We’ll depart Yan Kee Way Lodge and travel through Puerto Varas, turn north on Route 5 toward the small town of Llanquihue. We will head to the outfall of the Maullín River. This river provides the only drainage for the entire 320 square mile Lago Llanquihue and runs approximately 50 mile to its Pacific Ocean outlet.

The Maullín provides a tremendous amount of cover and habitat for both fish and bird life. The massive amount of nutrients, which find their way from the entire drainage of the lake, make it a concentrated food source. The river is well known for its crayfish. These comprise, in all stages of their development, together with other small crustaceans such as the well-known freshwater Pancora crab, a bountiful food source. They attract abundant life, which prosper in both the air and water. We plan to spot birds and waterfowl that target both fish and other food sources in this rich environment. Part of the allure of this linear water body and rich food source is the Chilean Myrtle and other plants, which actually grow in the watercourse of the Maullín. These provide cover and safety to both fish and birds.

Our walk begins along the river Maullín, where we may observe typical species of this habitat to include colonies of Yecos, Ibis and other species of Herons. You may also observe black-necked swans living in this wetland. Two species of King Fishers are endemic to Chile, One very large and the other similar in size to those found in the United States.
 
We will be exploring approximately 62 hectares (153 acres) of native Chilean forest that has a diversity of flora and fauna associated with the river. This type of forest is a wetland and attracts large numbers of birds that live there together.
 
The trees and bushes with submerged roots, also allow us to spot mammals such as minks and Huillín. In this place, we will have the opportunity to enjoy trails of exploration and discovery as we seek the inhabitants of this forested wetland. In the open areas and grasslands we will also have a good opportunity to observe endemic species, as well as other migratory birds.
 
Finally, a scenic hike will enable us to reach a place where, in addition to black-necked swans, we can see various species of ducks including the Chilean Torrent Duck. Return to Yan Kee Way Lodge. This is a special expedition for the family and for those individuals who love the outdoors and wish to see and photograph the flora and fauna of this area.