The Original Futaleufu Rafting Company
Multi-Sport Adventure through Patagonia with Comfort at Every Step
For over 36 years, Earth River has pioneered and perfected once-in-a-lifetime river journeys. As the original Futaleufu outfitter, our multi-sport trip is the culmination of that legacy, a carefully designed adventure through one of the most spectacular valleys in Patagonia.
This trip is designed for those active travelers who want the thrill of world-class adventure and the ease of a worry-free, expertly guided trip. Whether you’re rafting beneath glaciers, biking along deserted gravel roads, inflatable kayaking on turquoise tributaries, hiking lush trails or canyoning into crystal-clear pools, every detail is taken care of, so you can simply enjoy the ride. Join us on the world’s wildest, most comfortable river trip.
Watch The Futaleufu Video Brochure
What Sets This Trip Apart
Exclusive Small Groups
With a maximum of 16 guests, every trip offers an intimate, personalized experience and unmatched guide-to-guest attention.
Three Boutique Lodges
Spend each night in a cozy lodge, featuring private rooms, woodstoves, wood-fired hot tubs, and stunning views of the Andes.
Gourmet Dining & Hospitality
After a day of adventure, relax with a glass of Chilean wine and indulge in locally inspired cuisine.
Trip Details
Trip Dates & Rates
2026-27 Trip Dates: Dec. 18 – 27, Dec. 26 – Jan. 5 , Jan. 7 – 17 (wait list), Jan 14- 24, Jan. 21 – 31, Jan. 28 – Feb. 7, Feb. 4 – 14 , Feb. 11 – 21, Feb. 18- 28 , Feb. 25 – Mar. 7 (wait list), Mar. 4 – 14 (wait list), Mar. 11- 21.
$6,400 – $6,800/PERSON*
*Note: The round trip flight from Puerto Montt to Chaiten will be reserved by Earth River and charged to clients individually ($250)
Why Earth River On The Futaleufu
- The original Futaleufu rafting company having completed the first raft descent and introducing commercial rafting in 1991.
- Small, family-owned business. We run our own trips on the Futaleufu with family members leading them.
- The only lodge based trip on the Futaleufu. The small, boutique lodges have heated rooms, private baths, chef prepared meals and internet.
- Small intimate group size.
- World class guide team that averages 18 years of guiding experience (12 years on the Futaleufu).
- An impeccable 38-year safety record. We have pioneered a number of safety innovations, most notably the invention of the safety cataraft. This innovation is employed by every outfitter currently operating on the Futaleufu and is widely regarded as the single most important safety advancement on the river. “The Invention of the Safety Cataraft,” a story available in the blog section of our site, depicts how Earth River came up with the concept.
A three decade commitment to conserving the Futaleufú Valley includes protecting eight kilometers of its dramatic shoreline, founding the Futaleufú Riverkeeper, and currently designing the “Sendero Futaleufú”, a spectacular 12-kilometer linear trail that winds through the largest intact protected old-growth forest along the river.
Brief Overview
Total Travel Days: 11, days with Earth River 9
Group size: 12-18
Guide/client ratio: 1 – 3
Season: December – March
Meeting place: Puerto Varas, Chile (Wyndham Puerto Varas PettraHotel)
Trip Type: Multi-day rafting, multi-sport and lodging trip.
Trip Length: 11 days (9 days in Chile)
Accommodations: Wyndham Puerto Varas Pettra Hotel (night 1)
Lonconao Lodge (nights 2, 3 & 4)
Peuma Lodge (nights 5, 6 & 7)
Yelcho Lodge (night 8)
Percent rafting compared to multi-sport activities:50/50 (percentage varies depending upon individual client preference, weather and water levels.)
Multi-sport activities: Rafting class 4 (class 5 optional), class 3 whitewater inflatable kayaking (Espolon and Azul Rivers), mountain biking, hiking, canyoneering and fishing.
Private departures: If your group is interested in a custom trip then please call or email the office
*Note: Depending upon the individual, trip emphasis can be on rafting, hiking, mountain biking, fly fishing, kayaking or any combination.
Trip Highlights
Highlights:
- A week spent with the finest guide crew Earth River has assembled in 38 years, distinguished by exceptional river skills, a deep commitment to guest safety and the environment, humility, and genuine care for others.( Teal, Cade, Christian, Ty, Jose, Tommy, and Nico)
- 3 small, boutique lodges in the Futaleufu Valley,
- Rafting the Futaleufu (Class 5 optional)
- inflatable kayaking (class 2-3), the Espolon and Azul rivers. (small guided raft optional)
- Chef prepared meals
- Lago Obsession hike.
