More than 20 years ago, the Christensen Arteaga family, on their trip along the Carretera Austral, decided to acquire a property in the most beautiful place of the entire trip, on the shores of General Carrera Lake and very close to the Northern Ice Fields. At first, they offered accommodation in cabins built by Eduardo, one of the sons, and homemade food made by the owner of the house, Maria Soledad Arteaga. Over time, they expanded the offer, created all-inclusive programs, and involved local boat services, fishing guides, horse mule drivers, hiking guides, and all the other adventure tourism offerings in Aysen. Together, they make Mallin Colorado a modern, sustainable family business that enhances the beauty of nature and its resources.
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About Aysen Journeys
Aysén Journeys emerges from Paula Christensen's deep love for this remote gem in Chile. As a translator of English and German, passionate about travel, cultures, and international gastronomy, Paula embodies the charm of Mallín Colorado, a lodge created by her family 20 years ago on the shores of General Carrera Lake, near the majestic Marble Caves on the Carretera Austral.
For years, Paula has personally attended to travelers arriving in this secluded corner, enthusiastically guiding them through the wonders of Aysén. Handling marketing and sales for the family lodge, she has gained a solid understanding of the international adventure tourism market.
With a life deeply rooted in Patagonia and a unique perspective, Paula has become the master of ceremonies for those seeking to explore the wonders of Aysén with complete safety. Approximately 7 years ago, Aysén Journeys was born, a proposal that transcends being a remote destination. They offer comfortable accommodations, personalized transportation, and exquisite cuisine on the Carretera Austral.
With Aysén Journeys, travelers only have to immerse themselves in the beauty, nature, silence, and culture of the Carretera Austral in Chilean Patagonia. Aysén Journeys serves as the gateway to unique experiences, meticulously designed for discerning travelers seeking an authentic connection with this remote and fascinating region.
Mission | Vision
Mission
To make the dream of traveling the Carretera Austral a reality for people from around the world, allowing them to feel secure embarking on this journey to the remote region of Aysén.
Vision
To become the specialist tour operator in the remote region of Aysén, by creating tailored and secure trips to the Carretera Austral, always attentive to details and committed to innovation for the discerning traveler.
Sustainability
Concrete actions that keep them sustainable
For 25 years, they have been creating a paradise in Mallin Colorado, considering sustainability principles from the outset to preserve nature and respect local culture. They embarked on this journey because their lodge is situated in the middle of nowhere, prompting them to make a special effort to understand the implications of building in a remote area. They've sustained it with multiple sustainable actions, which serve as the foundation of their family union.
Reforestation
Caring for every tree around buildings has led to the construction of each cabin with a conscious effort to preserve surrounding trees, even if it complicated construction and architecture. In recent years, they initiated a reforestation project, planting approximately 500 new native trees on their property, and guests are offered the opportunity to participate in reforestation efforts during their stay.
Reuse of native wood
Repurposing native wood tops and treating them individually as pieces of art for the cabins was a fantastic idea, resulting in rustic and beautiful cabins that blend perfectly with their natural surroundings. They've also utilized materials found in the area to create lamps, night tables, tables, and floors made from native wood waste or sourced from nearby beaches.
Garbage separation
They've implemented the basic principle of sustainability by separating garbage not only in the kitchen but also in the cabins and rooms, providing multiple garbage cans for proper disposal, and facilitating recycling of plastics, glass, and paper.
Greenhouse
They maintain their own greenhouse to produce vegetables suitable for the area, used in lodge kitchen recipes. The land is fertilized annually with compost, which is built up throughout the season in the clubhouse sector, improving soil quality and providing fresh vegetables for guests.
Community
After establishing trust over several years, they've developed a close relationship with local communities, learning from and sharing experiences with firefighters, the elderly, schools, artisans, rural gauchos, and former families. They organize tours to villages, craft workshops, and cemeteries, fostering mutual respect and understanding. They also participate in the sustainable Chelenko project with other local tourist companies to promote sustainability in General Carrera Lake.
Seeking silence
Recognizing the value of silence in their remote location, they refrain from offering television, limit music to the clubhouse, and minimize loud noises from machines and motors to preserve the tranquility of the environment.
Laundry
They inform guests that sheets and towels are washed at checkout unless requested otherwise, reducing water and energy consumption.
Family union
Their main value is working together as a family, meeting virtually every Monday to discuss and plan company actions with empathy and love for Mallin Colorado.
Wide open view
To preserve the breathtaking landscape, electrical cables within Mallin Colorado have been buried underground since its inception, ensuring unobstructed views from every room over the park and lake.
FAQs
What type of vehicles do you use?
We use 4x4 vehicles for groups of 1 to 3 people and minivans for larger groups. Generally, the vehicles are operated by their owners and have a maximum age of 2 to 3 years
Is it worth staying in Santiago? How many days?
Yes, we recommend staying in Santiago for two or three nights when you arrive in Chile to explore the city and its surroundings. Santiago offers a unique landscape and a rich history that you can enjoy during your visit. Additionally, you can spend the day visiting the beach, tasting internationally acclaimed wines in nearby valleys, or, if you visit in winter, exploring a ski center near the capital city.
Beyond expectations! Then again we weren't sure what to expect. Lovely stay at the lodge, met other like-minded travelers (many had their trips planned by Adventure Life) and the owner was a gracious hostess. It felt like you were one happy family, visiting with a favorite aunt.
