Aysen & Carretera Austral Tours

Aysen & Carretera Austral Tours

Chile Tours · Tailored experiences

Aysen & Carretera Austral Custom Tours

Tucked between the vast landscapes of Northern Patagonia and the immense Southern Ice Fields lies Aysén, one of Chile’s most remote and untouched regions. Reached through the legendary Carretera Austral, this wild corner of Patagonia feels like a world apart—home to turquoise rivers, hanging glaciers, ancient temperate rainforests, and fjords that disappear into the horizon.

Getting here is part of the adventure. Whether you travel by road, boat, or trail, every stretch of the Carretera Austral reveals something extraordinary: towering peaks dusted with snow, deep glacial lakes, quiet forests, and small Patagonian towns where life moves at a slower rhythm and nature is always close.

Aysén invites travelers to explore in their own way—casting a line in crystal-clear rivers, kayaking through the surreal marble caves of General Carrera Lake, hiking remote trails, or simply taking in the silence and scale of Patagonia’s wild landscapes. It’s a place for those who seek authenticity, open spaces, and the thrill of discovering somewhere still largely untouched. We are locals. We are Patagonia travel experts. Let us help you experience one of South America’s last true frontiers.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Aysén is a remote region in Chilean Patagonia, located in southern Chile between the Lake District and the Magallanes region. The Carretera Austral (Route 7) is a scenic highway that runs for more than 1,200 km (750 miles), connecting remote towns, national parks, glaciers, rivers, and fjords across this wild part of Patagonia.

The journey typically begins in Puerto Montt or Puerto Varas in southern Chile. From there, travelers follow the start of Route 7 (the Carretera Austral) using a combination of scenic drives and ferries that gradually lead deep into Chilean Patagonia.

Another common option is to fly to Balmaceda Airport, located near Coyhaique, the main city of the Aysén region, and begin exploring the central section of the Carretera Austral from there.

It’s also possible to start the route from Argentina. Many travelers reach the border town of Los Antiguos in Argentine Patagonia and cross into Chile at Chile Chico via the Paso Jeinimeni border crossing. From Chile Chico, the journey continues along the shores of General Carrera Lake, eventually connecting with the Carretera Austral—one of the most scenic sections of the entire route.

The best time to visit is during Patagonia’s summer months, from November to March. During this period the weather is milder, daylight hours are long, and most roads, ferries, and lodges operate regularly. Spring (October–November) and early autumn (March–April) can also be beautiful with fewer visitors.

The Carretera Austral is famous for being one of the most scenic road trips in South America. Travelers come for its dramatic landscapes, including hanging glaciers, turquoise rivers, temperate rainforests, fjords, and remote Patagonian villages. The route is also known for its adventurous spirit and limited infrastructure, which adds to its sense of exploration.

Most travelers spend 7 to 10 days exploring the highlights of the Carretera Austral. However, if you want to travel the entire route from Puerto Montt to Villa O’Higgins, plan for 10 to 14 days to fully enjoy the scenery, national parks, and small towns along the way.

Having a rental car or 4x4 vehicle is the most flexible way to explore the Carretera Austral. However, it’s also possible to travel by bus, organized tours, cycling, or hitchhiking, which is relatively common among adventurous backpackers.

Some of the most popular stops include:

  • Pumalín Douglas Tompkins National Park

  • Queulat National Park and the famous Hanging Glacier

  • Cerro Castillo National Park

  • Marble Caves on General Carrera Lake

  • Coyhaique, the region’s main hub

  • Villa O’Higgins, the southern end of the highway

Aysén is a paradise for nature lovers and adventure travelers. Popular activities include:

  • Hiking and trekking in national parks

  • Fly fishing in pristine rivers

  • Kayaking in fjords and glacial lakes

  • Wildlife watching

  • Scenic road trips and photography

The region is also ideal for travelers looking to experience remote Patagonia and untouched nature.

Parts of the Carretera Austral are paved, but many sections are still gravel roads. Driving conditions are generally good, but travelers should drive carefully and plan for slower travel times, especially during rain.

Weather in Patagonia can be unpredictable, so it’s best to pack:

  • Waterproof jacket and layers

  • Warm clothing

  • Comfortable hiking shoes

  • Sunglasses and sunscreen

  • Insect repellent

  • A reusable water bottle

Being prepared for rain, wind, and sudden weather changes is essential.

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Aysen & Carretera Austral Highlights

Wondering what to do in Aysén and the Carretera Austral? This remote region in Chilean Patagonia is one of South America’s last great wilderness areas, offering untouched landscapes and a true sense of adventure. The Carretera Austral is a legendary scenic route that winds through forests, fjords, rivers, and glaciers.

Along the way, travelers can discover marble caves on General Carrera Lake, hike in pristine national parks, and visit small, off-the-beaten-path villages. Aysén is perfect for those looking to disconnect and explore nature in its purest form, far from the crowds. Check Aysen & Carretera Austral best attractions:

  • Chiloé Island – Known for palafito houses, fishing traditions, mythology, and warm island culture. Its wooden churches are UNESCO masterpieces blending Indigenous and European influences.

