Days revolve around the river. Kayak trips run from beginner to advanced, with instruction from guides who work with your group's level — one reviewer describes guides Haley and Blue as a teaching duo who nudged her past her comfort zone on whitewater without pushing too hard. Multisport weeks mix kayaking and rafting with hiking, fishing, hot springs, and shopping and dinner in Pucón. Non-kayakers and mixed groups are catered for on the multisport programme.

Meals are included and eaten together: breakfast, lunch, appetisers and dinner, with authentic Chilean cooking. Some VIP trips come with extra provisions. Guests consistently single out the food, and several describe sharing mealtimes with staff and other guests as the best part of the week.

The property sits right on the Trancura River, with lodging options at different comfort and budget levels. The River Suite is described by one guest as a blend of luxury and simplicity, with windows and French doors that can stay open at night because there are no mosquitoes. Elsewhere on site there are hot tubs, hammocks, a yoga dome and open-fire dining areas.

Transport is handled: airport transfers during scheduled times, plus daily transport to the river and into town. Kayak and truck rentals can also be arranged — one guest rented a Hilux for three weeks of paddling and was glad of it on Chile's rough roads.

David has run the place for close to two decades, according to one reviewer, and still tinkers with it. The booking process is deliberately personal: a three-minute group planning form, a custom trip and price built from it, an optional presentation to help organisers recruit their group, then booking with logistics handled by the retreat.

What's included

- Riverside lodging on the Trancura River - Breakfast, lunch, appetisers and dinner daily - Kayak and instructor - Airport transfers during scheduled times - Daily transport to the river and into town - Custom itinerary built around your group

What's not included

- International and domestic flights - Travel insurance - Kayak and vehicle rental (arrange separately) - Personal expenses and shopping in Pucón - Anything not listed as included for your specific trip