Launch from San Martín de los Andes for a guided 10 km run down the Chimehuín River, navigating eight class II–III rapids beneath the gaze of Lanín Volcano. This small-group rafting trip blends playful whitewater, forested riverbanks, and seasonal wildlife viewing.
Launch from San Martín de los Andes for a guided 10 km run down the Chimehuín River, navigating eight class II–III rapids beneath the gaze of Lanín Volcano. This small-group rafting trip blends playful whitewater, forested riverbanks, and seasonal wildlife viewing.
The river opens like a page of Patagonia: cold, clear water threading between forested banks while Lanín Volcano watches from the skyline. At the put-in you feel the current nudge the raft—an active invitation rather than a threat—and the guide briefs the small group before launching into a 10 km float that stitches together eight class II–III rapids.
Verified experiences and guided adventures in the surrounding area.
Operated by Tangol · San Martín de los Andes, Neuquén
The river opens like a page of Patagonia: cold, clear water threading between forested banks while Lanín Volcano watches from the skyline. At the put-in you feel the current nudge the raft—an active invitation rather than a threat—and the guide briefs the small group before launching into a 10 km float that stitches together eight class II–III rapids.
Geology here is recent and raw: volcanic landforms and glacially carved basins feed the Chimehuín from Lake Huechulafquén, producing steady flows and riffles ideal for intermediate paddlers. The valley holds Mapuche history and a modern fly-fishing tradition—rainbow and brown trout thrive in these oxygen-rich waters, a cultural and economic thread for local communities.
Expect alternating stretches of playful rapids and calm pools framed by lenga and coihue forest. Wildlife is part of the soundtrack: watch for birds lifting off the banks and, if lucky, raptors riding thermal lines off the volcano’s slopes. The operation runs seasonally (October–May), limits groups to a dozen, and includes hotel pickup in San Martín de los Andes.
Practical edge: wear a swimsuit under quick-dry layers, carry sunscreen and a change of clothes in a dry bag, and be prepared for chilly spray even on warm days. The trip lasts roughly 5–6 hours door-to-door with about 2–3 hours on the water; paddling effort is intermittent and guided. Photographers should secure cameras to prevent loss in rapids. For anyone curious about Patagonia’s rivers, this is an accessible, scenic introduction to whitewater with volcanic drama on the horizon.
Minimum age is 5 years; maximum weight per person is 159 kg (350 lbs). Operators may refuse participation for safety reasons.
Trips run seasonally from October through May, when flows and temperatures are suitable for guided rafting.
No prior experience is required; guides give a safety briefing and paddle commands. Moderate fitness and the ability to follow instructions are necessary.
Yes — hotel pickup and return in San Martín de los Andes are included in the tour price.
Tangol operates guided outdoor trips and adventures with an emphasis on safety, stewardship, and memorable experiences.




The river opens like a page of Patagonia: cold, clear water threading between forested banks while Lanín Volcano watches from the skyline. At the put-in you feel the current nudge the raft—an active invitation rather than a threat—and the guide briefs the small group before launching into a 10 km float that stitches together eight class II–III rapids.
The river opens like a page of Patagonia: cold, clear water threading between forested banks while Lanín Volcano watches from the skyline. At the put-in you feel the current nudge the raft—an active invitation rather than a threat—and the guide briefs the small group before launching into a 10 km float that stitches together eight class II–III rapids.
Geology here is recent and raw: volcanic landforms and glacially carved basins feed the Chimehuín from Lake Huechulafquén, producing steady flows and riffles ideal for intermediate paddlers. The valley holds Mapuche history and a modern fly-fishing tradition—rainbow and brown trout thrive in these oxygen-rich waters, a cultural and economic thread for local communities.
Expect alternating stretches of playful rapids and calm pools framed by lenga and coihue forest. Wildlife is part of the soundtrack: watch for birds lifting off the banks and, if lucky, raptors riding thermal lines off the volcano’s slopes. The operation runs seasonally (October–May), limits groups to a dozen, and includes hotel pickup in San Martín de los Andes.
Practical edge: wear a swimsuit under quick-dry layers, carry sunscreen and a change of clothes in a dry bag, and be prepared for chilly spray even on warm days. The trip lasts roughly 5–6 hours door-to-door with about 2–3 hours on the water; paddling effort is intermittent and guided. Photographers should secure cameras to prevent loss in rapids. For anyone curious about Patagonia’s rivers, this is an accessible, scenic introduction to whitewater with volcanic drama on the horizon.