Futaleufú River - White Water Rafting Adventure in Chile, Patagonia

Futaleufu River Rafting Multi-Sport

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We first fell in love with Chile in 1991 and have been safely, and expertly, rafting the Futaleufu River since 1993. We have blended a delightful mix of multi sport activities for you to try and enjoy on this action-packed vacation in southern Chile.

Our Futaleufu rafting adventure is based out of our beautiful riverside camp, overlooking the turquoise blue waters of the Futaleufu River as it surges beneath Patagonia’s snow capped mountains. Enjoy the best in Chile rafting and multi-sport fun on Bio Bio Expedition’s signature adventure vacation, and one which truly represents who we are as a company. Rafting in Chile and the Futaleufu River is the place – and this is the trip – where we discovered and developed that magical alchemy of adventure, rivers, culture, camaraderie, and unique touches that have come to represent who we are at Bio Bio Expeditions.

Once you arrive at our gorgeous Futaleufu Adventure Base Camp overlooking the river, you will realize that you have stepped into your dream adventure travel trip. This will become your home-away-from-home for your vacation week in Chile – your own “safari-style” tented bungalow nestled into the cliff overlooking the turquoise waters and complete with warm down comforters and mattresses for your lazing pleasure. Every morning, after being delivered a hot cup of coffee or tea to tent bungalow door, you can look forward to another day of fun adventures on or around the Futaleufu. Each day involves a new and customized mix of activities guided by some of the most accomplished and talented international outdoor guides.

Futaleufu Multi-Sport Vacation

River-based fun include whitewater rafting the famous, incomparable Futaleufu River, inflatable kayaking the aptly named Rio Azul, fly fishing (or spin) for Patagonia rainbow trout, or taking a lesson in whitewater kayaking. Land-based activities include horseback riding and hiking up pristine valleys and mountain biking a mix of ox-trails and single track.

Futaleufu athletic fun is rounded out by the amenities available back at our deluxe Base Camp – relax in one of our two riverside hot tubs, completely unwind with a professional massage or in our daily yoga classes, enjoy our wood fired sauna, savor the gourmet cuisine prepared by our professional chef, try wine tasting at the sunset bar and salsa dancing under the Southern Cross, or just chill out around the campfire with a cup of tea. Really, what could be better?

Leave the cold, dark North American winter behind and join us for the adventure vacation of a lifetime in the heart of Patagonia at the Futaleufu River in Chile!

Itinerary Snapshot

Day 1

Arrive to Puerto Montt, and transfer on your own to the scenic town of Puerto Varas on Lago Llanquihue where you will check into your hotel. At 7pm, there will be a meet and greet followed by dinner. Overnight at hotel in Puerto Varas. (D)

Day 2

Drive to Aerodromo Marcel Merchant in Puerto Montt to take your short scenic flight to Chaiten. We drive through the temperate rainforest, passing countless waterfalls and hanging glaciers surrounded by jagged mountain peaks! We will pause for a short hike and a picnic lunch in Pumalin National Park. Arrive early afternoon at camp; camp orientation, swim, hot tub, and welcome happy hour.

Day 3

Start the day with a Yoga class, or catch up on some sleep. Today’s introduction and “warm up” is complete with safety briefing and paddle training on the famous Bridge to Bridge section. In the afternoon you may choose from mountain biking, hiking, fly-fishing class or our popular intro to hard shell, river kayaking clinic.

Day 4

Step-up the rafting today! Raft from camp through Bridge to Bridge again and add on class V, Mas o Menos and Casa de Piedra rapids. After the tough rapids, we switch gears and opt for the Kayak Clinic part II, fish or just ” booze cruise “ as we drift into lunch which is served off the grill on a remote island. After lunch, resume the kayaking and a most scenic mellow float for 5 km to Puerto Ramirez take out. Back to camp for hot tubbing, massage, relaxing and dinner!

Day 5

Short drive up the Rio Azul side valley for an exciting class 3 descent in inflatable kayaks! (doubles and singles!)

Day 6

Horseback ride deep into the pristine wilderness of Northern Patagonia. Our ride takes us to a beautiful overlook of the Futaleufu Valley where we have lunch and enjoy some of the most dramatic views of the Futaleufu valley

Day 7

Drive to the Pueblo of Futaleufú. Raft the class V Inferno Canyon, a three mile canyon of class V whitewater: Entrance, Wall shot, Dynamite, Flight of Angels and Exit rapids!! Then float down to Zeta and Throne Room rapids, which we walk around, only to resume paddling the exciting “Wild Mile “- four miles of class IV fun rapids. There is the option to only raft the rapids below Inferno Canyon.

Day 8

Summit day! Raft through the Terminator, Kyburz, and Himalayas rapids. Lunch at camp. Raft from camp again to below Casa De Piedra. Optional hiking, mountain biking or fly-fishing activities available as well. Last night in camp: lamb roast/Chilean “asado feast” and wine tasting!

Day 9

Early morning drive back to Chaiten and 45 min. flight back to Puerto Montt. Transfer to larger domestic airport for flights home or to your next destination!

Some of the activities can be interchanged depending on your preference for the day.

Previous Next

Day One
Arrive in Santiago, Chile. Collect your luggage, pass through Customs and then re-check in for your domestic flight to Puerto Montt: gateway to Patagonia!

After collecting your bags in Puerto Montt, go outside and look for a taxi. Ask the taxi to take you to Hotel Las Cumbres in Puerto Varas. The Taxi ride will be in the ballpark of $40.00 USD, which is $39,000 Chilean Pesos. We recommend having about $100 USD on hand, preferably already converted to Chilean Pesos which would be $85,000.00 CLP. You may experience stunning views of Volcano Osorno, weather permitting. Enjoy strolling the streets, famous for its wooden homes built by German immigrants. Depending on your arrival time, rafting, fishing, or a tour to Lago Todos los Santos and Saltos de Petrohue can be arranged. (Not included in trip price)

We will meet at 7:00 pm in the hotel lobby bar for introductions and a welcome briefing to be followed by a group welcome dinner at one of our favorite restaurants, where you can indulge in a steak off the parilla or try Chile’s famous seafood! Overnight in Puerto Varas.

