Chile
Travel to Chile and find a country stretching for some 4,350 kilometres, a country of startling contrast and extreme beauty.
North of Chile is Atacama, the driest desert in the world, while in the south there are snow-capped volcanoes, crystal-clear waters, majestic fjords, glaciers and the windswept steppes of Patagonia. Chile's European heritage is evident throughout the country and travellers here are likely to feel more familiar with its culture than of the neighbouring countries, with their strongly indigenous lifestyles. There are still local traditions persisting in parts of Chile however together with the European influence, this makes for an interesting juxtaposition, providing a distinctive culture. The people are resilient, cordial and warm, from the fashionable capital city of Santiago to the isolated island of Chiloe, and Chilean hospitality is renowned.
Opportunities for outdoor fun abound. Fancy climbing an active volcano? There are 50 to choose from. Prefer running white-water rapids or paddling through ice-carved fjords? You'll be spoilt for choice. Come looking for adventure and you could hike, bike, ski, surf, swim, horseback ride and even paraglide your way from desert to ice fields. But you don't need to sweat it to enjoy the best of Chile. You can soak in hot springs until your skin wrinkles, ogle at glaciers crumbling into the sea, stargaze alongside top international observatories, ponder the ancient mysteries of Rapa Nui (Easter Island) or soak up the urban buzz of Santiago or Valparaíso.
Besides natural beauty and an interesting blend of cultures, Chileans are proud and friendly, fiercely protecting their traditions, keen to boast about their two Nobel Prize winning compatriots; Pablo Neruda and Gabriela Mistral, and more than happy to enjoy a glass of the fiery national cocktail, pisco, with visitors. Chile offers the visitor excellent unique handicrafts, shopping, unbelievable fishing, and a variety of characteristic architecture, making it a beautiful and memorable place to visit.
what our customers have to say:
“I thoroughly enjoyed my trip. Even though I am not a "real" fly fisherman the guides were very patient and helpful." Mr Bryant
"We want to thank you again for a wonderful time at Futa Lodge. It was our favourite lodge to stay in, we loved how remote it was, the scenery, food, wine, guides, staff, fishing, accommodations and the horseback ride --- it was perfect!." Craig & Joan
"I wanted to write to thank you for a wonderful week at Futa Lodge. I was amazed at the variety of fishing that Futa Lodge has to offer." Mr Ted
“My stay was excellent. The Futa Lodge is a special place. The managers are the best lodge hosts I have ever experienced after fishing all over the world." Mr Gar