If you’re planning a kayak trip to Futaleufú River, understanding the river level is one of the most important parts of the puzzle. Unlike many free-flowing rivers, the Futaleufú is directly affected by dam releases upstream in Argentina. That means the water can change fast, sometimes within hours, and what looks like a perfect level in the morning can feel very different by the afternoon. This guide breaks down how to read the Futaleufú river gauge, how dam releases affect the flow, what to expect through the seasons, and how to use that information to plan your kayaking. Whether you’re coming to paddle Bridge to Bridge, Inferno Canyon, or the full section, this should help you understand what the river is doing before you put in. Entrada - Futaleufù low flows The DGA Gauges: Border vs. Lower River The Chilean Water Authority (DGA) operates two stream gauges on the Futaleufú River that are particularly useful for paddlers: Rio Futaleufú en la Frontera – located near the Argentine border. Rio Futaleufú ante Junta Rio Malito – located downstream, at the end of the river. During most of the summer, the readings from these two gauges are very similar.This is because the tributaries entering the Futaleufú contribute relatively little additional water compared to the volume being released from the dam in Argentina. However, during spring snowmelt or after heavy rainfall events, the situation can change dramatically. In these periods, tributaries such as the Espolón, Azul, and numerous smaller creeks throughout the valley can add significant amounts of water to the river. As a result, the lower gauge may show substantially higher flows than the border gauge. This means that different sections of the river can have very different water levels at the same time. For example, the Canyon section may remain relatively low if dam releases are minimal, while the "Puente a Puente" section farther downstream can be running much higher due to tributary inflows. For this reason, during spring and after major rainstorms, we strongly recommend paying close attention to the downstream gauge near the river’s mouth. How to Read the DGA Website The official DGA website can be found here: https://snia.mop.gob.cl/sat/site/informes/mapas/mapas.xhtml While the information is excellent, the website is anything but fast and user-friendly. It can be slow to load and occasionally becomes frustrating to navigate. When you open the page, you’ll see a map of South America. From there: Zoom into Chile. Zoom further into Northern Patagonia. Locate Futaleufú. Click on the green monitoring stations. The two stations of interest are: RIO FUTALEUFU EN LA FRONTERA – showing the flow entering Chile from Argentina. RIO FUTALEUFU ANTE JUNTA RIO MALITO – showing the flow in the lower Futaleufú, just upstream of Yelcho Lake. The value paddlers should focus on is: Caudal (m³/s) This is the river discharge expressed in cubic meters per second. Futaleufù DGA Gauges Stations Monitoring Dam Releases Directly Another extremely useful source of information comes directly from the Futaleufú Hydroelectric Dam in Argentina: https://www.chfutaleufu.com.ar To access the data: Click “Info Operativa” in the upper-right corner. Select “Datos Meteorológicos”. In the row labeled “Hoy” (Today), click the magnifying glass icon labeled “Ver”. You’ll be presented with a massive table containing a huge amount of technical information. Fortunately, paddlers only need to look at one thing: The far-right column called “Caudal Ríos”. This value represents the combined discharge from all dam release gates and shows how much water is being released hour by hour. Using Dam Data to Predict River Trends The dam data can help you understand whether river levels are likely to remain stable, rise, or fall over the coming hours. If releases have remained unchanged for several hours, the river will generally remain stable. If the numbers are gradually increasing, operators are likely opening additional gates and river levels will continue to rise. If the numbers are decreasing, operators are reducing releases and river levels will gradually fall. This is not an exact science, but it provides valuable insight into short term river trends. In general, dam operators do not make sudden large adjustments. Release changes typically occur gradually, often in increments of approximately 50 m³/s per hour, allowing paddlers to anticipate how river conditions may evolve throughout the day. By combining the DGA gauges with the dam release data, you can develop a much more accurate picture of current and future conditions on the Futaleufú River than by relying on a single river level reading. The Mystery of Dam Releases: Everybody Has a Theory Over the years, we’ve heard countless theories about what drives dam releases on the Futaleufú. Some people insist that releases increase during hot weather in Buenos Aires, when electricity demand rises. Others are convinced that the dam compensates when wind generation along the Argentine coast is low. There are probably dozens more theories floating around put-ins, campfires, and paddler conversations throughout the valley. The truth is that we’ve never been able to identify a reliable pattern. The operation of a hydroelectric system is influenced by so many factors: energy demand, weather, reservoir levels, maintenance schedules, and likely many others that every time we think we’ve figured