Corcovado, Cradle of Rafting

The Patagonian rivers are usually incredibly surprising. The Corcovado, in the Province of Chubut, is an invitation to become the protagonists of a rafting exploit with class II and III rapids. It is perfect both for experienced adventurers and those who have never tried this wonderful nautical activity.

We hired an excursion and our excitement started the moment we left towards the Corcovado on a van along roads featuring extreme natural beauty across ancient forests. The morning cold got mixed with the smell of the vegetation as we rode towards the river.

During the journey, we saw Lake Rosario –an area dwelled by a Mapuche community-, Lake Tiobal, Mount Centinela and the Town of Corcovado. On a crossroads, the signs showed the proximity of Lakes Guacho, Falso and Vintter, known for its outstanding large fishing trophies.

Corcovado, a mountain village located very close to the Chilean border, lures tourism with its generous rivers and creeks where the Pacific salmon, silverside and trout are promising catches. It also offers the chance to enjoy other nautical activities in an almost unspoiled natural environment.

As we reached the banks of the Upper Corcovado River, we saw the guides were expecting us with all the material and ready to start. The technical and safety instructions were given on the beach while we put on our life jackets and helmets, which would ensure a ride free from any inconvenience.


Let’s Feel Adrenaline!

We set out slowly in order to learn how to paddle. Little by little, the river bends and the rapids started to tinge the tour with thrill. The ravines forced us to be alert to the commands and the speed of the current made us paddle with strength as the frozen water splashed on our faces.

It was hard to hold back the laughter and the screams after all the joy we experienced at each of the vertiginous turns of the Corcovado, a beautiful mountain river that ends at the Pacific Ocean.

Cradle of rafting in the area, the Corcovado ensures an imposing day. Adventurers just need to follow the guide’s instructions and carry out the right maneuvers in order to lead the RIB through the rapids and backwaters.

At one of the latter, we could observe that several buff-necked ibis moved about the banks with their long thin beaks free from all fear. Farther ahead, we spotted some ducks and neotropic cormorants. We heard that foxes and European hare are commonly seen in the forest.

The river volume is more plentiful in November due to the meltdown waters coming from the mountain. In the summer, adventurers may dive in and float in the pools to add some pleasure to this outing.

At the end of the day, the conversation revolved around each of the experiences we had enjoyed, the photographs that evidenced this outing and the chance to have a new encounter with the Corcovado River.