Depart from Yan Kee Way Lodge, following the south shore of Lake Llanquihue, to our embarkation point on the River Petrohué. The Petrohue River was the venue for the 1999 Chilean National Rafting Championship and is our destination for the white water rafting expedition. We have spectacular vie
ws of Lake Llanquihue and the volcanoes Osorno, Puntiagudo, Tranador and Calbuco.
Passing through the small town of Ensenada, we quickly arrive at the river and the section of rapids we will challenge. We suit up for our expedition in the provided clothing and equipment appropriate for white water rafting including wet suits, spray jackets, life-vest, helmets and paddles. Our expert-guides give us a brief introduction about the section of the river we will run and the necessary instructions in safe practices for our expedition. Following our instruction session, we begin the white-water rafting expedition.
The section of the river that we will run is class 3 to 4. Our expedition will take us approximately 10.5 miles down river and approximately one and 1/2 hours to complete. Our adrenaline levels surge as we pass through the breath-taking beauty of the valley through which the Petrohué River flows. Volcanoes and temperate rain forest surround us as we are thrust along by the white foaming power of the rapids. Many remark on the visual setting, comparing it to the jungle-like landscapes of Southeast Asia. It is no wonder that some call this area the cool jungle.
During our ride we will encounter native birds such as Cormoranes, Kingfishers, Golondrinas and tiuques, if we are lucky we will catch a glimpse of Huillín (small otters) or Nutria, beaver like animals, native to the area. Upon reaching our final destination, we finish up with a picnic during which we may recall and re-live this beautiful and exciting experience. Transport back to Yan Kee Way Lodge. |