Marble Caves: Chile’s Natural Wonder That Enchants Visitors

The Marble Caves (Capillas de Mármol) are one of the most impressive natural wonders in the world and a top tourist destination in South America. Located on the shores of Lake General Carrera, which straddles the border between Chile and Argentina in the heart of Patagonia, these caves are often referred to as ‘marble cathedrals.’ Carved by nature over the past six thousand years, the erosion of calcium carbonate rock by the lake’s waters has created these wavy geological formations. The three most famous structures in the Aysén region are La Capilla, El Catedral, and La Cueva. The transparent turquoise waters of the lake, combined with light reflections, create a magical atmosphere inside the marble walls that vary in color from gray, white, green to yellow. The spectacle changes depending on the time of day, season, weather conditions, and angle of sunlight, drawing thousands of visitors worldwide who wish to admire this unique natural wonder up close. The caves also host wildlife such as birds, fish, and sea lions. Accessible only by boat or kayak, the journey takes about two hours. Visitors must first reach the town of Puerto Río Tranquilo and then board small boats or kayaks for a guided tour inside the caves. From December to March, the weather is more favorable, and the lake waters are calmer, offering an ideal opportunity to enjoy the emerald-green waters against the stunning backdrop of the Andes mountains.