Safety Tips For Adventure Trips in Chile

If you’re looking for a place where your thirst for adventure and extreme types of sports can be satisfied, look no further than Chile where contrasting terrains and climates combined with breathtaking natural wonders make it a veritable paradise for active tourists. Here you can do all sorts of outdoor activities – from paragliding, scuba diving, surfing, mountain climbing, kayak and white-water rafting, skiing, horseback riding, and motorcycling to the “tamer” activities such as golf, fishing, bird watching, trekking or cruising and yachting. Before you go and head out to the slopes or hit the waters, consider the following safety information for some of the active pursuits you can do in Chile.

Kayak and White-Water Rafting. The rivers in Patagonia are known worldwide for their excellent rapids and experts travel here to hold international competitions or practice. Before booking a paddling journey, make sure that you have the right equipment (a neoprene suit, a double spade row, a lifesaver jacket and a helmet). Some tour operators may provide them or you may be able to rent them for a fee. Never go down a river alone or without at least a guide who knows the place and can navigate the tricky parts.

Motorcycling. Whilst it may be thrilling to ride though the countryside, it isn’t all smooth and paved roads and it is easy to get lost especially in the mountainous regions. Sign up for an organized motorcycle journey in advance so that you can be with a group and you don’t waste time figuring out directions.

Paragliding. From the north in Antofagasta or Alto Molle to the south in Cucao, Pucon and San Ignacio, tourists can try their hand in this exciting sport of throwing themselves in the air and gliding over amazing landscapes below. Whilst you don’t need some serious practical knowledge before doing this, it is wise to have the proper equipment and gear (a paraglide, helmet, harness, radio and emergency parachute). Pay attention to the instructor who should be able to give essential information about wind currents and where you can land safely.

Biking. One of the most popular Chile tours, mountain biking has caught wildly around Chile and with good reason. With winding roads and spectacular views, this is one good way to enjoy nature at its best. Before picking a bike route, make sure to study the maps and information that are easily available in bicycle rental shops. When biking on main roads, stay alert for traffic because Chileans are not known for giving road courtesy to cyclists. If you’re considering a bike-and-trekking trip, check the weather before heading out – some strong gales can make biking difficult.