it out, the river does something completely different. After years of watching the gauges and comparing them with actual river conditions, the only conclusion we’ve reached is that predicting dam releases more than a day or two in advance is usually a losing game. The best approach is to monitor the available data, pay attention to recent trends, and be prepared for change. Understanding the Numbers Reading the gauge is one thing, understanding what those numbers actually mean on the water is another. The following ranges provide a general guideline for interpreting flows on the Futaleufú River. Keep in mind these values should be used as a reference rather than an absolute rule. Flow (m³/s) General River Level 190–250 Low 250–300 Medium-Low 300–360 Medium 360–400 Medium-High 400–500 High 500+ Very High / Potentially Dangerous Low Water (190–250 m³/s) At these levels, the river slows down and provides more time to react. However, don’t mistake low water for easy water. Unlike many rivers, the Futaleufú still carries a tremendous volume of water. As the level drops, many waves become steeper, more vertical, and more closed-out, often delivering harder impacts than they do at higher flows. Rapids may feel more technical and less pushy, while the river takes on a more defined drop-pool character with calmer pools between rapids. Medium-Low Water (250–300 m³/s) This is a comfortable range for many paddlers. Rapids continue to be technical, but they are generally easier to interpret. You begin to feel the force of the water's volume with clear lines, yet the consequences remain manageable. This is one of the easiest levels to begin with. Medium Water (300–360 m³/s) Many local paddlers consider this the “classic” Futaleufú range. Rapids are powerful enough to showcase the river’s famous turquoise waves and features while remaining relatively predictable for experienced boaters. Medium-High Water (360–400 m³/s) At these levels, the river begins to feel noticeably bigger and faster. Features become more powerful, eddies become more turbulent, and recovery options become more limited. Good big water-reading skills and solid roll become increasingly important. In some sections, such as Cañon del Infierno, swims at these flows can quickly become serious situations with limited recovery opportunities. High Water (400–500 m³/s) At these levels, the Futaleufú transforms into a massive, fast-moving river. Rapids start to link together, creating long, continuous sections with little room for mistakes. Powerful boils and unpredictable whirlpools develop along eddy lines, challenging even experienced paddlers. The river’s speed and power require solid skills and a capable team. Very High Water (500+ m³/s) At flows above 500 m³/s, the Futaleufú enters a level that many paddlers would consider very high water. The river becomes extremely fast and powerful, with large whirlpools and increased consequences throughout all sections. These conditions are suitable only for highly experienced paddlers, with a strong roll, a solid teams and a clear understanding of the risks involved. In the event of a swim, rescue becomes significantly difficult. Due to the speed and power of the river, rescuing a swimmer can be extremely challenging and, in some cases, may not be possible. Inferno Canyon - Futaleufù One of the unique aspects of the Futaleufú is that it can be a different river from one day to the next. Dam releases frequently change water levels, sometimes more than once in a single day. While the character of the rapids remains the same, eddies shift, features grow or disappear, and certain lines become more or less forgiving. For visiting paddlers, having someone who knows the river intimately can make a tremendous difference. Local knowledge not only adds an extra margin of safety, but also allows you to spend less time wondering where to go and more time enjoying the river at its best. That’s exactly the kind of river knowledge we aim to share during every Kriminal Kayak trip and coaching program. Frequently Asked Questions What is the best river level for kayaking the Futaleufú? For most paddlers, between 250 and 360 m3/s offers the best balance of power and control. One of the unique aspects of the Futaleufú is that it remains paddleable across an exceptionally wide range of flows. Low water doesn’t make it uninteresting, and high water doesn’t make it unrunnable, but the consequences at higher levels become increasingly serious and should never be underestimated. Is the Futaleufú dam controlled? Yes, the river is controlled by a dam in Argentina, which directly impacts the river levels downstream in Chile. . Does the river change during the day? Yes. Depending on dam releases, the level can shift noticeably within the same day. What is the best season to kayak the Futaleufú? The Futaleufú can be paddled year-round. Peak flows typically occur in November and December, during the spring snowmelt season. January through March generally offers the most enjoyable conditions, with warm weather, good flows, and long days on the river. Paddle the Futaleufú with Local Knowledge Reading the gauge is one thing. Understanding what that means for each section is another. At Kriminal Kayak we paddle these rivers every day through the season, from the Futaleufú to Río Azul, Río Espolónand Río Palena. If you want updated river info, coaching, or rentals, get in touch.

