Carretera Austral - Patagonia's best-kept secret
Discover Carretera Austral, the heart of Patagonia.
An exclusive journey into the wild heart of Southern Patagonia — a region shaped not only by glaciers, rivers, and wind-carved steppe, but by one of the most ambitious conservation visions on Earth. This private expedition unfolds across the landscapes of Aysén Region, where the legacy of Tompkins Conservation helped establish a protected corridor now known as the Red de Parques de la Patagonia.
Day 1 – Arrival in Coyhaique
Private transfer from Balmaceda Airport to your lodge in the Aysén region.
Settle into your Patagonian base surrounded by lenga forests, open valleys, and Andean peaks. Depending on arrival time, enjoy:
A gentle acclimatization walk through the countryside
Or a relaxed evening featuring regional cuisine and Chilean wines
Accommodation: Hotel Patagonia House
Private countryside lodge in Valle Simpson
Day 2 – Laguna Cerro Castillo
Full-day alpine trek to the iconic turquoise lagoon beneath the dramatic spires of
Laguna Cerro Castillo
Distance: 95 km | 1h30 each way
Hike: 13 km | 7 hrs | approx +1,000 m elevation
A demanding yet deeply rewarding ascent offering one of Patagonia’s most striking alpine panoramas.
Private gourmet picnic with panoramic views.
Return to lodge in the evening.
Accommodation: Hotel Patagonia House
Day 3 – Journey South to Lago General Carrera
Scenic drive along the legendary
Carretera Austral
Coyhaique → Puerto Río Tranquilo
223 km | 4h30–5h
The landscape gradually transitions from forested valleys to vast open lake horizons.
Accommodation: Terra Luna Lodge
Contemporary lakeside lodge overlooking Lago General Carrera
Day 4 – Kayak the Marble Caves & Exploradores Valley
Early morning departure to explore the extraordinary marble formations of
Capillas de Mármol
Private guided kayak experience (optimal morning light conditions).
Optional extended navigation toward lesser-visited formations.
Afternoon: Scenic exploration of Valle Exploradores
Soft hike to a glacier viewpoint within the northern ice field corridor.
A complementary landscape of hanging glaciers, braided rivers, and temperate rainforest.
Accommodation: Terra Luna Lodge
Day 5 – Glaciar Leones & Transfer South
Morning journey into the remote valley of
Glaciar Leones
Río Tranquilo → Valle Leones
70–75 km | 1h45–2h
Trek and boat crossing across a glacial lagoon to reach one of Patagonia’s least-visited and most dramatic glaciers.
After the excursion, continue south toward the Baker River region.
Accommodation: Lodge BordeBaker
Boutique riverside lodge immersed in pristine nature
Day 6 – Patagonia National Park (Valle Chacabuco Sector)
Scenic drive into
Parque Patagonia
Cochrane → Valle Chacabuco
1h–1h30
Explore expansive steppe landscapes shaped by world-class conservation initiatives:
Lagunas Altas panoramic circuit
Wildlife observation (guanacos, condors)
Architectural visit to the Visitor Center
Private outdoor lunch in a remote setting
Accommodation: Lodge BordeBaker.
Day 7 – Patagonia National Park (Jeinimeni Sector)
A second day dedicated to exploring the park’s contrasting Andean terrain in the Jeinimeni sector.
This region reveals a more mountainous and geologically dramatic landscape, with sculpted rock formations, high-altitude lakes, and frontier scenery near the Argentine border.
Possible explorations include:
Piedra Clavada trail
Jeinimeni Lake viewpoints
Cueva de las Manos archaeological site
Extended hiking options adapted to group energy and weather
This day deepens the understanding of the park’s ecological and geological diversity.
Evening return to lodge.
Accommodation: Lodge BordeBaker
Day 8 – Scenic Transfer to Coyhaique
Morning at leisure before beginning the panoramic drive north toward
Coyhaique
Photographic stops along rivers and mountain valleys.
Gradual transition from remote wilderness back to refined Patagonian comfort.
Arrival mid-afternoon.
Accommodation: Hotel Patagonia House
Day 9 – Departure
Breakfast at the hotel.
Short private transfer to Balmaceda Airport.
End of services.
Private transfer from Balmaceda Airport to your lodge in the Aysén region.
Settle into your Patagonian base surrounded by lenga forests, open valleys, and Andean peaks. Depending on arrival time, enjoy:
A gentle acclimatization walk through the countryside
Or a relaxed evening featuring regional cuisine and Chilean wines
Accommodation: Hotel Patagonia House
Private countryside lodge in Valle Simpson
Day 2 – Laguna Cerro Castillo
Full-day alpine trek to the iconic turquoise lagoon beneath the dramatic spires of
Laguna Cerro Castillo
Distance: 95 km | 1h30 each way
Hike: 13 km | 7 hrs | approx +1,000 m elevation
A demanding yet deeply rewarding ascent offering one of Patagonia’s most striking alpine panoramas.
Private gourmet picnic with panoramic views.
Return to lodge in the evening.
Accommodation: Hotel Patagonia House
Day 3 – Journey South to Lago General Carrera
Scenic drive along the legendary
Carretera Austral
Coyhaique → Puerto Río Tranquilo
223 km | 4h30–5h
The landscape gradually transitions from forested valleys to vast open lake horizons.
Accommodation: Terra Luna Lodge
Contemporary lakeside lodge overlooking Lago General Carrera
Day 4 – Kayak the Marble Caves & Exploradores Valley
Early morning departure to explore the extraordinary marble formations of
Capillas de Mármol
Private guided kayak experience (optimal morning light conditions).
