Carretera Austral

Tailor made tours

SUMMARY

5 Days

Chile, Patagonia

Carretera Austral: Patagonia’s Last Wild Road

Why Most Travellers Miss Patagonia’s Best-Kept Secret

For years, the Carretera Austral remained one of Patagonia’s most elusive regions—remote, rugged, and hard to reach. But that’s changing. With improved road access, boutique lodges, and the extraordinary rewilding efforts behind Parque Patagonia, this once-hidden corner of southern Chile is now more accessible than ever.

Yet, many travellers still follow the usual path to Torres del Paine or El Calafate, never realising the vast, untouched wilderness that lies just beyond the mainstream trail. Along the Carretera Austral, you’ll find glaciers without crowds, rivers in surreal shades of turquoise, and the otherworldly Marble Caves—all waiting to be discovered.

This is Patagonia as it once was: authentic, untamed, and ready to be explored.

Discover the Hidden Gems of Southern Chile

Start your journey in Balmaceda, the gateway to Patagonia’s lesser-known south. From here, travel to Coyhaique, the region’s cultural heart—browse the local craft market, taste traditional dishes, and stock up on handmade goods crafted from native wood, leather, and wool.

As you make your way south, the landscapes open up into a wonderland of turquoise lakes and snowy peaks. Lago General Carrera—Chile’s largest lake—is the crown jewel of the region, with its surreal blue waters and the unforgettable Marble Caves carved into its shoreline.

You’ll stay in Puerto Guadal, a small lakeside village with million-dollar views and genuine Patagonian hospitality. From there, continue toward Chile Chico, where steppe meets forest and the dramatic contrasts of Patagonia truly shine.

Go at Your Own Pace

This short sample itinerary offers just a glimpse of what’s possible. Want to take it slow? You can. Prefer a bit of adventure? We’ve got you.

We highly recommend a self-drive journey to fully experience the landscapes at your own rhythm. But if you’d rather relax, we can arrange for a knowledgeable local driver-guide to lead the way.

Looking to upgrade your stay? Enhance your experience with a night or two at Explora Parque Patagonia—an extraordinary base within one of Chile’s most exciting conservation projects.

Start Planning Your Journey

Ready to hit the road? dreaming of a peaceful retreat or an off-the-beaten-path adventure, we’ll help you create a journey that fits your travel style. Speak to one of our Travel Specialists today and let’s start building your dream Patagonia itinerary.

Explore more. Go further. Experience the Carretera Austral.

HIGHLIGHTS

Cruise across General Carrera Lake to the ethereal Marble Caves, where water sculpts stone into cathedral-like arches.
Wind through dramatic canyons and past volcanic remnants, where the landscape tells stories of ancient eruptions.
Ferry past glaciers on Patagonia’s turquoise lakes, with optional detours to newborn national parks.
Hike through native forests, discover turquoise rivers and dramatic glaciers.
Sail through the heart of Patagonia on crystal clear water and discover the Marble Caves.
Self-drive freedom – Take the wheel and explore at your rhythm, stopping when the view demands it.
Guided ease – Prefer to relax? Let a local guide handle the road while you focus on the scenery.

ITINERARY

Day 1 Balmaceda/General Carrera Lake

Upon arrival, you will commence your travels through the beautiful scenery and local flora of the region. You will drive through deep canyons followed by a marsh that is scattered with tree trunks; reminisce of a volcanic eruption not that long ago. In the early afternoon you will arrive at the gigantic Lake General Carrera, South America’s second-largest freshwater gem.

Day 2 General Carrera Lake/Puerto Guadal

This morning, begin the trip travelling the Carretera Austral bordering the stunning blue lake of General Carrera. Here you will take a short navigation across the lake until you reach the marble cave sanctuary. A picturesque spot where the constant movement of the lake and water has eroded the coloured rocks leaving behind secret caves, amazing underpasses and breathtaking formations.
Later, continue to Puerto Guadal, a sleepy lakeside village where wooden houses cling to hillsides above the shore. Tonight, fall asleep to the gentle lap of waves against the pebble beach.

Day 3 Puerto Guadal/Chile Chico

Today you will have an early start. This morning you will travel along the General Carrera Lake reaching the impressive passage known as Paso de las Llaves famous for its height and views. As you travel along the path, you will be able to observe the drastic changes in vegetation from forest to pampas. Nicknamed “Chile’s Málaga” for its sunny microclimate, this border town bursts with orchards and rose gardens—a surreal contrast to the rugged terrain you’ve traversed. The town is located only 6km west of the border with Argentina.

Day 4 Chile Chico/Coyhaique

Today you will board the ferry and navigate the lake General Carrera until you reach Puerto Ingeniero Ibáñez. The water of this blue green lake is comprised of several distant glaciers that fill the lake and eventually pour out into the Pacific Ocean after running through the Baker River. From Puerto Ingeniero Ibáñez you will continue your journey via land until arriving at your final destination, Coyhaique. This lively hub blends pioneer charm with modern comforts—stroll its plaza lined with artisan workshops, or toast your journey with a locally brewed craft beer.

Day 5 Coyhaique/Balmaceda

After breakfast, you will be picked up and transferred to the Balmaceda airport. As you travel south-east towards the airport today you will notice cooler weather and a change in scenery. This is the true entrance to the Pampa which can be viewed immediately after passing through airport customs.