Marble Caves Explorer

From Balmaceda to Balmaceda

Tour Overview

Experience the wonders of Patagonia’s Southern Carretera Austral, where adventure, nature, and authentic local hospitality come together.

Kayak through the sparkling blue waters of the Marble Caves, one of Patagonia’s most iconic natural formations. Explore the powerful confluence of the Baker and Neff Rivers, and traverse private trails on foot or horseback to reach panoramic viewpoints overlooking Lake Bertrand and the awe-inspiring Cordón Contreras mountain range.

Your home base is Mallín Colorado Ecolodge, where cozy log cabins offer sweeping views of Lake General Carrera. Family-run and deeply connected to the local community, the lodge provides a warm and personal experience.

It’s the perfect way to discover the spirit of Patagonia’s Southern Aysén region.

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Glide by kayak through the dazzling Marble Caves of Chile, where turquoise waters reflect swirling patterns of smooth stone.

Stay at a family-run ecolodge on the Carretera Austral, a homely base from which to explore the highlights of the Aysén region of Patagonia.

Hike or horseback ride in remote Patagonia, perhaps even add on helicopter flight over the Northern Ice Fields!

Tour Itinerary

Day 1
Balmaceda Airport Lago General Carrera

Upon arrival at Balmaceda airport, you’ll be met and welcomed, then set off on a journey of about 5 hours (roughly 240 km) through landscapes that steadily grow in grandeur. First you follow the valley of the Río Ibáñez, where steep slopes, clear waters, and patches of forest frame your drive. You’ll pass the shimmering Laguna Cofré, its surface reflecting the sky. As you approach Lago General Carrera, the lake unfolds, vast, with emerald hues.

When you reach Mallín Colorado, you’ll settle into your room, rest and freshen up, before dinner in the clubhouse.

Day 2
Kayak the Marble Caves

After enjoying breakfast at the main house, you'll set off on a scenic one-hour drive to the Bahía Mansa area. There, you’ll join a small-group kayaking excursion to explore the stunning Marble Caves, a natural wonder located along the shores of Lake General Carrera.
*Please let us know at time of booking if you would prefer an excursion by boat rather than kayak.

Famous for their dramatic rock formations and surreal beauty, the caves feature walls of marble sculpted by water over millions of years. The vibrant turquoise and calypso hues of the lake reflecting off the marble create a truly magical atmosphere.
During the three-hour kayak tour, you'll paddle through various caves and tunnels, getting an up-close view of this incredible geological formation.

After the excursion, return to The Lodgeo for a relaxed lunch and enjoy a free afternoon to unwind and explore the lodge and its surroundings at your own pace.
Dinner and overnight stay at Mallín Colorado.

Day 3
Neff and Baker River

After breakfast at the main lodge, you’ll head south to explore Puerto Bertrand and the Baker River. Just outside the village lies the river’s birthplace, set within a magnificent ancient forest of native Nothofagus trees. Continuing further south, you’ll reach the confluence where the Baker meets the Neff River in a powerfall waterfall. Here, the striking fusion of two rivers creates a third color, offering a beautiful natural spectacle.

Return to the lodge for lunch on the terrace, surrounded by a wild garden. In the afternoon, enjoy a guided hike along Mallín Colorado’s private trails or set out on a horseback ride directly from the lodge. Dinner and overnight stay at Mallín Colorado.

Day 4
Balmaceda Airport

After breakfast at the lodge, begin the five-hour drive back to Balmaceda Airport for your onward flight. Along the way, pause to enjoy a picnic surrounded by nature before continuing to your next destination.

What’s Included

Accommodation
  • Included Copy 20 3 nights at a rustic ecolodge
Food
  • Included Copy 20 Full board while at the ecolodge
Fees & Services
  • Included Copy 20 Ground transfers to/from Balmaceda airport and to all excursions
  • Included Copy 20 Hiking or horseback riding from the ecolodge
  • Included Copy 20 Kayak to the marble caves (alternative by boat if requested)
  • Included Copy 20 Tour to the confluence of river Baker and Neff
  • Included Copy 20 Driver and bilingual guide
  • Included Copy 7 International and interna Flights, Visa fees, drinks, tips, travel insurance

Activities

  • Included Kayak through the shimmering waters of Marble Caves.
  • Included Hike or horseback ride along private nature trails.
  • Included Immerse yourself in the soul of Southern Carretera Austral with a 3 night ecolodge stay.
  • Included Enjoy vistas over Lake Bertrand and the majestic Cordón Contreras mountain range.
Click here for dates & prices
Duration

4 days

Price from

$2,412 USD

Per person, sharing

Based on twin share

Daily Departures