A Complete Guide to Reaching Chile's Whitewater Paradise. Futaleufú is not a place you simply pass through on your way somewhere else. Located in Patagonia Verde, tucked between the Chilean fjords and the Argentine border, Futaleufú sits between mountains, deep fjords, turquoise lakes, and vast stretches of temperate rainforest. Its remoteness is part of its charm—and one of the reasons the river remained so pristine. The reality is that getting here takes some planning. Most roads in the region are dusty and unpaved, travel speeds are slow, and even basic logistics can take longer than you might expect. Patagonia operates on its own schedule. But that's exactly what makes this place special. From Argentina (The Fastest Route) For most international travelers, this is the quickest and easiest way to reach Futaleufú. If you only have a week to enjoy Futaleufú, this is definitely the route we recommend. Fly from Buenos Aires to Esquel Airport in Argentina. From Esquel, Futaleufú is only a few hours' drive away. There is a bus service connecting Esquel to Futaleufú on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays. Alternatively, you can take a taxi to the border. Once you’ve crossed into Chile, Futaleufú is only a few kilometers away. If you're joining one of our multi-day trips, Kriminal Kayak can arrange airport pickup directly from Esquel Airport, making the journey simple and stress-free. Best for: International visitors, paddlers traveling with limited time, and anyone looking for the most direct route. 2. From Chile Start by flying into Santiago, Chile (SCL), and then connect to a domestic flight bound for Puerto Montt (PMC). a. La barcaza (the ferry): Puerto Montt - Chaitén If you're already in Chile and you rented a car one of the most effective ways to travel is by ferry from Puerto Montt to Chaitén. The ferry operated by Naviera Austral crosses the fjords of northern Patagonia during an overnight voyage of approximately 12 hours. Most departures leave Puerto Montt around 11:00 PM and arrive in Chaitén early the following morning. Sunday schedules may vary, with daytime departures. One important tip: ferry reservations should be made well in advance, especially during the summer season. Best for: Travelers with a rental vehicle, paddlers with no vehicle hauling plenty of equipment, and anyone who prefers to slow down, enjoy the views, and wake up already deep in Patagonia. b. La Ruta Bimodal: Puerto Montt - Hornopiren - Caleta Gonzalo - Chaitén For travelers with rented vehicle, the famous Ruta Bimodal is an excellent alternative. This route follows the fjords south from Puerto Montt, combining road sections with ferry crossings. The route includes two ferry crossings between Hornopirén and Caleta Gonzalo. The first ferry takes approximately 4 hours, followed by a scenic stretch of gravel road through Pumalín Douglas Tompkins National Park, and then a second ferry of about 1 hour. While the road is accessible to most vehicles in good conditions, a 4x4 or vehicle with good ground clearance is recommended, especially outside the peak summer season or after heavy rain. It is usually less expensive than the direct ferry and provides some of the most spectacular views in Patagonia. One important tip: ferry reservations should be made well in advance, especially during the summer season. The crossing between Hornopirén and Caleta Gonzalo, operated by SOMARCO, often fills up quickly. Fuel stations are limited along the route, so topping up your tank whenever possible is highly recommended. Traveling Without a Vehicle If you don't have your own transportation, Kemel Bus operates a service from Puerto Montt to Chaitén via the Ruta Bimodal. The bus typically departs from the Puerto Montt harbor at around 6:00 AM and travels on the same ferries used by private vehicles. Unfortunately, tickets cannot currently be reserved online and must be purchased in person