Exploring the Natural Wonders of Futaleufu, Chile

Embracing the Wild Heart of Patagonia

Today was a day of contrasts, a symphony of adrenaline and serenity that only Patagonia could orchestrate. From the roaring rapids of the Futaleufu River to the hushed reverence of Pumalin National Park, every moment was a testament to nature's grandeur. These are the days that etch themselves into your memory, stories you'll recount for years to come.

Our morning began with a hearty breakfast at Once Once Restaurant [Breakfast].


Discover the authentic flavors of Patagonia at Once Once Restaurant in Futaleufú – where local ingredients meet exceptional culinary artistry.

The anticipation was palpable as Hans and I, along with the other rafters, fueled up for our adventure on the Rio Futaleufu. The air was crisp, carrying the scent of damp earth and the promise of untamed waters. I must admit, I felt a flicker of nerves, but excitement far outweighed any apprehension. It's been a while since I've done any serious rafting, and the Futaleufu is known for its Class IV and V rapids.

Arriving at the riverbank, we were greeted by our guides, a team of seasoned professionals whose passion for the river was immediately evident. After a thorough safety briefing and the donning of our gear, we clambered into the raft, ready to face the Fu, as the locals affectionately call it. As we pushed off, I couldn't help but think of my life back in Bamberg, translating documents in my cozy office. This was a world away, a thrilling departure from the familiar rhythms of daily life.

The initial stretch of the river was relatively calm, allowing us to find our rhythm and practice our paddling strokes. But soon enough, the rapids began to appear, each one more challenging than the last. The Futaleufu lived up to its name, which, in the local Mapuche language, means big river. We navigated through churning waters, our raft bucking and weaving as we followed our guide's commands. High siding became an actively used paddle command. At one point, a particularly large wave crashed over the bow, soaking us all to the bone, and I couldn't help but laugh. It was exhilarating, a true test of teamwork and courage. Hans, ever the steady presence, grinned at me, his eyes sparkling with delight.

We paused for lunch at Restaurant Encuentro [Lunch].


Experience authentic Chilean cuisine at Restaurant Encuentro in scenic Futaleufú – where local flavors meet breathtaking landscapes.

We devoured sandwiches and hot soup, replenishing our energy amidst the stunning scenery. The turquoise waters of the Futaleufu, framed by sheer rock walls and lush vegetation, were a sight to behold.

The river's roar became our soundtrack, the paddle our rhythm, and the shared adventure our bond.

After lunch, we continued our rafting journey, tackling even more challenging rapids. We successfully navigated Entrada (Class IV), Mundaca (Class V), and Tiburon (Shark), each rapid testing our skills and resolve. The adrenaline coursed through my veins as we raised our paddles in a rafting high five after successfully navigating each one as a team. It was an incredible feeling of accomplishment, a testament to our collective effort.

The afternoon brought a change of pace as we ventured into Pumalin National Park.


Explore the breathtaking Pumalín National Park, a haven of lush forests, diverse wildlife, and stunning landscapes in Chile's Los Lagos region.

Leaving the river behind, we drove through winding roads, the landscape transforming into a tapestry of emerald green forests and snow-capped mountains. Pumalin is a hiker's paradise, and I was eager to explore its ancient trails.

Our first stop was the Alerce Trail, a relatively short but incredibly rewarding hike that leads to one of the oldest known trees in the world. As we walked beneath the towering canopy, I felt a sense of awe and humility. These ancient alerces, some of which are over 3,000 years old, have witnessed centuries of history. Their gnarled branches and weathered trunks tell a silent story of resilience and endurance. I imagined the indigenous people who once roamed these forests, their lives intertwined with the rhythm of nature.

We continued our exploration of Pumalin, hiking to a series of hidden waterfalls cascading down moss-covered rocks. The air was thick with moisture, and the sounds of the forest filled our ears – the chirping of birds, the rustling of leaves, and the gentle murmur of the water. I felt a sense of peace and tranquility wash over me, a welcome contrast to the adrenaline-fueled morning.

As the day drew to a close, we stopped at Casa Pallú [OtherActivities].


Discover the charm of Casa Pallú, a boutique in Futaleufú offering unique local crafts and a glimpse into the artistic heart of Los Lagos.

We picked up some local crafts. I found a beautiful hand-woven scarf made from Patagonian wool, a perfect souvenir to remind me of our adventure. We had dinner at La Base 13K Restaurante Futaleufú [Dinner].


Experience authentic Peruvian flavors at La Base 13K Restaurante in Futaleufú, where culinary excellence meets stunning natural beauty.

We savored traditional Chilean cuisine and reflected on the day's experiences. The food was delicious, and the atmosphere was warm and inviting.

Tomorrow, we plan to explore Laguna del Azul and Sector Rural El Espolón [TomorrowItinerary]. I'm particularly excited about Laguna del Azul, as I've heard it's a hidden gem with crystal-clear waters and stunning views. I'm also looking forward to trying the local cuisine at Café Huilque for breakfast and Hosteria Rio Grande for lunch [TomorrowItinerary].

As I sit here now, writing in my journal, I feel a deep sense of gratitude for this incredible day. Futaleufu has exceeded all my expectations, offering a perfect blend of adventure and natural beauty. It's a place that challenges you, inspires you, and leaves you with memories that will last a lifetime. I can't wait to see what tomorrow brings.

This trip has also reminded me of the importance of sustainable tourism. Seeing the pristine beauty of Pumalin National Park makes me even more committed to supporting eco-friendly practices and respecting the environment. It's crucial that we preserve these natural wonders for future generations to enjoy.

Back in Bamberg, I often feel disconnected from nature, caught up in the hustle and bustle of city life. But here in Futaleufu, I feel a deep connection to the earth, a sense of belonging that transcends language and culture. It's a reminder that we are all part of something larger than ourselves, and that we have a responsibility to protect the planet we call home. As I drift off to sleep, I dream of roaring rapids, ancient forests, and the promise of new adventures to come.

I am grateful for sharing this experience with Hans. His unwavering support and adventurous spirit make every journey even more memorable. It's a blessing to have a partner who shares my love for exploration and my appreciation for the natural world. Traveling together strengthens our bond and creates memories that we will cherish forever.