- Canyoneering Rio Blanco slot Canyon
Who's It For
Ages and experience
- Ideal for adventurous families, couples, friends, and solo travelers
- 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.
Ability levels
- Class 3 and 4 rapids: accessible for most guests and first-time rafters.
- Class 5 rapids are available for guests who choose to run them and who pass a short in-water safety test.
- No prior inflatable kayaking experience required. Small guided rafts are available for those people who do not want to paddle an inflatable kayak.
Trip difficulty
- Suitable for anyone in reasonable physical condition.
- Daily itineraries blend daily adventure activities with small, comfortable lodges.
- Guests should expect to be active for 4-5 hours each day
Safety and support
- World-class guides with a minimum of 13 years of experience lead every activity and adhere to the highest safety standards. These guides understand that our guests are there for excitement and adventure, not to feel scared, anxious, or end up in the river.
- Guests receive clear instructions and practice before partaking in rafting and inflatable kayaking.
- All gear is provided and maintained to the highest standards. Our custom-made rafts and safety catarafts were specifically designed for use on the Futaleufu.
What's Included/Not
What’s included
- 1 night at a lakeside hotel in Puerto Varas.
- 7 nights at boutique lodges with private bathrooms, wood-fired hot tubs, sauna, and internet (Peuma, Lonconao & Yelcho)
- All meals (wine and beer)
- Transportation from Puerto Varas bact to Puerto Varas. (Short flight to Chaiten charged separately)
- All adventure sporting equipment.
Not Included
- Airfare from U.S. to Puerto Montt
- Round-trip flight from Puerto Montt to Chaiten. ($250 will be charged separately)
- Arrival transfer from Puerto Montt Airport to Wyndham Pettra Hotel in Puerto Varas (approximately $30)
- Professional masseuse (Peuma and Wyndham )
- Optional guide gratuity (average 10% of trip cost)
- Fly fishing gear.
- Catch-up fees for late arrivals, including additional hotel, taxi, charter flights, meals, etc.
Lodging Accommodations
Wyndham Puerto Varas Pettra Hotel
Number of nights: 1 (first night)
Brief description: The hotel is ideally situated just a few minutes’ walk from downtown Puerto Varas. It was designed so that all rooms offer dramatic views of Lago Llanquihue and the snow-capped Osorno Volcano, which towers 8,600 vertical feet above the lake’s eastern shore. Handcrafted from local wood and stone, the hotel maintains a surprisingly intimate atmosphere for a medium-sized property.
Amenities: Spa, pool, gym, bar, (short walk to the city.)
Lonconao Lodge
Number of nights: 3 (nights 2, 3 & 4)
Brief Description: Located on 600 wild acres, the property’s handcrafted, heated cottages sit a short distance from beautiful Lago Lonconao. Each cottage features two bedrooms and a central living area with a small kitchen, designed for both comfort and a sense of harmony with the outdoors. From every room and private deck, guests enjoy sweeping views of the lake and the snow-capped peaks rising beyond it. A spacious Great Room serves as the heart of the property, offering dining beside a large fireplace and framed by full-wall picture windows that showcase the dramatic mountain landscape. The lake’s 70-degree waters are perfect for swimming, kayaking, and fishing, making it an ideal setting for both relaxation and adventure.
Amenities: Bathrooms in rooms, large outdoor porches, wifi, wood stoves.
Peuma Lodge
Number of nights: 3 (nights 5, 6 & 7)
Brief Description: Located on 800 wild acres and surrounded by old-growth hardwood trees, the handcrafted Peuma Eco Lodge features nine heated hexagon cabins, each with a private bath. The main living and dining area includes a fireplace and a deck with a hot tub, offering dramatic views of towering, snow-capped mountains in every direction. Access to the Lago Obsession trailhead is just a five-minute walk away.
Amenities: Bathrooms in rooms, wifi, 2 hot tubs, sauna, small bar, and masseuse.
Yelcho Patagonia Lodge
Number of nights: 1 (night 9)
Brief Description:
The Yelcho Lodge is a 1,000-acre property located on the shore of the stunning Lago Yelcho, with views of soaring, glacier-capped mountains rising from its edges. Sea kayaking is available, and a nearby glacier hike can also be enjoyed.
Located an hour and a half closer to Chaitén Airport than the Futaleufú Valley, staying here on our final evening allows the group to wake up at 7:00 AM rather than 5:30, which would be required to catch the 9:00 AM flight to Puerto Montt if the final night were spent in the Futaleufú Valley.
Amenities: lakeside wood fired hot tub, small bar.
