Emplacement et comment s'y rendre

Lago General Carrera, shared between Argentina and Chile, is the largest lake in Chilean Patagonia. The closest town on the Chilean side is Chile Chico, while the Argentine side is near Los Antiguos. The lake spans a remote region of Northern Patagonia, accessible via Route 265 (Argentina) or Route X-728 (Chile). From Chile Chico, the lake is a short drive west, with well-marked roads leading to viewpoints and access points.

• By Car: The most flexible option; rental cars are available in Coyhaique (Chile) or Comodoro Rivadavia (Argentina).
• By Bus: Limited services connect Chile Chico to Coyhaique or Los Antiguos to Perito Moreno, with stops near the lake.
• By Boat: Ferries operate between Chile Chico and Puerto Ibáñez, offering scenic crossings.

Heures d'ouverture et billets

The lake itself is a natural attraction with no formal opening hours or entrance fees. However, specific activities (e.g., boat tours to the Marble Caves) may have seasonal schedules and fees.

• Marble Caves Tours: Typically run from September to April, weather permitting. Tickets (~$20–$50 USD) are sold at local operators in Puerto Río Tranquilo (Chile).

Meilleur moment pour visiter

The ideal period is from November to March, when temperatures are milder and daylight hours longer. Early mornings or late afternoons provide the best light for photography, particularly at the Marble Caves. Weekdays are quieter than weekends.

Durée de la visite

A full day is recommended to explore the lake’s highlights, including the Marble Caves, beaches, and nearby trails. Half-day visits are possible for focused activities like boating.

Activités

• Boat Tours: Explore the Marble Caves (Capillas de Mármol) by kayak or motorboat.
• Hiking: Trails along the shoreline offer panoramic views.
• Fishing: Known for trout and salmon; permits required in Chile.
• Scenic Drives: The Carretera Austral (Chile) and Route 40 (Argentina) provide stunning lake vistas.

Installations

• Restrooms: Available in nearby towns (Chile Chico, Puerto Río Tranquilo) or at tour operators.
• Dining: Sparse; pack snacks or dine in Chile Chico/Los Antiguos.
• Parking: Informal lots near popular access points; no fees.
• Accessibility: Limited; boat tours may not accommodate wheelchairs.

Ce qu'il faut apporter/vêtir

• Layered clothing for unpredictable Patagonian weather.
• Sturdy shoes for rocky shorelines.
• Sunscreen, sunglasses, and a windproof jacket.
• Cash (Chilean pesos/Argentine pesos) for remote areas with no card facilities.

Règles et règlements

• Respect private property; some shoreline areas are privately owned.
• No littering; carry out waste.
• Fishing requires a local permit in Chile.

Informations sur le contact

For tour operators or lake conditions, inquire at the Chile Chico or Puerto Río Tranquilo tourist offices. Official websites (e.g., visitchile.com) provide regional updates.