Exploring the Untamed Beauty of Futaleufu, Chile

Welcome to Futaleufu!

After a long journey from Berlin, with a stopover in Santiago and then Puerto Montt, Lena and I finally arrived in Futaleufu, Chile. The trip was long, but the anticipation of exploring this remote Patagonian town kept our spirits high. Known for its stunning landscapes and adventure tourism, Futaleufu promised an escape from our routine and a chance to reconnect with nature. As a software developer, I spend most of my days indoors, so the prospect of hiking and exploring the outdoors was particularly appealing. Lena, with her keen eye for design, was eager to capture the beauty of the region through her photography.

Our first day was all about getting acquainted with the town and its surroundings. The air was crisp and clean, a welcome change from Berlin's urban atmosphere. The weather in November is moderately chilly, with temperatures ranging from 3°C to 14°C. We were prepared for the cooler climate, having packed our hiking boots and waterproof jackets, though I did realize I had forgotten my portable phone charger, a rookie mistake in this day and age.

Our exploration began at the heart of the town, Plaza Futaleufu. It's the central gathering place, offering a glimpse into the local life. The plaza is surrounded by charming buildings and provides stunning views of the Andes. We took a leisurely stroll, soaking in the peaceful atmosphere and admiring the quaint architecture. The town itself is nestled in the Andes, about 50 kilometers from Trevelin, offering breathtaking views from the plaza.


Explore Plaza Futaleufu, a scenic park in Los Lagos, Chile, where nature meets community in a breathtaking landscape perfect for adventure and relaxation.

The beauty of Futaleufu lies not just in its landscapes, but in the warmth and authenticity of its people.

For breakfast, we stopped at Café Huilque, a cozy spot known for its excellent espresso. As a Czech, I appreciate a good cup of coffee, and Café Huilque did not disappoint. Lena opted for a cappuccino, and we shared a couple of pastries while planning our day. Cami and Seba, who run the cafe, are committed to delivering quality and dedication in every preparation.


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

After breakfast, we decided to embark on a hike up Cerro la Bandera. I had read that the trek was reasonably easy, offering panoramic views of Futaleufu and the Beagle Channel from the summit. The trail began with a gentle incline, gradually becoming steeper as we ascended. The landscape was lush and green, typical of Patagonia in the springtime. The increasing daylight hours in November made it a perfect time for hiking.


Explore the breathtaking beauty of Cerro La Bandera in Futaleufú, Chile, where stunning landscapes and outdoor adventures await.

The hike took us through a valley, and the views became increasingly rewarding as we gained altitude. About an hour into the hike, we reached the main ridge, where we could see the antennas to our left. The path was clear, and we continued our ascent, following the well-trodden trail.

Reaching the summit of Cerro la Bandera was a moment of triumph. The panoramic views were breathtaking, stretching across the town of Futaleufu and the surrounding mountains. We took some time to capture the scenery with our cameras, Lena focusing on the details while I tried to capture the vastness of the landscape. It’s a tradition to place a stone at the top, marking your visit, so we added our own to the pile.

For lunch, we headed to La Picá de los Colonos, a family-run restaurant specializing in traditional Chilean cuisine. After our hike, we were both ravenous, and the hearty Chilean dishes were exactly what we needed. We ordered empanadas and cazuelas, savoring the authentic flavors and fresh, local ingredients. The restaurant had a cozy, welcoming atmosphere, and the friendly service made us feel right at home.


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

In the late afternoon, we explored more of Futaleufu, wandering through the streets and observing the local life. The town has a unique charm, with its colorful houses and friendly residents. We stopped by a local artisan shop, admiring the handcrafted goods and chatting with the owner.

As evening approached, we chose Restaurante Martin Pescador for dinner. The ambiance was relaxing, with soft music and a warm atmosphere. We ordered seafood dishes, enjoying the fresh flavors and expertly prepared meals. The restaurant is known for its excellent food and drinks, making it a perfect spot to unwind after a day of exploring.


Discover authentic Chilean cuisine amidst breathtaking landscapes at Restaurante Martin Pescador in Futaleufú.

To cap off our first day, we visited CERVECERIA ESCARCHA PATAGONIA, a local bar. I am always keen to sample local beers. It was a cozy place, and we enjoyed a couple of drinks while chatting with some locals. It was a great way to immerse ourselves in the local culture and learn more about the town.


Discover the essence of Patagonian craft beer at Cervecería Escarcha Patagonia, where every sip tells a story amidst stunning mountain views.

As we walked back to our lodging, under a sky full of stars, we reflected on our first day in Futaleufu. The town had exceeded our expectations, offering a perfect blend of natural beauty and cultural charm. We were excited about the adventures that awaited us in the coming days. Tomorrow, we are planning to go rafting on the Rio Futaleufu and visit Piedra del Aguila. I am looking forward to another day of exploration and discovery in this beautiful corner of Patagonia.

Even though I missed the comfort of my reliable portable phone charger, I was surprised to find out about the Jazz Room: Tribute to the Blues event taking place in Santiago, Chile on November 1st, 2025. Perhaps we can visit this event on our way back to Berlin.

The forecast for tomorrow is partly cloudy, so hopefully, the weather will be in our favor as we take on the Futaleufu River. Good night from Futaleufu!