The Río Llizán originates on the southern flank of Volcán Quetrupillan, which rises to 2,009 meters, and is categorized within Chile's Region XIV De Los Ríos. The river descends steeply from its volcanic source, giving it the character of a high-gradient creek run rather than a continuous volume river.

The run is divided into two distinct sections, each carrying its own set of challenges and potential hazards. One of the notable difficulties in planning a trip on the Llizán is the water level: it is hard to find conditions where both sections are simultaneously at an appropriate level for paddling. This makes timing a visit particularly tricky, and paddlers should be prepared for the possibility that only one section will be runnable on any given day.

Both sections are described as action-packed, and the hazards are characterized as serious. The river's origin on a volcanic flank suggests steep, technical terrain with the kind of consequences typical of Chilean creek runs in this region. Paddlers considering the Llizán should have solid creek-boating skills and experience with committing whitewater before attempting either section.

Given its location in the Los Ríos region and its volcanic source, the Llizán fits into a broader cluster of demanding whitewater runs in southern Chile. The region is known for rivers that draw experienced paddlers seeking technical challenges in remote or semi-remote settings.