Carretera Austral - Patagonia's best-kept secrets
Discover the Carretera Austral, the heart of Patagonia.
Check out the 3 itineraries in the following tabs.
Available months: November to May
The itineraries can be adapted to your taste, write to us!
One of the wildest and least explored places on the planet. Combine two or more itineraries for a complete immersion along the Carretera Autral.
Available months: November to May
The itineraries can be adapted to your taste, write to us!
One of the wildest and least explored places on the planet. Combine two or more itineraries for a complete immersion along the Carretera Autral.
PUMALIN AND QUEULAT NATIONAL PARK
Check out the day-to-day of this trip
8 days
Check out the day-to-day of this trip
8 days
Discover Douglas Tompkins' legacy on this trip through northern Patagonia. A leisurely itinerary with short hikes and the option of overnight stays in lodges or campsites.
Day 1 - Transfer from PMC Airport to Puerto Varas
City tours and Parque Nacional Vicente Perez Rosales tour and preparatory meeting.
Day 2 - Puerto Varas to Caleta Gonzalo via Bimodal Route
Early departure for Hornopirén (4-hour journey).
Ferry crossing to Caleta Gonzalo, passing through fjords (6-hour total).
Arrive in Caleta Gonzalo late in the day and spend the night at a lodge.
Day 3 - Hike to Chaitén Volcano (Pumalin Park)
Climb Chaitén Volcano for panoramic views of the crater and surrounding area (6 km round trip, 600 m elevation gain).
Afternoon to explore short trails in Pumalín Park, such as Sendero Alerces. Overnight camping in Pumalín Park (Camping El Volcán or Cascadas Escondidas).
Optional overnight stay in a lodge or chalet.
Day 4 - Pumalín Park: Cascadas Escondidas Trail and Tronador Trail
Hike to the Cascadas Escondidas (8 km round trip).
In the afternoon, hike along the Tronador Trail (6 km round trip, 450 m elevation gain).
Overnight camping in Pumalín Park.
Optional overnight stay in a lodge or chalet.
Day 5 - Travel along the Carretera Austral to Puyuhuapi (5-hour drive).
Stops at viewpoints along the way.
Overnight accommodation in Puyuhuapi and hot springs.
Day 6 - Queulat National Park: Hike to the Hanging Snowdrift
1-hour drive to Queulat National Park. Hike to the Ventisquero Colgante viewpoint (6 km round trip, 500 m elevation gain).
Hike through the Enchanted Forest, one of the most beautiful in Queulat Park (8 km round trip).
Overnight in Puyuhuapi.
Day 7 - Puyuhuapi to Coyhaique
Travel to Coyhaique (5-hour drive).
Photo stops and short walks along the Carretera Austral.
Arrive in Coyhaique and explore the city.
Overnight in Coyhaique.
Day 8 - Transfer to BBA Airport and end of services.
Hike on Cerro Mackay or visit to the Coyhaique National Reserve.
Prices
1 person: 3.550.000 CLP p/p
2 to 3 people: 2.950.000 CLP p/p
4 to 6 people: 2.250.000 CLP p/p
These prices include guide services, ground transportation, ferry, meals on the trails, camping, hostels, logistical support.
Does not include airfare, meals in the cities or optional activities not described in the itinerary.
Cancellation Policy
30+ days: 100% refund or credit for rescheduling within 12 months.
15–29 days: 50% refund or 70% credit.
<15 days: no refund, 50% credit for rescheduling within 6 months.
Company cancellations due to safety or weather allow rescheduling at no extra cost.
Day 1 - Transfer from PMC Airport to Puerto Varas
City tours and Parque Nacional Vicente Perez Rosales tour and preparatory meeting.
Day 2 - Puerto Varas to Caleta Gonzalo via Bimodal Route
Early departure for Hornopirén (4-hour journey).
Ferry crossing to Caleta Gonzalo, passing through fjords (6-hour total).
Arrive in Caleta Gonzalo late in the day and spend the night at a lodge.
Day 3 - Hike to Chaitén Volcano (Pumalin Park)
Climb Chaitén Volcano for panoramic views of the crater and surrounding area (6 km round trip, 600 m elevation gain).
Afternoon to explore short trails in Pumalín Park, such as Sendero Alerces. Overnight camping in Pumalín Park (Camping El Volcán or Cascadas Escondidas).
Optional overnight stay in a lodge or chalet.
Day 4 - Pumalín Park: Cascadas Escondidas Trail and Tronador Trail
Hike to the Cascadas Escondidas (8 km round trip).
