Paddling the fjords of Aysén

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Undiscovered Patagonia

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Trail stats

Distance: 133.14 nm
Elevation gain: 3 ft
Technical difficulty: Moderate
Elevation loss: 3 ft
Max elevation: 0 ft
TrailRank: 32
Min elevation: 0 ft
Trail type: One Way

Coordinates: 115
Uploaded: June 26, 2014
Recorded: June 2014

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near Bajo Palena, Aisén (Chile)

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Itinerary description

A great way to immerse yourself in the beautiful landscapes of the channels and fjords of Aysén is to get close to the level of the water paddling in kayak. Following the shorelines of the islands and coasts provides a unique opportunity to learn about and observe the lush flora and fauna of this area. There are plenty of options, including guided excursions for paddlers of all levels, and expedition-style courses for those who seek to master this challenging sport.

Waypoints

Puerto Cisnes

In Puerto Cisnes, Patagoni-K Mate & Expediciones offers guided two-day tours to the Escondida Lagoon, and other excursions in the Cisnes River Delta and the Lago las Torres National Reserve. Excursions include kayaks and gear, transport, guide, safety equipment and box lunches. You can also rent kayaks by the hour, including all needed safety equipment.

Puerto Aguirre

Pachanca Kayak offers tours of the small channels between the Huichas Islands, which allow close up viewing of friendly bottlenose dolphins and lots of seabirds. Their shop is located along the waterfront in Caleta Andrade.

Puerto Gaviota

We suggest heading to Puerto Gaviota to explore the 6.4 kilometer stretch between Puerto Gaviota and Puerto Amparo, a paddle that takes you along beautiful areas of the peninsula and does not require previous experience. It is ideal for paddlers of all levels; the winds are not usually a limiting factor, since both ports are protected, and the nature along the route is impressive. You can make a side trip to visit the mysterious cave of San Andrés, which is presumed to have been a refuge for ancient nomadic canoe peoples. To reach the cave, you will enter the Puyuhuapi Channel where the winds are less predictable, therefore we recommend this route only for more experienced paddlers. If you are exploring this area independently, consider traveling with a support boat; there are several captains in Puerto Gaviota who can be contracted for logistical and safety support.

Puerto Aysén

Aguahielo Expeditions, located in Puerto Aysén, also offers options for experiential kayak courses that provide shorter and more economic options for learning and perfecting your skills. Rolando Toledo, ACA instructor and regional kayak guide offers several itineraries including expeditions to the San Rafael Lagoon National Park and a descent of the Baker River to its delta, near Caleta Tortel. The courses offer great adventure and many of the same learning opportunities as the NOLs options; including paddling techniques, wilderness survival skills, nautical chart reading, minimum impact camping, emergency response procedures, and lots more.

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