Exploring the Natural Wonders of Futaleufu, Chile

A Day Among Giants

Today was a day of reaching new heights, both literally and figuratively, here in beautiful Futaleufu. The crisp Patagonian air invigorated us as we set out to explore the natural wonders this region has to offer. It's days like these that remind me why Hans and I embarked on this adventure – to immerse ourselves in the beauty of the world and create lasting memories with my family.

Our morning began with a hearty breakfast at Café Huilque. This cozy spot, tucked away on Gabriela Mistral, is known for its delicious coffee and warm atmosphere. I opted for a latte with oat milk, while Hans enjoyed a traditional black coffee. We shared a slice of their homemade vegan muffin, which was the perfect start to our day. The café was bustling with locals and tourists alike, all eager to fuel up before their own adventures. It reminded me of the small cafes back in Guanare, Venezuela, where the sense of community was just as strong.


Discover the serene beauty of Laguna Hermana in Los Lagos, Chile, where crystal-clear waters meet breathtaking mountain views for nature lovers.
Fueled and ready, we set off towards Laguna Hermana. The drive itself was a treat, with stunning views of the Futaleufu River and the surrounding mountains. Although the temperature was mild, hovering in the low 50s, the sky was overcast, a typical September day here. The landscape was painted in hues of green and brown, a stark contrast to the vibrant colors of my garden back in Bamberg. We parked the car and began our trek towards Mirador Del Condor. The trail started off gently, winding through a lush forest filled with Coihue trees. The air was fresh and clean, carrying the scent of damp earth and pine. As we ascended, the path became steeper, and I found myself relying on my trusty hiking boots more than once. I was glad I remembered to pack them!

Sometimes, the most scenic roads in life are the detours you didn't mean to take.

Experience the breathtaking views and diverse wildlife at Mirador Del Condor, a national reserve in the heart of Chile's Los Lagos region.
The climb to Mirador Del Condor was challenging but incredibly rewarding. The trail is well-maintained, with clear signage, but it's definitely a workout. There were even stairs at some points. As we gained altitude, the views became more and more spectacular. The Futaleufu River snaked through the valley below, a ribbon of turquoise against the rugged landscape. The town of Futaleufu looked like a miniature village from above, nestled between the mountains. The weather was clear enough that we could see for miles in every direction. We paused several times to catch our breath and take in the scenery. I even managed to snap a few photos, hoping to capture the grandeur of the moment.

Finally, we reached the Mirador Del Condor. The view was simply breathtaking. From this vantage point, we could see the entire valley spread out before us. The wind was strong, but the panoramic vista was worth it. While we didn't spot any condors soaring overhead, the views were majestic nonetheless. We spent a good hour at the mirador, simply soaking in the beauty and tranquility of the place. It was a moment of pure bliss, a reminder of the simple joys in life. I felt grateful for the opportunity to share this experience with Hans, who was equally captivated by the scenery.

After descending from Mirador Del Condor, we were both famished. We decided to have lunch at Once once Restaurant. This restaurant offers delicious local food and impressive views. I ordered a traditional Chilean dish called pastel de choclo, a savory corn pie filled with meat and vegetables. Hans opted for a hearty plate of cazuela, a Chilean stew with meat, potatoes, and vegetables. The food was delicious and comforting, the perfect way to refuel after our hike. The restaurant had a cozy ambiance, and the staff was friendly and welcoming. It felt like a true taste of Chilean hospitality.


Discover the authentic flavors of Patagonia at Once Once Restaurant in Futaleufú – where local ingredients meet exceptional culinary artistry.
In the late afternoon, with our bellies full and our spirits high, we decided to explore the town of Futaleufu. We strolled through the streets, admiring the colorful houses and the charming architecture. We stopped by Casa Pallú, a local shop, and picked up a few souvenirs for our friends and family back home. It was a lovely way to immerse ourselves in the local culture and support the community.

As evening approached, we decided to unwind at SurAndes Futaleufú, a local bar known for its craft beers and lively atmosphere. I ordered a local IPA, while Hans chose a glass of Chilean red wine. The bar was buzzing with locals and tourists, all eager to share stories and experiences. We chatted with a friendly couple from Argentina, who were also exploring Patagonia. They shared their travel tips and recommendations, and we exchanged stories about our respective home countries. It was a reminder of the connections that travel can forge, bridging cultures and creating lasting friendships.


Experience authentic Chilean cuisine amidst the stunning landscapes of Futaleufú at SurAndes, where every meal is a journey into flavor.
For dinner, we opted for La Rosadita futaleufu, a pizzeria known for its Italian cuisine. Despite being in Chile, we couldn't resist the allure of a good pizza. We ordered a margherita pizza to share, and it was absolutely delicious. The crust was thin and crispy, the sauce was flavorful, and the mozzarella was perfectly melted. It was a taste of Italy in the heart of Patagonia! The atmosphere was relaxed and inviting, and the staff was attentive and friendly. It was the perfect way to end our day of adventures.


Discover La Rosadita in Futaleufú: where authentic Italian pizza meets breathtaking scenery in Los Lagos.
As I sit here now, writing this blog post from our cozy eco-lodge, I can't help but feel grateful for the experiences we had today. Futaleufu has truly captured my heart with its stunning landscapes, its warm hospitality, and its sense of adventure. Tomorrow, we are planning to go rafting on the Rio Futaleufu, which I am very excited about! And maybe visit Pumalin National Park. I am looking forward to more adventures here in Patagonia.

Travel is not just about seeing new places; it's about experiencing new cultures, making new friends, and creating memories that will last a lifetime.

Before drifting off to sleep, I took a moment to reflect on the day. From the invigorating hike to Mirador Del Condor to the delicious meals and the friendly encounters, every moment was a gift. It's days like these that make me appreciate the beauty of the world and the importance of cherishing every experience. As I close my eyes, I can still feel the crisp Patagonian air on my skin and hear the gentle murmur of the Futaleufu River. I am grateful for this adventure, for this journey, and for the opportunity to share it with you all. Goodnight from Futaleufu!