Futaleufú: One of Chile’s Adventure Capitals

   

El Espolón, Futaleufú Commune
Image: Ilustre Municipalidad de Futaleufú

The town and municipality of Futaleufú are located in the Province of Palena, Región de Los Lagos (Region of the Lakes), also known as the Tenth Region of Chile. Its estimated population of 2,000 residents is engaged in livestock, agriculture, handicrafts, and, in recent decades, tourism, which has experienced tremendous growth. 

This growth is due to its stunning landscapes and the rafting and kayaking descents of the Futaleufú River, considered among the top three rivers in the world for its Class V rapids. The river is fed by Lake Amutui Quimei and Lake Futalafquén, located in Los Alerces National Park in the Argentine province of Chubut. Futaleufú also offers some of the best whitewater for fly fishing.

The area's complex geography also supports photographic tours and a range of other activities, such as horseback riding and hiking on various trails, mountain biking, canoeing on the Río Espolón, canyoning in remote gorges, kayaking on several lakes, mountaineering, and wildlife observation. You may also have the opportunity to visit the Futaleufú National Reserve, one of the most attractive areas near the Carretera Austral, located 10 km from the town of the same name, at a place called Las Escalas. This reserve was created to protect the mountain cypress (Austrocedrus chilensis) and the huemul (South Andean deer), a mammal endangered and part of the Chilean national coat of arms, along with the Andean condor.

Tourism in this destination is relatively new, but several agencies with experienced professionals and high safety standards offer a range of excursions to suit your interests.

How to Get to Futaleufu

Image: otroaireaventura.com

 Futaleufú is a remote area in southern Chile, but even so, it can be accessed by air, sea, or land.

1. Fly to Puerto Montt: Take a flight to Puerto Montt, the closest Chilean airport to Futaleufú. There are direct flights from Santiago to Puerto Montt, operated by LATAM Airlines, Sky Airline, or the low-cost carrier JetSmart.

From Puerto Montt, you can take a bus to Chaitén. Daily buses run between Puerto Montt and Chaitén, costing approximately US$20. Once in Chaitén, you can catch another bus to Futaleufú, which takes about 3 hours and passes through scenic landscapes, including lakes, glaciers, waterfalls, and the Andes Mountains.

2. By ferry/land: You can take a ferry from Puerto Montt to Chaitén, a journey of about 10 hours. Once in Chaitén, you can catch a bus to Futaleufú.

3. By land (Chile/Argentina/Chile): You can travel by land from Puerto Montt to Osorno, then cross into Argentina, arriving in San Carlos de Bariloche. From there, head south to El Bolsón, Esquel, and Trevelin, then cross back into Chile to reach Futaleufú.

4. Private flight: You can also charter a private light aircraft from Puerto Montt directly to Futaleufú. This is the fastest way to reach the Chilean side without entering Argentina.

What to do in Futaleufu

Image: Diario El Huemul - Palena

• One of the main attractions in Futaleufú is the Futaleufú River, considered one of the best rivers in the world for whitewater rafting and kayaking. The river features rapids ranging from Class II to V, offering varying levels of challenge and excitement for both beginners and experts. Visitors can also enjoy fishing, canoeing, and swimming in its crystal-clear waters.

• Another way to experience the beauty of Futaleufú is by hiking or horseback riding. Numerous trails lead to remarkable spots, such as Piedra del Águila, a massive rock formation that offers panoramic views of the valley; Río Espolón, a calm, scenic river that flows into the Futaleufú; Laguna Espejo, a peaceful lake surrounded by mountains and forests; and Las Cascadas, a series of waterfalls cascading down the hills.

• Futaleufú is also a charming village where you'll find cozy accommodations, delicious restaurants, and friendly locals. The town is nestled in an amphitheater of rugged, snowcapped mountains and sits at the confluence of two rivers. Visitors can explore the Plaza de Armas, the main square where cultural events and festivals are held; the Mirador de La Virgen, a viewpoint overlooking the town and river; and Cerro La Bandera, a hill featuring a flagpole and a monument honoring the Chilean flag.

• Futaleufú National Reserve is known for the stunning beauty of its surroundings, offering viewpoints where you can admire waterfalls and neighboring valleys. The reserve covers 12,065 hectares of virgin vegetation and rich wildlife, including protected species like the huemul (South Andean deer), depicted on Chile's coat of arms. A network of hiking trails winds through the cypress forests of the Andes. Just 8 km from Futaleufú, Lago Espolón offers opportunities for camping, fishing, and boat trips, with campgrounds and cabins available. Río Espolón, one of the Futaleufú River’s quieter tributaries, is known for the tranquility and clarity of its waters.

• Cultural tourism in Futaleufú is an interesting aspect to highlight, as the area has a history shaped by the influence of settlers and local communities.

The region was originally inhabited by Indigenous communities and later by settlers of European and Chilean origin, who arrived in the early 20th century in search of fertile land and new opportunities. Their legacy is reflected in the town’s architecture, traditions, and way of life.

• Local cuisine is influenced by Patagonian culture, offering traditional dishes that visitors can enjoy in restaurants and family homes. One of the most representative dishes of the region is cordero patagónico, a slow-roasted lamb cooked on a cross. Another tradition is drinking mate—although more popular in Argentina, it is also shared in Futaleufú and often serves as a social activity.

Additionally, Futaleufú’s artisans create handcrafted goods using natural materials such as sheep’s wool, leather, and wood, preserving local craftsmanship and traditions.

• During the summer season, Futaleufú hosts various festivals that blend Chilean and Patagonian traditions, featuring folk music, local cuisine, and traditional activities. Some of these include:
• Fiestas Costumbristas: Folk festivals featuring live music, horse taming competitions, traditional food, and artisan fairs.
• Futa XL: An international sports event that brings together the best kayakers from Chile and around the world along the Futaleufú River.
• Official Rodeo: A rodeo event held during the last week of January, the highlight of Futaleufú Week.

In short, Futaleufú is a destination sure to captivate both nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts. It is renowned for its breathtaking landscapes and thrilling outdoor activities.

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