Guided Kayak Tour on the Maullín River — Half-Day from Puerto Varas

Llanquihue•moderate

Difficulty

moderate

Duration

4 hours (2–3 hours paddling)

Fitness Level

Moderate — you should be comfortable paddling for up to three hours with short breaks

Overview

Paddle from Lago Llanquihue into the Maullín River on a half-day guided kayak trip that threads swamp forest, migratory birds, and clear backwaters. Expect two to three hours on the water, expert local guides, and a relaxed finish with pizza and craft beer.

Guided Kayak Tour on the Maullín River — Half-Day from Puerto Varas

Kayak

Other

Select participants and date

Date

Thu, Oct 30

Travelers

The paddle begins under a sky the color of pewter, the Andes keeping a watchful silence across Lago Llanquihue. You launch from a low wooden dock in Llanquihue, sit-on-top kayak cutting through glassy water that smells faintly of peat and green leaves. Within minutes the lake narrows and the current takes charge, guiding you into the Maullín River, where swamp forest colonizes the channel and a chorus of birds punctuates the air.

Adventure Photos

Guided Kayak Tour on the Maullín River — Half-Day from Puerto Varas photo 1

Adventure Tips

Bring a dry bag

Phones and extra layers should stay dry — pack them in a small dry bag or sealable pouch you can clip to your PFD.

Layer for changeable weather

Temperatures can swing between sun on the lake and cool shade in the swamp; synthetic layers and a light windbreaker work best.

Wear secure footwear

Use closed-toe water shoes to protect against submerged roots and to make re-boarding easier.

Conserve phone battery for photos

Turn off unnecessary apps and keep your phone in airplane mode to preserve battery for photos and navigation.

Local Insights

Wildlife

black-necked swan
kingfisher and several migratory waterfowl species

History

The Maullín channel has served local Mapuche-Huilliche and later German settlers as a transportation and fishing corridor; its wetlands are central to regional livelihoods.

Conservation

These wetlands are sensitive peat and forest systems — stay on the main channels, avoid disturbing banks, and follow guide instructions to minimize ecological impact.