The retreat is proud to partner with Matt Jost with a spectacular custom Christmas multisport trip for Christian families. This is a Christmas week built around faith, family, and the best Chile has to offer. Each morning Matt leads prayer and devotional time before the day opens into adventure. Each evening the group gathers under the open-air quincho — fires, family style meals, music, and the stories that only make sense to people who were on the river together.

Known as the Adventure Capital of Chile, this is the heart of the Lakes and Rivers District — and the Trancura riverside retreat sits at the center of it all.

Not Your Normal Holiday Trip

The retreat was built to host travelers seeking adventures during the day and provide comforts and festivities nightly. A balance of experienced industry leaders and local Chilean guides are enthusiastic to share their culture, local adventures, and cuisine.

Hike volcanic lava fields and end the day at a riverside craft brewery. Kayak Chile's most spectacular rivers with expert coaching. Soak in architecturally stunning Andean hot springs. Give back through a community service morning. Let the horses do the work through the Andean foothills. Explore Pucón's best culinary spots. Finish with a massage and a farewell asado under the Southern Hemisphere's summer stars.

If Pucón is Chile's adventure epicenter, the Trancura riverside retreat is its lifeblood center. River suites provide en suite bathrooms with a Trancura view from your bed. French doors open to a private deck overlooking the rapids. The architect-designed quincho with wood-burning oven attracts laughter and stories every night. Nightly fires are mandatory.

Adventure For Every Member of the Family

This week runs multiple daily activity options so every family member — experienced adventurers and first-timers, parents and kids, kayakers and non-kayakers — finds their best version of each day.

🟢 Explorer (Low Intensity) — scenic, social, recovery-forward. Accessible hikes, gentle river floats, cultural experiences, prayer, and time to connect.

🔵 Adventurer (Medium Intensity) — full adventure days with extended hikes, rafting, and canyon exploration.

🔵 Intermediate Kayak — Class II–III+ coached kayak track on dedicated river sections with expert PKR instruction.

🔴 Advanced Kayak — Class III–IV+ for experienced paddlers ready for Chile's finest technical whitewater.

✝ Daily Prayer & Devotionals — Led by Matt Jost

DESCRIPTION: Each day begins with prayer and intentional community — morning devotionals, shared reflection, and space to slow down before the adventure begins.

This is not a standard travel itinerary. It is a curated week where faith shapes the schedule — and where the beauty of Patagonia has a way of doing the rest.

Matt Jost leads this signature Christmas week for Christian families, combining intentional daily prayer with Chile's most spectacular adventure experiences. Each day is designed around both faith and movement, shared around the fire each evening with the people who came with you.

Day 1 · SAT, December 19 — Arrival, Orientation & Welcome Fire

DESCRIPTION: Arrive at Temuco Airport (ZCO) between 11 AM–5 PM. Transfers to the retreat, kayak and gear outfitting, boat sizing, and a guided orientation of the riverside property. Welcome appetizers, cocktails, and fire-side dinner in the quincho. Riverside hot tub and cool pool open.

✝ Evening — Matt opens the week with a welcome devotional around the fire. An invitation to slow down, arrive fully, and set an intention for the days ahead. This is the moment the group becomes a community.

Day 2 · SUN, December 20 — Prayer & Connection · Fire & Ice Hike · Cervecería Puesco

DESCRIPTION: ✝ Morning — Matt leads a devotional and group connection exercise. Space to share, listen, and prepare together before the day opens into adventure.

🟢 Low Intensity — Cañón del Turbio accessible canyon walks and viewpoints through dramatic basalt lava flows formed by Volcán Villarrica. Waterfalls and volcanic rock formations at a pace suited to all ages.

🔵 Adventurer — The full Fire & Ice hike across the Turbio lava field. Waterfalls and volcanic stream channels on each side, the crater of Villarrica above. One of the most visually dramatic hikes in the region.

🍺 Afternoon — Cervecería Puesco: Chile's award-winning Andean craft brewery on the headwaters of the Trancura. Cold beer, artisan non-alcoholic options, mountain views, and appetizers.

🌙 Evening — Return to the retreat. Fireside dinner in the quincho.

Day 3 · MON, December 21 — Prayer & Reflection · Raft Río Fuy · Termas Geométricas

DESCRIPTION: ✝ Morning — Early AM departure for full day packed breakfast and lunches.

Full group travels south through the Lakes District to the Río Fuy region — volcanoes, native forests, glacial lake crossings. Packed lunches and coffee thermoses.

Rio Fuy Putin (during shuttle) Gratitude, creation, and presence riverside.

