+56 (2) 2570 8620
1-800-906-8056
(11) 5219-4105
(11) 3958-7071
CONFIRMED DEPARTURES
Departures: OCT-NOV-DEC-JAN-FEB-MAR
Confirmed Spots
Departure:
OCT 04-NOV 21-DEC 03 Y 12-JAN 11 & 22-FEB 01,10 & 20-MAR 01
24/7 Support
-
Duration: 8 Days / 7 Nights
-
Group Size: Minimum 10 passengers
-
Starting Point: Santiago Airport
-
Excursions: Shared
-
Language: Spanish
-
Departures: October 9; November 21; December 3 & 12, 2026; January 11 & 22; February 1, 10 & 20; March 1, 2027
Description
The Southern Austral Highway offers a unique journey through the most pristine and untamed landscapes of Chilean Patagonia. This itinerary follows a legendary route where nature reveals itself through mighty rivers, towering mountains, ancient forests, and scenic roads of unparalleled beauty. Along the way, you will visit breathtaking natural wonders such as the Marble Chapels and Marble Caves, the majestic Exploradores Valley, and the unforgettable Caleta Tortel, a unique village built entirely on wooden walkways. Following the footsteps of the early settlers of the Baker River, the journey also includes iconic destinations such as Cochrane, Patagonia National Park, Chile Chico, and Coyhaique. An adventure designed for travelers seeking authentic connections, rich history, and the purest essence of southern Chile.Price includes
Round-trip airfare Santiago – Balmaceda – Santiago with SKY Airlines (confirmed seats).
Airport taxes
Destination transfers for the Southern Austral Highway itinerary.
Expert driver/tour guide accompanying the journey.
02 nights at Hotel Bacaris, Puerto Tranquilo, or similar.
02 nights at Hotel Wellmann, Cochrane, or similar.
01 night at Hostería La Posada del Río, Chile Chico, or similar.
02 nights at Hotel Diego de Almagro, Coyhaique, or similar.
Half board: Breakfasts, lunches, or dinners according to the itinerary (beverages not included).
Boat navigation to the Marble Chapels and Marble Caves.
Visit to Exploradores Valley up to the Lake Bayo area.
Guided visit to the Baker and Neff River confluence.
Guided visit of Caleta Tortel and its wooden walkways.
Visit to Patagonia National Park.
Tour of Chile Chico.
Coyhaique City Tour.
Hotel taxes.
Price does not include
Early check-in and late check-out.
Meals not specified in the itinerary.
Beverages during included lunches or dinners.
Optional excursions and activities not mentioned as included in the program.
Transfers not indicated in the itinerary or on days other than the program’s arrival or departure dates.
Surcharge for transfers provided during nighttime hours.
Entrance fees not mentioned as included in the itinerary.
Tips during the trip (guide, hotel staff, porters, restaurants, drivers, etc.).
Laundry, telephone calls, spa services.
Any extra service or expense not specifically indicated as included in the itinerary.
Excess baggage charges.
- Child (CHD) rate applies when the child shares a bed with their parents.
- Requests for either one double bed or twin beds are subject to availability and cannot be guaranteed.
- Check-in is from 3:00 PM and check-out is at 12:00 PM. These times may vary according to each hotel's policies.
- Accommodation, itineraries, transfers, and excursions may be modified due to weather conditions or force majeure.
- Passenger Responsibility: Each passenger is responsible for ensuring that all required travel documents are valid and up to date, including a valid ID card or passport for every traveler, even minors traveling with their family.
- Transfers and/or excursions are provided on a shared (regular) service basis.
- The transfer service includes one checked bag of up to 23 kg per person. Additional luggage is subject to a surcharge; please inquire for details.
- Rates are subject to fuel surcharge increases.
- Airline tickets are non-changeable and remain subject to any schedule or operational changes made by the airline.
- The airfare includes one checked bag of up to 23 kg.
FLIGHTS:
Flight schedule is subject to change by the airline.
