This unique geological formation cannot be directly accessed by land. On a clear day, the brilliant blue ocean may be seen throughout. Care should be used when using these other names because they may refer to other specific features within the marble caves. The stunning turquoise waters of the marble caves in Chile's General Carrera Lake are a sight to behold. Published Feb 20, 2022. So, we headed to our accommodation, checked in our bags and headed back to the old port. We use cookies to ensure that we give you the best experience on our website. Although, as mentioned before, let us know if transport options to the Marble Caves in Chile have changed and well update this guide! If you make a purchase through these links, we may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you. The Marble Caves in Patagonia or Capillas de Marmol have been formed over more than 6000 years and are the result of erosion from waves generated by strong winds on General Carrera Lake. The offices of these companies are found in a street of shacks facing one another down by the old port. There are several operators offering boat tours of the Marble Caves for 10,000 CLP ($15 USD) per person. Visitors can take a boat tour through the caves to admire their beauty up close. It returns leaving Puerto Ro tranquilo at 5 pm for 20.000 CLP. If you have an additional 30 seconds wed love to learn more about you. The stone was progressively disintegrated as the lake's water level rose. Indeed, youll need to take a boat tour to explore the marvellous Marble Caves in Chile. SouthAmerica.travel 19992023. Personally, we wanted to drop our bags off first. They dont offer breakfast but if you book a kayak tour with them and you stay with them the kayak tour only costs 35.000 CLP per person. Show more, Dan-yr-Ogof, the National Showcaves Centre for Wales, Frasassi Caves (Grotte di Frasassi), Genga. All buses going from Chile Chico to Puerto Rio Tranquilo are privately owned. Personally, we decided against this because the normal bus service is much cheaper. The intensity of daylight reaching the cave and the volume of water of the lake are continually shifting. . The rule of thumb being, when in Patagonia do not delay outdoor activities if the weather is good. Well be the first to admit that our journey in February 2020 didnt go exactly to plan. Visit Arizona . The best time of the year to visit the Marble Caves is roughly between September and February when the ice melts feeding the lake and the color of the water is particularly enchanting. Below, well answer some of the other most frequently asked questions about the Marble Caves in Chile. It has been estimated that these vast sections of marble weigh 5000 million tonnes and consist of 94% calcium carbonate. It's an Instagram-worthy natural beauty that can only be seen through a kayak or boat. The Aysen Region of Northern Patagonia has a harsh, cold climate. But if you are doing this trip you need to know that you have to walk or hitch hike between the border. Made Out Of Pure Marble, These Incredible Caves Change Color Throughout The Year. This structure can only be reached by boat. Personally, we found car hire too expensive. Planning a trip right now? Drift through pristine marble pillars and flawless arches sculpted together over countless generations. They are located on Lake General Carrera of Buenos Aires (but it depends which side of the lake you are on) in Patagonia, Chile. Furthermore, the lake is a habitat for the Marble Cave and fish. Its a captivating place both due to the cave formations and the color of Lake General Carrera. Not many places on earth quite live up to the marvel that is the Marble Caves in Patagonia, Chile. Personally, thats what Beck and I did. In my opinion, the best time to go is December or March when the crowds have dispersed yet the weather is still good. Which is the best place to hike in Lago General Carrera? But, we had difficulty locating them. document.getElementById( "ak_js_2" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); document.getElementById( "ak_js_3" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); Your email address will not be published. Large deposits of marble have been carved by wind and waves for thousands of years, creating the caves we see today. Also, kayaks and small boats were only utilized because passages are tight and tiny. If you stay present, and think about this fact, it leaves you speechless. The above information is critical in order to plan your route to the Marble Caves in Chile. Beck and I love travelling to lesser-known destinations. Water pours through the fractures in the rocks, causing them to enlarge. Marble is a non-foliated metamorphic rock. Each room oozes that ski-chalet cosiness where you can relax with a steaming mug of hot chocolate looking at the turquoise lake beyond. The colorful Marble Caves transport you to another level of contemplation, especially when you ponder the fact that the rocks were polished over thousands of years of geological time. However, for a particularly stunning experience, you ought to visit Chile from December to March. . Then Route 43 that borders General Carrera Lake to Los Antiguos, the border crossing to Chile. Those travelling in Patagonia on a shorter itinerary will usually visit El Chalten. Exploring Chile's Marble Caves does require any special equipment. #gallipoli #gallipolibeach #gallipolipuglia #pugliaview #vitaminsea #pugliastyle #pugliasummer #puglia #puglialove #mediterraneo #mediterraneanlife #travelmoments #momentsofmine #slowtravel #slowtravelstories #seetheworldwithme #europeansummer #howitalyfeels #whatitalyis #oh_italia #italia_in_grande, Visiting Puglia this summer and dont know where to stay? Required fields are marked *. They are found along the truly outstanding stretch of road known as the Carretera Austral. Let's explore Patagonia's hidden gem: the Marble Cathedral. The Marble Caves are located about 220 kilometers (137 miles) south of the small city of Coyhaique. Try to time your visit for when the weather is good. This route is considerably easier than the one above from El Chalten. Discover the Marble Caves Chile, Patagonias beautiful wonder. Not to mention kayaking or being on a boat for a few hours in the rain and wind might be a bit miserable. Read more: Driving the Epic Carretera Austral Chile: Everything You Need to Know. Salmon and trout are the most frequent freshwater species spotted in the cave. If you stay present, and think about this fact, it leaves you speechless. You can embark on a thrilling kayaking excursion or hop aboard one of the many vessels touring the glacier. The temperature in the areas surrounding the lake, on the other hand, varies from warm to chilly. Active travel . As a result, the caverns' distinctiveness extends from their formation to their magnificent splendor today. Chile's marble caves are an incredible sight, and the summer months provide the perfect climate for travelers to book their seafaring tours. If youre feeling up for a bit of adventure all while seeing the Marble Caves, Chile Id highly recommend going for the kayak option. They only run in the early and mid-morning. Are you interested in collaborating with Roam & Thrive? This procedure has been going on for over 600 years. They have camp sites that are really cheap. Its natural beauty has made it one of South America's most sought-after tourist destinations. Please note that some of the links in our content are affiliate links. How much does it cost to go to the Marble Caves? If the water level is low enough, you might be able to get out of the boat and walk some parts of the caves, so bring some shoes with rubber soles and good support. Bellavista Camping also offers kayaking tours, usually for a cheaper rate too. The good news is, Transportes Costa Carrera actually works with Chaltn Travel and waits until the Los Antiguos bus arrives before departing to Puerto Rio Tranquilo. Its sources are natural. The Nomad Insurance is great value for money with just a small additional cost to add a partner. Throughout this site, you might find affiliate links from which I may make a small commission if you choose to click or purchase something, at no extra cost to you. Do you have any comments or questions about visiting the Marble Caves Patagonia Chile? Book your stay here. Its a long day trip but the journey is worth it if you dont want to stay for a couple of nights at Puerto Tranquilo. All the companies offer the same tour for around that price (as of 2023). Of course, please leave us a comment if there are any updates about how to get to Puerto Rio Tranquilo. Try to really connect with this place and contemplate its unique natural formations. From Santiago de Chile, I would recommend to fly to Balmaceda (nearest airport to Coyhaique) and continue from there by car. Arizona travel. Continue with Recommended Cookies. First, you'll have to take a 2.5-hour flight from Santiago, Chile to the city of Balmaceda. Please do let me know if this would be possible considering weather and other conditions. Now you know how to get there, lets talk about the extraordinary boat tour. If you choose to stay at Hotel Loberas del Sur, make sure to indulge in their fine Patagonian cuisine. Hiking . Real marble as far as the eye can see? You can rent a car at Balmaceda airport or in Coyhaique at the start of your trip or even in Puerto Montt if youre doing the whole Austral Highway road trip. Furious waves crashed upon the marble for years, gradually shaping the curving walls. FYI the Marbles Caves are also known as the Marble Caves of Patagonia, Chile Chico Marble Caves, Marble Caves of Chile Chico and the Marble Caverns of Carrera Lake. Then it's off to the north and the otherworldly desert landscapes of Atacama. There is no road you can drive on to reach the caves and there is no paved pathway or area for you to stroll inside the caves. Our host at the campground in Elqui Valley where we . Personally, Beck and I booked a cabin with one bed for two people. We had to wait until the next day for the bus to Puerto Rio Tranquilo. Additionally, much of the Carretera Austral is unpaved, so youll need to be brave enough to drive on rough road conditions. The Marble Caves are only accessible by tiny boats, observing and accessing the caves. Prepare to be utterly captivated by volcanoes, mountains, glaciers and lakes in Northern Patagonia, a montage of some of the most spectacular natural sites Chile has to offer. What kind of fish are in general Carrera Lake? As the bus from Los Antiguos doesnt arrive until approx. We love to work with like-minded brands and individuals so if you have an idea we might like don't hesitate to get in touch. Although never ideal, the overnight bus is a time-efficient way to cover the distance. These stunning caves were also situated at the heart of General Carrera Lake, and they . Keep in mind that accommodation options in Puerto Rio Tranquilo are fairly limited. At times, the lake's water will radiate pink or white hues. The only company that has service in Puerto Rio Tranquillo is Entel. Expect to pay around $15,000CLP per person ($20USD). The perfect little euro city break. You have reached the Marble