🟢 Families will raft the Chilean famous Lower Fuy River (III–IV+): fun rapids action, views of volcanos and glaciers, and basalt scenery during the section.

♨️ Afternoon — Termas Geométricas: Chile's most architecturally stunning thermal hot springs. 17 geothermal pools through a native ravine connected by red wooden boardwalks.

Day 4 · TUE, December 22 — Prayer · Service Day · Pucón Culinary Adventure

DESCRIPTION: ✝ Morning — Matt leads a devotional centered on generosity and presence. The group sets a collective intention before heading into the community. This is the heart of what makes the Jost trip different.

🤲 Morning — Community Service Component: A meaningful morning giving back in the Pucón community. Coordinated with local organizations based on the group's gifts and the season's needs. The moment guests most often reference when they return home.

🍦 Afternoon — Tour de Pucón & Culinary Adventure: artisan ice cream, craft beer, the peninsula beach, and curated stops at local favorites. The group meets at a beloved Pucón restaurant overlooking the peninsula for dinner.

🌙 Evening — Return to the retreat. Hot tub and cool pool. Open activity center.

Day 5 · WED, December 23 — Wellness · Río Trancura or Liucura · Massage

DESCRIPTION: ✝ Morning — Morning yoga, movement, or quiet riverside time followed by Matt's daily devotional.

🟢 Low Intensity — Gentle float on the Río Trancura from the retreat's backyard. Ten scenic kilometers with volcanic views. Inflatable kayaks available.

🔵 Intermediate Kayak — Lower Trancura (III–III+) or Liucura: the week's coaching culmination. Linking features, river reading at speed, finishing with confidence.

🔴 Advanced Kayak — Upper Trancura (III–IV+) or Liucura Wave sections: the week's technical peak. Boofing, aggressive eddies, and the committed lines that make Chile's rivers worth the journey.

💆 Afternoon — On-site massage therapy available. Hot tub and cool pool open. A quiet afternoon before Christmas Eve.

🌙 Evening — Riverside hot tub, fires, and appetizers. Rest up — tomorrow is the big one.

Day 6 · THU, December 24 — Christmas Eve · Horseback Riding · White Elephant · Farewell Asado

DESCRIPTION: ✝ Morning — Matt leads a Christmas Eve devotional. A moment of stillness and gratitude before the day's celebration begins.

🐴 Morning Activity — Horseback riding through native forests and volcanic foothills along the banks of the Río Liucura. Therapy-trained horses on a reflective Andean route — one of the most peaceful mornings of the entire trip, and a fitting way to move into Christmas Eve.

🎁 Afternoon — White Elephant Christmas gift exchange back at the retreat. Bring a wrapped gift (suggested $20–$30) to participate. Laughter guaranteed.

🔥 Evening — The Elephant Christmas Farewell Asado: wood-fired Chilean BBQ, drinks, music, and the stories that only make sense to people who were on the river together. Matt closes the evening with a Christmas blessing over the group. Under the Southern Hemisphere's summer stars on Christmas Eve — one of the best nights of the year.

Day 7 · FRI, December 25 — 🎄 Christmas Morning · Prayer · Departure

DESCRIPTION: ✝ 🎄 Christmas Morning — Matt leads a final Christmas morning devotional. A blessing over everyone headed home. Unhurried, spacious, and full of gratitude for the week. No agenda. Just the river, the mountains, and the people who showed up.

AM — Packing, gear return, and one last walk through Pucón for souvenirs, coffee, or last-minute gifts.

PM — Temuco Airport (ZCO) transfers between 11 AM–5 PM.

Feliz Navidad. Carry the week home with you.

Day 1 – Arrival, Recovery & Welcome to the Retreat

Arrive at Temuco Airport (ZCO) between 11:00 AM and 5:00 PM and enjoy a scenic transfer through Chile's lake and volcano region to Pucon Kayak Retreat.

Upon arrival, settle into your accommodations and begin your recovery from travel. Depending on arrival times and group interests, optional activities may include a short riverside hike, property tour, stretching session, or simply relaxing and taking in the views of the Río Trancura.

The retreat's signature Fire & Ice Challenge will be ready for those interested—a combination of hot tub therapy and refreshing river plunge pools designed to awaken the senses and help reset the body after a day of travel.

As the afternoon transitions into evening, enjoy appetizers, cocktails, riverside social time, and a welcome orientation where we'll review the week's adventures, activity options, and answer any questions.

Our goal on Day 1 is simple: provide the three most important ingredients for travel recovery—hydration, nutrition, and rest.

We intentionally keep guests lightly active and engaged throughout the afternoon to help reset circadian rhythms and encourage a deep, restorative night's sleep.

