Discover Carretera Austral

This transfer will take approximately 1.5 hours.

Overview:

This 5 day private drive will have you winding down the spine of Chile, beside rushing rivers and snow-peaked mountains, past glaciers and fjords and through the Patagonian steppe. It is the Carretera Austral, or Austral Highway in a snapshot. It’s an iconic drive that no visitor to the country should pass up: one that takes in 1240km of the most spectacular scenery Chile has to offer. 

Chile has always been at the mercy of its geography: long, thin and with a coastline shattered by intricate archipelagos and fjords. But when construction of the Carretera Austral began in 1976, it opened up the country, connecting the most remote villages and farthest-flung beauty spots. While the road - also known as Ruta 7 - has been a boon for locals, it’s also created the perfect trip for adventurous travellers. And an adventurous spirit is a must: this is wild country still, with parts of the road not yet paved, and few fellow travellers.

In this 5 day package, you will be able to experience this majestic and stunning scenery as you discover the southern end and head from Puerto Ibanez to Coyhaique. You will have a driver/guide for the duration of this itinerary. 

Included:

- 4 nights accommodation
- Daily breakfast and other meals as indicated
- Private transfers and excursions with English speaking guide
- Snacks on board during Transfers
- Ferry on Lago General Carrera
- Entrance fees to National Parks
- Marble caves excursion

Day 1: Balmaceda Airport to Puerto Ibanez

Upon arrival at the Balmaceda Airport a transfer will be waiting to take us to Puerto Ibáñez and commence our travels appreciating the beautiful scenery and local flora of the region. Once there we will have time to explore our surroundings and enjoy a simple but delicious meal. Overnight in Puerto Ibáñez.

Located at the end of the world between mountains, fjords and rivers, Cabañas Borde Lago is in a privileged location, steps away from General Carrera Lake, and surrounded by one of the most moving landscapes of Chilean Patagonia.  It is located on the shore of Lake General Carrera closest from the access point to the Austral highway.  

A garden and an area for BBQ are available in this holiday home with a variety of room types including family bungalow and a deluxe suite all with private bathrooms. 

PUERTO IBÁÑEZ – CERRO CASTILLO NATIONAL PARK – CHILE CHICO

After breakfast we will adventure out to explore the magnificent Cerro Castillo National Park boasting over 100,000 hectares. This national reserve arguably offers the best hiking in the whole of Aysen. Some of the largest mountains in the Patagonian Andes can be found here, including a rather unique mountain shaped like a castle of stone and ice. This place is sure to take our breath away with its beautiful landscapes. In addition, it is home to a variety of fauna such as skunks, cougars and the huemul (southern Andean deer). All of these represent the essence of the Chilean Patagonia. 

Afterwards we will return to town to board a ferry and navigate the General Carrera Lake known for its intense turquoise waters comprised of several distant glaciers. The lake is of glacial origin and is surrounded by the Andes mountain range. The lake drains to the Pacific Ocean on the west through the Baker River. It is one of the most picturesque bodies of water in Patagonia. By late afternoon we will disembark in the town of Chile Chico, located only 6 km west of the border with Argentina. 

Featuring a restaurant and a hot tub, Hostería de la Patagonia is located in Chili Chico. Free WiFi access is available at this hotel. Guests can enjoy a breakfast of homemade breads and jams each morning.

Rooms here will provide you with a patio and a garden view. The private bathrooms include free toiletries and towels. Bed linens are also provided.

At Hostería de la Patagonia you will find a 24-hour front desk and a garden. A shared lounge, an ironing service and a laundry are also all available for guests to use. 

While staying at Hostería de la Patagonia be sure to check out the Jeinimeni National Reserve, which offers fishing, trekking, and kayaking. Cueva de las Manos circuit which features protected ancient caves with hand drawings.

CHILE CHICO – PATAGONIA NATIONAL PARK – PUERTO GUADAL

Today we will leave Chile Chico and travel to reach the southern part of the Patagonia National Park (formerly known as Lago Cochrane National Reserve). Once there we will have the opportunity to connect with typical Patagonian nature as we hike two trails boasting a variety of vegetation.

Additionally, we will have the option to navigate the icy waters of the Cochrane River (not included). At a certain moment during our excursion we will make a stop to have a well-deserved meal. To wrap up this wonderful day we will return to the hotel. 

Lodge El Mirador De Guadal offers a stunning location on General Carrera Lakeshore, nestled against a panoramic Patagonian Mountain backdrop. It offers 300 m of private beach, 10 exclusive rooms, and adventure sports.

Guests at Lodge El Mirador De Guadal can enjoy a guided nature trail or horseback ride. They can also fish on the lake or kayak and raft in the nearby rivers. Puerto Guadel is 1.2 mi away, and offers fun entertainment options.

All of the 6 superior and standard rooms at Lodge El Mirador De Guadal have comfortable outback interiors, while the 2 family suites are equipped with 2 bathrooms, 2 bedrooms and a comfortable living room. Private balconies feature lounge chairs and mountain and lake views.

The restaurant at Lodge El Mirador De Guadal serves fine Patagonian cuisine such as roasted lamb, and features an extensive wine list. A continental breakfast with croissants, juices and jams is available.

PUERTO GUADAL – PUERTO RÍO TRANQUILO – COYHAIQUE

Our journey today will take us north to visit two of Mother Nature’s most spectacular highlights of the Carretera Austral. Our first stop will be at the confluence of the Neff and Baker rivers . La Confluencia marks the spot where the electric blue waters of the mighty River Baker collide with the milkier, glacial-fed River Neff. The roaring power of the river confluence is a mesmerising sight, located just 12 kilometres south from Puerto Bertrand. 

We will then continue to the town of Puerto Río Tranquilo to explore the famous Marble Caves, an extraordinary rock formation carved throughout centuries by wind and water. One of the most isolated natural treasures of the world, the Marble Caves (Capillas de Mármol) are a series of sculpted caves in the General Carrera Lake in the heart of Patagonia. The Cathedral, the Chapel and the Cave are the three formations that make up this natural spectacle that will certainly leave you breathless. Keep your eyes wide open to admire the black and white columns reflected on the blue waters. A true dream for photography lovers.  

After our navigation we will return to the town to have lunch at a local restaurant. In the afternoon we will depart to Coyhaique, which is the capital of the Aysén Region. 

Patagonia is a luxurious mountain lodge set against the panoramic backdrop of the snow-capped Andes. It offers 4 exclusive suites with free Wi-Fi and balconies with views of Coyhaique Valley.

Guests at Patagonia House can enjoy a scenic nature trail through Coyhaique´s native beech forests. They can also ski, fish, or rent a 4x4 truck and explore the surrounding forests and glaciers.

Suites at Patagonia Lodge are decorated with tasteful wooden floors and matching autumn décor. All have heating, and some have living rooms and spacious decked balconies. Some rooms have a TV with streaming services.

A Buffet breakfast with freshly-ground coffee, orange juice and cakes is served. The Patagonia´s a la carte restaurant serves regional cuisine and South American wines.

COYHAIQUE – BALMACEDA AIRPORT

After breakfast we will be picked up from our hotel and transferred to the Balmaceda Airport. Along the way we will notice cooler weather and a change in scenery. This is the true entrance to the Pampa which can be viewed immediately after passing through airport customs. Although a small town, Balmaceda constitutes simplicity and beauty.