Full Carretera Austral is a travel itinerary that follows one of the most spectacular scenic routes in the world: Chile’s legendary Route 7, also known as the Carretera Austral (Southern Highway). This extraordinary road winds through stunning mountain landscapes crowned with eternal snow, crystal-clear rivers, turquoise lakes, and lush temperate rainforests. Along the way, travelers can explore charming villages, pristine national parks, and hidden natural wonders that make Patagonia such a unique destination. Full Carretera Austral invites you to experience the wild beauty of southern Chile while enjoying a wide range of outdoor activities such as hiking, kayaking, and wildlife watching. An unforgettable journey through pure nature and breathtaking scenery, are you ready to discover it?
Tour the famous Carretera Austral and its amazing landscapes
Navigate the General Carrera Lake
Visit the beatifull village of Caleta Tortel
Sail to the wonderful shrine of Nature Marble Chapels
Visit the Queulat National Park
Enjoy wonderful views of Pumalin Park and Futaleufú Town
Visit Coyhaique City
On the first day of our Full Carretera Austral itinerary, you’ll travel from Balmaceda Airport to the charming border town of Chile Chico. The journey combines a scenic land transfer with a ferry crossing on the stunning General Carrera Lake. Along the way, you’ll pass through beautiful Patagonian landscapes covered by lenga, coigüe, and ñire forests, marking the entrance to Cerro Castillo National Reserve. Admire the impressive Cerro Castillo peak (2,675 m) and the picturesque Ibáñez River valley as you travel. In the afternoon, you’ll reach Puerto Ingeniero Ibáñez, where you’ll embark on a ferry ride across the turquoise waters of General Carrera Lake, arriving in Chile Chico surrounded by breathtaking mountain scenery.
After breakfast, you’ll begin your journey along the southern shore of the stunning General Carrera Lake. The route passes through the impressive Paso de las Llaves, offering breathtaking views of the Northern Ice Field and the majestic Mount San Valentín, the highest peak in Patagonia. Continuing south, you’ll stop at the spectacular confluence of the turquoise Baker and Neff Rivers, a natural wonder where both currents merge in a vivid display of color and power. Later, the trip leads to the charming town of Puerto Bertrand, nestled among mountains and crystal-clear waters, an ideal place to relax and soak in the beauty of this remote Patagonian landscape.
On the third day of our Full Carretera Austral itinerary, after breakfast, you’ll travel to Caleta Tortel, a truly unique and picturesque town. Located near the mouth of the Baker River, between Cochrane and Villa O’Higgins, this charming coastal village was isolated until a gravel road connected it in 2004. Nestled between dense forests and the sea, Caleta Tortel is entirely built from cypress wood, typical of the region. The town has no streets or cars, its colorful houses are linked by a network of wooden walkways that create a magical, peaceful atmosphere. Walking along these paths offers a wonderful opportunity to admire the beauty, architecture, and serenity of one of Patagonia’s most fascinating hidden gems.
After breakfast, you’ll spend the day exploring the enchanting town of Caleta Tortel, wandering along its wooden walkways that wind between colorful houses, lush forests, and views of the fjords. This peaceful setting invites you to slow down and take in the charm of everyday life in this remote Patagonian village. For those seeking a deeper adventure, an optional navigation along the Baker River can be arranged to visit Isla de los Muertos, a mysterious island shrouded in legends and tragic stories about the area’s first settlers. Surrounded by pristine nature and silence, this excursion combines history, mystery, and stunning landscapes, an unforgettable experience that reveals another fascinating side of Patagonia’s wild beauty.
Today, you’ll begin your journey toward Puerto Guadal, following one of the most scenic sections of the Carretera Austral. Along the way, you’ll stop in the Los Ñadis sector to visit a charming wooden chapel built by the renowned Father Antonio Ronchi, a beloved missionary who left a lasting legacy in the region. Continuing your trip, the road winds through valleys and forests until reaching Puerto Guadal, a peaceful town located on the shores of the dazzling turquoise waters of General Carrera Lake. Shared with Argentina, where it’s known as Lake Buenos Aires, this is the largest lake in Chile and the second largest in South America, covering 978 km². Its breathtaking beauty perfectly reflects the essence of Patagonia.
Today, you will depart from Puerto Guadal and follow the scenic southern shore of General Carrera Lake toward Puerto Río Tranquilo. The drive takes you through lush Patagonian forests, rolling hills, and views of turquoise waters framed by snow-capped mountains. Upon arrival in Puerto Río Tranquilo, you’ll embark on a boat excursion to the famous Marble Caves, a natural wonder formed by centuries of erosion. The swirling patterns and polished limestone reflect the turquoise waters of the lake, creating mesmerizing caves, tunnels, and columns. This magical navigation offers perfect photo opportunities and a chance to marvel at one of Patagonia’s most iconic natural attractions. After the tour, you’ll settle in Puerto Río Tranquilo for the night.
On this day, you will begin your journey north along the Carretera Austral from Puerto Río Tranquilo to Coyhaique. The route winds through dramatic landscapes of dense forests, rivers, and Patagonian valleys, offering glimpses of local wildlife and remote settlements. You’ll cross scenic hanging bridges over rivers such as the Palena and Rosselot, providing perfect viewpoints for photography and short stops. Along the way, enjoy panoramic views of mountains, lakes, and fjords that define southern Chile’s rugged beauty. The journey also allows for optional short hikes or photo stops to immerse yourself in the pristine surroundings. By late afternoon, you will arrive in Coyhaique, the charming capital of Chilean Patagonia, where your day concludes surrounded by breathtaking scenery.