Flight schedule is subject to change by the airline.
Itinerary
Departure from Santiago Airport to board a flight to Balmaceda. (It is recommended to arrive at the airport at least 3 hours before the scheduled departure time). Upon arrival in Balmaceda, the transfer south towards Puerto Tranquilo will begin. The route takes you along the southern section of the magnificent Austral Highway, covering 182 km, which corresponds to approximately 4 hours of travel, passing through breathtaking landscapes of high mountains, lakes, and lagoons. Highlights include Cerro Castillo and the village of the same name. Then, continuing along gravel roads, the route leads to Puerto Tranquilo, where each landscape welcomes you with the iconic postcards of the Aysén region. Be sure to capture as many photographs as possible. Arrival in Puerto Tranquilo. Accommodation. (Half board).
Breakfast. Excursion along the Exploradores Valley Route, connecting the Austral Highway with Exploradores Bay, departing from Puerto Tranquilo. The beauty of this route lies in the extraordinary diversity of landscapes found along the way. Within a few kilometers, it is possible to observe evergreen and deciduous Patagonian forests, lakes and lagoons, rivers and glaciers, vast mountains, and small valleys. Amid this stunning scenery, on the shores of Lake Bayo, enjoy local flavors from the Aysén region. Half board (breakfast – picnic lunch) and accommodation.
Optional: San Rafael Lagoon via Exploradores Bay. Check price with your travel agent.
Optional: San Rafael Lagoon via Exploradores Bay. Check price with your travel agent.
Breakfast. Boat excursion on General Carrera Lake to visit the Marble Chapels, Marble Cathedral, and Marble Caves Nature Sanctuary. We will follow the route along the magnificent Baker River and Patagonia National Park, witnessing its origin in Puerto Bertrand. Continue enjoying the Austral Highway scenery until reaching Cochrane. Accommodation. (Half board).
Breakfast. Departure towards Caleta Tortel, covering 128 km of gravel road, approximately 3 hours. The journey is a wonderful encounter between the guide’s stories, the geography, and the vegetation characteristic of southern Chile. Caleta Tortel is a unique village in the world, with no streets or sidewalks; its wooden walkways and stairs made from Guaitecas cypress wood lead visitors through every corner of this special place. Leisurely walk through the village and return to Cochrane. Accommodation. (Half board).
Breakfast. Departure from Cochrane towards Chile Chico. Visit Patagonia National Park, where we will walk along trails surrounded by immense valleys shaped by the Chacabuco River. This natural corridor has been traveled since ancestral times by nomadic peoples and is home to great biodiversity. A visit to the park museum is highly recommended to better understand our relationship with the land and its impact. Continue the journey along General Carrera Lake, visiting Puerto Guadal, the “Pearl of the Lake.” Upon arrival in Chile Chico, explore its streets and the Wind Viewpoint. Accommodation. (Half board).
Breakfast. Departure from Chile Chico towards Puerto Ingeniero Ibáñez, crossing General Carrera Lake by ferry towards Coyhaique, with stops along the route for photographs and a visit to the town of Puerto Ibáñez. Arrival at the hotel in Coyhaique, check-in, and accommodation. (Half board).
Breakfast. Historical and heritage city tour visiting the Simpson River viewpoint, Piedra del Indio, Plaza del Pionero, Shepherd Monument, and the Regional Museum. Lunch. Free afternoon for shopping. Accommodation. (Half board).
(The itinerary is subject to modifications due to weather conditions or force majeure.)
(The itinerary is subject to modifications due to weather conditions or force majeure.)
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.
BOOK ONLINE
From
USD $1.925
Per passenger. On double based
Why book with us?
- Best price without complications
- Best Quality Guaranteed
- Passenger service available 24/7
- Tours and Experiences selected by experts
- Industry leader
- 18 years of experience
Other tours of Coyhaique and Carretera Austral...
Tour San Rafael Glacier, Hotsprings and Park Aikén del Sur
From
USD $1.190
5 Days / 4 Nights