In the afternoon, hike along the Tronador Trail (6 km round trip, 450 m elevation gain).
Overnight camping in Pumalín Park.
Optional overnight stay in a lodge or chalet.
Day 5 - Travel along the Carretera Austral to Puyuhuapi (5-hour drive).
Stops at viewpoints along the way.
Overnight accommodation in Puyuhuapi and hot springs.
Day 6 - Queulat National Park: Hike to the Hanging Snowdrift
1-hour drive to Queulat National Park. Hike to the Ventisquero Colgante viewpoint (6 km round trip, 500 m elevation gain).
Hike through the Enchanted Forest, one of the most beautiful in Queulat Park (8 km round trip).
Overnight in Puyuhuapi.
Day 7 - Puyuhuapi to Coyhaique
Travel to Coyhaique (5-hour drive).
Photo stops and short walks along the Carretera Austral.
Arrive in Coyhaique and explore the city.
Overnight in Coyhaique.
Day 8 - Transfer to BBA Airport and end of services.
Hike on Cerro Mackay or visit to the Coyhaique National Reserve.
Prices
1 person: 3.550.000 CLP p/p
2 to 3 people: 2.950.000 CLP p/p
4 to 6 people: 2.250.000 CLP p/p
These prices include guide services, ground transportation, ferry, meals on the trails, camping, hostels, logistical support.
Does not include airfare, meals in the cities or optional activities not described in the itinerary.
Cancellation Policy
30+ days: 100% refund or credit for rescheduling within 12 months.
15–29 days: 50% refund or 70% credit.
<15 days: no refund, 50% credit for rescheduling within 6 months.
Company cancellations due to safety or weather allow rescheduling at no extra cost.
CERRO CASTILLO NATIONAL PARK
Check out the day-by-day of this trip
7 days
Check out the day-by-day of this trip
7 days
Day 1 - Arrival in Balmaceda and Travel to Villa Cerro Castillo
Arrival at Balmaceda Airport (BBA).
Ground transportation to Villa Cerro Castillo (1.5-hour journey).
Equipment and logistics review for the crossing.
Overnight at a hotel in Villa Cerro Castillo.
Day 2 - Beginning of the Cerro Castillo Crossing
Beginning of the crossing along Sendero Las Horquetas.
Gradual ascent to the first campsite (Campamento Río Turbio).
Distance: 14 km / Time: 6-7 hours / Elevation: +600 m.
Overnight in a wild campsite.
Day 3 - Cerro Castillo Crossing
Hike to Paso Peñón, one of the most challenging sections of the crossing.
Spectacular views of the valley and mountains.
Descent to Campamento El Bosque.
Distance: 10 km / Time: 6 hours / Elevation: +900m / -800m.
Overnight in wild camping.
Day 4 - Cerro Castillo Crossing
Hike to the base of Cerro Castillo Mountain.
Ascent to Cerro Castillo Pass (1,650m).
Descent to Campamento Neozelandés.
Distance: 12 km / Time: 7 hours / Elevation: +800m / -900m.
Overnight in wild camping.
Day 5 - End of the Crossing and Return to Villa Cerro Castillo
Last stage of the crossing to the park exit.
Distance: 10 km / Time: 4-5 hours / Elevation: -600m.
Arrive at Villa Cerro Castillo in the early afternoon.
Rest and overnight at Villa Cerro Castillo.
Day 6 - Travel to Puerto Río Tranquilo and Lake General Carrera
Travel along the Carretera Austral to Puerto Río Tranquilo (2.5-hour drive).
Boat or kayak trip to the Marble Chapels on Lake General Carrera. Free time in the village to rest.
Overnight in Puerto Río Tranquilo.
Day 7 - Transfer to Balmaceda BBA and end of trip
Travel from Puerto Río Tranquilo to Balmaceda (5-hour drive).
Arrival at the airport and end of the expedition.
Prices
1 person: CLP 2,850,000
2 to 3 people: CLP 1,850,000
4 to 6 people: CLP 1,350,000
These prices include guide services, ground transportation, camping services, hostels, ferry, meals on the trails, and logistical support.
Does not include airfare, meals in the cities or optional activities not described in the itinerary.
Cancellation Policy
30+ days: 100% refund or credit for rescheduling within 12 months.
15–29 days: 50% refund or 70% credit.
<15 days: no refund, 50% credit for rescheduling within 6 months.
Company cancellations due to safety or weather allow rescheduling at no extra cost.
