Laguna San Rafael, attractions and activities

Situated at the foot of the slopes of the Melimoyu mountain chain, on the western shores of the Ventisquero estuary, are the Chilconed, Maca and Puyuhuapi thermal baths, whose spring waters reach temperatures as high as 50°C. Surrounded by abundant vegetation, the thermal baths in the area offer their visitors a variety of activities enabling them to enjoy the attractions of this favoured spot.

Most of the rivers in Patagonia are large and torrential. The combination of volume and declivity makes them the ones most sought after for practising rafting. Prominent rivers in this region are the Baker, Chile’s highest-volume river with numerous rapids suitable for rafting, and the Futaleufú, which offers excellent conditions for activities of this type.

For those who enjoy this activity the different rivers and lakes in Region XI, such as the Simpson, Palena and Baker rivers and the Cochrane and General Carrera lakes, are well known not only for the species found there, like brown and rainbow trout, but also for the beauty of their surroundings and for the hospitable lodges situated in the area.

After arriving at Puerto Chacabuco on board the Navimag ferry, travellers can take a trip of unique attractiveness along the Austral Road. Over its entire length of 1,100 kilometres they will not only be able to pass through areas of incredible beauty, such as the cold forests, glaciers, lakes and rivers, but they will also have the possibility of visiting Chile’s southernmost towns and villages by means of four-wheel drive vehicles, motor cycles, bicycles or trekking.

Situated 170 kilometres north of Coyhaique, this park is remarkable for its attractions such as the Queulat hanging glacier, which can be reached along a number of trekking paths that have been established through the exuberant native vegetation, the prominent species being coigüe, tepa and nalca, among others. This is also a good spot for bird-watching, climbing, boat and horseback excursions and camping, among other activities.