Trip Description
Day One: On arrival in Puerto Montt you will be met by your Water By Nature Trip Leader and transferred to your hotel in the charming little town of Puerto Varas, where you can unwind from your journey. Situated on the edge of Lake Llanquihue you will be treated to the first of many spectacular settings with views across the water to the perfect backdrop of Volcan Osorno. The afternoon is yours to relax or explore this delightful fishing village.
(No meals included)

Day Two:
After breakfast you will board a small aircraft for the short flight from Puerto Montt to Chaiten (approx 40minutes) where we will begin the final part of your journey, the drive along the Carretera Austral towards the little town of Futaleufu. Bear in mind that this area of Southern Chile has only been accessible by road for the past twenty years, one of few chances in the world to visit such unspoilt wilderness. We pause for lunch overlooking deep turquoise lakes, amidst magnificent granite cliffs and steep glaciers, visions that rival anywhere else in the world. Along this spectacular drive we will pass small farms seemingly untouched by time, giving us our first glimpses of frontier living. And past Lago Yelcho, a world class trout fishing lake into which the Futaleufu river flows. This is also home to the Coho Salmon that swim unimpeded up the river to spawn. This is unquestionably one of the few remaining fishing paradises on the planet. By late afternoon we will arrive at camp in time for a leisurely float down the scenic lower section of the river, sampling the fine local wines and cheeses along the way.
(Included :Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner)

Day Three:
You will awaken to the sounds of nature, the steady flow of the river past camp and the busy morning chorus of the local birdlife. Enjoy a hearty breakfast in this wonderful setting. Our guides and trip leaders are seasoned professionals in their fields. Your safety is their number one priority. We take time with a comprehensive talk on safety and paddling instructions to get you accustomed to your new mode of transport, whether or not you have done this before. Depending on crews and water levels, we may opt for the Bridge to Bridge or Bridge to Casa sections today, both reputedly some of the best rafting sections anywhere in the world. We start at La Passarella, one of many suspended rope bridges used by locals to cross the river and we immediately plunge into some exhilarating white water fun with ‘Thousand Wave’ rapid, smashing through ‘Pillow Wave’ and into ‘Mundaca’. We take out at Futaleufu Bridge after our first thrilling day on the river… this is only the beginning.

Day Four:
Our rustic camp, situated above the town of Futaleufu, encompasses small cabanas nestled within the native bush on the banks of the river. Enjoy your morning coffee on your veranda as the clear waters run quite literally beneath you. After breakfast we launch the rafts and float down towards the magnificent Inferno Canyon where 4km of adrenaline surging white water awaits us. With its steep sides and deep clear pools we enter into an area of complete remoteness as we head towards Tres Nonas. With a flat section to follow there is plenty of time to sit back, reflect and marvel at the serenity of this beautiful place. However in the distance the roar of the infamous “Zeta” or ‘Z’ can be heard as we enjoy lunch at a scenic spot by the river. This rapid is not commercially runnable and so the rafts are portaged through before we again take a leisurely float in preparation for the might of El Throno. Perhaps one of the fastest and most spectacular rapids in the world we may also opt to portage this rapid, depending on water levels, but not before marvelling at kayakers trying to avoid ”Toaster” as they negotiate this exciting course. No matter by which route, they will be at the bottom in a matter of seconds.
Following El Throno is a gorgeous white water section we term the Magic Mile.
Our vehicles will meet us at the Rio Azul and we return to camp for a well deserved soak in the hot tub.

Day Five:
Freshly baked bread and Eggs Benedict is on the menu this morning, with the standard fresh brew of coffee. We have another great day ahead of us. A few, fun warm up rapids before we reach the legendary “Terminator”. Depending on river levels, crew aptitude and ability we may need to portage this one…… because it’s BIG!… actually it’s a bit BIGGER than BIG! This is the largest Class V “sneak line” we run on any of our trips worldwide. And if that isn’t enough for you there is the superb “Khyber Pass” and the hugely exciting “Himalayas” to finish the day. On our return to camp we enjoy a sumptuous meal washed down with Pisco Sours or a glass of fine Chilean red wine.

