Boat Trip to Laguna San Rafael National Park & San Rafael Glacier
Prepare yourself for an unforgettable adventure into the heart of Chilean Patagonia, a journey that will transport you to the breathtaking landscapes surrounding Laguna San Rafael. Our destination is Bahía Exploradores, also known as Explorers Bay, a hidden gem nestled 47 miles (77 km) to the west of the charming Patagonian lakeside town of Puerto Río Tranquilo.
The journey itself is a captivating experience, as we traverse the scenic Valle Exploradores, or Explorers Valley. This remarkable valley marks the convergence of three significant rivers: the mighty Exploradores River, the mysterious Oscuro River, and the serene La Teresa River, all flowing towards the majestic Laguna San Rafael. Explorers Valley is renowned for its lush, temperate forests, teeming with a rich diversity of exotic wildlife. Keep a watchful eye out for the elusive pudus, South America’s smallest deer, and the powerful pumas, silently roaming through their natural habitat.
Our day’s expedition begins with a comfortable vehicle ride that will take us directly to Bahía Exploradores. Upon arrival, we will transition from land to water, embarking on a specially designed boat that will carry us across the stunning Laguna San Rafael. Before setting sail, an expert local guide will provide a comprehensive safety briefing, ensuring that we are all well-prepared for our aquatic adventure.
The boat journey is an effortless and scenic passage through the delta of the Exploradores River. Prepare to be mesmerized by the awe-inspiring Patagonian scenery that unfolds around you at every turn. After approximately two and a half hours of cruising through these pristine waters, we will arrive at our ultimate destination: Laguna San Rafael National Park, home to the magnificent San Rafael Glacier.
Here, you will have ample opportunity to soak in the breathtaking views and capture unforgettable photographs of the colossal San Rafael Glacier. Marvel at the enormous blocks of ice that calve from the glacier, creating a mesmerizing spectacle as they float serenely on the lagoon’s surface. Keep your camera ready, as the area is also home to a diverse array of wildlife. Commonly spotted residents include playful marine otters, boisterous sea lions, graceful black-necked swans, and soaring condors, all contributing to the rich tapestry of life in this extraordinary ecosystem.
To enhance your experience, the excursion includes a delicious and convenient box lunch, allowing you to refuel amidst the stunning natural surroundings. For those who wish to indulge, there will also be an opportunity to savor a glass of whiskey, uniquely chilled with ice harvested directly from the ancient glacier, a tangible connection to millions of years of geological history. This promises to be a sensory experience unlike any other.
A-Activ-27sep2025-1475