PATAGONIA NATIONAL PARK
Check out the day-by-day of this trip
9 days
Check out the day-by-day of this trip
9 days
9-Days Itinerary: Exploring Patagonia National Park
(Start in Balmaceda, depart via Chile Chico, and return via Carretera Austral)
Day 1 - Arrival in Balmaceda and Travel to Puerto Ibáñez
Arrival at Balmaceda Airport (BBA).
Ground transportation to Puerto Ibáñez (1.5-hour drive).
Free afternoon to explore the town and Lake General Carrera.
Overnight in Puerto Ibáñez.
Day 2 - Ferry Crossing to Chile Chico and Entry to Patagonia National Park
Ferry crossing Puerto Ibáñez → Chile Chico (2-hour drive).
Ground transportation to the entrance of Patagonia National Park, Jeinimeni sector (1.5-hour drive).
Light hiking to explore the surroundings of Valle Lunar and Piedra Clavada.
Overnight camping in the Jeinimeni sector.
Day 3 - Pioneers Route Traverse (Jeinimeni to Chacabuco)
Beginning of the Pioneers Route traverse through Patagonia National Park.
Hike through valleys, mountains, and arid transitional landscapes.
Distance: 18 km / Time: 7-8 hours / Elevation: +800m / -700m.
Overnight in wild camping in Valle Hermoso.
Day 4 - Continuation of the Traverse to Chacabuco Valley
Last stage of the traverse, descending into Chacabuco Valley, the heart of Patagonia National Park.
Arrival at the Doug Tompkins Visitor Center and Research Station.
Rest and exploration of the area.
Overnight in accommodation at Estancia Chacabuco or in structured camping.
Day 5 - Exploring Chacabuco Valley: Trails and Wildlife
Hike to the Tamango Viewpoint and observe local wildlife (guanacos, condors, pumas).
Visit the Chacabuco Valley Viewpoint and ecological restoration areas.
Overnight in accommodation or camping in the Chacabuco area.
Day 6 - Trekking to Cerro Tamanguito
Full-day hike to Cerro Tamanguito, one of the park's most scenic trails.
Distance: 16 km / Time: 8 hours / Elevation: +900 m / -900 m.
Return to the Chacabuco area.
Overnight in accommodation or camping in the Chacabuco area.
Day 7 - Travel to Puerto Río Tranquilo via the Carretera Austral
Ground transportation via the Carretera Austral to Puerto Río Tranquilo (4-hour drive).
Afternoon free for rest or optional activities. Overnight stay in Puerto Río Tranquilo.
Day 8 - Sailing or kayaking through the Mormol Chapels on Lake General Carrera and transfer to Coyhaique after lunch.
Day 9 - Transfer Coyhaique - Balmaceda BBA
Ground transportation to Balmaceda Airport (40 min).
End of expedition
Prices:
1 person: 3.750.000 CLP
2 to 3 people: 2.750.000 CLP
4 to 6 people: 2.050.000 CLP
These prices include guide services, ground transportation, ferry, camping, hostels, meals on the trails, and logistical support.
Does not include airfare, meals in the cities, or optional activities not described in the itinerary.
Cancellation Policy
30+ days: 100% refund or credit for rescheduling within 12 months.
15–29 days: 50% refund or 70% credit.
<15 days: no refund, 50% credit for rescheduling within 6 months.
Company cancellations due to safety or weather allow rescheduling at no extra cost.
(Start in Balmaceda, depart via Chile Chico, and return via Carretera Austral)
Day 1 - Arrival in Balmaceda and Travel to Puerto Ibáñez
Arrival at Balmaceda Airport (BBA).
Ground transportation to Puerto Ibáñez (1.5-hour drive).
Free afternoon to explore the town and Lake General Carrera.
Overnight in Puerto Ibáñez.
Day 2 - Ferry Crossing to Chile Chico and Entry to Patagonia National Park
Ferry crossing Puerto Ibáñez → Chile Chico (2-hour drive).
Ground transportation to the entrance of Patagonia National Park, Jeinimeni sector (1.5-hour drive).
Light hiking to explore the surroundings of Valle Lunar and Piedra Clavada.
Overnight camping in the Jeinimeni sector.
Day 3 - Pioneers Route Traverse (Jeinimeni to Chacabuco)
Beginning of the Pioneers Route traverse through Patagonia National Park.
Hike through valleys, mountains, and arid transitional landscapes.
Distance: 18 km / Time: 7-8 hours / Elevation: +800m / -700m.
Overnight in wild camping in Valle Hermoso.
Day 4 - Continuation of the Traverse to Chacabuco Valley
Last stage of the traverse, descending into Chacabuco Valley, the heart of Patagonia National Park.