Day Six:
With a range of activities on offer today you will have the chance to explore more of this stunning part of the world. An opportunity to try your hand at fly fishing. The Futaleufu is a world class trout fishing river, so why not try your luck catching dinner (but don’t worry we will have made other plans for dinner in case you are not successful). For those of your wanting something more active there are some wonderful horseback riding trails, catering for all abilities including beginners. One of our most popular suggestions is a guided horse ride into the Rio Azul followed by a paddle downstream in a ‘Ducky’, a two or three person inflatable. A chance to self-guide, under the ever watchful eye of one of our guides. A truly enjoyable day.
Or, if you choose to, simply sit back and relax at camp and soak up the scenery.

Day Seven:
The morning’s rafting begins with a blast through the centre of ‘Mundaca’ once again, to ensure we are truly awake. Followed by another amazing stretch of water with ‘The Fish Bowl’ and ‘Aquarium Wave’, and the aptly named ‘House Rock’ to finish. By tradition we finish our trips with the customary ‘Asado’. All day our neighbours and good friends, Carlos and Alicia, have been preparing a feast of salads, fresh meats and breads. The evening is spent experiencing real Chilean hospitality and enjoying recounting your stories from the past week, on one of the best white water rivers in the world.
(Included: Breakfast, lunch and dinner days 2 - 7)

Day Eight:
An early start is required this morning in order to meet the van that will take you back to Chaiten for your flight back to Puerto Montt, and your onward journey back to Santiago and home.
(Included: Breakfast)


Getting There:
There are a range of possibilities to get you down to Chile, plus plenty of bargains if you shop around early.

FROM THE UK & EUROPE
We recommend taking a flight with LAN Chile/Iberia from the UK to Santiago via Madrid (This may seem a long route but think of all the in flight movies). We find this to be the best option from the point of view of availability and cost however other options would be with American Airlines or Delta through the USA or with Air Canada via Toronto. We suggest you book your connection to Puerto Montt from Santiago at the same time as you will get the best deals. It is important to note that on booking your return flights from Puerto Montt back to Santiago your flight inbound from Chaiten does not arrive into Puerto Montt until 1300HRS at the earliest.
Our sales team in the UK will happily book flights for you or offer the best advice on purchasing your own tickets.

FROM THE USA
From the USA the principal gateways to South America are via Miami, New York City and Los Angeles. Daily flights are offered with LAN Chile, United, American, Aerolineas Argentinas or with Air Canada from Toronto. Once again we suggest you also purchase your Santiago to Puerto Montt ticket at this time as purchasing this later can prove to be more costly. It is important to note that your return flight from Chaiten into Puerto Montt does not arrive until 1300HRS so please bear this in mind when booking your return leg from Puerto Montt to Santiago.

Exploring Chile:
Chile is rich with outdoor options for those inclined. The Torres Del Paine circuit is perhaps one of the most famous and spectacular trekking areas in South America with it’s dramatic granite peaks and glacial lakes it is internationally renowned as one of the most beautiful and remote areas in the world.
The resort town of Pucon with it’s backdrop of the Volcan Villarica looming behind is set amidst National Parks and is not to be missed. And if you like heights then consider reaching the summit of Mount Aconcagua, the highest point in the western hemisphere…not for the faint hearted however.
The Atacama Desert is further north and is the driest desert in the world. The town of Pedro de Atacama offers many attractive facilities for tourists. On the other hand if you want to do more on the water the southern fjords of Chile offer great sea kayaking opportunities around Las Termas de Chillan. If you would like any further information please contact us or we also suggest checking out the Lonely Planet guide on Chile.

The Dreaded Jabs:
We recommend that you are immunized against Hepatitis A and Tetanus.

Exchange Rates:
At time of printing USD$1 was worth 517 Chilean Pesos and GBP£1 equal to 1065 Chilean Pesos.

