Bordali Wilderness River Expedition (Patagonia, Chile)
Hidden in the folds of the wild, snow-capped Patagonian Andes and concealed for decades from explorers, the Río Bordali originates from the massive Queulat Glacier, located within the national park of the same name. Imagine paddling beneath towering cliffs draped in moss, past numerous hidden waterfalls cascading into deep, crystal-clear pools. This Central Patagonian gem can only be reached by helicopter and features thrilling Class III/IV rapids, along with some of the most breathtaking river scenery and side-creek waterfall hikes found anywhere in the world. More than just a river trip, it is a journey into the heart of uncharted Patagonia.
Before reaching the river, this one-of-a-kind adventure begins with visits to two of Patagonia’s most iconic natural wonders: the San Rafael Glacier and the Ventisquero Colgante Waterfall. It is followed by two nights and a full day at Patagonia’s most renowned natural hot springs resort.
Be among the first to experience this extraordinary trip and discover a place no one knew existed, until Earth River made the first descent ten months ago.
Trip Dates: March 11-21 & March 14-25
$5,750/PERSON (plus $125 one way air from Chaiten to Puerto Montt)
Rio Bordali Video
Trip Details
Trip Dates & Rates
2026 Trip Dates: March 11-21, March 14-25
$5,750 USD/PERSON (plus $125 one way airfare from Chaiten to Puerto Montt)
Why Earth River On The Bordali
- Earth River completed the first descent of the Río Bordali in early 2025 and remains one of the only outfitters running expeditions on this remote river.
- With over 36 years operating in Patagonia, Earth River brings unmatched regional knowledge, long standing local partnerships and a proven safety culture to one of the most remote expeditions we offer.
- This expedition reflects Earth River’s commitment to conservation, exploration and responsible adventure.
- From helicopter access and river logistics to food, safety systems and camp setup, every detail is carefully planned and managed by a seasoned expedition team.
- Small group sizes allow for flexibility on the river, strong guide to guest ratios and a deeper connection to the landscape.
Brief Overview
Trip Type: Lodge and camping multi sport rafting trip
Trip Length: 9 days
Total Travel Days: 11 days
Group size: up to 14
Guide/client ratio: 1 – 3
Season: March
Meeting Place: Balmaceda, Chile
Accommodations: 5 nights in lodges, 3 nights camping
Suitable ages: 8-75
Activities: Rafting intermediate (class 3&4), trekking, catamaran glacier viewing, hot springs
Private departures: Custom groups are welcome. Please contact the office for more information.
Trip Highlights
Highlights
- Raft the Río Bordali, a rarely explored Class III and IV river flowing from Queulat Glacier
- Helicopter access into a remote riverside wilderness
- High speed catamaran journey to the San Rafael Glacier
- Guided hike in Queulat National Park to view the Ventisquero Colgante Hanging Glacier
- 3 nights of riverside camping deep in Patagonia
- 2 nights at world renowned Puyuhuapi Lodge and Spa with access to thermal pools
- 2 nights at Hotel Loberías del Sur in Puerto Aysén
- 1 night in comfortable cabins in La Junta
- Chef prepared meals throughout the expedition
- Small group experience with expert Earth River guides
- A rare combination of whitewater, wilderness and comfort
Who's It For
Ages and experience
- Ideal for adventurous families, couples, friends, and solo travelers who are comfortable in remote settings.
- Suitable for ages 7 to 80 on most activities. Younger participants (7-12) may join Class 3 and 4 sections on an extremely stable professionally guided safety cataraft.
- Previous rafting experience is helpful but not required.
Ability levels
- Class 3 and 4 rapids: accessible for most guests.
- No prior rafting or kayaking experience required.
