If you’re a fan of kayaking, you’ll know that it’s such a special way to experience a new place. Sat on the water, feeling the gentle swell rock your small vessel, and marveling at your beautiful surroundings – what’s not to love? 

Patagonia is definitely up there as one of the best places to kayak in South America, if not the world. Alongside glaciers, between the mountains of a fjord, and at the base of some iconic mountains, kayaking in Patagonia is a unique way to experience the incredible beauty of Chile and Argentina.

Calafate, Argentina

The Perito Moreno Glacier is one of the most impressive of its kinds. Unbelievably enormous and constantly waning, it’s a truly remarkable sight. Once you’ve seen it from a distance on the walkways that lead to it, experience the ‘King of the Glaciers’ from up close on a kayak to take in its wonder and see it in a way few others are lucky enough to. 

Bariloche, Argentina

Lake Machonico, between San Martin de los Andes and Bariloche, is a spectacular location for your kayaking adventure. Famous for its serene waters and that idyllic forested mountains that surround it, this lake is a great place for beginners and experienced kayakers alike to enjoy the landscapes of the Argentinian lakes. Cross the lake and paddle along a gentle river to find a smaller lake and the perfect lunch spot!

Aysén, Chile

Travelling along the Carretera Austral, stop off at Puerto Rio Tranquilo for a unique and unforgettable kayaking experience. On the edges of the emerald-blue General Carrera Lake, you can find the marble caves – a geological marvel that leaves experts flabbergasted. The beauty of these rock formations is something that has to be seen to be believed. While you can take a boat to the caves, reaching them on a kayak allows you to get closer and even paddle inside! 

Torres del Paine, Chile

The fjords and lakes of the Torres del Paine National Park offer amazing kayaking opportunities. Experience the Grey Lake and Grey Glacier from the intimacy of your kayak. Surrounded by the Paine Grande Hill and the Olguín Mountain Range, this excursion will leave you with treasured memories of Chilean Patagonia. 

The Ebenhard Fjord 

Appreciate the ruggedness of Patagonia from the unique perspective of Eberhard Fjord. Head from Puerto Prat to Puerto Consuelo. You’ll pass by Kruger Island, also known as the Island of the Dead as it was the first cemetery established in the area by explorers in the nineteenth century. The excursion includes a walk on the shore to enjoy the landscapes from some amazing viewpoints. 

Chiloe

An archipelago riddled with lakes, rivers and bays, Chiloe is perfect for kayaking! From the waters in and around the islands here, you can spot some of Chiloe’s most beautiful birds and the local otters known as chungungos! If you’re looking for something a little different, Chepu has to be your kayaking destination. Here, you can paddle amongst a sunken forest, caused by the land sinking in the 1960s earthquake. If you get here at sunrise, it’s the best time to see Chiloe’s wildlife and to enjoy the serenity of this majestic place.