Caves in Chile a rare treat unlike anything else. I recommend traveling to Puerto Tranquilo if you want to visit the Marble Caves. Hi. However, the rigid walls of a marble cavern throughout Patagonia were not quickly formed into the remarkable structure that tourists witness today. Jump right in and get inspired! Also, he still accepted our deposit from the night before. who will be in touch shortly. If you prefer, it is also possible to rent a kayak and paddle to the Marble Caves for about 35,000 CLP ($50 USD). The earliest bus from Coyhaique should also arrive in time for the afternoon tour. Despite the best effort of bloggers and travel companies, the best way to visit the Marble Caves is ever-changing. Jos Miguel Carrera Verdugo (American Spanish: [xose miel karea]; October 15, 1785 September 4, 1821) was a Chilean general, formerly Spanish military, member of the prominent Carrera family, and considered one of the founders of independent Chile. Here you can notice the greys and the browns and their patterns within the rock. RELATED:Destination Slovenia: Are The Postojna Caves Worth Visiting? If you are visiting the Marble Caves near Puerto Tranquilo, do not miss the chance for the day trip of a lifetime at the mighty San Rafael Glacier! From Balmacede Airport, you should then head to Coyhaique. The standard boat tour costs $10,000 CLP ($13) per person. Indeed, we hope this guide will help you plan your adventure there! During the kayaking tour, you get to see a number of geological features which are located quite close together. Algae or other marine life are also present. The first trip I took was at the start of fall. Rental is easy just make sure to book in advance as cars in this area sell out quickly. The caves' water colors shift from enchantingly turquoise-blue during spring to deep blue in summer, with the walls reflecting in the water to create a captivating visual effect. Visit our 66 Items You Must Travel With a guide to find out which warm and waterproof clothes we recommend. Its actually quite simple. The closest airport to Marble Caves in Chile is Balmaceda Airport. In the native tongue, the caves are known as "Cuevas de Mrmol.". It had admittedly fairly average Wifi. There are two smaller formations which are known as La Capilla the Chapel which rise from the lake, and La Cueva the Cave. But, when we visited in February 2020, there was definitely a bus departing at 11:30am with this company. If you decide to hire a car, we recommend booking in advance online using RentalCars.com. This might include a waterproof jacket, waterproof bag cover or waterproof over trousers. The Marble Caves were one of Chile's best-kept secrets in the Patagonia area. Explore this 0.9-mile out-and-back trail near Lake Louise, Alberta. The kayak tour costs $40,000 ($52) per person but its completely worth the extra spend. The only other piece of advice I can give is to try to enjoy the entire route. That's because they're quite challenging to get to! This cave has crystals as big as multiple skyscrapers, as well as a beautiful jewel that seamlessly blends immediately in front of tourists' eyes. The Marble Caves are becoming an ever-popular tour stop for those setting off on their dream Patagonia tour. You can also paddle into the Marble Tunnel which boats cant fit into. The weather in Patagonia is everchanging so its best to bring many layers for the trip as it does get cold. . Furthermore, the marble cathedral was formed through countless generations of weathering. Lets look at the options below. If you enjoyed reading our Marble Caves guide, have a read of one of our other Patagonia guides. Many thanks in advance. Show more, Chile's Marble Caves are situated in Patagonia, near its border with Argentina, accessible only by boat. Travel down the Carretera Austral and experience not only the Marble Caves but many other beautiful destinations. The host is very nice. Youll notice several caverns and caves here, the entrances to which are perfectly smooth with linear markings throughout. Along with Torres del Paine, the Marble Caves are one of those places you have to see when traveling through Chile. There are also a few good value Airbnb options in the Marble Caves Patagonia area too. Arizona . The Marble Caves of Chile are sometimes called "the Marble Caverns," "the Marble Cathedral," or "the Marble Chapel.". FYI there are quite a few campsites in Puerto Rio Tranquilo. Thats certainly one benefit of camping! As there are no engines running so you can really feel the peace and power of this magical location. So accommodation was plentiful. Leave them in the comments below Id be happy to help you out! The iridescent Marble Caves can be found near the border of Argentina and Chile, on General Carrera Lake in Patagonia. In addition, the little information available online about getting there is usually outdated. Kayaking tour: there are also options to rent a kayak to explore with a guide for anywhere between $35,000$45,000CLP per person ($4356USD). If youre planning a backpacking trip in Torres del Paine, for example, youll want to spend between 5 and 10 days there; but those with plans for a few light walks and sightseeing drives in that national park might find that 2 to 3 days are enough. They both charge $15,000CLP per person ($18USD) for the bus from Chile Chico to Puerto Rio Tranquilo. We're all about slow and mindful travel, conscious luxury, nature and holistic wellness. So when its your turn to get to the Marble Caves in Chile, make sure to contact the company to find out the latest.
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