The Río Chubut flows eastward for approximately 800 kilometers across Chubut Province in Patagonia, Argentina, originating in the Andean foothills near the border of Río Negro Province and emptying into the Atlantic Ocean at Engaño Bay near Rawson. Its name derives from the Tehuelche word chupat, meaning "transparent," and Welsh settlers who colonized the region knew it as Afon Camwy, or "twisting river." The river is generally shallow, with water flow varying considerably between drought and flood conditions — from as little as 4 to as much as 400 cubic meters per second, with an average discharge around 60 cubic meters per second. The many tributaries and branches converge near the small town of Piedra Parada, where the terrain transitions to the flat steppe characteristic of Argentine Patagonia.

The upper reaches near Cholila, accessible from Esquel (roughly one hour from a typical take-out point) or Bariloche, offer a smaller, intimate river experience well suited to multi-day float trips. A 60-kilometer stretch crossing private estancia land sees very little paddling pressure due to the logistics required to access it, and three to four days is the typical commitment for this section. The lower valley, known as the Valle Inferior del Río Chubut (El Virch), provides a contrasting experience with riparian vegetation lining the banks and broad valley views.

Near Los Altares, the river cuts through imposing rock walls in the Piedra Parada Valley, making it a visually striking section for kayak expeditions. Organized four-day kayak trips operating out of Trelew cover this area, combining paddling with hiking and wildlife observation in the Patagonian steppe. Near the town of Gaiman, shorter recreational kayak outings are available on Sundays through local clubs, running approximately 20 to 30 minutes per session.

The river supports a healthy population of rainbow and brown trout, particularly in the upper reaches, where fish in the 12–17 inch range are common and individuals up to 22 inches are caught regularly. The Patagonian steppe fauna and flora are notable throughout the river corridor. Multi-day trips require wilderness camping, and paddlers should plan for self-sufficiency, particularly on the more remote upper sections where private land limits access points.