The combination of fresh mountain air, healthy food, therapeutic mattresses, and the soothing sound of the Río Trancura creates a remarkably restorative environment. Many guests describe their first night's sleep at the retreat as some of the best they have experienced in years.

Included:

• Temuco Airport (ZCO) transfers

• Welcome appetizers and cocktails

• Fire & Ice Recovery Experience (hot tub and river plunge)

• Optional short hike or wellness activities

• Retreat orientation

• Overnight accommodations

Intensity: Medium to High (Choose Your Distance)

Hiking Time: 3–6 Hours (Out-and-Back)

Perfect Pairing: Volcano Trek + Riverside Andean Craft Beer + Appetizers

Today we journey east into the high Andes Argentina border to explore one of the most beautiful hiking regions in southern Chile.

Towering above the landscape is Volcán Lanín, whose name means "ice-capped." This perfectly symmetrical stratovolcano straddles the border of Chile and Argentina and dominates the horizon throughout the day. Unlike many Andean volcanoes, Lanín has retained its magnificent glacial crown, creating one of the most iconic mountain views in Patagonia.

Over thousands of years, volcanic activity and glacial forces sculpted a series of pristine alpine lakes and lagoons known as Lagos Andinos. Our trek follows scenic trails through ancient Araucaria forests, often called "Monkey Puzzle Trees," one of the world's oldest and most unique tree species.

Along the way we'll cross mountain streams, pass crystal-clear lagoons, discover secluded beaches, and enjoy constant views of Volcán Lanín rising above the landscape. Every turn offers another breathtaking photo opportunity.

One of the advantages of this trek is its flexibility. Because the route is an out-and-back trail, guests can choose their preferred intensity level. Hike a shorter distance and spend more time relaxing by the lakes, or continue deeper into the trail system for a more physically demanding mountain experience.

Fire & Ice Bonus

For those seeking a little adventure, bring your swimsuit and towel. The brave can cool off with a refreshing plunge into one of the glacier-fed lakes—a true Patagonian Fire & Ice experience and an invigorating way to recharge the body.

Craft Beer & Appetizers at Cervecería Puesco

After our mountain adventure, we celebrate with what many consider one of Chile's finest craft brewery experiences.

Located alongside the headwaters of the Río Trancura near the Río Puesco, Cervecería Puesco produces award-winning craft beers using pure Andean spring water sourced directly from the surrounding mountains. Beer lovers will appreciate the quality and variety of ales, while non-alcoholic options are available for everyone.

Relax riverside with appetizers, great company, and spectacular mountain scenery as we toast an unforgettable day in the Andes.

Included Highlights

• Volcán Lanín glacier and volcano views

• Ancient Araucaria (Monkey Puzzle) forests

• Lagos Andinos alpine lakes and lagoons

• Flexible hiking distance and intensity

• Optional glacier-lake swim

• Award-winning Cervecería Puesco visit

• Appetizers and beverage tasting

• Exceptional photography opportunities throughout the day

Intensity: Medium Adventure + Deep Relaxation

Perfect Pairing: Whitewater • Volcanoes • Hot Springs • Chilean Cuisine

Today we journey deep into one of Chile's most spectacular mountain regions—the Huilo Huilo Reserve and the legendary Río Fuy Valley.

The drive itself is part of the experience.

Leaving Pucón behind, we travel 180 degrees around the massive Villarrica Volcano and into an entirely different watershed and volcanic ecosystem.

Our destination is the breathtaking Huilo Huilo region, home to the glacier-capped Mocho-Choshuenco volcanic complex. The twin volcanoes of Mocho and Choshuenco rise dramatically above the valley, feeding a network of turquoise rivers, waterfalls, forests, and lakes that many consider among the most beautiful landscapes in South America.

Rio Fuy Canyon Rafting

The Río Fuy begins high in the Andes near Lake Pirihueico and flows through one of Chile's most scenic volcanic valleys. Fed by snowmelt, springs, and volcanic aquifers, the river is famous for its crystal-clear turquoise water, dramatic canyon scenery, and exciting whitewater.

Our rafting adventure takes us through a stunning section of the Lower Río Fuy where guests experience a perfect balance of excitement and scenery. Along the way you'll float beneath ancient forests, paddle through fun rapids, and enjoy incredible views of the surrounding volcanoes and mountains.

This is the type of river that appeals equally to adventure seekers and nature lovers. The whitewater is exciting enough to keep everyone engaged while still allowing plenty of opportunities to appreciate the extraordinary beauty of the valley.

Termas Geométricas

After a day on the river, we transition from adventure to relaxation at what many consider Chile's most famous and architecturally significant hot springs.

