Rafting on the Futaleufú River is an essential experience in the Los Lagos Region for those seeking adventure and contact with nature.
Its world-class rapids also allow you to enjoy other sports such as kayaking and sport fishing, while its turquoise waters and Patagonian valleys offer an unforgettable setting in Chilean Patagonia.
If you are planning a trip along the Carretera Austral, rafting on the Futaleufú River is an experience that you cannot leave out of your itinerary. Enjoy an unspoiled natural environment and experience the thrill of exploring one of Chile’s most emblematic rivers.
Why go rafting on the Futaleufú River?
Photography: @riofutaleufurafting
The Futaleufú River stands out for its intense turquoise color, a product of glacial sediments, and for its powerful flow, which has positioned it as one of the three best rivers in the world for rafting. It offers accessible sections for families and beginners, as well as challenging rapids that attract experts from all over the world.
In addition, its surroundings protect the pristine Chilean Patagonia of southern Chile, with mountains, forests, and lakes that make each descent a unique visual and emotional experience.
What to do on the Futaleufú River: kayaking, fishing and more
Photography: Turismo Aldea Puerto Espolon
Although rafting is the star sport, it is not the only thing you will find in this beautiful corner of the Carretera Austral. Futaleufú offers an ideal ecosystem, with outdoor activities for all tastes and levels of experience:
- Rafting: Navigate class IV and V rapids. Guided tours usually cost around USD 110 per person.
- Kayaking: Explore the river at your own pace, from calm sections to challenging rapids, enjoying the turquoise waters.
- Sport fishing: Practice fly fishing in the river and in nearby lakes such as Lonconao and Espolón. You can catch trout and salmon in a crystal-clear environment.
- Trekking and horseback riding: Explore trails, discover waterfalls and panoramic viewpoints in the Futaleufú National Reserve. Featured destinations include Piedra del Águila, Laguna Tronador and Laguna Pinilla, with routes for all levels.
It is always recommended to hire tour operators registered with the National Tourism Service to guarantee safety, adequate equipment, and a reliable experience.
What is the best time to visit the Futaleufú River?
The official season runs from October to April. Spring is ideal for those looking for the maximum flow of the river, while in summer (January and February) the days are longer and temperatures can exceed 20 °C, perfect for enjoying water activities.
Although the destination is attractive all year round, the high season for rafting on the Futaleufú River and other adventure tourism experiences is concentrated between December and March, when the climate and river flow are optimal.
How to get there?
The river is located 18 kilometers from the town of Futaleufú. From Puerto Montt, you can take a ferry to Chaitén, a trip of 10 to 12 hours (from USD 53), and then continue by bus or private vehicle to Futaleufú, about 4 hours more.
There are regular buses that connect Chaitén and Futaleufú, crossing landscapes of rivers, lakes and forests.
For those traveling by vehicle, the Carretera Austral (Route 7) allows you to travel the entire stretch, combining sections of unpaved road and ferries, with easy access to the river from the town.