in Puerto Montt, so arriving a day early is recommended during busy periods. Best for: Road-trippers, photographers, budget-conscious travelers, and anyone wanting to experience Patagonia's fjords, rainforests, and remote landscapes at a slower pace. c. L'Avioneta: Fly to Chaitén For travelers short on time, flying from Puerto Montt to Chaitén is the fastest way to stay within Chile while avoiding the long ferry journey. The flight departs from La Paloma Airport, a small regional airport in Puerto Montt. Unlike the larger El Tepual Airport (PMC), which handles commercial flights from Santiago and other major cities, La Paloma serves regional routes operated by small aircraft. These planes typically carry between 6 and 12 passengers and the flight takes approximately 30 minutes. Rather than cruising at high altitude, these planes often fly relatively low over the landscape, offering spectacular views of Patagonia's fjords, mountains, volcanoes, and coastline. On a clear day, the scenery looks like something straight out of a drone video—except you’re sitting inside the aircraft. Because of the aircraft size and the region's unpredictable weather, flights can occasionally be turbulent and schedules may be affected by weather conditions. Two airlines currently operate this route: Aereocord and Pewen: reservations should be made well in advance, especially during the summer season. While flying saves considerable travel time, it is generally more expensive than the ferry options and comes with strict baggage limitations. Travelers should pack light, luggage capacity is limited and transporting bulky sports equipment can be difficult. Unfortunately, bringing a kayak is generally not practical on these flights, making this option less suitable for paddlers traveling with their own boats. The good news is that you don't need to haul your gear across Patagonia—Kriminal Kayak provides kayak rentals and equipment so you can travel light and spend more time on the river. Best for: Travelers with limited time, photographers, and anyone wanting a unique aerial perspective of Patagonia's fjords and mountains. THE LAST STRETCH: from Chaiten to Futa From Chaitén, it's about a 3-hour drive to Futaleufú through beautiful mountain landscapes and native forests, traveling along Lago Yelcho. A bus departs from Chaiten to Futaleufu daily at 12:00 and 16:30. If you prefer to travel independently, you can also rent a car in Chaitén with Fletes Austral and make the journey on your own, enjoying the scenic drive through Patagonia Verde at your own pace. Resume: Route Travel Time Cost Best For Via Esquel Fastest Medium Short trips Direct Ferry PM-Chaiten Slow Medium Travelers with lots of gear Ruta Bimodal Hornopiren-Caleta Gonzalo Medium Lower Road trips Flight PM - Chaitén Fastest within Chile Highest Travelers short on time Travel Light, Paddle More One of the challenges of traveling to remote Patagonia is transporting kayaking equipment. Multiple flights, ferry crossings, buses, and border controls can make moving boats and gear complicated and expensive. Because of this, many paddlers choose to travel light and rent equipment with us. At Kriminal Kayak, we offer quality kayak rentals, guided trips, coaching, and local logistics support, allowing you to focus on the rivers rather than the transportation. The Journey Is Part of the Experience Futaleufú is not the easiest destination to reach—and that's a good thing. Its isolation has protected the rivers, preserved the landscape, and maintained the authentic character that makes this corner of Patagonia so unique. Whether you arrive through Argentina, cross the fjords by ferry, or drive the winding roads of Patagonia Verde, the adventure begins long before you put your kayak in the water. In Patagonia, the journey is rarely the fastest part of the adventure. Getting to Futaleufú takes time, but that's exactly what keeps this place wild.

