Expedition Northern Patagonia: Lake District & Aysén, Part 2 of 2 – As a team of explorers first, our Destination Experts (DEs) are constantly on the move. In this two-part edition of our Explorer’s Journal, Megan, Mikey, and Gerry embark on an expedition from Chile’s beautiful Lake District to the wonders of Aysén. Tag along for the second edition of this two-part series.
Our Chile adventure continues into the breathtaking Patagonian region of Aysén – from awe-inspiring Marble Caves to stunning lake scenery. It’s your Destination Expert Mikey here exploring with fellow DEs Gerry and Megan, and I’m excited to share every moment with you!
Reaching Aysén
To reach Aysén, we flew from Puerto Montt to Balmaceda in just one hour. From there, we were greeted by our guide and set off on a scenic 4-hour drive along the famous Carretera Austral. This iconic highway stretches 770 miles through remote villages and pristine National Parks, offering stunning vistas at every turn. We made plenty of photo stops along the way, with the highlight being the striking Cerro Castillo—fittingly named "Castle Peak" for its dramatic, fortress-like shape. After a quick lunch break with our boxed meals, we reached the majestic General Carrera Lake, Chile's largest lake (shared with Argentina). We continued our lakeside drive for another hour before finally arriving at Mallín Colorado, our cozy yet stylish home for the next two nights.
Where we stayed
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Perched with sweeping views of the lake, Mallin Colorado offers a perfect blend of relaxation, delicious meals, and outdoor adventure. The lodge features a variety of accommodation options, including 4 charming cabins and 6 rooms in the main house called “Casa Lenga”. The cabins are ideal for larger families or groups, with multiple bedrooms and plenty of space to spread out, providing a more private and spacious retreat.
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You can’t beat a room with a stunning view. (Photo: Mikey Blount)
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The rooms in Casa Lenga, where we stayed, are designed for double or triple occupancy, and offer a cozy and comfortable living area with stunning views of the surrounding mountains and lake. One of the highlights of our stay was the incredible food—fresh, locally sourced ingredients (and generous portions) expertly prepared into dishes that capture the flavors of Patagonia. With a range of outdoor activities available, from hiking to kayaking, horseback riding, and birdwatching, Mallin Colorado is an excellent base to explore Aysén while also offering a peaceful place to relax and unwind.
Kayaking the Marble Caves
We had the incredible opportunity to explore one of Chile's most breathtaking natural wonders – the Marble Caves! Located on the pristine General Carrera Lake, the best way to get up close to these stunning formations is by kayaking. After a quick but essential safety briefing, we set off on a 30-minute paddle across the glacial waters, surrounded by dramatic landscapes.
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A rainbow appears, making the Marble Cave views a perfect postcard picture. (Photo: Mikey Blount)
Our effort was soon rewarded as we reached the islets of the smaller "Marble Chapel" and larger "Marble Cathedral," where the powerful forces of nature have carved intricate caves, tunnels, and towering columns for over 6,200 years. One of the highlights of the day was witnessing a rainbow arching gracefully behind the caves, adding a magical touch to the already mesmerizing scenery! After our adventure, we were treated to a cozy snack of homemade banana bread, hot drinks, and sandwiches, the perfect way to refuel after such an amazing experience.
Exploring Aysén’s flora and fauna
In the afternoon, our guide took us on a scenic 2-hour hike around Mallin Colorado Lodge, where we learned about the important work of the Douglas Thompkins Foundation in protecting Chile's wild landscapes. The foundation has been pivotal in preserving large areas of Patagonia, helping create national parks and promote conservation. As we walked, our guide shared insights into the foundation’s mission and how its efforts are helping to protect the region’s unique ecosystems. The trail offered stunning views of the surrounding mountains, forests, and giant Lake General Carrera.
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Our guide Matu talking about the preservation of this beautiful region. (Photo: Mikey Blount)
One highlight was spotting a vibrant woodpecker, its bright red color standing out against the trees. Along the way, we also learned about the local flora and fauna and ongoing conservation projects. The hike was a fantastic way to connect with nature and appreciate the wilderness of this remote region. It was the perfect ending to a memorable visit to Aysén, leaving us already thinking about our next adventure here!
About the Author: Mikey is a Czech American based in Lima, Peru. Having lived in several countries around the world, he has always surrounded himself with a mix of people, languages, and cultures. As he designs life-changing travel experiences, Mikey believes that travel can be “a force for good” and is proud to use his passions to make a positive impact.
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Do you love adventure? Our journey to Aysén calls! You can embark on an expedition like Mikey did or customize your trip the way you want. Talk to a Destination Expert to get started.
Patagonia
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