Q: How do you accept payment?

We accept payments via wire transfer. Upon booking we will provide all of the necessary bank details to you and/or your group and assist with any questions you have along the way. If you're booking with a host, they typically collect payments directly. Again, if you have any questions regarding deposits or balances, please do not hesitate to contact us .

Q: When is the final balance due?

If you're booking with us, the final balance is typically due 90 days prior to your trip start date. Please review our deposit and balance policy for more information. If you are booking with a host, those balances may be due sooner. Please double check with your host on exact balance due dates. We're always happy to help answer any questions you may have, so please do not hesitate to contact us .

Q: Do I need to tip?

We aim to make this as simple as possible. We suggest a total tip of $800 USD per guest for the week. This is typically collected by the lodge manager on Saturday evening or Sunday morning and is split among the entire team (guides, house staff, and chefs) who worked to make your week seamless. Cash in USD is preferred. We have the best guides, an incredible staff, and you're going to feel like family by the end of the week. It's great to tip your guide at the end of each day and the lodge staff at the end of the week. $100 per guide, per day, per guest (six days) $50 for housekeeping, per week, per guest (at the end of the week) $150 for the kitchen, per week, per guest (at the end of the week)

Q: Can I come alone?

You can totally come alone. Since your room will be single occupancy, we do adjust rates for coming alone. Please review our packages and rates for up-to-date information.

Question 1

How do you accept payment?

Accepted Answer

We accept payments via wire transfer. Upon booking we will provide all of the necessary bank details to you and/or your group and assist with any questions you have along the way.

If you're booking with a host, they typically collect payments directly. Again, if you have any questions regarding deposits or balances, please do not hesitate to contact us.

Question 2

What is included?

Accepted Answer

This is an all-inclusive experience. Once we pick you up in Balmaceda, everything is taken care of. This includes:

Accommodations
All meals and snacks
All beer, wine, and cocktails
All water, sodas, juices
Guided fly fishing
Travel to and from fishing
Travel to and from Balmaceda airport

Question 3

What is not included?

Accepted Answer

We've got the experience covered, but there are a few things that are not included in the experience that will be taken care of by your and/or your host:

Tips for guides and staff
International and domestic flights
Flies
Leaders
Fishing equipment
Trip insurance
Fishing license

Question 4

Do you require a deposit?

Accepted Answer

Yes. For more information on our deposits, balances, and due dates, please review our policy page for more information.

Question 5

When is the final balance due?

Accepted Answer

If you're booking with us, the final balance is typically due 90 days prior to your trip start date. Please review our deposit and balance policy for more information.

If you are booking with a host, those balances may be due sooner. Please double check with your host on exact balance due dates. We're always happy to help answer any questions you may have, so please do not hesitate to contact us.

Question 6

Do I need to tip?

Accepted Answer

We aim to make this as simple as possible. We suggest a total tip of $800 USD per guest for the week. This is typically collected by the lodge manager on Saturday evening or Sunday morning and is split among the entire team (guides, house staff, and chefs) who worked to make your week seamless. Cash in USD is preferred. We have the best guides, an incredible staff, and you're going to feel like family by the end of the week.

It's great to tip your guide at the end of each day and the lodge staff at the end of the week.

$100 per guide, per day, per guest (six days)
$50 for housekeeping, per week, per guest (at the end of the week)
$150 for the kitchen, per week, per guest (at the end of the week)

Question 7

What if we need to cancel?

Accepted Answer

We get it, things come up. Please review our policy page for up-to-date information.

We highly recommend purchasing travel insurance to ensure you're covered! Learn more about travel insurance partners and how they help.

We're always here to help, so please contact us if an emergency arises and let's discuss your options.

Question 8

Can we reschedule?

Accepted Answer

Please review our policies on reschedules for up-to-date information.

We highly recommend purchasing travel insurance to ensure you're covered! Learn more about travel insurance partners and how they help.

We're always here to help, so please contact us if there is an issue with your schedule and let's discuss your options.

Question 9

What if there is bad weather?

Accepted Answer

It's rare to have weather that is bad enough to compromise the safety of a trip. Please review our weather policy for more information and to learn more about how we pivot if the weather may compromise the quality of fishing.

Question 10

Can I come alone?

Accepted Answer

You can totally come alone. Since your room will be single occupancy, we do adjust rates for coming alone. Please review our packages and rates for up-to-date information.

