Explore the Carretera Austral – 10 days / 9 nights

Code: TUB005

Coyhaique and Puerto Aisen - See map

Duration: 10 days / 9 nights
Number of passengers: The tour operates with a minimum of 7 confirmed passengers.
Fixed departures: Nov 30th - Jan 4th - Feb 1st
Excursions: Shared
Language: Spanish - English
Start: Balmaceda Airport

Explore the Carretera Austral – 10 days / 9 nights

Gallery

Description

Embark on an unforgettable journey along the legendary Carretera Austral. Over 10 days and 9 nights, you’ll explore Chile’s most breathtaking southern landscapes: the lush forests of Queulat National Park, the soothing Ensenada Pérez Hot Springs, the stunning San Rafael Lagoon, and the magical Marble Caves. Continue through the charming village of Caleta Tortel, the majestic Patagonia Park, and the striking scenery of Chile Chico, ending in Coyhaique — the heart of the region. A unique experience blending nature, adventure, and Patagonian authenticity.

Price includes

Shared transfers

Accommodation in all destinations with breakfast included

Breakfast and lunch

Shared excursions mentioned in the itinerary

Bilingual guide (Spanish and English)

Entrance fees to parks and reserves

Price does not include

Air tickets (international or domestic)

Travel insurance

Tips

Other services not mentiones

The program operates with fixed departures: 30 Nov - 04 Jan - 01 Feb. However, if you would like to request a private quotation for another date within the season (November 2026 - March 2027), please do not hesitate to contact your travel agent.

Itinerary

Once passengers are settled in their accommodation, after being transferred from Balmaceda Airport to Coyhaique, we will offer a welcome cocktail and present the itinerary, followed by dinner at a local restaurant.
17:00 Arrival at accommodation
18:30 Itinerary presentation and welcome cocktail
20:00 Dinner at local restaurant
21:30 Return to accommodation

On this day, we will head to Queulat National Park, one of the most important protected areas in the region. With an area of 154,093 hectares, the park is known for its evergreen forests, glaciers, rivers, and lagoons, as well as its rich wildlife that accompanies visitors along the hiking trail.
06:00 Pick up from accommodation
07:30 Breakfast in Villa Mañihuales
11:00 Arrival at Queulat National Park
11:30 Start of the Hanging Glacier trail
14:00 Departure from Queulat National Park
14:30 Lunch at Puyuhuapi Restaurant
15:30 Return to Coyhaique
21:00 Arrival to accommodation

Following the previous day’s excursion, passengers will have the morning free to enjoy at their own pace and recharge their energy. In the afternoon, the tour will begin, showcasing the region’s impressive geography, filled with waterfalls, lakes, and rivers. During this experience, passengers will explore some of the main freshwater reserves surrounding the city of Coyhaique and its nearby areas.
08:30 Breakfast at the accommodation
13:00 Lunch
15:00 Start of the Water Route Tour
20:30 Arrival at the accommodation

This tour is designed to provide the ultimate relaxation experience. Passengers will board a catamaran at Puerto Oxxean and sail through the fjords of Aysén towards the Natural Monument of 5 Hermanas. Upon arrival, they will enjoy a relaxing day at the natural hot springs located at the foot of Maca Volcano.
09:30 Breakfast at the accommodation
12:00 Passenger pick-up for departure to Puerto Chacabuco
13:00 Box lunch delivery
14:00 Arrival at Puerto Oxxean Chacabuco and catamaran check-in
15:00 Departure by catamaran towards the hot springs
16:30 Arrival at Ensenada Pérez Hot Springs
19:30 Return to Puerto Chacabuco
21:00 Arrival at Puerto Oxxean
21:30 Check-in at Hotel Loberías del Sur

Passengers will experience one of the most breathtaking places in the world, located within San Rafael Lagoon National Park. We will explore approximately 400,000 hectares of the Northern Patagonian Ice Field, ending with a navigation through the famous San Rafael Lagoon Biosphere Reserve.
07:00 Meeting at Hotel Loberías del Sur reception
08:00 Departure and breakfast on board
10:30 Informative talks and appetizers
11:15 Lunch
13:15 Arrival at San Rafael Lagoon
13:35 Start of boat excursions (approx. 25 min)
14:00 Hot chocolate and pastries
15:35 Toast with millenary ice and open bar service
20:30 Arrival at Puerto Chacabuco
21:40 Return to Coyhaique
22:55 Arrival in Coyhaique

We offer you one of the most sought-after tours in the region, a key point of connection between different cultures and landscapes.
Located on Chile’s largest lake, General Carrera Lake, the Marble Caves Nature Sanctuary offers a remarkable display of the passage of time, beautifully reflected in the marble formations shaped by nature over thousands of years.
06:00 Passenger pick-up at the accommodation
08:00 Breakfast in Villa Cerro Castillo
11:30 Arrival in Puerto Río Tranquilo
12:00 Boat navigation to the Marble Caves
14:00 Lunch with a view of General Carrera Lake at a local restaurant
15:30 Transfer from Puerto Río Tranquilo to Cochrane
19:00 Arrival at the accommodation in Cochrane

