Global Descents boasts one of the most extraordinary Futaleufu riverside camps anywhere in the world! El Macal, situated at the end of the most continuous stretch of whitewater on the Futaleufu, affords us the unique opportunity to float directly into camp - where dry clothes, snacks, and happy hour await - at the finish of every river day.
Its southern exposure bestows El Macal with some of the nicest weather in the valley, and the views from camp are incredible! A glaciated ridge soars five thousand feet high to the west, while quaint Patagonian farms and an extensive network of hiking trails surround us on all other sides. Together with our Chilean hosts, Mario and Damari Soto, we have supplemented nature's endowment to the site, crafting El Macal into a small slice of paradise on the banks of the Futaleufu. Specially selected elevated and covered tent platforms provide every visitor with stunning views, the hum of the Futaleufu River, and the utmost privacy.
Our lodge provides a central meeting spot with an attached Futaleufu riverside deck for lounging, a bar, and a venue for some of the best meals you will ever eat, prepared by Damari and Mario, and comprised mainly of local vegetables and meats. Local Futaleufu wines, always available, supplement the cuisine. A comfortable loft above our open-air drying quarters features couches and a library for personal time. Hammocks, wood-fired hot showers, a sauna, and a hot tub add to the luxuries.
How to Get to Camp El Macal
Two major destinations, Puerto Montt, Chile, and Bariloche, Argentina make for great starting points for getting down to Global Descents' Camp El Macal and to ultimately getting you to experience the best rafting in Chile.
- From Puerto Montt, Chile
From the airport in Puerto Montt, you'll make a journey of two legs in order to get to Camp El Macal: Puerto Montt to Chaiten, and Chaiten to Camp El Macal. Find out More >>- From Bariloche, Argentina
From the mountain town of Bariloche, Argentina, you'll make a journey of two legs in order to get to Camp El Macal: Bariloche to Esquel, Argentina; Esquel to Futaleufu, Argentina; and Futaleufu (town) to Camp El Macal. There are several ways to travel the three sections, so we've outlined below the easiest ways to get to the river. Find out More >>
Opportunities for off-river adventure are virtually endless at El Macal. In addition to the hundreds of miles of trails and the prospects of exploring local farms and culture, accessible via foot or on horseback, a mild stretch of river extends downstream of camp, allowing us the opportunity to learn to kayak, to guide a raft, or to float-fish, while one of the finest rappels anywhere (we descend an eighty-foot cliff directly into a raft awaiting on the river below!) is situated just upstream, and swimming holes abound. Sunlight yoga sessions and daily massages complete the package. El Macal exceeds all expectations as the ultimate Futaleufu river resort. Global Descents and the Soto family welcome every guest to revel in the wonder of our Patagonian Shangri-La!
