The original land that now forms Canto de Lluvia was part of an expansive network of pastures used for grazing large herds of cattle and sheep destined for Puerto Aysen. Until 1948 roads into the area were primitive and thus few outside of the cattle industry had explored the countryside nor were aware of both the regions great natural beauty or the great trout fishing offered by the Simpson River drainage. Once good roads allowed easier access, the word spread quickly and Canto de Lluvia was born, the name derived from the musical nature of the areas many small streams and picturesque waterfalls.

The vast majority of the Canto de Lluvia property is undeveloped wilderness that is open to all lodge guests who want to explore its many unique features. One of the most popular treks starts right out the back door on a well marked footpath that parallels the Arroyo Largo, one of the small stream beds that bisect the property. Visitors are urged to observe the old, dry stream beds that coupled with small landslides, the decay of fallen logs and the wear of time, have given rise to a rich soil base that now supports a variety of herbaceous plants, including Coigues, Tepas and peanuts.

Focus on some of the smaller plants, like the Ciruelillo or Chilean Fire Bush, that struggle to sustain themselves despite the thick overhead canopy that substantially blocks valuable, nurturing sunlight and makes competition with the more aggressive Coigues a constant battle. And also note that where the terrain is more open and the sun more able to penetrate, a different set of plants, bushes and immature trees have taken hold and thrive.

On several of the trails handcrafted wooden signs are strategically placed to help identify the names and characteristics of the incredible diversity of plants, bushes and trees that form Canto de Lluvia’s ecological foundations.

After an enjoyable 20 to 30 minute walk, guests should find themselves at the foot of the mountains, and able to see the throne of The Queen, a stunning waterfall. We call her “THE SPIRIT OF AYSEN. Use the wooden footbridge and viewing platform to take pictures, scan the woods with binoculars and enjoy the unique scenery.

The waterfall has receded more than 70 meters over the ages, due to the steady retreat of the area’s glaciers, the continuous flow of falling water and the strong Patagonian wind and sun. It’s estimated that over 7,000 cubic meters of loose rock have been eroded by this process, exposing new terraces which in turn, have slowly nurtured new life by capturing soil for the initial growth of lichens, mosses, ferns and herbaceous plants which have given way to bushes and eventually trees.

The stream that flows from the waterfall has created a 37 acre alluvial cone that extends down to Simpson River some 500 meters below. Every few yards fallen logs and boulders interrupt the flow, slowing the current, forming eddys and side pockets. As they fill in each becomes a new opportunity for “micro” ecosystems to take hold, thus renewing and expanding the foundations of the park.

Only time and your energy limit your exploration of the park. There’s a variety of trails that will appeal to all ambitions, from the casual to those who want to hike well up into the forest, into the mountains, in search of further scenic vistas, waterfalls and rugged rock cliffs. On some hikes, rest areas have been created with special overlooks. For the most intrepid, a 2 day guided overnight hike can be arranged that takes guests to the highest points in the mountain, with unforgettable views of the entire Simpson Valley, its rivers and lakes as well as the Ñirehuao Valley and the Argentine Pampas to the east.

In addition to this private park, additional parks are available to lodge guests who want to explore further. Mountain bike as well as traditional hiking trails are available.

For those guests who prefer to do their exploration on horseback, riding can be easily arranged on site. Side trips to see the magnificent Andean Condor as it rides the thermals above the plains can also be undertaken, as well as a visit to several nearby cities, including Puerto Aysen, where the Simpson River empties into the ocean and Coyhaique, a charming Chilean town of 40,000 plus.