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Hot Springs: Futaleufú

Futaleufú is world-famous for its turquoise river and extreme white-water rafting, but the surrounding valleys also harbor thermal springs that provide the perfect recovery after a day of adventure. These modest but charming hot springs complement the region's adrenaline-fueled reputation.

4 min readUpdated for 2025–2026 Season
3 hot springsBest Season to Visit: The best time to combine rafting and hot springs i...
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Introduction

Tucked in a narrow valley near the Argentine border, Futaleufú is primarily known as a world-class white-water rafting and kayaking destination. The Futaleufú River, with its impossibly turquoise water and Class V rapids, draws adventure seekers from around the globe. What many visitors discover is that the surrounding area also offers thermal springs where weary muscles can recover in naturally heated mineral water. The hot springs near Futaleufú are modest compared to those in Pucón or Puyuhuapi, but their intimate scale and the opportunity to soak after an epic river day make them a treasured part of the Futaleufú experience.

Hot Springs

Termas de Futaleufú

Developed

The main thermal facility near Futaleufú offers several pools at different temperatures set in a peaceful forest clearing. The mineral-rich water is ideal for post-rafting recovery. The facility is well-maintained and the forest setting provides a tranquil contrast to the adrenaline of the river. Evening visits are particularly pleasant.

Temperature: 35-40°C
Entry Fee: $8,000 CLP per adult
How to Get There: Located about 8 km from Futaleufú town, on the road toward Lago Espolón. Well-signposted gravel road accessible by standard vehicle.
Best time: November to April
changing roomsparkingsmall cafépicnic area

Termas de Lago Espolón

Natural

Natural warm pools near the beautiful Lago Espolón, where thermal water seeps up near the lakeshore. The temperatures are milder, making for a gentle and prolonged soak. The lake and mountain views from the pools are stunning, and the remote setting ensures privacy.

Temperature: 32-37°C
Entry Fee: $4,000 CLP donation
How to Get There: Near the shores of Lago Espolón, about 12 km from town. The last section of road is rough gravel. A short walk from parking leads to the springs.
Best time: December to March
informal parking

Termas del Valle

Wild

Hidden in a remote valley south of town, these wild hot springs are known mainly to local guides and experienced hikers. Natural rock pools collect warm water in a pristine forest setting. The hike itself is beautiful, passing through old-growth forest and along a crystal-clear stream.

Temperature: 33-38°C
Entry Fee: Free
How to Get There: A 2-hour hike from a trailhead south of Futaleufú. The trail follows a river valley through native forest. Local guides available.
Best time: January to February
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Safety Tips

If visiting after rafting, allow your body to rest before entering hot water to avoid muscle cramps

The roads to remote springs can be rough — use a vehicle with good clearance

Inform your lodge or hostel when visiting backcountry springs

River levels near springs can rise quickly — stay aware of weather conditions

Bring insect repellent for forest settings

Carry water and snacks, as there are no services near wild springs

What to Bring

  • Swimsuit
  • Towel
  • Water shoes
  • Warm layers for after bathing
  • Drinking water
  • Snacks
  • Cash in Chilean pesos
  • Camera
  • Insect repellent

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Best Season to Visit

The best time to combine rafting and hot springs in Futaleufú is from December to March, when river levels are ideal for rafting and weather is warmest. November and April are shoulder months with cooler temperatures but fewer visitors. The developed Termas de Futaleufú is open from November to April.

Getting There

Futaleufú is located 155 km from Chaitén via the Carretera Austral and Ruta 231. The drive takes about 4 hours on gravel roads. Alternatively, you can enter from Argentina via the border crossing at Futaleufú-Las Pampas. The nearest airports are Balmaceda (BBA) in Chile (long drive) or Esquel (EQS) in Argentina (120 km). Small buses connect Chaitén to Futaleufú, but a rental car is recommended for hot spring visits.

Nearby Attractions

White-water rafting on the Futaleufú River
Kayaking on Lago Espolón
Futaleufú National Reserve hiking
Fly fishing in local rivers
Mountain biking trails
Border crossing to Esquel, Argentina

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Frequently Asked Questions

Are the hot springs a good post-rafting activity?

Absolutely. Soaking in warm mineral water after a day of rafting is one of the best experiences in Futaleufú. The thermal water helps relax muscles and the peaceful setting provides a perfect counterpoint to the river's intensity.

How do Futaleufú hot springs compare to other areas?

Futaleufú's springs are smaller and more modest than those in Pucón or Puyuhuapi. Their charm lies in their intimate scale, beautiful valley setting, and the unique combination with world-class adventure sports.

Can I visit the hot springs year-round?

The developed Termas de Futaleufú operates from November to April. Wild springs are technically accessible year-round but trail conditions make winter visits impractical.

Is Futaleufú difficult to reach?

Futaleufú is remote but well-connected by road from both Chile (via Chaitén) and Argentina (via Esquel). The journey is part of the adventure, passing through spectacular mountain scenery.

Futaleufú

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