Day Two
After breakfast we will board our private vehicle for a 20 minute drive to the La Paloma Airport, where we will board one of the most scenic flights imaginable. In only 30 minutes we will arrive Chaiten, a small fishing village and a gateway to Patagonia. Here you will get an immediate sense of wild and scenic Patagonia! Depending on time, we will take a short hike in Pumalin National Park; one of the largest and most diverse conservation efforts in South America. The 715,000-acre Pumalín Park is located in the Palena Province of Chile, and stretches from the heart of the Andes to the fjords of the Pacific Coast. Protecting a pristine Valdivian temperate rainforest, this is one of Doug Tompkins Conservation Initiatives.

Along our 2 hour drive to Bio Bio basecamp, we pass beautiful Lago Yelcho, multiple hanging glaciers, jagged glaciated peaks, and temperate rainforests. Soon we’ll arrive at the Bio Bio Base Camp, where your private tent bungalows sitting upon raised platforms, complete with river views and comfortable beds, will be waiting for you. Our enthusiastic guides will lead you to your sweet new “home away from home” on the river!

After a short hike or a swim, you may want to soak in the riverside hot tub or enjoy a hot shower. Then, we gather in the sunset bar for our first welcome happy hour. We will introduce the entire BBX crew and go over the week’s agenda. After happy hour, a hearty dinner will be served. It does tend to cool down quite a bit when the sun sets below the peaks so we dress warmly in the evenings.

Day Three
Awaken on the banks of the Fu and enjoy your first morning in camp! We rise with the warmth of the sun and have breakfast around 9 am. A pre-breakfast yoga class is available on our customized yoga platform with river views! Mornings tend to be crisp and dewy so prepare to dress warmly – a fleece is perfect. Today is a river day. We will launch our rafts from base camp after a thorough safety briefing. In a safe ‘eddy’, a short distance downstream, we’ll do a set of practice rescue drills. This allows the crew in each raft to hone their skills and prepare to raft as a team.

We use a cataraft combined with ace safety-kayakers as part of our “safety net.” Each raft is captained by a highly trained and intuitive river guide, who guides the boat from a stern-mounted oar frame. Guiding with oars does not detract from the paddling experience. The advantage to the oar frame is greater control in pointing the bow straight through bus size holes and 15-foot high “haystack” wave trains. High siding is also an actively used “paddle” command. This style is consistent with any high volume, strong current river where rapids graded 4 to 5-plus rage on. This is the Futaleufú!

The first section that we raft, from camp down to Puente Futaleufú (the Futaleufú Bridge), is only 10 km, but offers more rapids per 1000 meters than anywhere else on the river. It is the perfect warm-up run and it is non-stop fun! The rapids of note are “El Cojín”, the Cushion, and “Mundaca”, a local family name.

At take-out, we meet our vehicles for a 20-minute ride back to camp. Those who would prefer a “lower body” workout to complement their paddling are welcome to run back or ride one of our mountain bikes from take-out to camp. When we get to camp, you can choose to go fly-fishing, try out a kayak, practice yoga, nap in a hammock, enjoy the sauna, have a massage, go for a hike, or soak in the hot tub. Taking a hot shower, either indoors or under the big sky, feels very luxurious while camping in the remote wilderness of northern Patagonia! Of course, for the hardy, the river provides a cold bath and refreshing swim.

As the sun sinks behind the mountains, enjoy a game of chess or cards at the sunset bar. Every late afternoon is “Happy Hour” with an open bar stocked with beer, wine, soda, and fresh juice. Then, we gather together in the open-air kitchen/dining area, the “Galpon”, for a candlelight sit-down dinner featuring fresh locally grown produce and fresh-baked breads. After dinner, enjoy the campfire and the stars before retiring to your cozy tent on your private platform. The sound of the river will lull you to sleep and send you off dreaming of the next day of adventure in Chile.

Day Four
Officially day two of our rafting extravaganza. Our aim is to settle into a river rhythm that will be utilized in order to successfully raft the next few sections the Fu. After Yoga and breakfast, we will launch our rafts from camp and run the Bridge to Bridge section one more time. When we get to the 2nd bridge, you have the option to hop out and ride the bus around the next two big rapids, or if you are feeling up for it you can continue down river. We pass the Puente Futaleufú (yesterday’s take-out), we immediately round the corner to meet a big stomping continuous cascade of waves known as “Mas o Menos”, translated, “More or Less”. This is a good stepping-stone towards our first true blue class V technical rapid, “Casa de Piedra” (House of Rock) which is right around the next corner. We will get out of our rafts to scout this massive boulder choked rapid from the banks of the Fu. It is formed like a series of water wheels that channel all of their fury into a final churning pit with a dragon’s back highway through it. Its great fun!

After this rapid, we will run the remaining class 3 rapids as our hearts resume beating at their normal rates. We will drift into a nice long calm section that offers perfect fishing from the rafts as well as a great place to get into some hard shell kayaks. The next three miles is a time relax, and enjoy our stop on one of Futaleufu’s most beautiful beaches. Here we enjoy a hot lunch over the grill, play games, siesta, swim and take in the tranquil afternoon along side the Futaleufu. Later in the afternoon we continue our float a few miles, and reach our take out spot just above Lago Yelcho. Upon return to camp, we will continue to celebrate the day, enjoy the spa and get ready for another fabulous dinner prepared by our jovial crew and talented chef.

Day Five
Today we become experts at navigating our very own river crafts, known inflatable kayaks, IK’s or duckies. We venture up canyon to the Rio Azul, one of the main tributaries to the Futaleufu and is one of the most scenic canyons in Patagonia. Challenge yourself on the class II and III rapids and depending on your comfort level, either walk or take-on the Class IV rapid, ‘Cheese Grater’.

