Tortel and Villa O'Higgins

Last corners of the Carretera Austral

Caleta Tortel and Villa O'Higgins stand as two picturesque towns that defy isolation with a strong pioneering and community spirit. Tortel stands out for its architecture without streets, with seven kilometers of cypress wood walkways from the Guaitecas that border the mouth of the Baker River.

Villa O'Higgins marks the end of Route 7. The town offers hiking trails and sailing expeditions to the Great O'Higgins Glacier, the fourth largest ice mass in Patagonia and gateway to the Southern Ice Field.

Plan your trip to Tortel and Villa O’Higgins

How to get there

How to get there by air

Fly directly to Balmaceda Airport (BBA). From there, the journey is entirely by land via the Carretera Austral (Route 7 South). Drive for approximately 10 hours to Caleta Tortel and about 12 hours to Villa O’Higgins, the final point of the route.

How to get there by land

From Coyhaique, you must drive about 575 km south along the Carretera Austral. The journey to Caleta Tortel takes about 10 hours and to Villa O’Higgins about 12 hours. The route has extensive stretches of gravel and requires a mandatory ferry crossing to reach Villa O’Higgins. Plan your trip in advance and book your ferry ticket.

Must-Know Tips

In Villa O’Higgins, you can request recognition for having completed the Carretera Austral. Due to the low temperatures in the area, it is essential to travel with appropriate thermal and waterproof clothing, as well as comfortable and resistant footwear. Secure your accommodations in advance.