Exploring the Untamed Beauty of Futaleufu, Chile

A Day of Patagonian Wonders

Today was a day of immersing ourselves in the raw, untouched beauty of Futaleufu National Reserve. We ventured into the Futaleufu National Reserve and discovered the tranquil Laguna Hermana, experiencing Patagonia's natural charm firsthand. It's moments like these that remind me why Lena and I crave these adventures – the chance to disconnect from our busy Berlin lives and reconnect with nature's simple, profound beauty.


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

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Café Huilque. This cozy spot, known for its excellent espresso, was the perfect place to fuel up before our adventure. I opted for a strong black coffee and Lena, a latte with oat milk. The cafe had a very welcoming atmosphere. It was the perfect way to start our explorations. As a software developer, I appreciate the simple things in life, and a good cup of coffee is definitely one of them.


Discover Café Huilque in Futaleufú: A cozy espresso bar offering exceptional brews and a tranquil atmosphere amidst stunning landscapes.

Fueled and ready, we set off for the Futaleufu National Reserve. The reserve was created on September 8, 1998. The drive itself was scenic, with the landscape unfolding before us. The reserve is located southeast of the Futaleufú River. The weather in Futaleufu in November typically brings moderate temperatures and high rainfall. Today, we were lucky to have sunshine with temperatures around 14°C. It was perfect for hiking. The reserve is part of the Biosphere Reserve of the Southern Andes Temperate Rainforests.

The trails were well-maintained, and we chose a route that promised panoramic views. As we ascended, the landscape transformed, revealing stunning vistas of the Futaleufu River valley and the surrounding mountains. The fresh air filled our lungs, and the only sounds were the rustling of leaves and the occasional bird call. The reserve is home to a diverse range of wildlife, including pumas and the endangered huemul. We kept our eyes peeled, hoping to catch a glimpse of these elusive creatures, but no luck today.

Sometimes, the greatest discoveries are not new lands, but new eyes.

After a few hours of hiking, we reached Laguna Hermana. The lake was a serene oasis, its crystal-clear waters reflecting the surrounding mountains and forests. The name Laguna Hermana translates to Sister Lake. We found a secluded spot on the shore and sat in silence, soaking in the tranquility. Lena, ever the artist, sketched in her notebook, capturing the essence of the landscape with her charcoal pencils. I took some photos, trying to capture the moment, but no image could truly do it justice.


Discover the serene beauty of Laguna Hermana in Los Lagos, Chile, where crystal-clear waters meet breathtaking mountain views for nature lovers.

For lunch, we headed to La Picá de los Colonos, a family-run restaurant known for its authentic Chilean cuisine. We started with empanadas, savory pastries filled with meat and vegetables, followed by cazuela, a hearty Chilean stew. The flavors were rich and comforting, a perfect complement to the day's activities. The restaurant is known for using fresh, local ingredients. It was a cozy and welcoming place.


Discover authentic Chilean cuisine at La Picá de los Colonos in Futaleufú – where tradition meets flavor.

In the late afternoon, we made our way back to Futaleufu, stopping briefly at Patio Cervecero Futaleufu 2019, a local bar. I enjoyed a local craft beer while Lena had a refreshing Pisco Sour. It was a great way to unwind and reflect on the day's adventures. The bar offers a variety of local and regional beers. It's a popular spot among locals and tourists alike.


Experience the vibrant beer culture of Futaleufu at Patio Cervecero, where local brews and a lively atmosphere await every visitor.

For dinner, we decided to try ECLYPZZA (formerly Pizzas de Fabio). This place is known for its creative and delicious pizzas. We shared a pizza topped with local cheeses and vegetables, a delightful end to a day filled with outdoor activity and culinary delights. The restaurant has a cozy and relaxed atmosphere. It's a great place to enjoy a casual meal with friends or family.


Discover ECLYPZZA in Futaleufú: Delight in artisanal pizzas made with fresh local ingredients amidst stunning landscapes.

As the day drew to a close, we found ourselves reflecting on the beauty and tranquility of Futaleufu. The Futaleufu National Reserve and Laguna Hermana offered a glimpse into Patagonia's soul, a reminder of the importance of preserving these natural treasures. I am concerned about the potential damming of the Futaleufu River. It is essential to protect such natural treasures. It was inspiring to learn about Robert F. Kennedy Jr.'s involvement in the campaign against the dams.

Tomorrow, we plan to explore Rio Espolon and Laguna Oscura. I'm eager to see what other hidden gems Futaleufu has in store for us. Lena is particularly excited about Laguna Oscura, having heard tales of its mystical beauty. It is a place that is known for its dark, mysterious waters.

Back at our cozy cabin, with the scent of woodsmoke in the air, I felt a deep sense of gratitude. This trip with Lena is more than just a vacation; it's a chance to reconnect with each other and with the natural world. As I drifted off to sleep, I couldn't help but wonder what tomorrow would bring. The anticipation was almost as exciting as the day itself.