Exploring the Natural Wonders of Futaleufu, Chile

Reflections and Heights in Futaleufu

Today was a day of serene reflections and breathtaking heights here in Futaleufu. It’s amazing how a change of scenery can completely rejuvenate the spirit. After several days of adventurous activities, we decided to explore some of the more tranquil spots around this beautiful region. It turned out to be exactly what we needed.

Our day began, as most days do here, with a hearty breakfast at Café Huilque. The aroma of freshly brewed coffee and the warm, inviting atmosphere set the perfect tone for a day of exploration. I savored a strong coffee while Hans enjoyed his usual 'té con leche'. It's these small, comforting routines that make traveling together so special. We chatted with the friendly staff, who gave us some tips on the best spots to capture the reflections at Laguna Espejo.


Discover the serene beauty of Laguna Espejo, a tranquil lake surrounded by majestic mountains in Futaleufú, Los Lagos, Chile.
Fueled and ready, we set off towards Laguna Espejo. The drive itself was a treat, with the Patagonian landscape unfolding before us in all its glory. The road wound through valleys dotted with grazing sheep and vibrant wildflowers. As we approached the Laguna, the air grew still, and a sense of tranquility washed over us. It was easy to see how the lake earned its name, 'Espejo', which means 'mirror' in Spanish. The water was so clear and still that the surrounding mountains were perfectly reflected on its surface, creating a stunning visual effect.

The beauty of nature lies not just in what we see, but in what it awakens within us.

We spent a peaceful morning wandering along the shore, taking photographs, and simply soaking in the beauty. Hans, ever the patient photographer, captured some truly stunning shots of the reflections. I even tried my hand at sketching, attempting to capture the scene in my notebook. It’s moments like these that remind me why I love to travel – the chance to slow down, appreciate the simple things, and connect with nature. We walked along the path that surrounds the lake, enjoying different perspectives of the landscape. The quiet was broken only by the occasional bird call and the gentle lapping of water against the shore.

After our tranquil morning at Laguna Espejo, our appetites were calling, and we headed to Madero Sándwich y Cerveza for lunch. This place is a gem! The sandwiches were incredible, made with fresh, local ingredients. Hans opted for a classic Chilean sandwich with grilled steak, while I tried one with avocado and local cheese. And of course, we had to sample some of the local craft beers. The cozy atmosphere and friendly service made it a perfect midday stop.


Discover delightful sandwiches and local beers at Madero Sándwich y Cerveza in Futaleufú – an unmissable culinary experience amidst stunning landscapes.
With renewed energy, our afternoon was dedicated to reaching the heights of Piedra del Aguila. The hike to Piedra del Aguila, or Eagle Rock, was invigorating. The trail wound its way up the mountain, offering stunning views of the Futaleufu valley below. As we climbed, the landscape transformed from lush green meadows to rugged, rocky terrain. The air was crisp and clean, filled with the scent of pine.


Discover the breathtaking views and serene beauty of Piedra del Aguila, the must-see observation deck in the heart of Los Lagos, Chile.
The final ascent to the top was a bit challenging, but the panoramic views were well worth the effort. From the summit, we could see the entire valley spread out before us, with the Futaleufu River snaking its way through the landscape. The town of Futaleufu looked like a miniature village from up there. The rock formations themselves were impressive, shaped by centuries of wind and weather. It was easy to imagine eagles soaring overhead, surveying their domain.

I couldn’t help but feel a sense of accomplishment as we stood there, taking in the view. It’s amazing how a physical challenge can clear the mind and lift the spirits. Hans pointed out different landmarks in the distance, sharing stories he’d read about the area’s history. He really does his research, my Hans!

On our way back to town, we stopped by Patagonia Futa Mate to pick up some local yerba mate. I want to bring a taste of Patagonia back to Bamberg with me. I’m hoping to perfect the art of mate preparation, though I doubt it will ever taste as good as it does here, surrounded by these incredible landscapes.


Discover the heart of Patagonia at Futa Mate, your go-to general store for local crafts and essential supplies in Los Lagos.
For dinner, we decided to try ECLYPZZA (formerly Pizzas de Fabio). After a long day of hiking, pizza seemed like the perfect comfort food. We shared a delicious pizza topped with local mushrooms and herbs. It was the perfect way to end a day of exploring the natural wonders of Futaleufu.


Discover ECLYPZZA in Futaleufú: Delight in artisanal pizzas made with fresh local ingredients amidst stunning landscapes.
As I sit here writing this, reflecting on our day, I’m filled with gratitude for the opportunity to experience such beauty. Futaleufu has a way of capturing the heart and soul. It’s a place where you can disconnect from the stresses of everyday life and reconnect with nature, with yourself, and with your loved ones. I am so glad I got to share these experiences with Hans.

Tomorrow, we are planning to explore Laguna Pinilla and Parque Nacional Los Alerces. I am particularly excited about visiting the national park, as I have heard it is home to some ancient Alerce trees. We also plan to have lunch at Once Once Restaurant and dinner at La Yunta. And maybe, just maybe, we'll find time for a nightcap at Pub Scorpions. Until then, I bid you goodnight from beautiful Futaleufu.

I am so glad to be sharing these experiences with you all. Stay tuned for more adventures!

It is interesting to note that Futaleufu is known as a world-class destination for white water rafting and kayaking. The Futaleufu River is considered one of the best rivers in the world for these activities. It is also interesting to learn about the efforts to protect the Futaleufu River from being dammed. The local community and international organizations have worked together to preserve the natural beauty and free flow of the river. The Futaleufu River derives its name from the Mapudungun word meaning Big River. The town has a population of about 2,000, which grows during the summer rafting and kayaking season.