Trip difficulty
- Moderate, depending on optional activities
- Daily itineraries blend paddle time with hiking, kayaking, swimming in thermal pools and relaxing at camps
- Guests should be comfortable being active outdoors for 5-6 hours each day
Safety and support
- Professional guides lead every activity adhering to the highest safety standards
- Guests receive clear instruction and practice before partaking in whitewater activities
- All gear is provided and maintained to the highest standards
What's Included/Not
What’s included
- 5 nights at Hotels/Lodges
- All food during the trip
- 8 days of guided activities (4 days rafting)
- Catamaran excursion to San Rafael Glacier
- Guides will set up tents and camp, you may help as much or as little as you desire daily
- Top-of-the-line gear
- Transportation to and from the airport in Balmaceda and to the airport in Chaiten
Not Included
- Round trip airfare from U.S. to Chile. (starting in Balmaceda and leaving Chile from Puerto Montt)
- One way flight to Puerto Montt from Chaiten ($250)
- Guide tips (typically 10% of trip cost)
- Catch-up fees for late arrivals, hotel, taxi, charter flights, and meals.
- Travel before or after trip
Lodging Accommodations
Hotel Loberías del Sur
Number of nights: 2
Brief description: A comfortable, modern hotel overlooking the fjords of southern Chile. Guests enjoy private rooms, excellent dining and a relaxed atmosphere before and after the expedition.
Amenities: On-site restaurant, bar and lounge areas, indoor swimming pool, sauna and fitness room, laundry service available
Puyuhuapi Lodge and Spa
Number of nights: 2
Brief description: One of Patagonia’s most iconic lodges. Located on a remote fjord, this historic property offers geothermal thermal pools, spa services, rainforest trails and kayaking opportunities.
Amenities: Outdoor and indoor thermal pools, full service spa treatments, on-site restaurant, bar and lounge areas, hiking trails
Río Bordali Riverside Camping
Number of nights: 3
Brief description: Expedition style camping in a pristine wilderness setting. Camps are fully supported with spacious tents, riverside dining areas and chef prepared meals. No camping experience is required.
La Junta Cabins
Number of nights: 1
Brief description: After 3 days on the river camping, you will enjoy private cabins at a B&B with hot showers, cozy bedding and a warm welcome from your local hosts.
Day By Day Itinerary
DAY 1: U.S.
Evening flight from the U.S. to Santiago, Chile. (Airfare not included)
DAY 2: Santiago / Balmaceda / Puerto Aysén
Arriving in Santiago this morning and catching a connecting flight south to Balmaceda. We meet our Earth River guide, Maria, at the airport and drive 2.5 hours to Puerto Aysén. That evening, we enjoy a welcome dinner at Hotel Loberías del Sur.
DAY 3: Puerto Aysén / San Rafael Glacier / Puerto Aysén
Today we board a high-speed catamaran and cruise through narrow channels lined with forested cliffs. We reach the San Rafael Glacier, a massive wall of blue ice rising from a turquoise fjord, and transfer to Zodiac rafts for a closer look. Drifting among massive blue icebergs, we witness towering columns of ice calve into the sea. We return to Puerto Aysén for the night.
DAY 4: Puerto Aysén / Queulat National Park / Puyuhuapi Lodge & Spa
A two-hour drive this morning takes us to Queulat National Park, where we hike through a temperate rainforest to a stunning viewpoint overlooking the Ventisquero Colgante (Hanging Glacier). In the afternoon, we head to Puyuhuapi Lodge & Spa, where we we spend the next two nights.
DAYS 5 : Puyuhuapi Lodge & Spa
Today is free to relax and enjoy the lodge and the surrounding area. Optional activities include spa treatments, soaking in thermal pools, rainforest hikes, and kayaking in the fjord, where we might spot dolphins, sea lions, and seabirds.
Days 6–8: Río Bordali / La Junta
We lift off by helicopter and fly over the coastal mountains to our first riverside camp on the remote Río Bordali. Over the next three days, we raft through a spectacular canyon, navigating class III and IV rapids and hiking to stunning tributary waterfalls. Our final night on the river is spent on an expansive beach where the river meets Lago Rosselot.
Day 9: Río Bordali / La Junta
We travel by small boat across Lago Rosselot, surrounded by dramatic mountain scenery, and arrive in the town of La Junta, where we stay in comfortable cabins. That evening we have a farewell dinner.
Day 10: Chaitén / Puerto Montt / Santiago
In the morning, drive to Chaitén Airport and fly back to Puerto Montt. An Earth River representative meets us and brings us to Puerto Varas for the afternoon. Later, we head to the airport on our own for our flight to Santiago, then connect to our international flight home.