There is something deeply satisfying paddling your own boat down river, knowing that your destiny is in your own hands. Of course our highly trained guides will be there to coach you, watch over you and provide safety should you need to be rescued. Fishing, mountain biking or relaxing around camp are always options in the late afternoon.

Day Six

After yoga and breakfast we take a short drive to the stables where we will find our trusty steeds saddled up and ready for adventurous riding. After a safety briefing, we ride alongside some local expert equestrians and our own river guides who will gladly join the posse up to a beautiful overlook of the Futaleufu Valley and one of the larger rapids – ‘Throne Room’. This is a full day and you will be glad to return to camp, enjoy the soothing hot tub, a cold beer or glass of wine as you wait your turn to get a well deserved massage!

Day Seven
We will have an early breakfast in camp then travel 25 kilometers up the road to Rio Espolon to launch our rafts for the Inferno Canyon day!

On the Rio Espolon we have a chance to warm up on this low volume river before it joins and helps form the mighty Futaleufu as it gets squeezed into the narrow Inferno canyon. This upper canyon requires aggressive class V paddling and is potentially the most intense section of white water on the river. Many other options exist for those who choose not to participate in Inferno Canyon.

Five distinct rapids form a narrow sinuous river passage creating a wet surge and a “full on” adrenaline rush. The fourth rapid was until recently the smallest of the 5, but due to road building debris landing in the river, has now become nearly impassable at most water levels and requires a walk around and “lining” the rafts through it. As we come out of “Exit”, the last rapid, we enter into a long calm. The current remains swift and we cruise many miles downstream arriving at the mandatory portage around the fierce “Zeta” rapid. We have lunch on the rocks as the crew “ghost” boats the rafts through this treacherous rapid.

After lunch, our first obstacle is “Throne Room,” a class V+ rapid for kayaks, a ghost boat rapid for rafts. By walking around this rapid, we get a great bird’s eye view of an almost ‘river wide’ hole that could destroy a raft. Back on board our rafts, we are dealt a Royal Flush; a continuous class IV corridor of rapids does not let up until we get to our take-out spot at the Rio Azul footbridge. The rafts are left for the night, tethered on shore.

Early evening is spent in camp getting ready for the evening festivities. Blanca and her partner Umberto, locals from a nearby farm, prepare a very special treat for us. They merrily prepare a delicious dinner called “Curanto” that is typical of the south of Chile and the island of Chiloe. We spend the evening by the bonfire on the beach singing and dancing the night away.

Day Eight
Today, we must be mentally and physically well prepared for the river. We call it the “summit day” as we aim to top our already great paddling days with the best day of white water in the world. After a nutritious breakfast, we head up river to the footbridge where we left the rafts yesterday. As our day on the river begins, the blue glacial run-off from the Rio Azul River merges into the Fu from the right. The views of the snow capped mountain peaks and jagged ridges of the mountain “Las Tres Monjas” (translated, “the three Nuns”) are absolutely breathtaking. A six-kilometer stretch of warm-up rapids leads us to the longest and toughest rapid that we will raft, “The Terminator.” We scout and study our line, then we take the plunge and drop in. “Left turn, right turn, dig it in — hard forward!” are a few of the commands that might be heard. The next three miles are non-stop rapids. After an aerobic workout, we pump through the enormous haystack wave train known as the “Himalayas”. Just when we need it, a calm returns, we float gently into lunch, served at our base camp.

After lunch, we return to the river to complete the last task for the day, tackling as much white water as possible. We raft the whole section of river from camp to below Casa de Piedra. At take-out, cold beers and tea are waiting. We make a triumphant return to camp to celebrate our days spent exploring Futaleufú valley and river.

For the evening’s festivities, Rolando and Nelli will prepare a typical Chilean Asado — lamb roasted over a bed of coals, ensalada, potatoes and farm fresh bread. We toast the river and give thanks for our safe passage. Under a bright starry sky, we will spend our last night together as a group on the banks of the mighty Fu with the guides and crew.

Day Nine
We start early today as we have to travel back down to the coast to catch the puddle jumper flight from Chaiten back to Puerto Montt and transfer to the larger airport for flights home or to your next destination. You will want to leave a comfortable “window” to make it back in time, so book connecting flights from 17:00 hrs onwards. You may also choose to spend another night in Puerto Varas on your own. (See below if you are interested in the Torres Del Paine Extension.)

We hope that when you board the airplane you will look back upon your time in Patagonia and think of the friends you have made and the beauty of the Futaleufú River and Patagonian wilderness. Ciao amigos! Ciao Ciao Chile!!

ENCHANTING…

Stay on the river in the most exquisite adventure base camp imaginable! Overlooking one of the most beautiful canyons on the Futaleufú River, our base camp proves that camping can be luxurious. Amenities include: our riverside sunset bar where we enjoy Chilean wines, a wood sauna, 5 hot showers, flush toilets, 2 massage studios, a stone riverside hot tub, a handcrafted wood hot tub, a fireside, sit down dining area where we enjoy delicious meals made with locally grown produce, and indoor and outdoor yoga decks with spectacular river and mountain views.

Your “home away from home” is a private, spacious safari-style tent bungalow with amazing views of the river. You will fall asleep in a comfy bed with soft linens and fluffy comforters to keep you warm as the river lulls you to sleep and into sweet dreams.

Our camp provides natural areas of private, quiet reflection and beautifully hand built structures such as the open-air library or tranquil yoga pagoda.

We are ideally situated for river access and smooth shuttle logistics – jump in a raft and float down to the famous “bridge to bridge” whitewater section just a mile downstream from camp. We are right in the middle of the most continuous whitewater on the river! This translates into more river time and less driving time.

