Thrill and Scenery on Chile’s Petrohué River: A Half-Day Rafting Adventure
Difficulty
challenging
Duration
4–5 hours
Fitness Level
Participants should be in good physical condition with moderate endurance and the ability to swim.
Overview
Experience the rush of rafting down Chile’s Petrohué River, surrounded by the towering volcanoes of Vicente Pérez Rosales National Park. This half-day trip mixes dynamic rapids with epic landscapes and local history for a truly immersive adventure.
Thrill and Scenery on Chile’s Petrohué River: A Half-Day Rafting Adventure
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The Petrohué River challenges you with swift currents and the vivid push of cold water as you navigate its class III rapids. Starting from the edge of Vicente Pérez Rosales National Park, this half-day rafting trip blends raw adrenaline with the unfiltered beauty of southern Chile’s volcanic landscape. Each paddle stroke cuts through turquoise waters, flanked by native forests that seem to reach out with moss-draped branches. Above, the towering shapes of Calbuco, Osorno, and Puntiagudo volcanos watch silently, their snow-capped peaks contrasting with the deep greens below.
Adventure Photos
Adventure Tips
Wear a wetsuit and PFD at all times
The Petrohué’s waters stay cold year-round, so layering thermal gear beneath the provided wetsuit enhances comfort and safety.
Arrive early for safety briefings
Your guides will provide crucial instructions—listening closely ensures a safer and more enjoyable ride.
Bring a waterproof bag for personal items
Though gear is provided, storing phones or cameras safely allows you to capture moments without risk.
Check weather before you go
River conditions change with the season; avoid rafting during heavy rain or risky volcanic activity alerts.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Andean condor
- Magellanic woodpecker
History
Vicente Pérez Rosales National Park preserves lands originally inhabited by the Mapuche, whose culture remains integral to the region’s identity.
Conservation
The park implements strict river and forest protections to balance visitor impact with ecosystem health, including limits on rafting group sizes.
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Adventure Hotspots in Puerto Varas
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Wetsuit
spring specific
Water shoes or secure sandals
Protects feet from rocky riverbed and provides grip inside the raft.
summer specific
Quick-dry clothing
Keeps you comfortable both in and out of the water during varying weather.
Waterproof camera or phone case
Allows you to document the trip without damage from splashes or drops.