It drains the waters of the Vintter Lake, also shared by these nations, and it flows into the Pacific Ocean.

The rapids between Palena and Puerto Raúl Marín Balmaceda are choice kayaking white water.

[5] The volume and rapid drop in elevation of the river is ideal for hydroelectric power plants.

[citation needed] The river originates as the Carrenleufú as the out-flow from Lake Vintter.

Its major tributaries include the Tranquilo, Figueroa, Frío, Risopatrón and Melimoyu rivers.