The deluxe facilities at our Futaleufu River Camp include:

Open sunset bar overlooking the river with unlimited drinks, relaxing, dancing and good conversation
A hand-crafted wood sauna
All water is treated and potable
2 private spa/massage rooms and professional masseuse
Free daily yoga classes with mats on a cliffside yoga deck or the new indoor yoga loft with stunning mountain and river views
River rock hot tub with beautiful river, mountain, and sunset views
Hand crafted wood hot tub with river views situated downstream from our main camp to offer a place for private soaking and relaxation.
Hot showers (can even shower outside, under the stars!) and flush toilets
Private tent bungalows with roofs for shade, or rain, complete with roomy, walk-in, safari-style tents with river views, coffee table, shelving, real mattresses, pillows and sheets, down comforters
Morning wake-up with coffee service by your own personal “tent captain”
Cozy robes and towels

Our camp includes areas for private, quiet reflection, such as our peaceful open-air loft library and cozy yoga pagoda, or join your fellow adventurers in one of the group gathering places for games, sit-down dinners, and happy hours.

Your adventure vacation on the Futaleufu River also includes:

Free use of our fleet of 14 suspension mountain bikes, whitewater kayaks and catarafts, and a variety of fishing equipment
Yoga classes every morning and private yoga sessions on request
A full range of multisport adventures…
Fly fishing on the Futaleufu River – either from shore, or from a cataraft in the calm canyon in front of camp. First timers and experts welcome!
Gourmet cuisine including freshly baked bread, fresh vegetables from either our organic garden or an adjacent farm and dinner always start with housemade soup
We can cater to many dietary needs: pescatarian, vegetarian, gluten-free, vegan, carnivore
Candlelight dinners in our “Galpon”; a covered, open air log structure hand-built by our good friend and talented Chilean carpenter, Rolando.
Inflatable kayaking on the Azul River and Espolon River – the Futaleufu’s two largest tributaries
Horseback riding
Unlimited use of hammocks in the open-air library
An evening of Chilean wine tasting, including some wine made by a couple of our guides in Mendoza, Argentina
A sunset “float” downstream to a beautiful beach for a riverside BBQ and campfire
Visits to local farms to soak in the Patagonian culture
Farewell Asado – traditional Chilean feast
Mountain biking or hiking on nearby scenic trails
Stand-up paddleboard in the calm waters around camp or rapids up river
And, of course, whitewater rafting one of the most exciting, beautiful rivers in the world!

Looking for a premium, glamping experience? Stay at the Nido de Esolon, the honeymoon suite, that is a cabin with ensuite, private bathroom and electricity! $500, based on availability. Call our office for more information and availability on your trip!

Departure Dates:	2023-2024 Season December 19 – 27, 2023 December 28 – January 5, 2024 January 6 – 14, 2024 January 15 – 23, 2024 January 25 – February 2, 2024 – Wilderness & Travel Medicine CME February 3 – 8, 2024 – EXPRESS Trip! February 8 – 16, 2024 February 17 – 25, 2024 – International Veterinary Seminars February 26 – March 5, 2024 March 6 – 14, 2024 – Music with Jenner Fox and Jeremy* March 16 – 24, 2024 2024-2025 Season December 18-26 – sold out (private charter) December 28 – January 5 January 7-15 January 17-25 January 27 – February 4 – Wilderness & Travel Medicine CME February 6-14 February 16-24 February 25 – March 5 March 5-13 March 15-23 *Notes on Jenner Fox: There is something that happens inside a good song. A tootsie roll can take you back to your elementary school playground; a list of baby names becomes a prayer; the voice of a toothless refrigerator man reminds you to say “I love you.” Jenner Fox tells the stories of people and places with unparalleled compassion and respect. Fox and Elliott collaborated on various touring and studio projects for years before formally assembling for an experimental cargo bicycle tour in 2021. Elliott hails from the guitar mecca of Macon Georgia, and brings a wealth of blues, rock, bluegrass, country, and West African elements into his unique style of virtuoso. And a quote from Mike Posner: “I think the world of his songs. He’s not just good for on a river, he’s DAMN good” – Grammy finalist for best song, Mike Posner. And Brett Hochmuth: “On the river and on the road, Jenner is a folk singer, and uber-talented individual who makes people feel better when they’re around him. I’ve witnessed the unique twinkle in Jenner’s eye in 2 separate arenas. One was when his hands are on the oars of a raft, smiling in the calm, blue-green pool below a powerful Class V section of the famous Futaleufu River in Patagonia. The other is in a dimly lit lodge, sitting on sheepskins under the Southern Cross in the sky above while he pours his soul into filling the space with his powerful music. In either venue, Jenner is inspiring, encouraging, and uplifting.” – Brett Hochmuth Futaleufu 2018
Trip Length:	9 Days
Trip Price:	2023-2024 Season From $5,350.00, per person, based on dbl occupancy PLUS $275 Roundtrip Flight from Puerto Montt (PMC)/Chaiten (TEN), we book this for you 2024-2025 Season From $5,750.00, per person, based on dbl occupancy PLUS $300 Roundtrip Flight from Puerto Montt (PMC)/Chaiten (TEN), we book this for you Included in Pricing: Hotel & Welcome Dinner on First Night All inclusive once at Camp, excluding massage, trip video, and gratuity. Single Supplement Information: If you prefer not to share a hotel room for the first night of the trip, a single supplement is available for $100. Please call our office for this request! Given the nature of lodging at camp, we can’t guarantee a single at camp. However, we may be able to accommodate a single, depending on your date’s group size. The Single Supplement is $300.00 for 7 nights at the camp.
Deposit:	$600

View the full trip handbook here:

https://travefy.com/trip/6yw9rqqeaaxwqz2abz68lhsh7bxuksa

https://thejournaloflosttime.com/stories/encantador-futaleufu

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55 reviews for Futaleufu River Rafting Multi-Sport

