The Quintupeu fjord, also known as the "Garden of Eden", is undeniably one of the most stunning landscapes in Chilean Patagonia. Within its surroundings lie waterfalls, larch forests, Andean ridges, wild cliffs, and imposing volcanoes. Set course for the eastern coast of the Gulf of Ancud for an unforgettable adventure.

The History of Quintupeu

In the early twentieth century, as conflicts erupted across South America, Germany dispatched the warship SMS Dresden to ensure the safety of its citizens. It was a 3,600-ton cruiser and one of the fastest vessels in the German Imperial Navy.

The Quintupeu fjord concealed the German warship SMS Dresden during World War I. In 1915, British naval vessels searched for this ship, which was believed to be carrying treasure from Mexico. According to legend, this treasure is said to lie hidden at the bottom of the fjord.

Quintupeu Today

The Quintupeu fjord lies facing the southern tip of Llancahué Island, in Northern Patagonia. It is one of three fjords within the Pumalín National Park. At the head of this fjord lies a narrow, steep passage measuring 14.4 kilometers across.

One is immediately struck by the enormous waterfalls and vertical walls plunging into the sea. Preserved from mass tourism, the fjord is accessible only via cruise boats or sea kayaks.

A Beautiful Escape to Quintupeu

The Quintupeu fjord is located in southern Chile. The narrow entrance to Quintupeu fjord resembles a funnel stretching from west to east. Nature here is extraordinarily generous.

The fjord is surrounded by towering larch trees suspended closely alongside one another. In the highest zones of the fjord, you'll find trees over 3,600 years old. Other plant species are also present, including coihues, tepas, lengas, and ulmos.

The steep walls rise up to 600 meters in height and are carved by immense waterfalls. Occasionally, dolphins can be spotted leaping near the kayaks. Large colonies of sea lions and southern bird species, endemic to Patagonia, are never far away. On the northern shore of the fjord stands an enormous waterfall that you can approach on foot.

The typical kayaking route continues to the far end of Quintupeu fjord. You can even spend the night under canvas before heading back. The final kilometers of the fjord lead to the Yates and Hornopirén volcanoes.

The next day, there's nothing quite like visiting the Llancahué hot springs, located on the island of the same name, south of Ciervo Island.

A journey to Quintupeu also offers the chance to discover the picturesque and tranquil village of Río Negro, also called Hornopirén. Its colorful wooden houses provide a striking contrast with the lush surrounding vegetation. From there, you can enjoy breathtaking views of the Andes glaciers.

The Climate

The climate at Quintupeu is oceanic in nature. Rainfall is abundant and consistent, even during summer. Temperatures generally fluctuate between 8° and 20°C. The sea temperature averages 11° to 13°C during summer.

By Boat

It takes 3.5 hours of driving from Puerto Montt / Puerto Varas to the departure point for the boat cruise. From there, allow 2 to 3 hours by motorboat to reach Quintupeu.

By Kayak

For kayakers, this fjord is accessible by hugging the eastern coast of the Gulf of Ancud.