The Marble Caves from Río Tranquilo

The Marble Caves are one of our most requested tours. You've probably come across more than one photo of them on social media or online, and you're almost certainly eager to see them for yourself. But where are they, what are they, and how do you get there? Well, here's everything you need to know.

Also known as the Marble Cathedrals, they're a natural monument made up of three limestone formations, carved by wind and water on the shores of Lake General Carrera, in the Aysén region. They're one of the most beautiful landscapes in southern Chile, part of the Carretera Austral, and a nature sanctuary since 1994.

To visit them, you first need to reach Puerto Río Tranquilo, 220 kilometers from Coyhaique, along a mostly gravel road with stunning scenery. You can do it as a single-day trip or extend your stay with a couple of nights at Hostería Costanera to explore the area's other attractions, such as Bahía Murta, the Baker River confluence, Exploradores Glacier, Laguna San Rafael, and more.

The Marble Caves themselves are a destination in their own right. They impress visitors both with the calcium carbonate formations, which stretch along 300 meters, and with the lake surrounding them. Their colors, textures, light, and shadow make for an experience that's hard to match.

There are two ways to see them: you can take a motorboat, which will take you around all 3 formations and their nooks and crannies, or, for the more adventurous, there's the option of going by sea kayak.

Either option is available, but always keep in mind that weather is a key factor, and sometimes wind can prevent kayak outings.

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