Hidden within a narrow volcanic canyon in Villarrica National Park, Termas Geométricas is the award-winning creation of renowned Chilean architect Germán del Sol. Bright red wooden walkways wind through a lush native forest alongside the Aihué mountain stream, connecting a series of natural thermal pools tucked deep within the canyon.

The complex features approximately twenty thermal pools supplied by more than sixty natural hot springs emerging from the earth at temperatures approaching 80°C before cooling naturally for bathing. The continuously flowing mineral-rich waters create one of the most unique thermal experiences in the world.

Guests are free to wander the 500-meter network of walkways, discovering pools of varying temperatures while surrounded by native Valdivian rainforest, steam, waterfalls, and volcanic scenery. The combination of architecture, nature, and thermal waters has earned Termas Geométricas international recognition as one of the world's most remarkable hot spring destinations.

Dinner at Chile's Most Renowned Hot Springs

As evening settles into the canyon, we enjoy dinner within the Termas Geométricas complex. Relax, soak, and reflect on the day's adventures while enjoying great food, excellent company, and one of the most magical settings in Chile.

Many guests later describe this as one of the signature days of the entire trip—a rare combination of world-class scenery, whitewater adventure, architectural beauty, wellness, and relaxation.

Included Highlights

• Scenic drive through multiple volcanic ecosystems

• Views of Villarrica and Mocho-Choshuenco Volcanoes

• Huilo Huilo Reserve

• Lower Río Fuy rafting adventure

• Turquoise glacial-fed river canyons

• Entrance to Termas Geométricas

• Multiple thermal pools and hot springs

• Dinner at Chile's most renowned hot springs

• Exceptional photography opportunities throughout the day

Intensity: Therapeutic Recovery + Medium Adventure + Exquisite Dining

Perfect Pairing: Wellness • Challenge • Culture • Cuisine

After a few days of exploration and adventure, today begins at a slower pace focused on recovery, movement, and preparation for the day's challenge.

Morning Wellness & Guided Yoga

We begin with a guided wellness session led by one of the region's professional yoga instructors. Through yoga, mobility work, stretching, breathwork, and mindful movement, guests improve recovery, flexibility, circulation, and overall well-being while enjoying the peaceful riverside setting of the retreat.

Many guests describe these sessions as one of the most restorative and rewarding experiences of the week.

Pucón Canyon Adventure (Canyoneering)

Next we venture into one of Pucón's most spectacular hidden environments—a volcanic canyon sculpted by waterfalls, mountain streams, and ancient volcanic activity.

Equipped with professional guides and safety gear, guests explore a dramatic world of waterfalls, crystal-clear pools, towering canyon walls, and lush native forest. The adventure combines hiking, scrambling, stream crossings, waterfall descents, and exploration into a single unforgettable experience.

Every turn reveals another hidden waterfall, natural pool, or breathtaking canyon feature. For many guests, canyoneering becomes one of the most memorable adventures of the trip—a perfect combination of challenge, discovery, teamwork, and fun.

Pucón Town Exploration + Shopping + Dinner on the Peninsula

Following the adventure, enjoy free time to explore one of Chile's premier mountain towns. Browse artisan shops, outdoor stores, cafés, chocolate shops, and local boutiques while experiencing the vibrant atmosphere that has made Pucón one of South America's most beloved adventure destinations.

Pucón Culinary Adventure

As evening approaches, we celebrate with appetizers, cocktails, and a culinary adventure at one of our favorite restaurants overlooking the Pucón Peninsula and Villarrica Lake.

Enjoy exceptional Chilean cuisine, local wines, spectacular views, and great company while reflecting on the week's adventures. Between the setting, food, and atmosphere, this evening is often remembered as one of the trip's favorite social experiences.

Included Highlights

• Guided wellness and yoga session

• Professional canyoneering instruction and equipment

• Waterfalls, pools, and volcanic canyon exploration

• Pucón town exploration and shopping

• Appetizers and cocktails

• Culinary adventure overlooking the Pucón Peninsula and Villarrica Lake

• Exceptional photography opportunities throughout the day

Intensity: Low to Medium

Perfect Pairing: Horses • Reflection • Fire & Ice • Sommelier Chile Wines Presentation

Today is one of the retreat's most memorable and restorative experiences—a day focused on connection, nature, personal reflection, and simple pleasures.

Horseback Ride to the Buddhist Stupa

Our adventure begins with a scenic horseback ride through the beautiful Liucura Valley. Riding therapy-trained horses, guests travel along forested trails, open farmland, and rolling hills while enjoying panoramic views of the Villarrica Volcano, Liucura River, Huife Valley, and the surrounding Andes.