Day By Day Itinerary
The unique journey takes you from one spectacular lodge to the next while passing through one of the most gorgeous river landscapes in the world. This one of a kind adventure is suited for anyone regardless of their experience level.
DAY 1: U.S.
Evening flight from the U.S. to Santiago, Chile.
DAY 2: SANTIAGO / PUERTO VARAS
Arrive in Santiago this morning and transfer to the flight to Puerto Montt. Arriving in Puerto Montt, transfer to the Wyndham Pettra Hotel in Puerto Varas. Located on the shores of Lago Llanquihue with Mount Fuji-like snow-capped, Volcano Osorno rising directly out of the water, Puerto Varas is one of the most picturesque cities in South America. The afternoon is free. We meet the Earth River guide, Maria, in the evening for a welcome dinner.
DAY 3: CHAITEN / RIO FUTALEUFU / LONCONAO COTTAGES
After breakfast, Maria escorts us to a short flight to Chaiten. Upon arriving, we are met by the trip leader, board a comfortable bus, and drive 2 hours past roaring rivers, hanging glaciers, and deep blue lakes to our starting point on the Futaleufu, where we run a series of class 4 rapids. We spend the first three evenings in Patagonia in elegant cottages on the shore of Lago Lonconao. Each cottage has internet, two large bedrooms with private bathrooms, a spacious “central living room,” and a deck with chairs overlooking the lake and the mountains beyond. Additional activities for those with the energy include kayaking, swimming, and fishing. Meals are cooked by a professional chef and served in a spacious central dining hall with full wall windows that look out at snow-capped peaks rising precipitously from the clear blue lake. This “great room” is not just a place to eat but a wonderful space to relax and unwind after the day’s activities. A full-wall stone fireplace and roaring fire warm the chilly Patagonia evening.
DAY 4: ESPOLON RIVER / LONCONAO COTTAGES
This morning, we board mountain bikes for a beautiful ride to our inflatable kayak put in on the class 2-3 Rio Espolon, a clear teal tributary of the Futaleufu. After an introductory lesson, we kayak the rapids*—night at Lonconao cottages.
*Note: Those participants who do not wish to paddle their own kayaks can paddle in a small guided raf
DAY 5: RIO FUTALEUFU / LONCONAO COTTAGES
We spend the day running wonderful class 4 rapids through the remote upper Futaleufu Canyon.* Lunch is at Zeta Rapid, where there is an optional 20-foot cliff jump into the aerated blue pool below the “Z” shaped flume. Evening at the Lonconao Cottages.
*Note: Depending upon water level, class 5 guests who pass a swim test will run class 5 Inferno Canyon in the morning.
DAY 6: RIO AZUL / PEUMA LODGE
This morning, we board mountain bikes and ride down a narrow dirt road past remote farms and dense forests to our inflatable kayak put in on the turquoise, class 3 Rio Azul, one of the world’s most beautiful beginner inflatable kayak runs.* The views along the way of the snow-capped peaks rising from the turquoise water are stunning. We spend the next three nights at the Peuma Lodge, a unique blend of solitude and comfort deep in the Patagonian forest. Nestled in an intimate valley, with Teton-like spires rising 6,000 feet above the valley floor, the view from the dining room and expansive hot tub deck is what one imagines when they think of Patagonia. Unwind with a hot shower after the day’s adventure. Hors d’oeuvres and Chilean wine are followed by a chef-prepared dinner. Afterward, relax in a sauna or wood-fired hot tub under the stars. We retire in the evening to our heated cabins with private bathrooms.
*Note: a small, guided raft is available for those not wanting to kayak.
DAY 7: FUTALEUFU RIVER / RIO BLANCO SLOT CANYON / PEUMA LODGE
After running a series of class 3-4 rapids, we arrive at the confluence with the Rio Blanco, where we embark on a remarkable journey through this gorgeous cleft in the Patagonia Andes. Hiking, climbing, and swimming are the only ways to traverse this incredible natural labyrinth of white boulders, clear azure pools, and stunning waterfalls. After lunch, we run some more class 4 rapids with one optional class 5.
DAY 8: LAGO OBSESSION / PEUMA LODGE
This morning, we hike out of the valley through an enchanted forest of ancient hardwood trees and past impressive waterfalls to Lago Obsession. With a dramatic 2,000 vertical foot ice-enshrouded granite tooth that rises from the northern end, this miniature, hanging blue lake is a masterwork of nature’s artistry and a rarely visited scenic highlight of Patagonia. It is not uncommon to see condors circling in the thermals above.
*Note: Optional day’s activity: There is a less arduous walk up into the old-growth forest for those not wishing to make the strenuous hike. There is also the option of staying at the lodge, enjoying the sauna, hot tubs, and a massage.