Embark on an epic kayaking adventure through the pristine waters of Patagonia, where rugged landscapes and breathtaking beauty await at every paddle stroke Let's organize your next adventure! Futaleufù Kayaking trip We are ready to welcome you in our beautiful KK Lake House during your next holiday! There is something magical in the Futaleufú, something unique that takes you and connects you to this virgin and pristine land. From the first moment we have been falling in love with this place and we decided to put roots. Using the “Kriminal Lake House” as a base camp, just 15 minutes away from the pueblo of Futaleufú, after having run a hundred times this beautiful river, we will be ready to go explore Patagonia through its magic rivers. Together we will choose the itinerary that best suits your level. PATAGONIAN RIVER GYPSIES TRIPS FUTA HERO Duration: 10 days Suitable for: intermediate kayakers Period: November to March Minimum participants: 4 Rivers: depending on the water level, different sections of the rio Futaleufú, rio Azul, eventually rio Tigre. Only on demand rio Figueroa, rio Pico, Rio Cisney, Rio Simpson. Included : 10 day trip, airport transfer, overnights, breakfast, lunches and dinners, kayak rental and paddle. Cost: 2500€ FROM ZERO TO HERO Would you like to learn to kayak and at the same time you’d like to live an unforgettable adventure? Using the “Kriminal Lake House” as a base camp, just 15 minutes away from the pueblo of Futaleufú, the course will last 10 days, with the aim to create the bases of the white water kayak technique and to let you discover Northern Patagonia through one of its most primordial elements: the rivers. Technical training classes and lessons on flat water will be alternated with descents in the rivers on class II/III sections. Moreover the program does include a river trip of 3 days, camping along the river, eating around the fire, breathing and living a simple and essential life as true river gypsies. Duration: 10 days Suitable for: novices and beginners Minimum participants: 2 Period: from November to March Rivers: sections of the rio Futaleufú, rio Espolon, rio Tigre and rio Palena Included: 10 day trip and lessons, complete kayak equipment, overnights, meals, rafting descent on the rio Futaleufú (Puente a Puente section). Cost: 2500€ FROM HERO TO superHERO Would you like to improve your kayak technique and at the same time you’d like to live an unforgettable adventure? Based at the “Kriminal Lake House”, just 15 minutes away from the pueblo of Futaleufú, for 10 days we will run different rivers that flow in the Region de Los Lagos. Scope is to give experienced kayakers, but also less ones, the opportunity to discover the Patagonian rivers. Here Human beings and Nature follow the same rhythm in complete harmony, compounding a melody that is echoing through this landscapes since centuries. Depending on the ability of the group we will be able to choose among different river sections (class III/IV). Moreover the program includes a river trip of 3 days, camping along the river, eating around the fire, breathing and living a simple and essential life as true river gypsies. Duration: 10 days Suitable for: intermediate kayakers who want to improve their technique on volume Minimum participants: 2 Period: from November to March Rivers: sections of the rio Futaleufú, rio Azul, rio Tigre Included: 10 day lessons, overnights, meals, kayak rental. Cost: 2500€ NOT ONLY KAYAK For the ones that would like to diversify their stay or for the non kayakers trip companions there is the possibility to organize daily rafting, horse back riding, fly fishing and trekking excursions or expeditions. Contact us to arrange the trip that best suits you!

(EN) The first edition of the Bestias Kriminales Camps kicked of in 2021 as a result of a collaboration between the collective Bestias del Sur Salvaje and Kriminal Kayak. The camps were born with the intent of bringing together kayakers from all over the country who want to improve their kayaking skills, as well as share knowledge and expertise on river protection as well as having good times around there. . After the great success of the two camps launched in 2021, on the Bio Bio river and on the Ñuble river, we decided to pitch a second edition with more dates and locations, where students will learn the difference between running a river like a empty floating coca-cola bottle and maneuvering a rapid with elegance and control. . Reserve your spot: +56 9 9718 7710 Vicky +56 9 7977 9212 Paulo DATES: .