Question 11

Can I bring my kids?

Accepted Answer

We don’t have a minimum age but the kids are a part of the group and doing what everyone else is doing. We love hosting young anglers, but they need to be able to handle the fishing, terrain, and conditions.

We're anglers, not babysitters, so we do not allow kids to stay at the lodge while the rest of the group is out in the field.

Question 12

Do I really need to bring two rods?

Accepted Answer

While you can fish the whole week with a 6wt, we highly recommend a two-rod setup. Patagonia is famous for its variety; you might spend the morning sight-casting small dries on a spring creek and the afternoon "pounding the banks" with heavy streamers on a big river. Having a 6wt rigged for dries and a 7wt or 8wt rigged with a sinking line saves time and ensures you’re ready for every opportunity.

Question 13

Should I bring a wading staff?

Accepted Answer

If you typically use one at home, bring it! Some of our "wade and stalk" sessions involve navigating rocky riverbeds or slippery freestone sections. A collapsible staff that fits on your wading belt is a great addition for extra stability.

Question 14

Is it okay to bring my own flies, or should I just use yours?

Accepted Answer

We encourage you to bring your own! There is a special satisfaction in catching a Chilean brown on a fly you picked out (or tied) yourself. Our suggested list covers the "greatest hits" for this region, but our guides always have a stocked box of local favorites to supplement yours if the fish get picky.

Question 15

Why "Felt Soles Only" for wading boots?

Accepted Answer

Two reasons: Safety and Equipment.

Safety: Our riverbeds can be slick, and felt offers the best grip on underwater rocks.

Protection: We fish from high-quality inflatable rafts. Metal studs can puncture or heavily abrade the floors of the boats. If you only have studded boots, please contact us—we have non-studded rental boots available.

Important: Ensure boots are scrubbed and completely dry before packing to prevent the spread of invasive species.

Question 16

Can I do laundry at the lodge?

Accepted Answer

We recommend packing for a week of fishing, but if you do need laundry service, we have the option to take laundry into the town laundromat. Expect to pay around $15 per load. They charge by the kilo down here and there is a minimum fee.

Question 17

Do I need to bring a raincoat even if the forecast says sun?

Accepted Answer

Yes. In Patagonia, the forecast is just a suggestion. A high-quality GORE-TEX or similar breathable rain jacket is your most important piece of clothing. It protects you from the sudden rain squalls and, more importantly, acts as a total windblock on those breezy afternoons.

Question 18

Is there anything I SHOULDN’T bring?

Accepted Answer

Heavy Boots: Unless you are wet wading, leave the heavy hiking boots at home. A pair of sneakers or sandals is all you need for the lodge.

Formal Wear: We are a "fishing casual" lodge. Jeans and a clean shirt or a fleece are perfect for dinner.

Excessive Plastic: We are an eco-conscious lodge. We discourage single-use plastic bottles; please bring your own reusable water container. If you do not have one, or misplace yours during travel, we have plenty of extra at the lodge for you to use during your stay.

We have a Zero Tolerance policy for drugs and other illegal substances.

Question 19

What if I forget something essential?

Accepted Answer

For anything major, we are a short drive from Coyhaique, which has a fly shop (we love supporting local businesses), though selection can vary. When in doubt, pack it or ask us ahead of time!

Question 20

Is it all "hardcore" fishing, or is there time to relax?

Accepted Answer

While we are a fishing-first lodge, the schedule is designed for "comfortable intensity." You’ll spend about 6 hours on the water, but our goal is for you to return to a warm fire, a welcome drink, and total relaxation. If you want to take a "lazy morning" and head out at 10:00 AM instead of 8:00 AM, just let us know the night before.

Question 21

What if I've never fished from a raft before?

Accepted Answer

No problem! Many of our local rivers (like the Simpson or Mañihuales) are best accessed by our inflatable rafts. Your guide will handle all the rowing and positioning. Fishing from a boat is actually a great way to cover more water without the fatigue of wading against the current all day.

Question 22

I have a food allergy/dietary restriction. Can the chef accommodate me?

Accepted Answer

Absolutely. Because we are remote, we plan our menus weeks in advance. Please let us know about any allergies (gluten-free, dairy-free, vegetarian, etc.) at the time of booking so our chef can source the freshest local alternatives for your meals and riverside lunches.

