will demonstrate how to weave items from then ñocha plant and how these items are used. Return to the hotel. (B,L,D)

Day 3: Meet the Mapuche Culture

Today you will move on to Tirua Sur, a historical site where prior to the Mapuche uprising in 1881 one of the major battles between the Mapuche and Chilean forces occurred. The Chemamüll ("people made of wood") mark it as a ceremonial place. The Lonko of Tirua Sur, Mr. Juan Segundo Huenupil Nahuelpan, will perform a llellipun (morning prayer) in which you can participate; afterwards you will receive a class in Chedungun and learn a basic vocabulary. For lunch, we will enjoy a Mapuche seafood dish with ingredients collected by the people of the community. You will then go on to the ruka of the Quilapi Family, where the owners Lonko Luís Quilapi and his wife Mrs. Amalia Quilapi will give you a formal Mapuche welcome and then show you how to produce woven goods. You will be able to weave objects yourself and learn about different methods of dyeing. Your hosts will also explain the role of "Gallinas Araucana", a type of chicken that plays an important role in the Mapuche religion. You will return to your hotel after this educational day. (B,L,D)

Day 4: Lago Lanalhue - Temuco

After breakfast you will depart from Lago Lanalhue to the Araucania Region and Temuco. On your way you will participate in a guided visit to Contulmo Natural Monument, where you will walk through a typical Valdivian Rainforest, with all its characteristic species of plants. In total, you will have two hours in the park and then continue on to Temuco where your journey to the Mapuche culture ends. (B, BL)

Rates for 2008/2009

Includes:

3 overnights in Hotel Licahue with full board, transfers and excursions with driver and bilingual guide, extra Mapuche guide and entrance fees.

Not Included:

International or domestic air fares, meals not specified in the itinerary, personal expenses, tips or gratuities, travel insurance of any kind

Rates my vary due to currency exchange rate fluctuations.

Minimum number of participants: 2, rates are lower for larger groups, please enquire.

For further information and booking inquiries please send us and e-mail.

Hotel used for this itinerary:

Hotel Licahue*** Hotel Licahue is a simple hotel that overlooks Lake Lanalhue. It is situated 4 km / 2,5 miles from the village of Contulmo, known for its German influence that dates back to the 18th century colonists who settled in this region. The hotel features cozy in traditional Chilean style. Hotel facilities include a restaurant with spectacular views over the lake, a pool and a meeting-room. Its location on the shores of Lake Lanalhue and the surrounding nature provides guests with ample opportunities to explore the beauty of this area. The hotel can also provide Kayaks.