Tortel is a commune in southern Chile, located in Capitán Prat Province in the southern part of the Aysén Region. It is known for its distinctive wooden walkways, which serve as its streets. The town stands out for its pristine natural surroundings and its proximity to the mouth of the Baker River, the most powerful river in Chile by water flow.
08:00 Breakfast at the accommodation
09:00 Passenger pick-up at the accommodation
12:00 Arrival at Caleta Tortel
12:30 Lunch at a local restaurant in Caleta Tortel
15:00 Visit to the Isla de los Muertos Historic Monument
17:30 Return to Cochrane
20:30 Arrival at the accommodation

This day is dedicated to a visit to Patagonia National Park, part of the Route of Parks of Patagonia. Covering an area of 304,527 hectares, the park’s diverse ecosystems provide an exceptional habitat for wildlife. Approximately 10% of Chile’s remaining huemul population lives within the park, along with pumas, viscachas, rheas, and foxes.
08:00 Breakfast at the accommodation
09:00 Passenger pick-up at the accommodation
09:30 Arrival at Patagonia National Park
12:00 Departure from Patagonia National Park
15:00 Lunch in Puerto Guadal
16:00 Transfer from Puerto Guadal to Chile Chico
19:00 Arrival at the accommodation in Chile Chico

Today, we will have the opportunity to learn about the history of Chile Chico. We will visit the local museum and enjoy a city tour, ending at Las Banderas Viewpoint, an iconic landmark of the commune.
The day will conclude with a ferry crossing of General Carrera Lake from Chile Chico to Puerto Ibáñez, followed by the return to Coyhaique.
09:00 Breakfast at the accommodation in Chile Chico
10:30 Passenger pick-up at the accommodation
11:00 Visit to the Chile Chico Local Museum
14:00 Lunch at a local restaurant in Chile Chico
17:00 Transfer to the ferry for the Chile Chico–Puerto Ibáñez crossing
19:00 Arrival in Puerto Ibáñez
20:30 Arrival in Coyhaique

Hoping that each of the previous destinations has fulfilled the passengers’ expectations, we will begin the final journey, transferring passengers to Balmaceda Airport.
08:00 Pick up from accommodation
08:30 Transfer Coyhaique / Balmaceda Airport
10:00 Estimated arrival at the airport

End of our services.

Map de Explore the Carretera Austral – 10 days / 9 nights

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Faq

The best time to visit Coyhaique and the Carretera Austral is during spring and summer (November through March), when the weather is warmer, the roads are accessible, and you can enjoy outdoor activities such as hiking, fishing, and boating. Fall (April–May) is also a good time to enjoy the colors of the forests, but some roads may begin to close due to rain. In winter, temperatures can be cold, and some roads or activities may be limited by snow.

The most common way to get to Coyhaique is by plane from Santiago or Punta Arenas to Balmaceda Airport. From there, you can take private transportation or a guided tour to explore the Carretera Austral. The road is paved in some sections, but in many areas it is unpaved and can be more challenging, so it’s recommended to travel with an experienced guide or in a 4x4 vehicle during the tour.

Tours to Coyhaique and the Carretera Austral typically include outdoor activities such as hiking in national parks, boating on lakes and rivers, fly-fishing, glacier tours, kayaking, and exploring the beautiful landscapes of the Carretera Austral. They also include stops in picturesque towns such as Puerto Río Tranquilo and Cerro Castillo, where you can enjoy the local culture and regional cuisine.

Advanced experience is not required, as most tours include moderate hiking trails suitable for people with no prior experience. However, some longer or more challenging hikes, such as those in Queulat National Park or to Cerro Castillo, may require a good level of physical fitness. Local guides usually tailor the activities to the participants’ skill levels, so there are options for all levels.

The climate in the region is cold and rainy, with significant variability, even during the summer. Temperatures typically range from 5°C to 20°C in the summer, but rain and strong winds are common. In the winter, temperatures can drop considerably, especially at higher elevations. It is important to be prepared for sudden changes in the weather, so it is recommended that you bring waterproof clothing and clothing suitable for cold weather, regardless of the season.

Yes, traveling along the Carretera Austral is generally safe, but due to the area’s geography and climate, some routes can be challenging, especially in winter or during heavy rains. It’s advisable to travel with a local guide or on an organized tour, as some sections of the road are remote and lack frequent services. In addition, it’s important to keep in mind that some sections of the route are unpaved, so a suitable vehicle is recommended, especially if you’re traveling on your own.

Book in advance, especially during the high season (November through March), as the region can get very crowded. Be prepared for unpredictable weather by packing appropriate clothing for all conditions (rain gear, thermal clothing, and hiking boots). If you’re traveling on your own, make sure your vehicle is in good condition and carry enough gas, as gas stations may be scarce in some areas. Also, keep in mind that medical services are limited in the most remote areas, so it’s advisable to bring a first-aid kit and be prepared for any eventuality.

First, select a date from the calendar on the right and choose your tour options. Click "Book," then fill out your personal and booking information. Once we receive your information, we will process your reservation by requesting payment via secure credit card transaction and send you your vouchers and final instructions.

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From USD $2.185

Per passenger. On double based

1 Date

2 Number of Passengers

Adults