Rated 5 out of 5
John Widman – February 27, 2023
Hi Lorenzo,
I hope all is well!
I’m sorry that my thank you is coming so late, but I wanted you to know how much Teresa and I enjoyed our trip!
I think it’s fair to say we were totally overwhelmed by our experience – the beauty of the Futaluefu, the mountains, the food, the camp, and the staff! It’s hard to put it all into words, but a huge thank you is in order for all of your efforts! I want you to know that I realize these effort have extended for the last 20 or so years and that we were privileged to see the benefits of your long term passions. This was a trip that will have life time benefits for everyone who took the challenge, and we are just so grateful that we had the opportunity to soak in your sunshine!
As you know, it’s not easy transitioning back to our “normal” lives. We are adjusting by looking at our pictures daily, remembering the energy and support of staff and friends, and trying to plan future adventures. Thank you for making these memories and for all that Bio Bio stands for. I certainly look forward to the day when our paths with you and Terry cross again.
Thank you again and all the best!
Sincerely,
John and Teresa
Rated 5 out of 5
kamaya Cohen – February 15, 2023
Customer
Kamaya Cohen
Activity
A10247
4 guests on Futaleufu Rafting Multi-Sport Adventure leaving 1/17/23 for 9 days
Completed
2/4/23 6:30AM
Please comment on your overall impression of the trip. Did it meet your expectations?
Exceeded my expectations-even better than the first time.
What did you think about the quality and the knowledge of your guide staff?
Off the charts- fantastic!
Please share with us any improvements you would suggest for future trips.
One more day to just kick it.
Would you consider traveling with Bio Bio Expeditions again? If so, which trips interest you most?
Yes!!! Futalefu again and Nepal.
If you were to tell a friend or colleague about your overall experience on this trip, what would you say?
One of the most magical, memorable trips of my life.
Rated 5 out of 5
Lilly Budano – February 15, 2023
Customer
Lilly Budano
Activity
A10247
4 guests on Futaleufu Rafting Multi-Sport Adventure leaving 1/17/23 for 9 days
Completed
1/28/23 6:57AM
Please comment on your overall impression of the trip. Did it meet your expectations?
This trip exceeded any and all expectations I had before arriving. I would recommend this trip to anyone looking to explore new parts of themselves and the world.
What did you think about the quality and the knowledge of your guide staff?
Off the charts- fantastic!
Please share with us any improvements you would suggest for future trips.
Super minor but if a screen could be added to the cabin window so guests could sleep with the sounds of the Fu and not worry about bugs that would be wonderful! Other than that, truly no improvements needed!
Would you consider traveling with Bio Bio Expeditions again? If so, which trips interest you most?
Absolutely! I would love to return to Futaleufú or Zambezi River expedition.
If you were to tell a friend or colleague about your overall experience on this trip, what would you say?
This trip was a whitewater rafting trip in one of the most beautiful places in the world. Not only was the daily rafting so much fun but the river guides and camp founders welcomed you into camp as part of their family. Being surrounded by the beautiful atmosphere and community has such a wonderful impact on you as a guest it makes you never want to leave!
Rated 5 out of 5
Warner Johnson – February 3, 2023
My wife and I went for our 30th anniversary and it was the trip of a lifetime. Incredible white water rafting in an unimaginably beautiful surrounding. The Bio Bio staff were nice and took amazing care of us. Beautiful scenery, nice people, great food and the whitewater has to be seen to be believed
Rated 5 out of 5
Emily Mcginty – July 9, 2022
oh my! words can’t even describe what an incredible experience it was to spend a week with bio bio on the Futa! The clear blue waters, the thrill of the big rapids, the endless yummy meals. thank you bio bio! I can’t wait for my next adventure with you guys.
Will Farmer – March 9, 2020
A massive thanks to the staff (and the ladies in the kitchennnn) for making our entire year of 2020! We all returned with a newfound love and respect for the Fu. As I sit here in my office suit in my office cubicle, it’s hard to believe a place like Bio Bio camp even exists. You all created an unforgettable experience that I’m confident rivals Heaven itself. Many thanks for your patience on the water as well as on land and for putting up with the whitest, most obnoxious boys from North Carolina the Fu hopefully ever has to see. We’re in the works on more trips to follow and will certainly be reaching out again, so prepare your inboxes!
All the best,
Will Farmer – Futaleufú 2020
Joe Palano – March 2, 2020
Hey Lorenzo please thank your entire team for the most amazing week on the Fu. The kindness, the love was over the top and what separates this trip from others.
My son Joe said it was the greatest trip of his life….for action- nothing was better.
Special thanks to Rio and Santiago and this certainly doesn’t diminish the others.
Please add my email to our list from that week as I didn’t do it and I would like to remain in contact.
Best to you and Terry!
You guys rock!
Rob Palano – Futaleufu 2020
Stephen McLeod – January 16, 2020
Hello Stan and Co,
We had a fantastic trip with you and your team. In fact it is still very difficult to focus on our real lives after our experiences on the Futaleufu. As you know, the Futa was the first 2 weeks of four in Chile and I really wish that we’d saved it to the last. While Chile was beautiful and full of surprises our time on the Futa was amazing and would have been a wonderful way to finish the holiday. We so pleased we did it and regret only that we did not stay for another week and bring along other members of the family.
Your team was exceptional – we were aware of how good they were of course but seeing above and more clearly from Rayno’s terrific video the care and preparation made to preserve our safety made me realise there was a lot more going on than at first glance.
Talking of video’s: we are still watching it and showing it endlessly to friends. We’ve been also using it to cheer us up when the European winter gets us down. I have to confess that I have misused some of the images to suggest that we (really I) were much more capable on the rapids. Still plagiarism is alive and well.
We can’t recommend your group more highly and we’d be very happy to provide references if anyone is hesitating.
Keep well, have a wonderful season and thank you again for one of the best weeks of our lives.
All the best
Steve
Futaleufu January 2020
Elizabeth B. – March 8, 2018
Hi all,