On day eight of our Full Carretera Austral itinerary, you’ll embark on a full-day drive to La Junta along the scenic Carretera Austral. The journey includes a visit to Queulat National Park, where you can admire the stunning Hanging Glacier, a spectacular natural wonder cascading over lush forests. In the afternoon, the route leads to the Puyuhuapi Fjord, a dramatic inlet of the Pacific Ocean cutting deep into the Patagonian Andes. You’ll then reach the charming village of Puerto Puyuhuapi, known for its colorful wooden houses and gardens, reflecting the area’s German colonial heritage. By dusk, you’ll arrive in La Junta, a peaceful town named after the confluence of the Palena and Rosselot rivers, surrounded by breathtaking landscapes.
Today, you will continue your journey along the legendary Carretera Austral, traveling north from La Junta toward the adventure town of Futaleufú. The route takes you through some of Patagonia’s most dramatic landscapes, including dense forests, rushing rivers, and rugged mountains. Along the way, you’ll cross the impressive hanging bridges over the Rosselot and Palena Rivers, marveling at the depth and power of the waters below. You’ll also pass by the breathtaking Lake Yelcho, a glacial lake with emerald-green waters surrounded by snow-capped peaks and lush forests. The scenic drive continues through remote valleys and winding roads, offering glimpses of local wildlife and traditional settlements, before arriving in Futaleufú, famous for its thrilling whitewater river adventures.
Today, you will have a free morning to enjoy an optional excursion: an exhilarating rafting adventure on the world-famous Futaleufú River (not included, subject to weather conditions). The “Bridge to Bridge” section spans approximately 8 km between the Zapata and Futaleufú bridges, offering a thrilling combination of Class III, IV, and IV+ rapids. This stretch is one of the most popular on the river, known for its powerful flow and spectacular whitewater, making it an unforgettable adventure even for first-time rafters. You’ll navigate rapids with names like “Suspension Bridge,” “Magic Carpet,” “Pillows,” and “Mundaca,” among others. The full experience lasts around four hours, providing a perfect mix of adrenaline, natural beauty, and Patagonian excitement.
On the tenth day of the Full Carretera Austral itinerary, you will depart from Futaleufú and begin your scenic journey northbound toward Chaitén, passing through the spectacular Pumalín Park, a Nature Sanctuary spanning 289,562 hectares. This protected area is a haven for biodiversity, with 66% of its surface covered by native forests, including ancient Larch trees, one of which exceeds 3,600 years, the second oldest tree species in the world. Along the route, you will pass through the charming village of El Amarillo and follow the turquoise Río Amarillo, offering stunning views of its rushing waters. After exploring the park’s trails, rivers, and waterfalls, the drive continues to Chaitén, a town framed by volcanic landscapes and Patagonia’s rugged beauty.
Today you will depart from Chaitén and travel to the island of Chiloé by catamaran. The voyage offers breathtaking views of Patagonia’s fjords, pristine forests, and scattered islands along the coast. During the crossing, keep an eye out for dolphins, sea lions, and seabirds that inhabit these waters. Upon arrival on Chiloé, you’ll be welcomed by the island’s distinctive charm, with its colorful stilted houses, traditional fishing villages, and unique cultural heritage influenced by indigenous and Spanish traditions. This scenic journey by sea is not only a transfer but also an introduction to the natural beauty and rich history that awaits on Chiloé Island.
Today is dedicated to discovering the natural and cultural wonders of Chiloé. You will explore Chiloé National Park, home to lush forests, rugged coastline, and abundant wildlife, including native birds and marine fauna. The journey continues to Tepehueico Park, a hidden gem offering peaceful trails, scenic viewpoints, and beautiful lakes perfect for photography or quiet reflection. Here, you may also spot the elusive Pudú, the world’s smallest deer, adding a magical wildlife encounter to your day. Along the way, you will visit charming villages where wooden churches, declared UNESCO World Heritage Sites, showcase the island’s unique architecture. This day blends biodiversity, cultural heritage, and outdoor adventure, making it an unforgettable Chiloé experience.
Todoay you will travel from Chiloé to Puerto Montt, making stops at several picturesque villages along the island’s route. These small towns reveal the island’s traditional way of life, with colorful stilted houses, artisanal markets, and local crafts. You will visit fishing villages where locals carry on centuries-old practices, and enjoy scenic viewpoints over rolling hills, fjords, and beaches. This journey provides an opportunity to immerse yourself in the culture, taste regional cuisine, and learn about Chiloé’s legends and traditions. As you reach Puerto Montt in the afternoon, the contrast between the island’s tranquil villages and the city’s lively port will mark the perfect end to a day of exploration.
We have reached the end of this spectacular journey along the legendary Carretera Austral. After breakfast, you will be transferred to Puerto Montt Airport to continue your onward journey. Depending on your flight schedule, you may have time to explore the city’s main attractions, such as Angelmó Market, known for its seafood, crafts, and vibrant atmosphere. Puerto Montt is the gateway to southern Chile and Patagonia, offering panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean and surrounding volcanoes. The transfer ensures a comfortable and scenic ride, with glimpses of lakes, hills, and coastal landscapes along the way. This day serves as a gentle conclusion to your Chiloé adventure, preparing you for your next destination with memories of the island’s unique charm and natural beauty.
Transportation throughout the trip
Accommodation
Expert local guides
Full support from your Travel Agent before, during, and after the trip
International or domestic flights
National Park Tickets
Personal expenses and optional activities
To start this journey, travelers will need to fly into Balmaceda (BBA), located just outside Balmaceda City. This airport receives domestic flights from and international connections via Santiago de Chile (SCL).
Arrival Flight: Traveler flies from origin city to Santiago de Chile (SCL), then connects with a domestic flight to Balmaceda (BBA).
Departure Flight: At the end of the itinerary, travelers will take a domestic flight from Puerto Montt El Tepual Airport (PMC) back to Santiago de Chile (SCL) for onward international connections.
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