Question 23

What is "Cocktail Hour" like?

Accepted Answer

Around 6:30 PM, everyone gathers at the bar. We serve local beers, Chilean wines, and our signature Pisco Sours alongside appetizers. It’s the time to share stories (and "size exaggerations") about the day’s catch before sitting down for dinner.

Question 24

What is the "Riverside Lunch" like?

Accepted Answer

Forget soggy sandwiches. We do a proper "field set-up" with tables, chairs, and fresh meals. It’s a chance to rest the water and take in the scenery. It’s not uncommon for a "quick lunch" to turn into a highlight of the day. That being said, if it's a long float or the fishing is hot, we can do a quick lunch or eat in the boat to keep you on the fish—that's why we're here after all.

Question 25

Do we fish the same spot every day?

Accepted Answer

We have access to a massive variety of water and mix it up based on the preferences of your group and the river/weather conditions. One day you might be wading a tiny, crystal-clear spring creek in the Steppe; the next, you’re floating a turquoise river through a temperate rainforest. We rotate beats to ensure the fish stay "rested" and you stay inspired.

Question 26

What happens if the weather turns bad?

Accepted Answer

In Patagonia, we say "if you don't like the weather, wait five minutes." We rarely cancel fishing due to rain. However, if the wind becomes unsafe for lake fishing (white caps), we pivot to more sheltered river canyons or smaller forested creeks. We always have a "Plan B" watershed.

Question 27

How does the tipping work at the end of the week?

Accepted Answer

We aim to make this as simple as possible. We suggest a total tip of $800 USD per guest for the week. This is typically collected by the lodge manager on Saturday evening or Sunday morning and is split among the entire team (guides, house staff, and chefs) who worked to make your week seamless. Cash in USD is preferred. We have the best guides, an incredible staff, and you're going to feel like family by the end of the week.

It's great to tip your guide at the end of each day and the lodge staff at the end of the week.

$100 per guide, per day, per guest (six days)
$50 for housekeeping, per week, per guest (at the end of the week)
$150 for the kitchen, per week, per guest (at the end of the week)

Question 28

Do I need a visa to enter Chile?

Accepted Answer

No. US citizens do not need a pre-approved visa for stays under 90 days. You will be issued a Digital Tourist Card (via email or a stamped paper) upon arrival. Crucial: Keep this safe! You need it to check into hotels (to waive the 19% luxury tax for foreigners) and to leave the country.

Question 29

What is the "SAG" form everyone talks about?

Accepted Answer

Chile is the "island of South America" and is incredibly strict about its borders. You must declare any organic material—seeds, beef jerky, wooden souvenirs, or even the half-eaten apple from your flight. If you aren't sure, check "Yes" on the form. Fines for undeclared food are steep and non-negotiable.

Question 30

Is there still a "Reciprocity Fee" for Americans?

Accepted Answer

No, that fee was eliminated years ago. Entry is free for US passport holders.

Question 31

Should I bring US Dollars or Pesos (CLP)?

Accepted Answer

While the lodge is all-inclusive, you’ll probably want Chilean Pesos for shops and dining during your stay in Santiago.

Tip: ATMs (Redbanc) are common in Santiago and Coyhaique, but they often have a high withdrawal fee ($5–$8 USD) and a low limit per transaction.
Credit Cards: Visa and Mastercard are widely accepted in towns; Amex is hit-or-miss.

Question 32

Will my phone work at the lodge?

Accepted Answer

Most US carriers (Verizon/AT&T) have decent "International Day Passes" that work in Santiago and Coyhaique. Once you get into the remote valleys near Vista Patagonia, expect "black holes" in service. The lodge Wi-Fi will be your primary access to cellular data.

Question 33

Why is the 3-4 hour layover mandatory?

Accepted Answer

Even though your bags might be checked through, you must pick them up in Santiago, clear Customs/SAG, and walk them over to the Domestic terminal to re-check them. If your flight from the US is 30 minutes late, a 2-hour layover becomes a sprint you will likely lose.

Question 34

What if my luggage is delayed?

Accepted Answer

It happens. Always pack your essentials in your carry-on:

Your reel and fly lines.
One set of fishing clothes.
Your polarized glasses.
Your wading boots (if they fit).

Note: Rods usually must be checked, but high-end multi-piece rods can often fit in overhead bins.

Question 35

Do I need travel insurance?

