River District
Wild rivers, ancient forests and Mapuche heartland
About this destination
Between the Biobío River and Valdivia lies one of Chile's most compelling and least-understood regions. The Araucanía was the last territory to be incorporated into the Chilean state, and the Mapuche culture remains deeply present here, in the language, the food, the crafts and the land itself. The rivers are extraordinary: the Biobío, Toltén, San Pedro and Fuy are among the finest whitewater rivers in South America, drawing kayakers and rafters from around the world. The araucaria (monkey puzzle) forests of the Andean foothills are some of the oldest living ecosystems on the continent, with individual trees exceeding 1,000 years.
Highlights
- Biobío and Fuy river rapids
- Araucaria forests of Malalcahuello
- Siete Lagos circuit
- Mapuche cultural experiences
Must-see stops
Siete Lagos Circuit
A scenic loop through seven interconnected lakes straddling the Chile–Argentina border, from Villarrica to San Martín de los Andes. One of the most beautiful drives in South America.
Araucaria Forests
The Reserva Nacional Malalcahuello and Parque Nacional Conguillío protect ancient monkey puzzle forests. Walking among thousand-year-old trees under volcanic peaks is unforgettable.
Río San Pedro
One of the clearest rivers in Chile, flowing from Lago Panguipulli to Lago Riñihue through dense forest. The water is an extraordinary blue-green and the riverbanks are pristine.
Temuco and Feria Pinto
The largest Mapuche market in Chile, held daily in Temuco. Silver jewellery, hand-woven textiles, medicinal herbs and local foods in one of the most authentically Chilean market experiences.
Combine with
These destinations pair well with River District.