Arrival at the Doug Tompkins Visitor Center and Research Station.
Rest and exploration of the area.
Overnight in accommodation at Estancia Chacabuco or in structured camping.
Day 5 - Exploring Chacabuco Valley: Trails and Wildlife
Hike to the Tamango Viewpoint and observe local wildlife (guanacos, condors, pumas).
Visit the Chacabuco Valley Viewpoint and ecological restoration areas.
Overnight in accommodation or camping in the Chacabuco area.
Day 6 - Trekking to Cerro Tamanguito
Full-day hike to Cerro Tamanguito, one of the park's most scenic trails.
Distance: 16 km / Time: 8 hours / Elevation: +900 m / -900 m.
Return to the Chacabuco area.
Overnight in accommodation or camping in the Chacabuco area.
Day 7 - Travel to Puerto Río Tranquilo via the Carretera Austral
Ground transportation via the Carretera Austral to Puerto Río Tranquilo (4-hour drive).
Afternoon free for rest or optional activities. Overnight stay in Puerto Río Tranquilo.
Day 8 - Sailing or kayaking through the Mormol Chapels on Lake General Carrera and transfer to Coyhaique after lunch.
Day 9 - Transfer Coyhaique - Balmaceda BBA
Ground transportation to Balmaceda Airport (40 min).
End of expedition
Prices:
1 person: 3.750.000 CLP
2 to 3 people: 2.750.000 CLP
4 to 6 people: 2.050.000 CLP
These prices include guide services, ground transportation, ferry, camping, hostels, meals on the trails, and logistical support.
Does not include airfare, meals in the cities, or optional activities not described in the itinerary.
Cancellation Policy
30+ days: 100% refund or credit for rescheduling within 12 months.
15–29 days: 50% refund or 70% credit.
<15 days: no refund, 50% credit for rescheduling within 6 months.
Company cancellations due to safety or weather allow rescheduling at no extra cost.
Get in touch if you want to hire only a Guide for these tours.
For this tour, you can book complete logistics, as described in the itineraries, or just the guide service, with the traveler responsible for the logistics costs. Contact us if you prefer this option.
Below is our cancellation policy.
1. Why choose the Carretera Austral tour?
The Carretera Austral is much more than a road — it is one of Chile’s most spectacular scenic routes.
From north to south, it connects ancient forests, fjords, snow-capped mountains, turquoise rivers, and authentic local communities.
Each section of the route (North, Central, and South) offers unique landscapes and experiences: from the lush greenery of Pumalín to the glaciers and mountains of Cerro Castillo, and the southern charm of Caleta Tortel.
It is the perfect journey for those seeking adventure, nature, and authentic Patagonian experiences.
2. Activity level
The tour is active/moderate, ideal for people with good physical fitness.
It includes hikes, valley crossings, and scenic routes, all designed to provide adventure and comfort without requiring extreme preparation.
Activities can be adapted depending on the group and itinerary (North, Central, or South).
3. Best time to take the tour
The Carretera Austral can be visited almost year-round, but the best time is from October to April, when the weather is more stable.
During spring and autumn, the colors of the landscape are especially beautiful.
4. Duration and pace
Typical duration: 7 to 9 days, depending on the route chosen.
Pace: easy to moderate, with time for hiking, sightseeing, and relaxing breaks.
Each day brings new scenery: lakes, forests, mountains, glaciers, and small Patagonian villages — all with full logistics and professional support.
5. Accommodation & comfort
Accommodations are carefully selected, from local cabins and cozy lodges to campsites with proper facilities.
The choice varies depending on the segment of the trip, but always prioritizes comfort, authenticity, and connection with nature.
All transport, equipment, and support logistics are handled by the Ensenada Tours team.
6. Meals
We provide balanced, nutritious, and natural meals, featuring local ingredients.
We can accommodate dietary restrictions (vegetarian, vegan, allergies) if informed at the time of booking.
Tip: bring your favorite snacks (chocolate, nuts, energy bars) for trail days or long transfers.
7. Recommended personal equipment
To make the most of your adventure:
Trekking backpack (~30–40 L)
Sturdy, comfortable footwear
Layered clothing (base layer, mid layer, waterproof outer layer)
Hat, gloves, sunglasses, and sunscreen
Water bottle or hydration system
Trekking poles (optional but recommended)
8. Transport & logistics
All transfers are included, from arrival point to the tour bases.
During the trip, transportation of equipment and food is fully managed by the team, allowing you to focus on the experience and enjoy the journey.
9. Group size & support
Groups are small and personalized, and we do not mix reservations — each trip is planned exclusively for the booked participants.
