4 Nov 2025
Carretera Austral
LANDSCAPES:
FORESTS
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CITIES
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LAKES AND RIVERS
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MOUNTAINS AND SNOW
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PATAGONIA
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VALLEYS AND TOWNS
ACTIVITIES:
OUTDOOR LIFE
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CULTURAL SPACES
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ROUTE OF PARKS OF PATAGONIA
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URBAN TOURISM
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WINE AND FOOD FESTIVALS
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ADVENTURE AND SPORTS
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HANDICRAFTS
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MOUNTAIN EXPERIENCES
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FESTIVALS AND EVENTS
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RIVER ADVENTURES
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CASINOS
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MORE ADVENTURE
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RURAL TOURISM
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WINE AND GASTRONOMY
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CRUISES
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TYPICIAL CUISINE
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NATURE AND ECOTOURISM
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CULTURE AND HERITAGE
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PARKS AND NATURE RESERVES
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CITY TOUR
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OBSERVATION OF FLORA, FAUNA, AND LANDSCAPES
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PALEONTOLOGY AND ARCHEOLOGY
Updated on 21 de November, 2025
Legendary scenic route through Patagonia
With more than 1,200 kilometers of amazing landscapes, Route 7, better known as the Carretera Austral, is the most authentic way to explore Chilean Patagonia. On this trip, you will cross lush native forests, imposing glaciers, crystalline rivers, and steep fjords, crossing some sections by barge.
The adventure begins in Puerto Montt and continues through Hornopirén, Pumalín National Park, Chaitén, La Junta, Coyhaique, and Puerto Río Tranquilo. You will also pass through the Puyuhuapi Hot Springs, the incredible Queulat Hanging Glacier, Futaleufú, the Palena River, and the unique Caleta Tortel, until you reach Villa O’Higgins, the gateway to the Glaciers Route.
Unmissable of Carretera Austral
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Plan your trip to Carretera Austral
Suggested route
Calculating route...
1
Puerto Montt
2
Coyhaique
3
Villa O'Higgins
How to get there
How to get there by air
You must travel to El Tepual Airport (PMC) in Puerto Montt to start the route in the north, or to Balmaceda Aerodrome (BBA) in Coyhaique to access the center of the Carretera Austral. Both have direct flights from Santiago.
How to get there by land
The Carretera Austral extends from Puerto Montt to Villa O’Higgins. Use an all-terrain vehicle, as the route has gravel sections and variable climate. Consider that you must take ferries in Caleta La Arena, Puerto Yungay, and other key points to complete the journey.
Must-Know Tips
The best time to travel the Carretera Austral is summer, from December to March, due to its favorable climatic conditions and longer days. Bring clothing for cold and humidity, as well as provisions, since some sections have limited services. Respect the environment: do not feed native fauna and do not leave garbage during your trip.
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