Patagonia, Lake District, Chile

I took the day off here in order to enjoy some white water river rafting. Just an outstandingly clear day to raft. From this area, otherwise known as the gateway to the Andes you could see three volcanos; one of which is active with periodic lava flows. The one pictured below happens to be dormant at this moment. Its name is Villerica and rises over 9,000 feet. Only 60 miles to the east is the Argentinian border and the Agentinian Andes.

The Lake District has many rivers as well. The one we were rafting on is called the Petrohue. Since it is now the end of summer here the river was running low. Consequently, the rapids were in the 3-4 category. Earlier in the beginning of summer they range in the 4-5 category. The 3-4 were perfect. Only one dude in our raft was ejected and had to be pulled back in.

This region is named for its 12 biggest glacially carve lakes. There are dozens of smaller ones as well. Stream fishing is awesome here.

Since I was unable to have my camera in my hands while rafting (because of the paddle) I missed some very amazing photo opportunities.  That was the only bummer of this incredible experience.

Woodcarving on the street.
Woodcarving on the street.
A closer shot of his work.
A closer shot of his work.
Rising more than 9,000 feet is Villarica.
Rising more than 9,000 feet is Villarica.
Couldn't help it.  Just One more.  The scene was quite breathtaking.
Couldn’t help it. Just One more. The scene was quite breathtaking.
Close up of Villarica.
Close up of Villarica.
Valley through which we rafted the Petrohue.
Valley through which I rafted the Petrohue.
This is the Petrohue photographed at our point of exit.
This is the Petrohue photographed at my point of exit.

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Craig

Born in New Jersey in 1956. Lives in Colorado and travels the world.

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