{"id":99549,"date":"2024-08-14T11:29:11","date_gmt":"2024-08-14T15:29:11","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/chile.travel\/blog\/rafting-and-other-extreme-activities-on-the-trancura-river\/"},"modified":"2026-07-29T17:03:45","modified_gmt":"2026-07-29T21:03:45","slug":"rafting-and-other-extreme-activities-on-the-trancura-river","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/chile.travel\/en\/blog\/rafting-and-other-extreme-activities-on-the-trancura-river\/","title":{"rendered":"Rafting and other extreme activities on the Trancura River"},"content":{"rendered":"\n

The Trancura River is one of the most important waterways in the Chilean Andes. A famous destination for rafting and kayaking enthusiasts, it also offers other activities such as hot springs, sport fishing, and more, guaranteeing an unforgettable experience. <\/p>\n\n

T<\/strong>he Trancura River<\/strong> is a must-see in the Araucan\u00eda Region<\/a>. It originates in Laguna Quillelhue, near the Lan\u00edn Volcano and the border, and flows north then west, changing its name to Puc\u00f3n or Minetu\u00e9 before reaching Lake Villarrica.<\/strong> <\/p>\n\n

Its waterway is more than 30 meters wide<\/strong>, cutting through a rugged landscape full of canyons and abundant vegetation. Would you like to visit the Trancura River? Here’s everything you need to know and the activities you can do. <\/p>\n\n

Cover photo: @paz.rg<\/a><\/p>\n\n

How to get to the Trancura River?<\/h2>\n\n

If you start in Santiago<\/a>, you must take a plane to La Araucan\u00eda Airport in Freire, near Temuco, and then travel 100 km to Puc\u00f3n<\/a>. From the same airport terminal, you can make the trip by taxi or transfer. <\/p>\n\n

Another option is to cross the border from the Mamuil Malal Pass<\/strong>, where you will cross beautiful landscapes that will leave you speechless. Find more information about this border crossing in our article.<\/a><\/p>\n\n

Activities on the Trancura River<\/h2>\n\n

1. Rafting in Trancura<\/h3>\n\n
\"Trancura
Photo: @austerra_travel<\/a><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n

The Trancura River is one of Chile’s most popular for rafting!<\/a> Get ready to feel the adrenaline as you descend class 2, 3, and 4<\/strong> rapids amidst incredibly beautiful landscapes.<\/p>\n\n

The river is divided into Lower Trancura<\/strong> and Upper Trancura<\/strong>, the first being easier and suitable for children aged 8 and up, while the second requires prior rafting experience and can be done from age 14. The final stretch is known as Salto Mariman or \u00daltimo Suspiro<\/strong> (Last Sigh), where the difficulty increases in an amazing adventure. <\/p>\n\n

It is essential to go with a Sernatur-registered tour operator,<\/a> with an accredited guide who will provide you with a wetsuit, boots, life jacket, and helmet.. Services start from $25,000 per person. <\/strong>Additionally, it is important to bring your swimsuit and towel, a water bottle, and sunscreen.<\/p>\n\n

2. Hot Springs in Trancura<\/h3>\n\n
\"Trancura
Photo: @solangegianina<\/a><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n

Do you want to have a moment of relaxation? Next to the Trancura River<\/strong>, there is a wide range of thermal baths with 100% natural healing waters, ranging from 36\u00b0C to 38\u00b0C. <\/p>\n\n

This is a perfect plan to leave behind body aches and improve blood circulation. In addition, most of these facilities offer accommodation.<\/strong> <\/p>\n\n

3. Sport Fishing in Trancura<\/h3>\n\n
\"Trancura
Photo: @pescaenpucon<\/a><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n

The Trancura River is known by sport fishing<\/strong> enthusiasts, especially between the Catripulli and Llaifuca sectors, near the mouth. It is also a great place for birdwatching lovers<\/a>, being home to the amazing kingfisher and other species. <\/p>\n\n