Professional guides, fluent in Portuguese, Spanish, and English, ensure clear communication, safety, and environmental interpretation throughout the route.
10. Sustainability & environmental responsibility
We are committed to responsible tourism and follow the Leave No Trace principle.
We promote the use of biodegradable products, respect local flora and fauna, and encourage supporting small Patagonian businesses.
Each traveler plays an active role in preserving this unique territory.
11. Physical preparation
No professional athletic experience is required, but it is important to have good fitness and basic hiking experience.
Our team can provide guidance on pre-trip preparation and what to bring to enjoy the adventure comfortably and safely.
Ready to explore the Carretera Austral?
Don’t miss the chance to experience one of South America’s most incredible routes — whether through the lush north of Pumalín, the mountains of Cerro Castillo, or the remote southern Patagonian landscapes.
Book your adventure now and secure your spot on this exclusive tour!
The Carretera Austral is much more than a road — it is one of Chile’s most spectacular scenic routes.
From north to south, it connects ancient forests, fjords, snow-capped mountains, turquoise rivers, and authentic local communities.
Each section of the route (North, Central, and South) offers unique landscapes and experiences: from the lush greenery of Pumalín to the glaciers and mountains of Cerro Castillo, and the southern charm of Caleta Tortel.
It is the perfect journey for those seeking adventure, nature, and authentic Patagonian experiences.
2. Activity level
The tour is active/moderate, ideal for people with good physical fitness.
It includes hikes, valley crossings, and scenic routes, all designed to provide adventure and comfort without requiring extreme preparation.
Activities can be adapted depending on the group and itinerary (North, Central, or South).
3. Best time to take the tour
The Carretera Austral can be visited almost year-round, but the best time is from October to April, when the weather is more stable.
During spring and autumn, the colors of the landscape are especially beautiful.
4. Duration and pace
Typical duration: 7 to 9 days, depending on the route chosen.
Pace: easy to moderate, with time for hiking, sightseeing, and relaxing breaks.
Each day brings new scenery: lakes, forests, mountains, glaciers, and small Patagonian villages — all with full logistics and professional support.
5. Accommodation & comfort
Accommodations are carefully selected, from local cabins and cozy lodges to campsites with proper facilities.
The choice varies depending on the segment of the trip, but always prioritizes comfort, authenticity, and connection with nature.
All transport, equipment, and support logistics are handled by the Ensenada Tours team.
6. Meals
We provide balanced, nutritious, and natural meals, featuring local ingredients.
We can accommodate dietary restrictions (vegetarian, vegan, allergies) if informed at the time of booking.
Tip: bring your favorite snacks (chocolate, nuts, energy bars) for trail days or long transfers.
7. Recommended personal equipment
To make the most of your adventure:
Trekking backpack (~30–40 L)
Sturdy, comfortable footwear
Layered clothing (base layer, mid layer, waterproof outer layer)
Hat, gloves, sunglasses, and sunscreen
Water bottle or hydration system
Trekking poles (optional but recommended)
8. Transport & logistics
All transfers are included, from arrival point to the tour bases.
During the trip, transportation of equipment and food is fully managed by the team, allowing you to focus on the experience and enjoy the journey.
9. Group size & support
Groups are small and personalized, and we do not mix reservations — each trip is planned exclusively for the booked participants.
Professional guides, fluent in Portuguese, Spanish, and English, ensure clear communication, safety, and environmental interpretation throughout the route.
10. Sustainability & environmental responsibility
We are committed to responsible tourism and follow the Leave No Trace principle.
We promote the use of biodegradable products, respect local flora and fauna, and encourage supporting small Patagonian businesses.
Each traveler plays an active role in preserving this unique territory.
11. Physical preparation
No professional athletic experience is required, but it is important to have good fitness and basic hiking experience.
Our team can provide guidance on pre-trip preparation and what to bring to enjoy the adventure comfortably and safely.
Ready to explore the Carretera Austral?
Don’t miss the chance to experience one of South America’s most incredible routes — whether through the lush north of Pumalín, the mountains of Cerro Castillo, or the remote southern Patagonian landscapes.
Book your adventure now and secure your spot on this exclusive tour!
GET IN TOUCH
+56 9 5640 6085
marcelo@ensenadatours.cl
marcelo@ensenadatours.cl
Travel through Chile with a brazilian Mountain and Tourism Guide, certified by ACGM and UIMLA
Choose one of our trips or contact us for a tailor-made itinerary. Enjoy Chile with locals and with strict safety and quality standards.
