Ralún and Petrohué River Mouth
Discover rustic thermal pools nestled by the Petrohué River Mouth, accessed via a scenic boat ride through stunning Chilean Patagonia.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Beat the crowds
Ralún and Petrohué River Mouth
Best Time
Beat the crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover rustic thermal pools nestled by the Petrohué River Mouth, accessed via a scenic boat ride through stunning Chilean Patagonia.
"The boat ride along the Ralun River to reach the pools completes the experience."
🚗 Parking Fee
Expect a small fee for parking your car. The attendant is noted as friendly.
💰 River Crossing Cost
A fee is charged for the boat ride across the river to reach the pools.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Ralun River Boat Ride
Ralun River
A scenic boat journey along the Ralun River, offering beautiful views and completing the journey to the thermal pools.
Natural Thermal Pools
Near Petrohué River Mouth
Experience warm, natural pools nestled in beautiful vegetation, a unique spot for relaxation.
Puyuhuapi Hot Springs
Near Puyuhuapi
While not directly at the river mouth, these nearby hot springs offer a more developed and relaxing thermal experience.
Plans like a pro.
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Planning Your Visit
River Crossing & Access
Thermal Pool Experience
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Parking Fee
Expect a small fee for parking your car. The attendant is noted as friendly.
💰 River Crossing Cost
A fee is charged for the boat ride across the river to reach the pools.
🛠️ Dig for Hot Water
Bring a shovel to dig in the sand for hotter water sources in the pools.
🏞️ Enjoy the Scenery
The natural beauty and boat ride are significant parts of the experience.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Parking Fee
Expect a small fee for parking your car. The attendant is noted as friendly.
💰 River Crossing Cost
A fee is charged for the boat ride across the river to reach the pools.
🛠️ Dig for Hot Water
Bring a shovel to dig in the sand for hotter water sources in the pools.
🏞️ Enjoy the Scenery
The natural beauty and boat ride are significant parts of the experience.
💧 Pool Size & Cleanliness
Pools can be small and may get crowded; consider visiting early.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise the beautiful natural setting and the scenic boat ride to reach the thermal pools. However, some find the pools to be shallow, not consistently hot, and potentially crowded. The cost of the river crossing is noted, and the overall development of the facilities is minimal, appealing to those seeking a rustic experience.
"Awful. The thermal baths are really shallow, not hot. The guy charges a lot to cross the river. Not worth it. Go to Termas Pichocolo instead."
Natalia Weir
"Expectacular"
José Ignacio Herrera Caro
"The pools are really warm. They should be made a little bigger.
The vegetation is beautiful, and the boat ride along the Ralun River to reach the pools completes the experience."
Luis Gustavo Riveros Franz
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Access typically involves a drive towards Ralún and then a river crossing. Many visitors take a boat to reach the thermal pools. The journey can be part of the adventure, with scenic views along the Ralun River.
Yes, there is parking available, and a fee is usually charged by an attendant who is described as friendly.
A boat service is available for crossing the river, and a fee is associated with this service.
The Termas del Sol, near Ralún, are about two and a half hours from Puerto Montt.
Information on alternative routes is limited, but the river crossing is often highlighted as part of the unique experience.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
There's a fee for the river crossing, and some reviews mention a charge per person (around 10,000 CLP) for access to the pools, though others state the hot springs are free and the boat is paid.
Operating hours are not explicitly stated, but visiting early in the morning is recommended to avoid crowds and potentially secure a better spot.
Advance booking is generally not mentioned, but due to the natural and potentially crowded nature of the pools, arriving early is advised.
The fee primarily covers the river crossing. Access to the pools themselves is sometimes described as free, but this can vary.
Information on group or family discounts is not readily available. It's best to inquire locally upon arrival.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
The pools are described as shallow and natural, with some visitors suggesting digging in the sand to find hotter water. They can be small and get crowded.
Yes, the pools can become crowded, especially if multiple groups arrive. Visiting early is highly recommended to have a more private experience.
The water temperature can vary. Some find it warm, while others suggest digging in the sand to access hotter water.
The main activity is relaxing in the natural thermal pools. The boat ride along the Ralun River is also a key part of the experience.
The shallow nature of the pools might be suitable for children, but supervision is essential. The natural setting offers a unique experience.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture the scenic boat ride along the Ralun River and the natural beauty surrounding the thermal pools. The lush vegetation offers a picturesque backdrop.
A waterproof camera or phone case is advisable due to the water. A wide-angle lens can capture the expansive natural scenery.
Early morning light can be beautiful, and visiting when fewer people are present will allow for unobstructed shots of the pools and landscape.
No specific restrictions are mentioned, but be respectful of other visitors' privacy.
Drone usage regulations can vary. It's best to check local rules before flying a drone in the area.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🌿 Nature Lovers & Adventurers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Natural Thermal Pools of Ralún
However, it's important to manage expectations. Some reviews mention that the pools can be small and may become crowded, especially during peak times. The lack of recirculating water means cleanliness can be a concern for some. Despite these points, the overall experience is often described as beautiful, with the boat ride to reach the pools being a memorable part of the journey.
Navigating Access and River Crossings
Beyond the boat, there are other logistical considerations. Parking is available, usually with a fee, and the attendant is noted for being friendly.
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