Let's organize your next adventure! Futaleufù Kayaking trip We are ready to welcome you in our beautiful KK Lake House during your next holiday! There is something magical in the Futaleufú, something unique that takes you and connects you to this virgin and pristine land. From the first moment we have been falling in love with this place and we decided to put roots. Using the “Kriminal Lake House” as a base camp, just 15 minutes away from the pueblo of Futaleufú, after having run a hundred times this beautiful river, we will be ready to go explore Patagonia through its magic rivers. Together we will choose the itinerary that best suits your level. PATAGONIAN RIVER GYPSIES TRIPS FUTA HERO Duration: 10 to 14 days Suitable for: intermediate kayakers Period: November to March Minimum participants: 4 Rivers: depending on the water level, sections of the rio Futaleufú, rio Azul, rio Tigre. Only on demand rio Figueroa, rio Pico, Rio Cisney, Rio Simpson. Included 10 day trip, transfer with the pick-up, overnights, breakfast, lunches and dinners, pictures, kayak. FROM ZERO TO HERO Would you like to learn to kayak and at the same time you’d like to live an unforgettable adventure? Using the “Kriminal Lake House” as a base camp, just 15 minutes away from the pueblo of Futaleufú, the course will last 10 days, with the aim to create the bases of the white water kayak technique and to let you discover Northern Patagonia through one of its most primordial elements: the rivers. Technical training classes and lessons on flat water will be alternated with descents in the rivers on class II/III sections. Moreover the program does include a river trip of 3 days, camping along the river, eating around the fire, breathing and living a simple and essential life as true river gypsies. Duration: 10 days Suitable for: novices and beginners Minimum participants: 1 Period: from November to March Rivers: sections of the rio Futaleufú, rio Espolon, rio Tigre and rio Palena Included: 10 day trip and lessons, complete kayak equipment, overnights, meals, rafting decent on the rio Futaleufú (Puente a Puente section), pictures. FROM HERO TO superHERO Would you like to improve your kayak technique and at the same time you’d like to live an unforgettable adventure? Based at the “Kriminal Lake House”, just 15 minutes away from the pueblo of Futaleufú, for 10 days we will run different rivers that flow in the Region de Los Lagos. Scope is to give experienced kayakers, but also less ones, the opportunity to discover the Patagonian rivers. Here Human beings and Nature follow the same rhythm in complete harmony, compounding a melody that is echoing through this landscapes since centuries. Depending on the ability of the group we will be able to choose among different river sections (class III/IV). Moreover the program includes a river trip of 3 days, camping along the river, eating around the fire, breathing and living a simple and essential life as true river gypsies. Duration: 10 days Suitable for: intermediate kayakers who want to improve their technique on volume Minimum participants: 2 Period: from November to March Rivers: sections of the rio Futaleufú, rio Azul, rio Tigre Included: 10 day lessons, overnights, meals, pictures, kayak. NOT ONLY KAYAK For the ones that would like to diversify their stay or for the non kayakers trip companions there is the possibility to organize daily rafting, horse back riding, fly fishing and trekking excursions or expeditions. Contact us to arrange the trip that best suits you!

From the colourful streets of Kathmandu, to the remote valleys run by holly rivers flowing down the Himalayas, along dusty roads on board of Jeeps or picturesque buses, we had the chance to discover a completely different world from ours, both for habits and culture. Camping along the river, sleeping under a tarp and dining sitting around a camp fire under a sky full of stars of this mystic land we lived one of the most intense trips of our life. DAY 1. Arrival in Kathmandu and accomodation in the Holi Lodge DAY 2. Day in Kathmandu gear and equipment preparation for the river trip overnight at Holi Lodge DAY 3-4. early departure till Basantapur departure for a 3 day trekking overnight in the villages along the path DAY 5. last day trekking and arrival on the Tamur overnight at the river put in DAY 6-9. river trip on the Tamur river ( III-IV ) overnight along the river DAY 10. take out just after the confluence with the Sun Koshi around mid day transfer to Charaudi Beach Camp overnight at Charaudi Beach Camp DAY 11. day sun on the Trishuli river (III+) overnight at Charaudi Beach Camp DAY 12. return to Kathmandu overnight at Holi Lodge DAY 13. day run on the Bote Kosi and on the Bolefi Kohla river (optional) overnight at Holi Lodge DAY 14. departure from Kathmandu