The Río Valdivia flows through the city of Valdivia in the Los Ríos region of southern Chile, forming part of a broader river system that includes the Río Calle Calle. Near the city, the river takes on an estuarine character, widening as it moves toward the coast and the towns of Niebla and Corral. The river passes Islote Haverbeck, a small islet located at the confluence of the Río Calle Calle and Río Valdivia, which serves as a notable landmark and stopping point on paddling routes in the area.

Organized SUP and kayak tours operate on the river, with at least one operator departing from Gral Lagos 1221 in central Valdivia. These tours typically follow a route along the Río Calle Calle and Río Valdivia, circling Islote Haverbeck and making a brief stop at the islet before returning to the launch point. Independent paddlers can also access the river from the dock area near the downtown market. Sunset tours are offered, suggesting the evening hours are a viable and popular time to paddle.

The Río Vivo outfitter, based a short distance from Valdivia, offers day-long and multi-day kayak excursions focused on the estuary of the Río Valdivia and surrounding wetlands, providing an option for those interested in exploring beyond the immediate city reach.

Valdivia itself is a university city with good transport connections to other parts of southern Chile, making it a practical base for paddling trips. Boat traffic is present on the river, as watercraft have historically been and continue to be a common form of transportation between riverside towns, which is a relevant consideration for paddlers sharing the water.