Accepted Answer

Short answer, no, but we highly recommend it! Vista Patagonia Lodge is dedicated to ensuring excellence in every aspect of your trip, with a strong focus on safety. As part of this commitment, we are a Global Rescue Safe Travel Partner.

For your next adventure, consider purchasing a Global Rescue membership for peace of mind. Single trip, annual, and family options are available. Feel free to ask us for more information, or visit their website directly.

Question 36

What is the time difference?

Accepted Answer

Chile is usually 1–2 hours ahead of Eastern Standard Time (depending on Daylight Savings). Since you’re traveling south rather than across longitudes, jet lag is almost non-existent—making it much easier to hit the water running on Day 2!

Question 37

What if I have allergies?

Accepted Answer

We take all dietary allergies into consideration when planning your meals for the week. If you have any other allergies bring your own EPI Pens. Be sure to notify the team or your host when booking if you require EPI Pens or have any health or mobility concerns.

Question 38

What if there is an emergency?

Accepted Answer

Our guides are trained in First Aid and CPR.

The lodge is located just outside the town of Coyhaique, with a hospital less than ten minutes away. Our staff is always on site during your stay and available any hour of the day or night to assist with any emergencies.

If we're out in the field, our guides have cell service in most areas. In times that we're outside of service, we have SAT Phones for texting.

We highly recommend getting travel insurance through our partners at Global Rescue to ensure you’re covered in case you have an emergency at the lodge or out in the field.

Question 39

How accessible is the experience?

Accepted Answer

Our goal is to ensure you have the best Patagonian fishing experiences possible—regardless of your age or accessibility.

For most people, it’s a very accessible experience. We have hosted plenty of guests in their 80's. Some of our experiences require a certain level of fitness to access more wild and remote areas.

We can cater certain experiences to your needs but if you have any concerns with accessibility please contact us prior to booking your trip.

Question 40

What if I get sick?

Accepted Answer

It all depends on how serious the sickness is. We can take you to the hospital if it’s urgent. If you have a bad flu or cold, we have Telehealth options, providing access to the best doctors in the country with affordable appointments for help and medication.

If it’s contagious, we may ask you to quarantine to maintain the integrity of the experience for the other guests and the staff—eating at a separate table and avoiding direct contact with the rest of the group. This isn't ideal, we know, but we still work hard to make your time as amazing as possible given the circumstances.

Question 41

Is there dangerous wildlife?

Accepted Answer

Chile is unique because the Andes act as a natural barrier. We have no poisonous snakes or spiders, and no bears. You might see hares, red deer, or the Black-faced Ibis (which is big and loud in the mornings!). Lastly, there are very few mosquitos.

Question 42

What makes your fishing program different?

Accepted Answer

We are willing to do the "dirty work". We often drag our boats into difficult-to-reach areas and use more awkward, off-the-beaten-path access points that other lodges avoid. This allows us to provide a more private, high-quality experience even on popular rivers.

Question 43

Do we need a fishing license?

Accepted Answer

Yes. We will assist in helping you get your fishing license. The site is a little outdated and can be a pain to navigate with the Spanish to English translations. One license covers everything. The cost varies from year to year but it’s typically around $30-$40.

Question 44

What species do we catch?

Accepted Answer

We're targeting trophy brown trout, rainbow trout, and if the season/conditions are right, we may be able to squeeze in a day fishing for Atlantic, Coho, or Chinook Salmon.

Question 45

What fishing gear do you provide?

Accepted Answer

This is a bring-your-own-gear experience. That being said, we know that sometimes things can get left behind. We have a few rod and reel setups available for rent just in case.

Waders and boots are available to rent, but you need to let us know your size as far in advance as possible to ensure we have them lined up in time for your trip.

We have a $50 per day rental fee for fishing tackle and gear.

Take a look at our packing list for more information and come prepared. Please do not hesitate to contact us with any questions about what to bring.

We have a small "pro shop" with essentials like leaders, tippet, and some lodge-branded gear. For anything major, we are a short drive from Coyhaique, which has several fly shops, though selection can vary. When in doubt, pack it or ask us ahead of time!

Question 46

What gear do I need to bring?

Accepted Answer

We've created a thorough Patagonia packing list for everything you need to bring on your trip. If you have any questions or if we missed something, please contact us.

Question 47

Does our group fish together?

