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Taking in close-up views of glaciers

Explore Aysen and Patagonia National Park

Example 7 Day Tour
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Southern Chile offers a combination of unique wildlife and spectacular scenery in one of the most isolated regions of South America. On this 7-day tour, explore the Aysen region of Chile and marvel at the Patagonia National Park's stunning natural scenery. Spot unique wildlife as you actively explore the landscape by bike, kayak, horse, and your own two feet. At the end of each day, rejuvenate in your comfortable cabins overlooking Lake General Carrera. Visit the famed Marble Caves by kayak, join a rafting tour in the Baker River, and explore many trails to the viewpoints of Lake Bertrand and Plomo. Experience a guided trek on the magnificent Exploradores glacier. This adventure is an excellent active Chile tour for both beginners and experienced travelers
Woman paddles through the Marble Caves of Lake General Carrera, Aysen, ChileView of a beautiful glacierBeautiful remote region of AysenCerro Castillo SceneryExploradores GlacierVisiting Marble CaveAysen, ChileTaking in close-up views of glaciers
Highlights
  • Kayak the famous Marble Caves and Cathedrals of Lake General Carrera
  • Visit Laguna San Rafael National Park and the San Rafael Glacier
  • Raft down the Baker River surrounded by high mountains & lush vegetation
  • Explore the many trails to the viewpoint of Lake Bertrand
  • Marvel at the Patagonian forest's stunning natural scenery
  • Visit the mountains and pristine landscapes of Patgonia National Park
Places Visited
Activity Level: Moderate
Activities that provide a reasonable level of physical challenge and elevate the heart rate. Focused on more active pursuits including multisport tours. Travelers may be active 5-7 hours total each day. Recommended for travelers with active lifestyles.
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Full Itinerary

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Day 1: Arrive in Balmaceda | Mallin Colorado Ecolodge

Arrive at Balmaceda airport, meet your guide and set out on the 6-hour drive south along the Carretera Austral to the Mallin Colorado Ecolodge. Along the way, you will see the signature glaciated lakes, towering mountain peaks, and dramatic valleys for which this remote region of Chile is known. You will stay in cozy cabins overlooking the calypso-blue Lake General Carrera, the second largest in South America after Lake Titicaca. 

Day 2: Kayak the Marble Caves

Today you will visit the famed Marble Caves by kayak. After breakfast, head north towards Puerto Tranquilo to Mansa Bay. Your guide will assist you with preparing your kayak and paddling instructions. Once all equipment is set,  paddle your way to the famed Marble Caves, where you can glide through these architectural wonders. Learn geological theories about the formation of these unique cliffside caves created along the shores of Lake General Carrera. See how the stone has been eroded by the movement of water and strong wind throughout the years as you kayak the calypso-blue waters. Once back on shore, the rest of the day is free to explore the trails throughout the Mallin Colorado or relax and enjoy learning more about the Patagonian Gaucho culture in the lodge.

Day 3: San Rafael Glacier Navigation

This morning brings an early start to the day. Wake up at dawn and drive to Bahia Exploradores in Puerto Tranquilo. From here you will have one-hour-drive through the most pristine road to the Northern Icefields, until you reach the fjords to embark on a vessel that will navigate through the Chilean fjords on a full day excursion to Laguna San Rafael National Park. Glide through the lake while taking in the stunning views and the imposing wall of ice at the foot of the San Rafael Glacier. Observe the loud crackling and groaning of the ice as the glacier calves and watch the mesmerizing floes around you. The park is also a World Biosphere Reserve and is home to many bird species so keep an eye out for black-necked swans, cormorants and the occasional black-browed albatross. While onboard, enjoy your leisurely lunch. After navigating the lagoon, return to Mallin Colorado for dinner and a relaxing evening.

Day 4: Rafting the Rio Baker

This morning is the perfect time to stretch your legs and enjoy the Mallin Colorado and its many trails to viewpoints such as Lake Bertrand and Plomo. If a slower-paced morning is preferred, stroll to the shore of the lake and take in the panoramic views from the beach over coffee or tea. This afternoon, fill up on a delicious lunch at the Mallin Colorado before heading south for your next adventure. Head South along the Carretera Austral to the Baker River to raft the region's most prominent river. Gear up and tackle the class II- III rapids as you paddle down the river with enough time to float and swim in the icy blue-green waters. Return to the lodge for dinner and a rest.


**Timing of the day may change depending on weather

Day 5: Patagonia National Park

After breakfast, you will begin a scenic drive to Puerto Bertrand, stopping along the way to see the confluence of the rivers Baker and Nef, a mystical point where different colors of water meet, and you can feel the power of nature in this extraordinary waterfall. The day continues further south to visit Patagonia Park, a completely different ecosystem combining the Patagonia steppe with mountains and forests, full of guanacos roaming freely inside the park. A visit to the Conservation Museum awaits you in the park headquarters, and then a short trail to the river Chacabuco and its hanging bridge will complete the day. An outdoor picnic lunch will be provided after the activities.​

Day 6: Patagonia National Park

After breakfast, start an early drive to Patagonia National Park for a longer hike (around 6 to 7 hours) deep in the national park. Along the way, enjoy expansive views of the Chacabuco Valley, Jeinemeni Valley, and if lucky, a glimpse of the Northern ice field. Be sure to bring a day pack for layers, water and your packed lunch to eat along the trail.  After returning to the headquarters, transfer the one hour back to the Mallin Colorado to wind down your day.

Day 7: Balmaceda | Return Home

  • 1 Breakfast
After breakfast, you will travel back to the Balmaceda airport to connect with your return flight home.

Accommodations

Mallin Colorado Ecolodge

Mallin Colorado Ecolodge
Mallin Colorado Ecolodge
Mallin Colorado Ecolodge

Dates & Prices

My Preferred Start Date

Per person starting at
$4,500 2-3 travelers

Notes

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Included
  • 6 Breakfasts, 2 Lunches, 6 Dinners, 1 Box Lunch
  • 6 Nights Accommodations
  • 4 Days Locally Hosted Guide Service
  • Accommodations as listed
  • Ground transportation as listed
  • Activities as listed
  • Meals as listed
  • Access to a 24-7 Emergency line while traveling
Excluded
  • Gratuities
  • Travel Insurance
  • Personal Expenses
  • Flight costs (please request a quote)
  • Additional excursions during free time
  • Fuel and transportation surcharges (when applicable)

Map

When to Go

Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Good to ideal period to travel, and many people choose to visit at this time.
Chance for unpredictable weather but with fewer visitors.
Typically not offered during this period because of weather conditions.

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Beyond expectations! Then again we weren't sure what to expect. Lovely stay at the lodge, met other like-minded travelers (many had their trips planned by Adventure Life) and the owner was a gracious hostess. It felt like you were one happy family, visiting with a favorite aunt.
Nancy Sin

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