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(11) 3958-7071Adventure Tourism in Southern Chile: 3 Family Activities
From extreme sports to more relaxing outdoor activities, there’s something for everyone. In this article, we present three of the best family-friendly activities to explore southern Chile: kayaking, ziplining, and hiking.
1. Paddle Through Rivers on a Kayak
Kayaking is one of the most exciting activities to enjoy in southern Chile, thanks to the numerous lakes in the region. Notable spots include Lake Llanquihue in Puerto Varas and Lake Ranco near Valdivia, both offering calm waters ideal for family outings.
If you’re new to kayaking or have young children, don’t worry. There are gentle routes perfect for beginners, allowing the entire family to soak in the natural beauty of southern Chile and enjoy an adventure-filled day.
What do you need to go kayaking?
Make sure you have the right gear, including life jackets, and book tours that come with an experienced instructor. Local guides are highly trained, ensuring a safe and exhilarating experience for everyone.
2. Ziplining Through Forests
For the more adventurous, ziplining offers a unique view of the forests and landscapes in southern Chile. Gliding through the treetops gives you a chance to admire local flora and fauna from a fresh perspective.
This activity is perfect for families seeking a touch of adrenaline. Places like Pucón and Huerquehue National Park offer circuits designed for all ages. Popular options include the Vuelo del Cóndor in Huilo Huilo and the Trayecto Cóndor in Pucón. The journey from platform to platform is entirely safe, thanks to secure harness systems and professional guides.
Canopy Chile provides all the necessary information to enjoy this sport. Ticket packages typically include transportation to the forest, technical gear, medical insurance, and expert guides. Check out their site for more details here.
3. Family-Friendly Hiking
Hiking is an ideal activity to connect with nature in southern Chile. With a wide range of trails suitable for both beginners and seasoned hikers, this is a perfect option for families.
Some of the most renowned trails are in national parks like Torres del Paine, Alerce Andino, and Huerquehue. These parks feature routes that traverse forests, mountains, lakes, and glaciers, offering an up-close look at Chilean wildlife.
Other popular trails include the Los Enamorados Trail in Huerquehue National Park (La Araucanía Region), the Lagunas Altas Trail in Río Los Cipreses National Reserve (O'Higgins Region), and the Los Peumos Trail in El Arrayán Nature Sanctuary, Santiago.
When planning a hiking trip, ensure you wear appropriate clothing and carry enough water, especially during the summer months between December and March. Since some trails can be challenging, it’s always a good idea to research routes or hire specialized tour guides. Don’t miss this chance to explore!
Adventure Tourism Tips
When traveling with family for extreme sports and outdoor activities, keep these precautions in mind:
- Choose age-appropriate activities that match skill levels and physical conditions (e.g., ziplining is not recommended for pregnant individuals or those over 120 kg). Many local agencies offer tailored programs to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for everyone.
- Inspect the equipment to ensure it’s in excellent condition, and make sure everyone attends a safety briefing to learn how to handle unexpected situations.
- Consider the weather: The best time for adventure activities is typically during the summer when the weather is warmer and more favorable.
- Bring snacks and supplies, as many remote areas near lakes, rivers, and forests have limited food options, and available items can be pricey.
Finally, never underestimate the importance of using proper gear and following expert instructions. Safety always comes first!
Additional Activities
Whether you’re an adrenaline junkie or simply looking for a relaxing stroll through nature, southern Chile has something for everyone. Get ready for one of the most exciting experiences of your life and embrace adventure tourism with your family in this stunning corner of the world.
And if these activities aren’t enough to satisfy your adventurous spirit, Chile is also famous for rafting, paragliding, and snowboarding. Dive in and experience all our country has to offer!
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