Giorgio and I are a bit overdue in letting you all know how our littlest rafter fared once he entered the world. In the end we didn’t name him Rio, or Santiago, or Diego – though they were all options (sorry Stan, no slight to you) 🙂 Our baby Logan Asher arrived at the end of May, two weeks late, but seemingly no worse for wear having scaled a few Class IV rapids. He seems to love water already, particularly when we make the water move around him , and keeps attempting to put his head under.
Thanks for keeping us safe, making us laugh, and helping us have such a joyous honeymoon/babymoon. We hope to see you all again on a river somewhere (we might wait till he’s walking at least) or you’re always welcome in London.
Love,
Elizabeth B.
Futaleufu December 2016
Alison Perea – February 16, 2018
Dear Marc, Wendy and staff at Bio Bio,
I recently returned from a long and happy journey in Patagonia beginning with the Camp at Rio Fu. The camp itself was absolutely incredible. The Yoga deck a definite favorite hang out for me and the hot tubs running a close second. The massage therapists were so welcome after days on the river and most needed after the long horseback ride.
But the Rio was the highlight. Every guide, safety person, and staff member were of the highest caliber. It never crossed my mind to be concerned as Derrick navigated the river with us in his raft, nor did I question the attention and professional guidance as we navigated our kayaks, a new experience for me, under the tutelage of Whitney and Elena, and the Ducky’s provided the most fun and humorous day ever. I loved every minute.
I was so impressed with the love of the “job” each member has for their rafts, the cooking, the entertainment and the attention paid to us. Everyone works so hard to make this a special place. The food was over the top delicious and bountiful.
Definitely do no let the Coffee machine die. This was such a hit and every morning Mike was there with my latte even before my eyes were adjusted to the day. Loved this!
The other non negotiable benefit was the dedication Rayno has for his capture of every moment we had. This is an admirable and difficult job and such a talented videographer is valuable for the adventure because as a member of the paddling team we could not take our own photos. Now I know why people get go pros. But even that could not capture and entertain the highlights Rayno did of our trip. Purchasing his video and photos was a fabulous addition to the entire experience.
Thank you so much for this once in a lifetime experience for myself and my friends. I would love to return and I may but for now the memory will be vividly captured in my mind, being and on film.
Muchas Gracias!
Alison Perea
Tony – January 8, 2018
Hola compadres,
Mary Elizabeth summed it up but I can’t help adding that you have created an incredible experience on the Fu … the quality and spirit of your team, the camp, the food, bars, hot tubs, brewery, videos and photos, integration with the locals, activities, etc. surpassed all expectations.
Thank you for the most magnificent experience and we look to reciprocating in some way at our home in the coming years.
Wishing you a slightly lower river and sunny skies for the rest of the season!
Saludos,
Tony
Futaleufu Christmas 2017
Brett Hochmuth – April 18, 2017
Marc and Lorenzo –
My only excuse for not sitting down to compose this email earlier is that I haven’t known of the right words to say. To define my experience with BioBio on the Futaleufu as one that knocked me off my axis wouldn’t be quite enough. I feel like a different person as a result of the experience, and am having a tough time re-adjusting to life on this side of the Fu…not sure I want to!
You’ve built something incredible – a perfect blend of simplicity and luxury, fueled by a community that demonstrates genuine care for one another and for the place. You’ve managed to blend excitement with relaxation, quiet time for introspection with returning to the hot tub after hucking oneself off the rope swing and downing countless Fu brews. In so many ways, I feel like I was only able to scratch the surface of what’s possible in that region, and my mind hasn’t quieted about those possibilities since returning to Colorado. Thank you for such a great experience. Brett Hochmuth, Futaleufu March 2017
Chrissy – March 27, 2017
At my massage on day 5 of this trip, the massage therapist massaged my face and I realized my cheeks were sore from smiling so much. I can’t say enough good things about this trip. It was magical from the start. The views were incredible, the food amazing, the rooms comfortable. They make their own ginger beer (among other things) and they will bring it to you in the hottub. Wake up to latte at your cabin and make your way to the amazing yoga deck for some excellent yoga classes. Go on one of the best trail rides. Learn to kayak by playing water polo. The staff there is like family (the fun, supportive sometimes little crazy kind) and I fell a little in love with Canela, the resident dog Of course, the main reason to visit is the river and it did not disappoint there either. So many fun rapids and run so well I didn’t even stress the class 5’s. I’ve done rafting in many countries in the world and this was the best company I’ve ever rafted with. I am usually more of a budget traveler and the Canadian dollar is weak so I was hesitant at first to book but with all that this trip offers it was worth every penny. Book it, you will not be disappointed
Rated 5 out of 5
Mary Ann – October 7, 2016
Wow! What an amazing trip to the Fu! When you arrive to the Bio Bio camp, you are immediately immersed into a wonderful riverside playground! The entire Bio Bio team takes great care, love, and pride in creating an experience of a lifetime for their guests! The camp sits right on the river and is stunningly gorgeous and well maintained. For camping, it’s as good as it gets with clean cabins, hot showers, flushable toilets, bar/happy hour/wine tasting, gourmet meals, hot tub, dry sauna and massage room with massage services. And, yoga every morning! The guides are not only fun and personable but world class experts and provide safety training and drills to ensure guests are knowledgeable and informed. The white water rafting brings thrilling rapids and trying your skills at kayaking and the duckies are great fun as well! Options like horseback riding, hiking, mountain bike riding, and fly fishing are all available to capture a full outdoor multi-sports adventure. Cheers to Marc, Lorenzo, Terry, Stan, Alex, Derik, Rayno, Italo, Santiago, Diego, Piero, Christoph, Glenn, Rio, Cristin, Ashley, Sandra and entire Bio Bio family!
Rated 5 out of 5
Lance – February 10, 2016
This was the best trip that my girlfriend and I have ever been on. The food, facilities, people and terrain were all incredible! I can’t say enough great things about this trip. We are already planing our next trip with Bio Bio to explore other parts of the world and are looking forward to returning to the Fu! It is a very special place I would highly recommend checking it out.
