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Marvel at Patagonia’s marble caves

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Glide by boat through the depths of Chile's silvery limestone marble caves, a natural phenomenon of haunting beauty.

The Carretera Austral, the lonely road carving its way through the wild mountain landscapes of northern and central Chilean Patagonia, is spectacular in its own right but en route you can detour to view some astonishing natural phenomena, such as the Exploradores Glacier, and, equally stunning, the surreal limestone rock formations in the ocean gulf at Puerto Rio Tranquilo.

Travel by motor launch to view, and even enter, pearl white limestone caverns, the dazzling contorted sculptures of which are reflected in the calm turquoise waters. This curiousity of nature has been named the Capilla de Marmol (marble chapel) after the lofty church-like vaults and pinnacles. Chiselled by wind and water, these extraordinary formations are streaked with a ghostly silver and blue, making them appear even more otherworldly.

This is a popular day trip. If you have your own vehicle you can follow a cliff-carved gravelled road to visit another set of similar, equally impressive caves close to the tiny, sleepy port Puerto Sanchez, where you can hire a boat and will probably be the only visitors.

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    Sophie lived in Chile before joining us and has travelled extensively across Latin America, from Mexico to the furthest tip of Patagonia and beyond to Antarctica.

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    During a career break, Rosie embarked on an unforgettable year-long backpacking trip across Latin America. Now back in the UK, she is excited to share her knowledge and experiences with others, helping them discover her favourite place in the world.

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