  • Carretera Austral – One of the world’s most scenic road trips, winding through glaciers, rivers, fjords, and untouched Patagonian wilderness. A paradise for slow travel and nature lovers.

  • Pumalín National Park – A vast conservation area of temperate rainforest, volcanoes, waterfalls, and pristine wildlife. One of the greatest rewilding projects in the world.

  • Queulat National Park – Home to dense evergreen forests and the famous Hanging Glacier suspended dramatically between mountain walls. A top spot for short hikes and scenic viewing platforms.

  • Puyuhuapi – A quiet fjordside village known for its hot springs and relaxed atmosphere. It serves as the gateway to Queulat National Park.

  • Cerro Castillo National Park – A jagged mountain massif with turquoise lagoons and some of Patagonia’s best new trekking trails. Its dramatic scenery rivals the famous Torres del Paine.

  • Marble Caves (Capillas de Mármol) – Luminous mineral formations carved into the shores of General Carrera Lake. Best explored by kayak or boat on the lake’s striking turquoise waters.

  • Puerto Río Tranquilo – A small adventure hub providing access to the Marble Caves and nearby glaciers. Perfect for excursions into remote Patagonian landscapes.

  • General Carrera Lake – Chile’s largest lake, shared with Argentina, known for its deep blue and turquoise tones. A central highlight of the region’s scenery.

  • San Rafael Lagoon & Glacier – A breathtaking navigation among floating icebergs leading to a massive tidewater glacier. One of Patagonia’s most impressive ice fronts.

  • Baker River – Famous for its powerful turquoise waters and world-class rapids. Ideal for rafting, kayaking, fly-fishing, and photography.

  • Caleta Tortel – A unique coastal village built entirely on wooden walkways. Fjords, forests, and the sea meet in one of Patagonia’s most atmospheric settlements.

Category: Chile Tours
Region:

Chile

What our travelers say

R

Rosa Puech

Google review

Google
★ ★ ★ ★ ★

A fabulous company to travel with: the sequencing of the trip, the guides proposed, the suggestions for the area. We highly recommend this travel agency for Patagonia. Fernando is top+top.

J

Joanna Green

Google review

Google
★ ★ ★ ★ ★

Maria and her team looked after us so well. I would recommend them in a flash. It was 20 years since I had been to El Calafate so I didn't know what to expect. It had changed so much! Maria was helpful, honest, well priced and a pleasure to work with. You could not ask for more. We had the best time thanks to Maria and her organisation. Fernando was our driver to a tour and a delight. Punctual, knowledgeable and all round wonderful. Gracias!!

Franco Peverelli

Google review

Google
★ ★ ★ ★ ★

La agencia demostró ser sumamente profesional. Durante el largo traslado, en un vehículo impecablemente limpio y en perfecto estado, el Sr. Fernando estuvo muy atento para garantizar que todo transcurriera sin contratiempos. Recomiendo ampliamente esta agencia para organizar sus viajes a Sudamérica. ¡Solo 5 estrellas porque no puedo dar más! En fin, ¡le doy un pulgar hacia arriba! 👍

Simon Phillips

Google review

Google
★ ★ ★ ★ ★

Southwind from the planning stages to delivery of the trip in Patagonia were faultless and I really love the little reminders sent for each separate stage and really appreciated the added bits around passport checking and border crossing paperwork. The whole team was super friendly, and for our trip with Fernando he was great company and knew where to stop for refreshments and a view! We would strongly recommend southwind, they go the extra mile on service and have a permanent smile. Thank you guys you were faultless

Esteban Riminucci

Google review

Google
★ ★ ★ ★ ★

Exelente asesoramiento de Maria Laura , muy buen servicio y cordialidad de los coordinadores , muy recomendables !!

P

Paulo Fanti

Google review

Google
★ ★ ★ ★ ★

Muy buena la atención tanto por WhatsApp como en las excursiones. Puntuales en las búsquedas en el hotel... De las excursiones que llevo hechas (todas excelentes) la atención, la coordinación y el conocimiento de los guías es muy bueno. Un excelente servicio, lo recomiendo!

A

Ana Zugarramurdi

Google review

Google
★ ★ ★ ★ ★

Amazing company and experience. We did the Todo Glaciares boat tour in the Premium Lounge and it was beyond expectations! Great staff, great cruise and food! Highly recommended!

M

Martin Bride

Google review

Google
★ ★ ★ ★

Gerardo drove us on a bespoke 8- day trip from Salta up into the wilderness where the 🦩 come to get pink. We had a great time in this spectacular region.

S

Sammer

Google review

Google
★ ★ ★ ★ ★

I had a great experience with Southwind. They organized a tour for us to visit Monte Leon from El Calafate. Fernando & Laura organized the logistics and were very helpful. Martin accompanied us on the tour and doubled up as driver and tour guide, which was beyond our expectations. We saw a lot of wildlife en route, as well as in the park with Martin’s help. I highly recommend Southwind for your Patagonia experience.

Google

Average rating

4.9 ★

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