CINCO RIOS LODGE - Kienes' Premiere Destination
Destination Overview
Portuguese explorer Ferdinand Magellan gave the name Patagonia to the southern tip of South America The name “Patagonia” is derived from the Portuguese word “pata gau” which means “big Foot” due to the many large footprints of the indigenous people he found on the sand.
Sharing a latitude similar to the Columbia River in the states, its climate and topography is very conducive to salmonid growth. Due to the cold temperatures and abundant rivers in the region, the Salmonid species have found an ideal habitat to live and reproduce, thus becoming a paradise for fishing enthusiasts.
The practically new Cinco Rios Lodge is located within ten minutes of Coyhaique and overlooks the Simpson River and valley. Each year the waters of Patagonia summon fishermen from all over the world for an unforgettable experience with each trip.
Situated on the banks of the legendary Simpson River, the Cinco Rios lodge has a spectacular view of the majestic Patagonian Andes that will elicit your first “Wow” response which will be the first of many during your week’s stay.
Cinco Rios was born in 2002 when Jay Burgin and Mary Jacques, owners of the legendary Five Rivers Lodge in Dillon Montana, captivated by the beauty and fishing of the area decided to create a unique lodge right in the heart of Chilean Patagonia with his Chilean partner Sebastian Galilea Sola.
After ten years, Jay, Mary and Sebastian built a brand new lodge in 2012. Mirrored by the hospitality of its owners, the lodge’s comfortable rooms, exquisite cuisine, outstanding wines and the professionalism of its staff, Cinco Rios Lodge is the perfect place to enjoy your next vacation and fly fishing adventure in the Chilean Patagonia.
At a Glance
Target Fish: Brown, Rainbow and Brook trout
Location: Coyhaique, Patagonia, Chile
Seasons: November through May
Lodge Capacity: 12 guests
Nearest Airport: Coyhaique
Electricity: 220 volts
Documents needed: Passport
Fishing Program
Each morning, after a sumptuous breakfast at the lodge, you will along with your guide be taken via truck to rivers and streams ranging from 30 minutes to an hour away on dirt roads. The lodge also has access to several private rivers and creeks, with some of them located just across the border in Argentina.
Among the waters you will fish are, Rio La Paloma, Rio Simpson, the Manihuales and Aysen Rivers. You will also have the option of fishing several lakes in the area. Usually two days will be spent fishing the Paloma and Azul via jet boat, and two days floating the Simpson or Manihuales in rafts. Two days will be spent wading in small streams.
The most prevalent insects are grasshoppers and beetles, so you can expect spending the day slapping the water with hopper patterns and watching “hog” trout coming up and wacking them hard. On some waters matching the hatch will be needed to fool the fish.
You will be happy to know that there is so much water available to the lodge that in many cases you will be casting to fish who haven’t seen an artificial fly all year. The trout come in all sizes but the one thing they have in common is that they are all healthy chunky fish and among them are many true trophies.
The lodge employs experienced professional guides that will ensure your satisfaction. They are always happy to share their vast knowledge of fly fishing and the outdoors whether you be an expert or novice.
Though the lodge has equipment available, they recommend that you bring as much of your own equipment as possible. A small fly shop is on site, should you need tackle items.
Best Fly Fishing Seasons
November through March
Special Programs
Pampa to the Patagonian Forest Fishing Program – 11 nights and 10 days
Cinco Rios Lodge and Estancia Del Zorro offer a program where you can get to know the diverse ecosystems of the region. From the vast plains, with beautiful crystal clear spring creeks, to the torrential rivers and deep lakes in the middle of the Patagonian forest, you can enjoy the best fishing in the region.
Patagonic Photo Safari
This is a great opportunity for those who elect not to fish but would like to be accommodated in luxury surroundings during your stay. During the duration of the Patagonic Photo Safari
You will be guided to the depths of Patagonia and will be able to photograph breathtaking scenery, interesting culture, pristine rivers and open pampas and rainforest in a program that puts it all together.
Accommodations
Constructed of local timber the lodge was specifically designed for the purpose of providing a comfortable and luxurious environment for its guests. Its location on the banks of the Simpson River provides a unique view of the valley and snow capped mountains of the Andes.
On Site Amenities and Activities Include
Satellite TV
Wi-Fi/internet access
Laundry
Fly Shop
Bar
Gourmet Food
Hiking, bike tours, bird watching tours, Queulat National Park Tour, General Carrera Lake Marble Lake tour, and City Tour
The large lodge has six private spacious rooms featuring two beds, private bathroom, and deck with a magnificent view. A large fireplace adds ambience to the main living room which is fully furnished with comfortable armchairs and sofas.
The beautiful picture windows provide a perfect backdrop for each of the delicious meals. The bar offers many popular cocktails. Also within the lodge are a fly shop and a room for fly tying. Laundry service is available too.
The lodge’s expert chefs take pride in using local ingredients, whether it be grass fed beef and lamb, locally harvested fresh fish from the ocean or herbs from the lodge’s garden. The lodge has an excellent wine list consisting of boutique Chilean wines.
On Friday, since it is the last day of fishing, the lodge puts on a Chilean style "party" with a typical spit- roasting lamb “asado” with background music provided by local musicians.
Getting There
Guests of Cinco de Rios usually arrange flights that fly into Santiago, Chile in the morning. After an afternoon exploring the town they spend the night in one of the local hotels and fly to Balmeceda the following morning or if the timing of your arrival to Santiago is right and your flight gets in early, you can get a late morning flight to Balmeceda on the same day. Once you arrive in Balmeceda you will be met by a lodge representative where you will be transported to the lodge.
Rates
Rates are based on double occupancy.
Fly Fishing Program
7 nights/6 fishing days $4,995 per person/double occ.
Included: all transfers between Balmaceda Airport or Coyhaique, Chile to and from the lodge. Accommodations from Saturday through Saturday, meals at the lodge, all beverages including wine, guided fishing for the week based on two fishermen per guide and all taxes.
Not included: fishing license, tips and gratuities, equipment and flies and air transportation.
To book any of our trips give us a call to start the process