Retail Therapy and Chilean Specialties:
Chile is not renowned for it’s crafts (unless you want to take home a lump of coal or copper), however, being close to Bolivia and Peru, one can shop for beautiful alpaca sweaters and hats. For the red wine lovers, Chile offers some of the finest red wine there is around. If you are a fish lover, we recommend the local Ceviche. Boasting the longest cold-water coast of any country in the world, Chilean Sea Bass is AMAZING!

Climate and Clothing:
In the southern hemisphere, the summer season falls from December to March so during January and February the days should be fairly warm. Make sure to bring plenty of sunscreen and lip balm. The water is glacier and snow melt and is cool, but don’t worry we supply you with ‘farmer John and Jane’ wetsuits and spray jackets as required. If you have any long synthetic underwear we highly recommend this as well to wear under your wetsuit. The weather in Patagonia can be changeable so do bring a rain jacket as well. Evenings and nights will be chilly, 15-20 degrees so you should definitely bring a fleece for the evenings around camp.


Fitness and Safety:
Safety is our foremost consideration at all times whether on or off the river. All our guides are chosen for their extensive international experience. They each have at least 10 years running rivers around the globe. All have first aid qualifications of the highest standard including at least one medic on each trip. And we carry an extensive First Aid kit and Satellite Telephone with us at all times. They are considered professionals in their field and dedicate their lives to sharing these wonderful river trips with others.
The Futaleufu is a fairly high volume river with extremely large and demanding rapids and is an extremely adventurous and rigorous trip. And a huge amount of fun! We recommend that you exercise regularly: running, walking or swimming, at least a month or two before the trip, in order to maximize your fun on this amazing river. Please let us know (quietly if you wish) if you have any medical conditions or are taking any medications that you think we should be aware of.

Personal Equipment:
After years on the river the guides have found exactly what is necessary to feel comfortable on the raft by day, cosy around the camp at night and totally in style in town before and after trips! Therefore our equipment list will mean that you will be perfectly attired and outfitted for your whole trip and well under the baggage allowance - river guides are famous for travelling light (one has to be when a kayak is often in tow!). A full list of what we recommend will be sent to you upon booking confirmation. We find that most people already have in their possession what is necessary for a river trip and very little else in the way of specialised equipment is required. Perhaps the only thing that we specifically recommend for Chile is PLENTY of sunscreen!

Price Includes
• Transfers between Puerto Montt and Chaiten and to the river. If you provide us with your arrival details in Puerto Montt we will be happy to meet you at the airport. • Accommodation the night before the river trip in a tourist hotel (Day One). This will be on a share twin basis with someone also on your river trip. Single supplements are available • All transfers to and from the river. • All meals from breakfast on Day Two to breakfast on Day Eight. We can cater for any dietary requirements, just let us know! • All necessary rafting equipment, including the best in buoyancy aids, helmets, full length wetsuits (men’s and women’s fit) and spray jackets. • Lodge accommodation whilst on the river. • All camping equipment excluding sleeping bags. • Fully qualified, experienced river guides and safety kayakers. We have a mixture of local and overseas guides who are extremely professional and make up one of the most experienced river teams in the world. They make every effort to make your trip one of the most memorable, optimising your fun without compromising on your safety. They all hold advanced first aid qualifications and in the unlikely event of an injury they have the expertise and professionalism to deal with it. • All necessary permits and licenses. • A cool Water By Nature T shirt! Please Note: Not included are flights, visas, departure taxes, travel insurance, inoculations, sleeping bags, video or dvd of your trip, alcohol, personal items or gratuities. You will also need to budget for meals in town which are not included in the price and any extra accommodation outside of what is provided.

Member discount:
Please register yourself with eezytrips.com and contact us to get your discount coupon.

Notes:
Airfare is not included in the tour price.

Also see tour packages in:
Chile  Kayaking, Canoeing And Rafting Sport Vacations 

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