Exploring the Natural Wonders of Futaleufu, Chile

Embracing the Wild Side of Futaleufu

Today was an immersion into the heart of Chilean Patagonia, a day where the raw beauty of nature took center stage. From exploring protected reserves to witnessing the power of glacial rivers, every moment was a testament to the untamed spirit of Futaleufu. It’s a place where adventure and serenity intertwine, leaving you breathless with wonder.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Once Once Restaurant. The cozy atmosphere and traditional Chilean dishes were the perfect start to fuel our adventures. I savored a delicious empanada, reminiscing about making them back home in Bamberg, trying to recreate the flavors of my childhood in Guanare. Hans, ever the practical one, enjoyed a strong coffee, preparing for the day's explorations. It felt good to start the day with local flavors, a reminder that we were here to experience the authentic Chile.


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

Fueled up, we ventured into the Futaleufu National Reserve. The reserve is a sanctuary of virgin vegetation and extraordinary fauna. As we stepped onto the trails, the crisp Patagonian air filled our lungs, carrying the scent of mountain cypress and ancient lenga trees. I was particularly excited about the possibility of spotting a huemul, the South Andean deer, an endangered species and a symbol of Chile. Though we didn't see one, just knowing they inhabit this protected area gave me a sense of hope and admiration for the conservation efforts.


Explore the stunning landscapes and thrilling adventures of Futaleufú National Reserve, a nature lover's paradise in Los Lagos, Chile.

We chose the Los Líquenes trail, a moderately challenging path that follows the Futaleufu River. The trail meandered through a lush forest, the sunlight dappling through the canopy, creating an ethereal glow. Hans, with his keen eye for detail, pointed out various species of birds, his German efficiency turning our hike into an impromptu ornithology lesson. I tried my hand at capturing the beauty with my camera, hoping to do justice to the vibrant colors and textures of the Patagonian landscape. The trail led us to a stunning viewpoint overlooking the river and the distant Andes, the border with Argentina. It was a breathtaking panorama, a reminder of the vastness and grandeur of this continent.

The Futaleufu River whispers tales of glacial origins, carving its path through ancient rock and shaping the very soul of Patagonia.

After our hike, we were ready for lunch. We headed to Rio Grande Restaurant, known for its regional cuisine and welcoming atmosphere. The restaurant was bustling with fellow travelers, a mix of nationalities and backgrounds, all drawn to the allure of Futaleufu. I ordered a traditional Chilean dish, pastel de choclo, a savory corn pie filled with meat and vegetables. It was hearty and flavorful, a comforting taste of Chilean home cooking. Hans opted for grilled Patagonian lamb, savoring every bite with a satisfied grin. Over lunch, we chatted with a couple from Brazil, exchanging travel stories and tips, the universal language of adventure bridging any cultural gaps.


Savor the essence of Chilean cuisine at Rio Grande Restaurant in Futaleufú - where local flavors meet stunning views.

With our appetites sated, we set out to experience the legendary Rio Futaleufu Rapids. The Futaleufu River is renowned as one of the world's top destinations for white-water rafting and kayaking. Even though I'm not quite brave enough to tackle the Class V rapids myself, I was eager to witness the river's power and beauty. We found a spot along the riverbank to watch the rafters navigate the churning waters, their shouts of exhilaration echoing through the canyon. The turquoise color of the water was mesmerizing, a result of the glacial till that gives the river its unique hue. The sheer force of the rapids was humbling, a reminder of nature's untamed energy.


Discover the breathtaking Rio Futaleufu Rapids, a premier destination for white-water rafting and adventure amidst stunning landscapes in Los Lagos, Chile.

Watching the rafters, I couldn't help but feel a surge of pride remembering Robert F. Kennedy Jr.'s involvement in protecting this very river. His work with the indigenous Pehuenches to stop the damming of the Biobío River, and his opposition to the Futaleufu dams, resonated deeply with my own values of environmental stewardship and social justice. It’s inspiring to see how dedicated individuals can make a difference in preserving our planet's natural treasures.

As the sun began to dip behind the mountains, casting long shadows across the valley, we made our way to Karü Susheria Futaleufú for dinner. I know, it may sound strange to have sushi in Patagonia, but I had read great reviews about this place, and I was curious to try their fusion of Japanese techniques with local ingredients. The restaurant was cozy and inviting, with a warm ambiance that made us feel right at home. We ordered a selection of sushi rolls, each one a work of art, beautifully presented and bursting with flavor. It was a delightful culinary surprise, a testament to the creativity and innovation of the local food scene.


Discover exceptional sushi at Karü Susheria in Futaleufú - where fresh ingredients meet traditional Japanese culinary art.

To cap off the evening, we decided to check out CERVECERIA ESCARCHA PATAGONIA. The brewery offered a variety of artisanal beers, a perfect way to unwind after a day of exploration. The atmosphere was lively and friendly, with locals and tourists mingling and sharing stories. I sampled a local IPA, its hoppy notes a refreshing contrast to the crisp Patagonian air. Hans, ever the beer connoisseur, engaged in a lively discussion with the bartender about the brewing process, his passion for German beer culture finding common ground with the Chilean craft beer scene.


Experience the best of Patagonian craft beer at Cervecería Escarcha Patagonia, where local flavors meet stunning scenery.

As we walked back to our lodgings under the starlit sky, I reflected on the day's adventures. From the tranquil trails of the national reserve to the exhilarating rapids of the Futaleufu River, every moment had been a celebration of nature's beauty and power. It was a day that reminded me of the importance of preserving these wild places, not just for our own enjoyment, but for future generations to come.

Tomorrow, we plan to explore Laguna de la Paz and Mirador del Diablo [if last day of trip, merge in “Trip end”]. I’m looking forward to more hiking and breathtaking views [if last day of trip, merge in “Trip end”]. We also plan to have breakfast at Café Huilque, lunch at Rincon de Mama, and dinner at SurAndes Futaleufú [if last day of trip, merge in “Trip end”]. And perhaps a bit of shopping at Tienda Lasen [if last day of trip, merge in “Trip end”]. It’s exciting to think about what new wonders await us [if last day of trip, merge in “Trip end”]. Good night from Futaleufu [if last day of trip, merge in “Trip end”]!

It's moments like these that make me so grateful for the opportunity to travel and experience the world with Hans. It is a reminder of why we left Venezuela, why we sought a different life in Germany, and why we continue to explore new horizons together. And, I hope, through my blog, I can inspire others to do the same.