Explore Aysen and the Carretera Austral by hiking through the breathtaking landscapes of Patagonia Park, ice trekking on the Exploradores Glacier, taking a boat trip to the otherworldly marble caves at Puerto Rio Tranquilo, and wandering the wooden streets and stilt houses of Caleta Tortel. For a truly unforgettable experience, soar over the glaciers of San Rafael National Park on a helicopter ride – moments that capture the wild and untamed essence of this extraordinary region.
Aysen and Carretera Austral
Heading south along the Carretera Austral, the landscapes start to open out into the more dramatic, mountainous scenery of Aysen
Aysen and Carretera Austral
Until the 1970s the only way to access this part of Chile was from the Pacific via a higgledy network of rivers. This section of the Carretera Austral was completed in 2003 and is the only route through the region, much of it is still unpaved. The lack of infrastructure means that it takes time to explore Aysen but with the scenery along the way being overwhelmingly beautiful, there is never a dull moment. The extra effort required to access Aysen also means that, despite there being so much on offer, the area is often overlooked by visitors so this part of Patagonia still feels truly wild and remote.
At the heart of any visit to Aysen is the mesmerising deep turquoise glacial lake, Lago General Carrera. Covering 700 square miles and back-dropped by snow-capped peaks, days can be spent exploring the surrounding forests, mighty rivers and glaciers as well as kayaking on the lake itself. A must is a boat trip to the magnificent marble caves overhanging the lake with their sculpted pillars, vaulted ceilings and ornate, textured walls.
Well worth a side trip if you are in the area is Patagonia Park, one of the most recent National Parks to be designated in Patagonia and another conservation project of the late Douglas Tompkins. This is a superb park for hiking with a seemingly endless network of scenic trails where you will rarely meet another soul. It is also home to a variety of wildlife including guanacos, mountain vizcachas and the elusive pumas and red foxes.
Also worth a side trip if you have an extra day or two, and truly off the beaten track, is Tortel, an enchanting settlement on the coast made up of wooden boardwalks and Chilota stilt houses and surrounded by fjords, islands and estuaries. Here is also the place where, along with some other rivers, Chile’s most powerful River, the River Baker, enters into the Pacific. Historically the Kawesquar indigenous people occupied this area and their culture and traditions are still very much felt.
For those with time on their hands, driving the 770 mile length of the Carretera Austral from Puerto Montt to Villa O’Higgins is the ultimate intrepid road trip. As well as exploring by road, this is a superb place for outdoor activities including kayaking, hiking, mountain biking, glacier treks, fly fishing and rafting. The Patagoina Jet jet boat ride to Los Leones glacier and a helicopter ride over the glaciers in San Rafael National Park are also high adrenaline treats.
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- Stargazing in the crystal-clear night skies
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Best Time To Visit Aysen and Carretera Austral
The warmer, drier months are classically November through to March but the shoulder months of October and April/May can also be lovely times to visit Aysen – the temperatures might not be as warm but you can still get some fine weather and there are even fewer tourists. The glorious array of autumn colours makes April a particularly nice month.
Best Time To Visit Aysen and Carretera Austral
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Our Favourite Camps & Lodges
Explora Patagonia Park
Nestled in the rugged landscapes of Patagonia, Explora Patagonia National Park offers a captivating blend of luxury and adventure. This remote lodge places you at the heart of one of the world’s most dramatic natural reserves, providing unmatched access to the untouched beauty of Chile’s wilderness.
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El Mirador de Guadal
Situated along the stunning shores of Lake General Carrera in Chilean Patagonia, El Mirador de Guadal offers a secluded escape into the heart of nature. This boutique lodge combines rustic charm with comfort, allowing guests to immerse themselves in the breathtaking surroundings of Patagonia’s lake district
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Mallin Colorado
Tucked away in the majestic landscape of Chilean Patagonia, Mallín Colorado Ecolodge offers an immersive escape into one of the world’s most stunning natural environments.
Learn MoreAysen and Carretera Austral NEED TO KNOW
When is the best time to visit Aysen and Carretera Austral Chile?
The warmer, drier months are classically November through to March but the shoulder months of October and April/May can also be lovely times to visit the lake region – the temperatures might not be as warm but you can still get some fine weather and there are far fewer tourists. The glorious array of autumn colours over the whole region makes April a particularly nice month to travel to the Lakes.
To find out more please visit:https://www.naturalhighsafaris.com/chile__trashed/aysen-and-carretera-austral-2/#best-time-to-visit
What vaccinations do I need to visit Chile?
To find out the latest about which vaccinations you need to visit Chile please visit:https://www.fitfortravel.nhs.uk/destinations/south-america-antarctica/chile
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A print anthology of safari and wilderness travel with over 220 pages of travel inspiration.