Accepted Answer

Sometimes we do double floats if you’re in a group of friends or on a hosted trip. It all depends on the river and the conditions. In general everyone goes their own way, mixing up rivers, streams, and lakes to ensure we have the best fishing experiences possible. This makes the cocktail hour back at the lodge bar a great time, where guests get to share stories from their days.

Question 48

Can we keep the fish?

Accepted Answer

We pride ourselves on being a catch-and-release only operation, maintaining a sustainable fishery for folks to enjoy for years to come. Our fish are our business partners and harvesting our business partners isn't great for business.

Trust us when we say, we'll have plenty of amazing and authentic Chilean cuisine to enjoy during your stay—you're never going to go hungry.

Question 49

How far do we travel to fish?

Accepted Answer

Some fishing spots are as close as 15 minutes from the lodge, while others are up to 2 hours away, depending on our chosen destination, style of fishing, and target species.

Question 50

Is the water safe to drink?

Accepted Answer

Yes! Our water is pumped fresh from a mountain spring and stored in two large cisterns. It is cold, pure, and tastes incredible. We are a plastic-free lodge and encourage you to refill your reusable bottles daily.

Question 51

Do you have electricity?

Accepted Answer

Yes! We are on the town's power grid and we have a backup generator if the power goes out.

Question 52

Do we have our own room?

Accepted Answer

All rooms are double occupancy. You can get your own room at a single occupancy rate.

Question 53

Do we have our own bathroom?

Accepted Answer

Yes! Every room has it's own bathroom and tile shower. They're very clean and sleek. We have local, organic soaps made of lavender.

Question 54

Do you have Wi-Fi and cell service?

Accepted Answer

Yes, we have Wi-Fi throughout the lodge and reliable cell service. While we don't have TVs (we want you to disconnect!), you’ll have everything you need to check in with home if necessary.

Question 55

What is the "vibe" of the dining experience?

Accepted Answer

We are the opposite of an "uptight" lodge. We want to break down barriers and make you feel like family. Meals are served family-style at a communal table (built by Diego himself!), often with a guide joining the group to talk fishing and plans for the next day.

Question 56

Is alcohol included?

Accepted Answer

Yes, we have an open bar. We take a lot of pride in our wine selection, particularly Carmenere, a strain of grape unique to Chile. We also serve signature Pisco Sours and local craft beers like Dolbeck.

Question 57

What is the daily schedule like?

Accepted Answer

Our typical daily schedule flows something like this:

Breakfast will be served at 7:15 am and we will depart the lodge at 8:00 am.

We break for lunch halfway through the day.

We aim to return between 6:00 and 7:00 pm to serve dinner at 7:30 pm.

Question 58

What type of plugs do you have?

Accepted Answer

Chile uses Type C and L (2 or 3 round pins) at 220v. You will need a travel adapter and a voltage converter for US electronics.

Question 59

Will my phone work at the lodge?

Accepted Answer

Most US carriers (Verizon/AT&T) have decent "International Day Passes" that work in Santiago and Coyhaique. Once you get into the remote valleys near Vista Patagonia, expect "black holes" in service. The lodge Wi-Fi will be your primary lifeline.

Question 60

Where does the staff live?

Accepted Answer

We have an incredible staff that lives on our property across the street. The owners, Diego and Maca, live on the property and are always here to help.

Question 61

How do you accept payment?

Accepted Answer

We accept payments via wire transfer. Upon booking we will provide all of the necessary bank details to you and/or your group and assist with any questions you have along the way.

If you're booking with a host, they typically collect payments directly. Again, if you have any questions regarding deposits or balances, please do not hesitate to contact us.

Question 62

What is included?

Accepted Answer

This is an all-inclusive experience. Once we pick you up in Balmaceda, everything is taken care of. This includes:

Accommodations
All meals and snacks
All beer, wine, and cocktails
All water, sodas, juices
Guided fly fishing
Travel to and from fishing
Travel to and from Balmaceda airport

Question 63

What is not included?

Accepted Answer

We've got the experience covered, but there are a few things that are not included in the experience that will be taken care of by your and/or your host:

Tips for guides and staff
International and domestic flights
Flies
Leaders
Fishing equipment
Trip insurance
Fishing license

Question 64

Do you require a deposit?

Accepted Answer

Yes. For more information on our deposits, balances, and due dates, please review our policy page for more information.

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