Doug Crocker – January 25, 2016
Bio Bio: What does it mean when you run out of adjectives to describe our days here? To say thank you seems too light. I will say we have traveled the globe and not found a more professional, kind, talented group. The heart pounding excitement is real here as are the heartfelt hugs. Sharon and Doug Croker. Futaleufu 2016
Sarah Gravatt – December 24, 2015
Thank you for a wonderful Chilean adventure! You anticipated our every need – I’ve never camped in a more luxurious setting! I appreciated your responding to requests for changes in the daily activities and offering so many different options. The short kayaking run I made on the Fu” with Johnny made the trip absolutely perfect. I’ll be telling all the paddlers I know in Virginia about Bio Bio Expeditions. See you on a river, somewhere, before too long!”
Suzie Hagermeister – March 12, 2015
Just wanted to thank you and all of you again for an incredible adventure. Beyond expectations. You and Lawrence have put together an awesome program. My 15 year son watched the video last night and I realized how sorry I was he wasn’t able to go. He would have loved the wild rides down the river and all of you. Every time I go on a river trip a good half of the experience are the guides who I always find to be such interesting people. I truly hope a reunion trip happens this summer; it would be great to see you all again. Please give my best to everyone.
Roxanne Wells – February 12, 2015
Thank you for a wonderful time. I was saddened to depart the beautiful Bio-Bio camp on the equally beautiful Futaleufu River. I will treasure many wonderful memories that I brought back with me for a lifetime.
Katherine and John Steitz – January 23, 2015
What an amazing week! We won’t forget Susie’s sunrise yoga. our fantastic guide Stan, and the fabulous new friends we shared it with. Cristian’s cooking is out of this world… don’t lose him! Bio Bio has really thought of every last touch to make this an incredible trip. We are leaving relaxed, refreshed, and energized. Thanks for accommodating a pregnant woman on the Fu… we can’t wait to return with our little rower!
Craig Hoffend – April 12, 2014
You are lucky to have such a great group of people that you work with. Although – I don’t think luck has anything to do with it. You and Lawrence put together a terrific program and treat each member of the team as an equal. It is no wonder you are successful and will continue to be into the future. I wanted to thank you again for a great trip. It was an adventure that meant more than just fun – it was a reminder of the life style we forget about. I have already begun talking to my wife about future possible trips. I will continue to stay in touch with you and your staff. I hate to admit it but Greg “Doogie” was right. It was a trip of a lifetime.
Deborah – March 17, 2014
I just wanted to follow up and let you know that we had a great week at Bio Bio. The staff did an excellent job of accommodating both our paddling abilities and our interests. You and I talked before the trip and you provided me with a lot of very helpful information as I was very nervous. We put together a week of paddling that was all fun, not scary, and very confidence building. I really appreciated your inputs and the sensitivity of Jorge, Phil and Diego. So, thank you and your team for a great week and a week that was confidence building. It is a beautiful place and everyone did a lot to make sure we were able to make the best of it. I had so much fun on the water than I never even got on a mountain bike and that is saying a lot for me. I would highly recommend Bio Bio and if you ever need a reference to another nervous female kayaker, I would be happy to be a reference for you.
Ted – February 14, 2014
We made it home and everyone in the family can’t stop talking about our wonderful adventure on the Futaleufu. It met and far exceeded all my expectations of what it would be and you guys really came through in giving Susan a birthday she will never forget. You run a first class organization from the top to the bottom. Everyone showed that they really wanted to be part of BioBio and make the trip special. Now my wife is trying to figure out where to go next with you guys – Peru or Africa.
Ginger Alden – February 3, 2014
wanted to extend warmest thanks again for the tlc. You all made us feel less like guests than friends. we were really impressed by the entire staff-so capable, personable, and FUN – a tribute to your own individual warmth and professionalism, and therefore, ability to attract the best. kudos and thanks to all…may Jorge and Alex catch many more big fish this season!!
Jana Bidner – March 2, 2013
Thanks guys, you have all been so awesome, friendly, and helpful. You may have saved my soul. Thanks so much for everything!
Page Bertelson – February 21, 2013
aaahhhhhhh, miss everyone, the Fu, and Bio Bio camp so much! That was one of the best weeks of my life in a landscape I couldn´t have even dreamed of. Thank you all for everything – settling and building that beautiful camp, guiding us down seriously fun water, teaching us to kayak, making us smile constantly, filming us, feeding us delicious food. I could go on and on but just wanted to send a huge thank you right away and send my love. I just spent the day on the gorgeous Perito Moreno glacier, but sadly missing the Fu (and lack of tourists) the whole time. With MUCH gratitude, Shiraz Futaleufu 2013 Page Bertelsen Photography
Armen Kamian – January 12, 2013
Just wanted to say thank you again for such a fun trip. It exceeded our expectations, and we cannot stop thinking about it all! Last night we had dinner with a group of folks in Chico and Carol & Monroe fired up John’s DVD as well as their own photos. The captive audience seemed pretty interested, and I foresee future clients for you. I have extra brochures, so I’ll pass them along.
robert and Julie Zink – January 11, 2013
Words cannot portray our gratitude. The music, the horses, the personal attention, the food. Oh, and the river too. And don’t forget Wayna! Thank you for everything!! Muchas gracias Santago and crew
Monique and Gary – February 27, 2012
To the Bio Bio Team, for someone who came here not wanting to raft, i had the most amazing time ever & the best holiday I have ever had!!Gary and I think you are just the most wonderful people, friendly, caring and always have a smile on your faces, you really are the best!!!! We will definately be back! (: Thank you, Monique and Gary xxxx 2012 Futaleufu
Suzie and Bill Old – March 15, 2011
