Chiloe Island - Dalcahue Channel

Duration: 2 Days / 1 Night

In front of the smooth waters of Dalcahue channel we found the perfect spot to build our sea kayaking base. The proximity to important cultural centers, such as Dalcahue and its famous market, the village of Curaco de Velez on Quinchao Island and San Javier church with its cemetery at the edge of the sea, tempt us to immerse ourselves in this rich coastal culture. We`ll experience it in the same way as its ancient inhabitants, the "chonos" and "veliches", who with their "dalcas" (dugout canoes) traveled throughout this archipelago.

Itinerary

Day 1 Castro - Sea Kayak Center - Dalcahue Channel

Meet in Castro, Chiloé at noon. Lunch at a typical restaurant in the port. Visit the handicraft market. Midafternoon, transfer from Castro to Altue`s Sea Kayak Center, near the town of Dalcahue, for kayak instruction and practice in the smooth waters of the Dalcahue Channel. Typical dinner, followed by overnight camp at the Center.

Day 2 Sea Kayak Center - Dalcahue Channel - Quinchao Island

American breakfast. Early morning departure by kayak for Dalcahue, observing en route the variety of local seabirds including black-necked swans, three kinds of seagulls, oyster catchers, pimpollos (greeves) and an occasional flamingo. In Dalcahue, we`ll visit the local cultural center. Then we´ll continue across Dalcahue Channel to Quinchao Island visiting the lovely Saint Xavier church and cemetery. Pic-nic lunch. During remainder of the afternoon, visits to various picturesque locations along the channel, finally crossing to the Altue Sea Kayak Center. Evening transfer to Castro. Dinner not included.

Departures:
From October to April at request, minimum 2 people.

Includes:

Transportation and meals according to itinerary - One night camping or lodging in our loft - Sea kayaks with paddles, personal flotation devices, other accessories and guide.

Degree of difficulty and physical conditioning:

The trip is not especially rigorous and requires no prior experience with kayaks. Must know how to swim and be in reasonably good physical condition. A positive attitude towards open-airs activities is very important. These are trips for the person who enjoys participative tourism in a natural setting, understanding that during our trip we may encounter variable weather and tidal conditions that require us to adapt the sequence of the itinerary.