DAY 9: RIO FUTALEUFU / YELCHO LODGE
Class 4 rapids come in quick succession today as we run the lower Futaleufu.* After the final rapid, the canyon boasts grand vistas of towering mountains and glaciers rising from the teal-colored water. In the afternoon, we transfer to the Yelcho Lodge on the shore of Lago Yelcho, the 17-mile body of water fed by the Futaleufu. Framed among no-named snow-capped peaks, the hand-built wooden lodge is our final respite from a week that sped by but was filled with a year’s worth of memories. If time allows, there is a nearby glacier hike. We spend the night in comfortable cabins. That night, we have a farewell dinner with the trip leader.
*Note: The final two rapids are class 5 and optional.
DAY 10: CHAITEN / PUERTO MONTT / SANTIAGO
A short flight this morning takes us to Puerto Montt. Upon landing, we are met by the Earth River guide, Maria, who transfers the group to their domestic flights to Santiago.
DAY 11: United States
This morning, we arrive back in the U.S. (or our home country).
Getting There
THROUGH CHILE
International Flights: U.S. OR CANADA / SANTIAGO
Direct overnight flights from major hubs such as New York, Los Angeles, Dallas, Atlanta, Miami, and Toronto to Santiago, Chile.
Domestic Flights and Transfers
SANTIAGO / PUERTO MONTT / PUERTO VARAS
Flight from Santiago to Puerto Montt and then take a taxi to the spectacular Hotel Wyndham Pettra in the quaint Chilean town of Puerto Varas. With panoramic views of Lago Llanquilhue and snowcapped Volcano Osorno rising from the eastern shore, Puerto Varas is one of the most picturesque towns in all of South America. The Hotel has sweeping views of the lake and volcano from it’s expansive lawns and is a welcome reprieve from the long trip down. That evening we meet our guide, Maria, in the Hotel lobby for a trip orientation and welcome dinner out on the town.
*Important Note: For those people who can not commit to taking off the extra day and are only able to leave Friday evening, there is the option of arriving a day later, skipping the Puerto Varas day/hotel and meeting us directly at the Paloma Airport in Puerto Montt at 11:00 AM. Saturday morning. There are a number of international flight that arrive early enough into Santiago to make this itinerary possible.
PUERTO VARAS / CHAITEN / FUTALEUFU VALLEY
40 minute flight from Puerto Varas to Chaiten. Then a two and a half hour bus ride to the Futaleufu.
Please call our office for instructions on how to join the trip through Argentina.
THROUGH ARGENTINA
Another excellent option is to begin your journey in Buenos Aires, Argentina. The city offers direct flights from many U.S. and Canadian hubs and is a more vibrant, culturally rich entry point than Santiago. With extra time, you can enjoy Buenos Aires’ European-style boulevards, tango shows, world-class steak houses, and colorful neighborhoods like La Boca and San Telmo.
From Buenos Aires, it’s a short domestic flight to Bariloche, one of Patagonia’s most famous mountain towns. Known for its alpine scenery, Swiss-inspired architecture, hiking trails, chocolate shops, and fishing, Bariloche is a destination worth exploring in its own right. From Bariloche, it’s just a 4.5-hour drive across the Andes to reach Futaleufú, Chile.
Border Crossing
Crossing the border between Argentina and Chile at Paso Cardenal Samoré or Futaleufú crossing points is straightforward. 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.
Many of our travelers combine Buenos Aires + Bariloche + Futaleufu for a well-rounded Patagonia experience.
*Note: Please contact Earth River for more information and to help coordinate logistics if needed.
FAQ
HOW LONG HAS EARTH RIVER BEEN IN BUSINESS AND WHAT IS YOUR SAFETY RECORD?
Since our founding in 1989, Earth River has safely guided trips around the world on the Futaleufú for 37 years, with a flawless safety record.
WHEN IS THE BEST TIME TO DO THE FUTALEUFU IN TERMS OF WEATHER AND WATER LEVELS?
The Futaleufú Valley lies within a temperate microclimate and, during the summer, does not experience the intense wind and rain often associated with southern Patagonia (Torres Del Paine/Fitzroy area). It does, however, rain, hence the valley’s lush, verdant landscape. The weather remains relatively stable during the three months we run our trips (although December is notoriously the wettest), with daytime temperatures ranging from 50 to 85°F and nighttime temperatures between 30 and 50°F. Average rainfall is about 3 inches per month, roughly the same as in the northeastern United States. The river is glacier-fed, which keeps it flowing consistently throughout the season. Rain, which can occur at any time, may raise water levels, occasionally making it necessary to walk around some of the class 5 rapids. The water temperature remains a constant 58 to 60°F all season long.
