Experiences and local guides in Toltén

Nature

Toltén is where the river born in Lake Villarrica, after nearly 100 km, meets the Pacific Ocean. It's Lafkenche (coastal Mapuche) territory, with long dark-sand beaches, dunes and wetlands where fresh and salt water mix, far less visited than the coast of the Los Lagos region further south.

Activities

• Toltén beach and river mouth, for long sand walks and coastal birdwatching
• Traditional Lafkenche fishing, and buying shellfish and fish directly from local fishermen
• Boat trips on the lower Toltén river, through riverside forest and estuaries
• Combine with the coastal route to Queule and Chan Chan beach, other lightly developed beaches in La Araucanía

When to go

December to March for the beach and more stable weather; the rest of the year brings strong surf and rain typical of the southern coast, but they draw those seeking winter surf or dramatic scenery.