Many of us must have come across a number of marble architectures sometimes or the other, but here, what we are talking about is completely different though the source material of marbel remains the same. We are talking about the Capillas De Marmol – the natural “cathedrals” made entirely of marble and to our utter disbelieve this geographical masterpiece is structured over thousands of years without any sort of human help ! It is an incredible natural attraction that draws hundreds of visitors every year to the little town of Puerto Tranquilo, Chile. Created by the corrosive effect of the blue water of Lago General Carrera laving at the stone, the Cathedral, of its own accord, appears to be a beautiful piece of sculpted artwork.
These 6,000 years old magnificent blue caves were created by a perennial process of waves washing up against calcium carbonate. The twirling blue pattern on the walls of the cave is a reflection of the cobalt colored water of the lake. The lake’s changed shades differing in hue and intensity, depend totally on water levels and the existing climatic conditions.
The place has got specially designed tours which are based on the weather and water conditions.You can visit Cuevas de Marmol on the peninsula of solid marble located in Lake General Carrera, an isolated glacial lake on the edge of Chile-Argentina border. But there is no road, nor a paved pathway which will lead you to this amazing destination and the only method of exploring these azured structures is either through a boat, kayak or a ferry.
When to approach the place :
September and February is the best time of the year to travel over these majestic caves. During this period, ice melts and the increasing water intensity thereby adds to the captivating turquoise shade. A sunrise tour to the site is highly suggested, as this will quench you with beautiful light, calmer waters and less crowds.
How to approach the place :
Come prepared with a rain jacket for its choppy water and changing weather, decent footwear for walking around the caves, and a camera with a waterproof bag to ensure that everything stays safe and dry. Cash is the more convenient way of transactions as ATM’s are far and few between.