Exploring the Untamed Beauty of Futaleufu, Chile

A Day of Breathtaking Vistas

Today was all about embracing the vastness of Futaleufu. Lena and I set out to explore the region's famed viewpoints, eager to soak in the panoramic beauty that everyone raves about. We knew that with November bringing a mix of sunshine and occasional showers to Patagonia, we needed to be prepared for anything. Our itinerary included Laguna del Azul and Mirador del Diablo, promising a day filled with natural wonders.


Experience the breathtaking beauty of Laguna del Azul in Futaleufú, a hidden gem in Los Lagos, Chile, perfect for nature lovers and adventure seekers.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Pronto Express Futaleufu. I opted for a classic Chilean breakfast of scrambled eggs with toast, while Lena enjoyed a plate of fresh fruit and yogurt. Fueled up, we headed towards our first destination: Laguna del Azul. The drive itself was scenic, with the road winding through lush forests and alongside the vibrant blue Futaleufu River. The air was crisp and clean, carrying the scent of damp earth and pine. I always appreciate these mornings; they remind me so much of hiking back home in the Harz Mountains, although the scale here is just… different.

Reaching Laguna del Azul required a bit of a trek, but it was absolutely worth it. The trail meandered through dense forests, and the anticipation grew with each step. Finally, the trees parted, revealing the lagoon in all its glory. The water was an unbelievable shade of turquoise, reflecting the surrounding mountains and sky. It felt like stepping into a postcard. We spent a good hour simply taking in the view, snapping photos, and enjoying the tranquility. I can see why it's called 'Blue Lagoon' – the glacial silt truly gives it a unique hue.

The beauty of Futaleufu lies not just in its landscapes, but in the sense of peace it instills.

Next on our list was Mirador del Diablo. The drive to the trailhead was an adventure in itself, with gravel roads adding a bit of a challenge. We parked the car and began the hike, which was moderately challenging. The trail wound upwards, offering glimpses of the Futaleufu River far below. The landscape was rugged and raw, a testament to the power of nature. As we climbed, the wind picked up, and we could feel the true Patagonian spirit.


Discover the breathtaking panoramic views of the Andes and the Futaleufú River at the stunning Mirador del Diablo in Chile's Los Lagos region.

Reaching the Mirador del Diablo was an experience. The viewpoint offered a stunning panorama of the Futaleufu River canyon, a dramatic landscape that truly took our breath away. The sheer drop-offs and rugged terrain were awe-inspiring, making it a perfect spot for photography. Lena, with her keen eye for design, was in her element, capturing the vibrant colors and textures of the landscape. I tried my best to keep up with her, snapping away with my camera, hoping to capture even a fraction of the beauty before us.

After soaking in the views at Mirador del Diablo, we drove back to Futaleufu, ready for a late lunch. We decided to try Once once Restaurant, a local spot known for its traditional Chilean cuisine. We shared a hearty plate of empanadas, filled with savory meat and vegetables, and a refreshing ensalada chilena. The food was simple but delicious, providing the perfect fuel for our afternoon adventure.


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

With our bellies full, we strolled through the town, eventually finding ourselves at Casa Pallú. This charming shop offered a glimpse into the local artistry of the Los Lagos region. Lena, always on the lookout for unique finds, spent ages browsing the colorful handwoven textiles and pottery. I admired the handcrafted leather goods, thinking of how well they would fit into my Berlin wardrobe. We ended up buying a small, hand-painted ceramic bowl as a memento of our time in Futaleufu.


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

As evening approached, we made our way to Restobar El Patagón for dinner. The restaurant had a cozy atmosphere, with warm lighting and rustic décor. We ordered a couple of local specialties – I opted for the Asado Banderita de Autor, while Lena chose the guatitas a la jardinera. The food was hearty and flavorful, a perfect end to a day of outdoor adventures. We lingered over our meal, savoring the flavors and reflecting on the incredible sights we had seen.


Experience authentic Chilean cuisine at Restobar El Patagón in Futaleufú - where local flavors meet warm hospitality.

Tomorrow, we plan to explore the Futaleufu National Reserve and Laguna Hermana. I’m particularly excited about the reserve; I've heard the hiking trails are fantastic. Lena is already planning her photography angles for Laguna Hermana. We'll start the day with breakfast at Café Huilque and then head out for a full day of exploring. We might even stop by Patio Cervecero Futaleufu 2019 for a beer in the evening. It’s always good to sample the local brews, isn't it?

As I sit here writing this, I feel a deep sense of gratitude for the experiences we had today. Futaleufu has a way of captivating you with its natural beauty and simple charm. It's a place where you can truly disconnect from the stresses of modern life and reconnect with the earth. And that, I believe, is a gift worth cherishing. The crisp air, the stunning vistas, the friendly locals – it all adds up to an unforgettable experience. I'm already looking forward to what tomorrow brings. I think I even saw a poster for Fiesta Costumbrista El Arriero, so maybe we'll check that out if we have time.