Chile’s Marble Caves

The Patagonian Andes are home to some of the world’s most beautiful natural features and chief among them might be the spectacle known as Cuevas de Mármol, the Marble Caves. These beautiful geographical wonders were carved into the solid marble peninsula alongside Lake General Carrera over the course of 6,000 years. Today, they’re one of southern Chile’s most famous attractions.

The caves are only accessible by lake so you’ll have to take a local tour boat to reach them. Most of the tours last around 30 minutes, but you can probably pay a little extra for a local to guide you around. Puerto Tranquillo serves as the best starting point for the journey and reaching the caves takes only 10 minutes and roughly $15 — it’s incredibly cheap!

Marble Cathedral is the largest and most awe-inspiring of the structures you’ll find here and a kayak is the best way to view it, as you can get right up close. It’s best to visit the area during a sunny day when the light allows the azure waters to reflect off the marble, creating a spectacular array of waves on rock.

While you’re in town, don’t miss the opportunity for a short daytrip to the nearby San Rafael Glacier.