Situation et moyens d'accès

The Carretera Austral, or Southern Highway, is a scenic route stretching approximately 1,240 kilometers through Southern Chile, beginning near Puerto Montt and ending in Villa O'Higgins. The nearest major hub is Coyhaique, a central point for accessing the route. The highway itself is not a single attraction but a journey through remote landscapes, including fjords, glaciers, and national parks.

• From Coyhaique: The town serves as a gateway to the northern and southern sections of the highway. Rental cars, buses, and guided tours are available for exploration.
• By Air: Fly into Balmaceda Airport (BBA), about 55 km from Coyhaique, with connections from Santiago. From there, arrange ground transport.
• By Road: The route is accessible by car, motorcycle, or bicycle, though some sections remain unpaved and require caution.

Meilleur moment pour visiter

The ideal period is during the Southern Hemisphere's summer (December to March), when weather conditions are milder, and roads are more passable. Spring (October-November) and autumn (April-May) offer fewer crowds but unpredictable weather. Winter (June-September) is challenging due to snow and limited services.

Durée de la visite

Exploring the Carretera Austral fully can take anywhere from one to two weeks, depending on stops and activities. Shorter trips focusing on key sections (e.g., Coyhaique to Puerto Río Tranquilo) may require 3-5 days.

Activités

• Scenic drives through untouched Patagonian landscapes.
• Hiking in national parks like Queulat or Cerro Castillo.
• Boat tours to the Marble Caves near Puerto Río Tranquilo.
• Wildlife spotting, including condors, huemuls, and pumas.
• Fly-fishing in remote rivers and lakes.

Installations

Services along the route are sparse, with limited fuel stations, accommodations, and dining options. Coyhaique offers the most amenities, including supermarkets, repair shops, and medical facilities. Smaller towns like Puyuhuapi or Villa Cerro Castillo have basic guesthouses and eateries.

• Restrooms: Available in towns and some roadside stops.
• Parking: Informal pull-offs for sightseeing; no formal parking lots.
• Accessibility: The route is not well-suited for travelers with mobility challenges due to rugged terrain.

Ce qu'il faut apporter

• Layered clothing for variable weather, including waterproof gear.
• Sturdy footwear for hiking and uneven terrain.
• Cash (Chilean pesos), as ATMs are scarce outside Coyhaique.
• Spare fuel cans, spare tires, and basic repair tools for self-drive trips.
• Camera and binoculars for capturing landscapes and wildlife.

Règles et règlements

• Respect private property and designated trails in national parks.
• Wild camping is permitted in some areas but follow Leave No Trace principles.
• Check road conditions locally, especially after rain or snow.

Informations sur le contact

For updates on road conditions and ferry crossings (required for some sections), consult Chile's Ministry of Public Works or local tourist offices in Coyhaique.