Carretera Austral

12 days / 11 nights · All-inclusive

Location: Carretera Austral, Aysén Region, Chile

General Overview

This 12-day journey takes you deep into the heart of Chilean Patagonia, following the legendary Carretera Austral. From fjords and temperate rainforests to turquoise rivers and hanging glaciers, this all-inclusive expedition is designed for nature lovers seeking a road trip through one of the most remote and breathtaking corners of the planet.

You'll explore hidden trails in Pumalín and Queulat National Parks, soak in natural hot springs, ride horses near Cerro Castillo, sail among marble caves, and connect with the wild soul of Patagonia. This program includes comfortable handpicked lodges and cabins, ground and ferry transportation, guided excursions, all meals, and domestic flights—so you can focus entirely on the experience.

Perfect for travelers aged 25 to 65, in good health and with a spirit of adventure.

Tour Objectives

  • Explore the pristine landscapes of Northern Patagonia along the scenic Carretera Austral.
  • Connect with protected areas like Pumalín, Queulat, and Patagonia National Parks.
  • Engage in unique local experiences, from horseback riding to hot springs, glacier viewing and rafting.
  • Enjoy a seamless, all-inclusive adventure from Puerto Montt to Tortel and back to Balmaceda.

Itinerary Highlights

  • Day 1 — Arrival in Puerto Montt, drive to Hornopirén and optional hot springsReception at the airport and pick-up of your 4x4 vehicle. Start the journey with a ferry crossing from Caleta Larenas to Caleta Puelche. Optional visit to Termas del Sol before arriving in the quiet town of Hornopirén for your first night.
  • Day 2 — Ferry to Caleta Gonzalo, exploration of Pumalín Park and arrival in ChaiténScenic navigation from Hornopirén to Caleta Gonzalo. Once ashore, explore soft trails and viewpoints in Pumalín National Park. Evening in the volcanic town of Chaitén.
  • Day 3 — Road trip to Puyuhuapi and optional hot springsA full day of scenic driving along fjords and rivers. Optional visits to Ventisquero Hot Springs or Puyuhuapi Lodge & Spa. Rest at a cozy lodge or cabin in the peaceful village of Puyuhuapi.
  • Day 4 — Hanging Glacier hike in Queulat and night in CoyhaiqueMorning visit to the Queulat Hanging Glacier trail. Continue the road trip through forests and valleys until reaching the regional capital, Coyhaique.
  • Day 5 — Horseback riding in Villa Cerro Castillo and arrival in Puerto Río TranquiloStop in Villa Cerro Castillo for a guided horseback experience in Patagonian steppe. Continue to the lakeside town of Puerto Río Tranquilo for the night.
  • Day 6 — Laguna San Rafael excursion and navigationDay trip to Laguna San Rafael, involving a vehicular approach followed by navigation through icy fjords. Return to Puerto Río Tranquilo for the night.
  • Day 7 — Marble Caves and scenic drive to Puerto BertrandMorning excursion to the famous Marble Caves by boat. The day continues with photo stops at Leones Glacier viewpoint, Patagonia National Park, and Lago General Carrera.
  • Day 8 — Rafting on Río Baker and exploration of Patagonia ParkContinue south with a rafting adventure on the turquoise Baker River. Visit the Patagonia National Park sector near Cochrane. Overnight in cozy cabins.
  • Day 9 — Arrival in Caleta Tortel and navigation among wooden walkwaysReach the end of the road at the picturesque village of Tortel. Afternoon navigation through the surrounding fjords and channels.
  • Day 10 — Soft trekking around TortelDiscover the surrounding trails and lookout points around Tortel, a village without streets—only boardwalks built over the sea and forest.
  • Day 11 — Return north to Cerro CastilloBegin the return journey with an extended drive through valleys and steppes. Overnight in Cerro Castillo near the National Park.
  • Day 12 — Flight from Balmaceda to SantiagoFinal transfer to Balmaceda Airport for your return flight to Santiago.

What's Included

  • Domestic flights: Santiago – Puerto Montt / Balmaceda – Santiago.
  • All land transportation: 4x4 rental and ferry crossings.
  • All meals: breakfast, lunch, and dinner daily.
  • 11 nights of accommodation in a mix of cabins, hotels, and lodges.
  • Entrance fees and guided excursions: Pumalín Park, Queulat Hanging Glacier, Termas del Sol (optional), Termas Ventisquero or Puyuhuapi Lodge & Spa (optional), horseback riding in Villa Cerro Castillo, navigation to Laguna San Rafael, boat trip to Marble Caves, rafting on the Baker, navigation in Tortel, and scenic stops and park entrances.
  • On-trip support, guide coordination and emergency logistics.
  • Full accident and health insurance.
  • Continuous support from a certified professional guide.

Customization and flexibility

This program is offered as an all-inclusive experience covering domestic flights, accommodation, private transportation, meals and guided excursions. However, if you prefer, we can adapt the program — removing services such as flights or accommodation, or adding meals — depending on how you wish to organize your trip. Our goal is to make everything easy and flexible, offering you the best personalized experience in Chilean Patagonia.

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Carretera Austral

The legendary Patagonian road trip, fully organized for you.

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