Thank You! for such an incredible experience. The combination of ingredients on your trips makes it very hard for anyone not to have fun. The river is impossible to describe and so beautiful. The campsites and hiking equally beautiful. The food extra good. But what makes it all so special are the people involved. You have a wonderful group of very caring individuals. Each has something special to contribute and each cares. What I remember most is helping hands. Be it cooking, paddling, climbing, or whatever, there were always hands willing to help. I can not tell you the number of times, especially on rocks by the scouting rapids, that I would be debating where to put a foot next when a hand would appear to help. The energy and enthusiasm that you all exude is impossible to capture in a brochure or video. You are each great and obviously gave us an incredible experience to treasure. A very happy pair.
Michael Gosselin – February 21, 2011
One week in the Bio Bio Camp on the Fu “has recharged my batteries, cleaned my soul and cleared my mind. The entire experience is as good as it gets. I will treasure it all my life and wish everybody could have one week with Bio Bio. First rate in every way. Thanks for sharing your dream with us.
Stacie – February 10, 2011
The trip more than exceeded my expectations in every way: your camp, the food, your unbelievable staff, and of course the river itself. Thank you, thank you for such an amazing trip. I feel so lucky to have gotten to experience the Futaleufu. I feel as though i left there with new energy and enthusiasm towards my life and trying new things that has not yet ceased.
Alex Litvak – January 13, 2011
December 26th, 2010 – Futaleufu Bio Bio is neither a rafting company nor is it a camp. It’s a family of friends A fellowship of the river An adventure of a lifetime an experience I shall treasure forever always, Alex Litvak,
Justin Pront – January 10, 2011
26.12.10 – Futaleufu The atmosphere of relaxation, happiness and adventure that you have created here is amazing– it took me some time to recall the exact date before writing this guest book entry… Thank you for a wonderful trip / journey! The family here at the Futaleufu camp were extremely warm and welcoming. You could never turn anywhere without encountering agood conversation or a genuine smile. And the introduction to the river valley, whitewater rafting, ducky ing etc. will stay with me for many years to come. Looking forward to the next adventure. Justin Pront, Chicago, Ill.
Herb Ratner – January 5, 2011
Christmas night Futaleufu – 12/25/10 You have created a place reflective of who you are. A place of beauty and wonderment. A place to find adventure and comraderie, but beyond that, a place to find meaning. This is a trip I have wanted to take for years and you provided a home +an experience which exceeded all hopes and expectations. Stan, Brian, Ashley Eh, Diego, may have been my personal favorites (and Cookie!!) , but every member of you r staff reflects your own proffesionalism, charm, and burning desire to give your guests more than just a vacation. The river alone would have been enough, but the experience of Bio Bio is far greater than what flows past its boundries. As I mentioned tonight in the Pagoda, you have given me my photo, that I have dreamed of since I was a child. One day if I have children of my own, they will look at my picture of Janson and Alex and me, here in this place you’ve built, and they too may dream of adventure. I can only hope for them that they find as much as I found here; for the heart and soul. Thank you, thank you , thank you. –
Linda Parker – December 23, 2010
The Fu is ‘FUN!’ Big water, blue skies, great group, horseback riding, kayaking, mountain biking, hot tubbing, massage, sauna, happy hours, card games, great food, and of course world class rafting…wow! Riding a horse, galloping through a meadow, surrounded by the snow-capped Patagonian peaks. I had never seen anything so beautiful. It made me cry. Thanks to Bio Bio for the excellent rafting, the in-camp luxury, and an overall unforgettable experience!
jefferey Newman – March 5, 2010
It was absolutely the best vacation we’ve ever had. Wow!!! You and Lawrence have a great vision, wonderful staff, and superb location. Even better, we felt totally comfortable about Lorenzo & Co’s judgment on safety matters and with the kids. I could go on and on.
Eric Weiss – February 22, 2010
Thanks again for providing such a wonderful experience for my family and I on the Futaleufu. I really do appreciate the extra effort that you and your staff put forth for us and especially Danny. He had a wonderful time, and has done a Powerpoint presentation for his 3rd grade class on the trip with photos and movie clips.
Ellen – December 28, 2009
how could I not smile in such a wonderful place with such wonderful people. I am so glad Phil told me about Chile and the wonderful things in store for me. The trip down there healed a great pain in my heart and restored my energy. My heart could stay down there but it must keep going. I do hope to see you again – maybe on the Zambezi!!
Arn – December 20, 2009
Well, we just finished a fantastic week on the Futaleufu. What a fantastic river! The instruction and tips that I learned during the week were awesome as well. I really can’t believe how much I learned. Phil Boyer did a great job and words really can’t express how happy I was with the week and how much it helped my confidence. I still suck at kayaking but I definitely have a few more arrows in my kayaking quiver and straightened out a couple of problems (or at least understand what I was doing wrong – now I just need to make it happen). The Bio Bio Camp was amazing. We had such great food (Cookie is amazing), a great place to stay right next to the river and amazing guides/staff. I can’t say enough good things about Bio Bio and would both highly recommend them and happily go back again.
Andrea Lyon – April 4, 2009
What an amazing adventure I had! The Futaleufu, Chile, Argentina – all gorgeous and in many ways, wonderfully wild and other-worldly. You and your group are all incredibly warm and made it so special and stress-free for me. Your “no problem” mantra pervades all that you do and provide for all your guests. Everyone should be as lucky as I was to partake in the Bio-Bio experience. I sincerely hope to return in the not-too-distant future, and with as many friends and family as I can convince to join me!
Shobita – March 20, 2009
I just returned home this morning from the Futaleufu trip. The trip was truly wonderful and one of the best trips have been on. I will most certainly highly recommend this trip to all my friends and colleagues who like to travel.
Theresa Clinton – March 3, 2009
Hola Marc and Lorenzo! I just wanted to say many, many thanks for helping us get to the Futaleufu. It is appreciated beyond words and the trip was truly an incredible and unforgettable experience that I reminisce about daily. Your staff and the locals are very special people indeed and the location and setup you have there is paradise. I hope to see any or all of you again some time! Besos y abrasos,