Day 11: United States
We arrive back in the U.S.
Getting There
THROUGH CHILE
First evening: U.S. OR CANADA / SANTIAGO
Overnight flight from the U.S. or Canada to Santiago, Chile from major hubs like New York, Atlanta, Miami and Toronto (Airfare not included).
Domestic Flights and Transfers
SANTIAGO / BALMACEDA
Morning flight from Santiago to Balmaceda, Chile. Upon arrival in the mid-afternoon, you will be met by an Earth River guide
BALMACEDA / PUERTO AYSEN
2.5 hour drive to the town of Puerto Aysén, where you will spend the night at Hotel Loberías del Sur.
Trip Extension Ideas
Many guests choose to extend their time in Patagonia before or after the Río Bordali expedition to ease travel days and explore more of the Aysén region. These extensions pair naturally with the expedition and can be tailored to guest interests and timing.
Balmaceda and Coyhaique
A relaxed gateway to the region, Balmaceda and Coyhaique offer scenic drives through the Simpson River Valley, easy day hikes, fly fishing and time to explore local markets and cafes. Ideal for acclimating before the trip or unwinding afterward.
Puerto Aysén and the Fjords
A coastal extension with fjord boat tours, wildlife viewing, kayaking and waterfront walks. Nearby Puerto Chacabuco adds additional boat based excursions and fresh seafood dining.
Carretera Austral
A scenic road journey through remote valleys, glaciers and small villages. Best for guests with extra time who want a slower, immersive Patagonia experience.
THROUGH ARGENTINA
Many guests choose to begin their Bordali expedition by traveling through Argentina before crossing into Chile, adding cultural highlights and iconic Patagonian scenery to their journey.
Buenos Aires
Argentina’s capital is an excellent starting point. Guests often spend two or three nights enjoying world class food, historic neighborhoods, tango culture and vibrant cafes. Highlights include Recoleta, Palermo, San Telmo, city walking tours and day trips to nearby wine regions. Buenos Aires offers frequent international flights and easy connections onward to Patagonia.
Bariloche and Northern Patagonia
From Buenos Aires, guests can fly to Bariloche, a scenic mountain town in Argentina’s Lake District. Known for alpine landscapes, lakes and forests, Bariloche offers hiking, kayaking, scenic drives, chocolate shops and access to nearby national parks. It is a natural complement to the Bordali expedition for guests seeking more time in Patagonia.
Overland Travel & Border Crossing
Traveling overland from Argentina into Chile is possible and can be arranged with advance planning. Routes from Bariloche or other parts of Argentine Patagonia connect to Chilean Patagonia via established border crossings. Guests typically continue onward to Balmaceda or Puerto Aysén after crossing.
Travelers need a valid passport, and U.S./Canadian citizens do not require a visa for stays under 90 days in either country. Customs is generally efficient and private transfers or bus options are available.
*Note: Please contact Earth River for more information and to help coordinate logistics if needed.
FAQs
HOW DIFFICULT IS THE RAFTING?
The Bordali features Class III and IV rapids. While previous rafting experience is helpful, it is not required. Guides provide instruction and support throughout the trip.
WHAT IS THE CAMPING LIKE?
Camping is fully supported. Earth River provides tents, sleeping systems, camp infrastructure and meals. Guests only need a small personal bag while on the river.
WHAT IS THE HELICOPTER ACCESS LIKE?
A helicopter is used to access the upper river due to its remote location. This flight is an unforgettable highlight and allows access to a section of river otherwise unreachable.
WHAT IS THE WEATHER LIKE?
Patagonian weather can change quickly. Expect a mix of sun, wind and occasional rain. Guides adjust daily plans based on conditions.
HOW LARGE ARE THE GROUPS?
Groups are kept intentionally small to maintain safety, flexibility and a true expedition feel.
IS THIS TRIP SUITABLE FOR FIRST TIME EXPEDITION TRAVELERS?
Yes, for guests who are adventurous, flexible and comfortable in remote settings. The trip is designed to introduce expedition travel with strong guide support and comfort focused logistics.
Bordali Story