Along the route, local guides share stories of the region while guests experience the unique calming effect that horses naturally provide. Many describe the ride as surprisingly therapeutic and grounding. Horses have an incredible ability to mirror calmness, presence, and emotion, creating a peaceful environment for reflection and connection.

The destination is one of the region's hidden gems: a magnificent Buddhist Stupa overlooking the valley. The Stupa is a spiritual monument designed to promote peace, compassion, and tranquility. Whether you come for the views, the horses, or the experience itself, this is a place where many guests naturally slow down and reconnect with themselves.

Riverside Recovery Massage (Optional Add-On)
Escape to the tranquility of the retreat’s Yoga Dome for a professional recovery massage overlooking the Río Trancura. The soothing sounds of the river, mountain air, and peaceful surroundings create an ideal environment for relaxation and healing. Perfect after a day of hiking, rafting, horseback riding, or adventure, this treatment helps reduce muscle tension, improve recovery, and leave you feeling completely rejuvenated.

Fire & Ice Riverside Wellness Experience

Following the horseback ride, we return to the retreat for one of our signature wellness experiences.

The Fire & Ice Riverside Experience combines guided therapeutic breathwork, riverside hot tub therapy, and optional cold-water immersion in the Río Trancura.

The breathwork session utilizes simple, energizing breathing techniques designed to increase oxygenation, improve circulation, reduce stress, and help guests become more present and connected. Participants frequently describe the experience as calming, uplifting, and deeply restorative.

Following breathwork, guests alternate between the warmth of the riverside hot tub and the invigorating cold waters of the river. This contrast therapy experience is designed to awaken the senses, improve circulation, and create a feeling of renewal that many guests consider a highlight of the week.

No prior experience is necessary, and guests are free to participate at whatever level feels comfortable.

Included Highlights

• Therapy-trained horseback ride

• Buddhist Stupa visit

• Volcano and valley viewpoints

• Guided therapeutic breathwork session

• Fire & Ice hot tub and river experience

• Appetizers and social gathering

• Exceptional photography opportunities

Intensity: Medium to Relaxed Adventure + Celebration

Perfect Pairing: Whitewater • Volcano Views & Short Hike • Fire & Ice • Chilean Asado

Today begins with one of the retreat's signature experiences—rafting the Río Trancura directly from your basecamp.

Lower Río Trancura Rafting

That's right. Guests walk from their accommodations to the river and launch directly from Pucon Kayak Retreat's private riverfront property.

The Lower Trancura is one of Chile's most scenic rafting trips, flowing through a broad volcanic valley beneath Villarrica Volcano. This section offers the perfect combination of fun whitewater, beautiful scenery, local history, and plenty of opportunities to enjoy the surrounding landscape.

As we float downstream, guides share stories about the region's indigenous Mapuche culture, volcanic history, and local traditions while navigating exciting rapids and calmer stretches perfect for photography and wildlife viewing.

The trip concludes near a traditional Mapuche community with spectacular views of both Villarrica Volcano and the Andes.

Cerduo Lava Fields & Waterfall Pools

After lunch we head to one of the region's hidden gems.

The Cerduo Lava Fields, also known as Cañón del Turbio, are the result of ancient volcanic lava flows descending from Villarrica Volcano. Massive black basalt formations create a dramatic landscape unlike anything most visitors have ever experienced.

Guests can relax and sunbathe on the lava fields, explore scenic canyon trails, enjoy panoramic views of Villarrica Volcano and the valley below, or venture farther up the creek system in search of hidden waterfalls and natural pools.

On warm days, a refreshing dip beneath the waterfalls is highly recommended and often becomes a trip favorite.

Fire & Ice + Asado Riverside Experience

Back at the retreat, we enjoy one final Fire & Ice experience along the Río Trancura.

Relax in the riverside hot tub, cool off with an optional river plunge, and soak in the beauty of the retreat while reflecting on the week's adventures. The contrast between hot and cold water, combined with the sound of the river and views of the surrounding forest, creates the perfect setting to unwind and celebrate.

Included Highlights

• Lower Río Trancura rafting from the retreat property

• Villarrica Volcano and Andes views

• Cerduo Lava Fields (Cañón del Turbio)

• Waterfalls, canyon exploration, and natural pools

• Fire & Ice riverside hot tub and river experience

• Riverside Chilean wines presentation

• Exceptional photography opportunities throughout the day

Airport Transfers depart between 11 AM to 5 PM. Or we can schedule a transfer service. 

Morning Activity. Pending group travel logistics and times trip leaders will present activity options.