Patagonia Waterfalls & Asado from Puerto Chacabuco

Summary

Pioneer Paths, Ghost Lagoons & Campesino Barbecue

Step into Patagonia’s wild heart: cross historic bridges near Puerto Chacabuco, walk silent valleys scarred by time, and share an asado feast with local campesinos. You’ll taste smoky lamb and fresh sopaipillas, hear stories from your guide, and leave with memories of wind, laughter, and something you can’t quite name — but won’t forget.

What’s the experience like?

Ever wondered what it feels like to stand on a bridge designed by Eiffel, but in the middle of wild Patagonia? That’s where our day started — the Presidente Ibañez Bridge, all steel and wind, with the river below looking colder than I’d expected. Our guide, Carla, pointed out the old city of Puerto Aysén just beyond. She told us stories about the pioneers who crossed these same valleys (I admit I zoned out for a second watching a hawk circling overhead — Patagonia does that to you).

The drive through Pangal valley was bumpy in that way that makes you feel like you’re really somewhere else. The air smelled sharp and green, almost icy. We stopped at the “Ghost Lagoon” — Fantasma Lagoon — where Carla explained how fire had once swept through here decades ago. The silence felt heavy for a moment. Then someone laughed about their muddy boots and it broke the spell. The waterfall, Cascada del León, wasn’t loud but it was steady; I touched the rocks and they were slick and cold.

I didn’t expect to love lunch so much. We ended up at a local ranch for Patagonian asado — lamb roasting over an open fire, potatoes straight from the earth, sopaipillas still warm from the pan. The family hosting us barely spoke English but somehow made us feel like old friends (Li laughed when I tried to say “gracias” with my mouth full). There was this easy warmth in the room — maybe from the fire or maybe just how people are here.

On the way back we crossed another old suspension bridge on foot (don’t worry, it’s not scary), then stopped at Los Coipos Lagoon. A chucao bird sang somewhere in the reeds — Carla said it brings good luck if you hear it before leaving Patagonia. Not sure if that’s true but I still think about that sound sometimes when things get too quiet at home.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Patagonian Nature and Culture Tour

• Cross Presidente Ibañez Suspension Bridge
• Visit Puerto Aysén City
• View Bahia Acantilada Glaciers
• Explore Fantasma (Ghost) Lagoon
• Drive through Pangal Valley to Cascada del Leon Waterfall
• Patagonian Asado and visit Los Coipos Lagoon

Top questions

How long is the day trip from Puerto Chacabuco?

The excursion lasts several hours and returns to Puerto Chacabuco port in time for your ship departure.

Is lunch included on this Patagonia waterfalls tour?

Yes, a traditional Patagonian asado lunch with lamb and local sides is included.

Do I need to be physically fit for this tour?

A moderate level of physical fitness is recommended due to walking and uneven terrain.

Will there be a local guide during the trip?

Yes, a professional local guide accompanies you throughout the day.

Are pickups available from Puerto Chacabuco port?

Port pickup is included; provide your cruise details when booking.

What should I bring for this day trip in Patagonia?

Bring sunscreen, sunglasses, comfortable walking shoes, and dress for changing weather conditions.

What’s included

Your day includes pickup directly from Puerto Chacabuco port by your local guide, all transportation through Patagonian valleys and villages, entry to natural sites like Fantasma Lagoon and Cascada del León waterfall, plus a homemade asado lunch with regional specialties before returning comfortably to your ship.