CAN THE TRIPS BE SHORTENED BY A DAY, WITHOUT MISSING ANY OF THE RIVER PORTION, SO I ONLY HAVE TO TAKE OFF ONE WEEK FROM WORK?
Yes, it is possible to arrive in Puerto Montt on Saturday morning. This would shorten the trip to one work week and two weekends. Please contact our office for details on how to arrange this.
WHAT IS THE TYPICAL GROUP SIZE?
Typical group size is around 14 guests, with a maximum of 18.
WHAT ARE THE LODGE ACCOMMODATIONS LIKE?
You will spend your evenings in beautiful, remote lodges. Each lodge is small and features expansive decks with stunning views. A wood-fired hot tub is available on three of the nights. The rooms include private bathrooms with showers. Meals are prepared by professional chefs each night.
HOW DO YOU ACCOMMODATE GUESTS OF VARYING EXPERIENCE LEVELS AND ABILITIES?
Guests ranging in age from 6 to 80, and of all abilities and experience levels, have enjoyed our Futaleufú trip. Whether you’re a rafter, hiker, angler, class IV rafter or class V, you can customize your experience with any combination of these activities, without affecting other members of the expedition. All multi-sport activities, including rafting, are optional. Participants can choose to paddle in the rafts or ride in extremely stable safety catarafts (mandatory for young children). A scenic hiking trail follows portions opf the river, making any of the class V rapids optional. You can raft, hike, fish, or combine these activities as you journey down the river. Bottom line, the trip can be tailored to each individual without impacting anyone else’s experience.
WHAT KIND OF PHYSICAL CONDITION DO I NEED TO BE IN?
We accommodate people of all fitness levels. A modest workout three times a week can enhance your experience. Because there are so many activity options, guests can push themselves as much, or as little, as they wish, without affecting anyone else’s experience. By far the most strenuous day is the hike up to Lago Obsession. For those who prefer not to make the challenging hike, there is a beautiful shorter hike through an old growth forest.
WHAT DO YOU DO WITH MY EXCESS BAGS AND VALUABLES WHEN I’M ON THE RIVER TRIP?
Your extra bags will be stored with the Earth River guide in Puerto Varas at the start of the trip and meet you at the airport at the end of the trip.
ARE ELECTRICITY AND INTERNET AVAILABLE ON THE TRIP ?
Electricity and internet are available every night at all the lodges.
IN CASE OF A MEDICAL EMERGENCY, WHAT ARE THE EVACUATION PROCEDURES?
Evacuation by four-wheel-drive vehicle or helicopter is possible on any day of the trip. An injured or ill person can be transported to a modern hospital in Esquel, Argentina (2.5 hours away). In more remote locations along the river or at Lago Obsession, it may be necessary to call in a helicopter (approximately 1.5 hours away). All guides are certified Wilderness First Responders
ARE CHILDREN WELCOME?
Families with children usually join us during the December holiday departures. This is the Harry Potter of adventure trips; parents and children enjoy it equally. That said, the dramatic natural features that make this such an incredible experience, cliffs, rapids, and lakes, can also pose hazards to children who do not follow instructions. We have guided numerous families on this trip, including those with children as young as six.
IS THERE A SINGLE SUPPLEMENT FOR SOLO TRAVELERS?
If you request a single room for the duration of the trip (8 hotel/lodge nights), you will be charged an additional $2,000 USD. If you are willing to share a room with a guest of the same sex, there is a subsidized rate of $1,200. If a single traveler pays this amount before a roommate is available, and we later find one, Earth River will refund the $800 difference.
Note: It is also possible to share a room with someone of the opposite sex if both parties agree. Individuals have done this in the past without issue to avoid paying the single supplement fee.
DO YOU HAVE SPECIAL GROUP RATES?
Depending on the size of the group, private charters may be eligible for a group discount. Please contact our office for information about the group size required to qualify.
HOW MANY PARTICIPANTS DO I NEED FOR A PRIVATE CHARTER DEPARTURE AND ARE CUSTOMIZED TRIPS AVAILABLE?
Private groups must have at least 12 participants. Groups with fewer than 12 can reserve a private departure but will need to pay 50% of the per-person rate for the remaining spots up to 12. We’ve hosted family reunions, weddings, and corporate retreats. Private departures can be customized in terms of itinerary, activities, food, and wine.
Questions? Talk To An Expert
Join us on the Futaleufu for an unforgettable journey of discovery, connection, and wonder.