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→Season 2023/24
==Season 2023/24==
* 2024-Jan-24to 2024-Jan-29/ 6 5.5 days easy / Packrafting / GPT 27P+28P SOBO / RR / Lauren & Seb
We hitchhiked from Villa Futalaufquen to Trevelin and caught another ride from there all the way to Futaleufú, Chile (border control closes at 7pm). The tourist info in Trevelin (at the town square) told us that there is a bus from Trevelin to the border, and then a connecting bus at the other side, but it doesn’t run every day. We forgot to note down the schedule, but it might work out for you. We had no issue bringing oats and spices through customs after checking “yes” in the self-declaration form. Buses from Futaleufu-Palena run only Tuesdays 0900, 1630 and Thursdays 1330. As schedules are subject to changes it’s best to check timings at the bus terminal.
Together with GPT packrafter Daniel, we rivered in at Rio Palena Bridge {27P} [2.3/194]. Water level looked lower compared to the previous water line so we expected more visible rapids and occasional ground contact but generally no problem if you follow the main current.
We enjoyed upper Rio Palena’s numerous Class 1-2 rapids which kept the journey interesting. The first Rapid {27P} [4.2/178] requires scouting- at the bend, we took the line on the left which will keep you out of the stronger whitewater on the right. After that the other rapids were relatively easy easier in our opinion but reading the best line to avoid being sucked into swirls or going over inconspicuous trees underwater still demands your constant attention.
If you have registered for the Chilean fishing license, you will be delighted to catch many fresh trouts in Rio Palena. We took some easy days, camped early and fished when headwind picked up around 3-4pm.