Optional extended navigation toward lesser-visited formations.
Afternoon: Scenic exploration of Valle Exploradores
Soft hike to a glacier viewpoint within the northern ice field corridor.
A complementary landscape of hanging glaciers, braided rivers, and temperate rainforest.
Accommodation: Terra Luna Lodge
Day 5 – Glaciar Leones & Transfer South
Morning journey into the remote valley of
Glaciar Leones
Río Tranquilo → Valle Leones
70–75 km | 1h45–2h
Trek and boat crossing across a glacial lagoon to reach one of Patagonia’s least-visited and most dramatic glaciers.
After the excursion, continue south toward the Baker River region.
Accommodation: Lodge BordeBaker
Boutique riverside lodge immersed in pristine nature
Day 6 – Patagonia National Park (Valle Chacabuco Sector)
Scenic drive into
Parque Patagonia
Cochrane → Valle Chacabuco
1h–1h30
Explore expansive steppe landscapes shaped by world-class conservation initiatives:
Lagunas Altas panoramic circuit
Wildlife observation (guanacos, condors)
Architectural visit to the Visitor Center
Private outdoor lunch in a remote setting
Accommodation: Lodge BordeBaker.
Day 7 – Patagonia National Park (Jeinimeni Sector)
A second day dedicated to exploring the park’s contrasting Andean terrain in the Jeinimeni sector.
This region reveals a more mountainous and geologically dramatic landscape, with sculpted rock formations, high-altitude lakes, and frontier scenery near the Argentine border.
Possible explorations include:
Piedra Clavada trail
Jeinimeni Lake viewpoints
Cueva de las Manos archaeological site
Extended hiking options adapted to group energy and weather
This day deepens the understanding of the park’s ecological and geological diversity.
Evening return to lodge.
Accommodation: Lodge BordeBaker
Day 8 – Scenic Transfer to Coyhaique
Morning at leisure before beginning the panoramic drive north toward
Coyhaique
Photographic stops along rivers and mountain valleys.
Gradual transition from remote wilderness back to refined Patagonian comfort.
Arrival mid-afternoon.
Accommodation: Hotel Patagonia House
Day 9 – Departure
Breakfast at the hotel.
Short private transfer to Balmaceda Airport.
End of services.
Investment Per Person
USD 6,200 — Private Experience (2 Guests)
Fully tailored private expedition with maximum flexibility and immersive guiding presence.
USD 5,400 — Small Private Group (3 Guests)
Balanced exclusivity with improved cost efficiency while preserving premium standards.
USD 4,600 — Exclusive Group (4 Guests)
Optimal group size for seamless logistics, strong technical flow, and immersive exploration.
USD 4,280 — Private Group (5 Guests)
Expanded camaraderie while maintaining curated comfort and expedition integrity.
USD 6,200 — Private Experience (2 Guests)
Fully tailored private expedition with maximum flexibility and immersive guiding presence.
USD 5,400 — Small Private Group (3 Guests)
Balanced exclusivity with improved cost efficiency while preserving premium standards.
USD 4,600 — Exclusive Group (4 Guests)
Optimal group size for seamless logistics, strong technical flow, and immersive exploration.
USD 4,280 — Private Group (5 Guests)
Expanded camaraderie while maintaining curated comfort and expedition integrity.
Guiding
Certified Leadership & Risk Management
UIMLA / ACGM Certified Mountain Guide
Wilderness First Responder (WFR)
Advanced wilderness risk assessment & field decision-making protocols
Fully private format
Expedition leadership aligned with international mountain guiding standards.
Accommodation
8 nights – Double occupancy (Half Board throughout)
3 nights at Patagonia House
2 nights at Terra Luna Lodge
3 nights at Lodge BordeBaker
Single supplement available upon request.
All properties are carefully selected for atmosphere, comfort, and alignment with the wilderness character of the region.
Meals
Half board (breakfast & dinner) at all hotels and lodges
Premium picnic lunches with curated local products on all hiking and exploration days
Dietary requirements accommodated with advance notice.
Transportation & Logistics
Private airport transfers to/from Balmaceda Airport (BBA)
All private ground transportation throughout the program
Private kayak tour to Capillas de Mármol
All park entrance fees, including:
• Parque Patagonia Patagonia
• Parque Nacional Cerro Castillo
Route planning and safety oversight for all remote segments along the Carretera Austral.
Certified Leadership & Risk Management
UIMLA / ACGM Certified Mountain Guide
Wilderness First Responder (WFR)
Advanced wilderness risk assessment & field decision-making protocols
Fully private format
Expedition leadership aligned with international mountain guiding standards.
Accommodation
8 nights – Double occupancy (Half Board throughout)
3 nights at Patagonia House
2 nights at Terra Luna Lodge
3 nights at Lodge BordeBaker
Single supplement available upon request.
All properties are carefully selected for atmosphere, comfort, and alignment with the wilderness character of the region.
Meals
Half board (breakfast & dinner) at all hotels and lodges
Premium picnic lunches with curated local products on all hiking and exploration days
Dietary requirements accommodated with advance notice.
Transportation & Logistics
Private airport transfers to/from Balmaceda Airport (BBA)
All private ground transportation throughout the program
Private kayak tour to Capillas de Mármol
All park entrance fees, including:
• Parque Patagonia Patagonia
• Parque Nacional Cerro Castillo
Route planning and safety oversight for all remote segments along the Carretera Austral.
International or domestic flights
Travel insurance (mandatory)
Personal expenses
Optional gear rental
Gratuities
Curated Additional Experiences
Guests may further personalize their expedition with a selection of exclusive, privately arranged experiences — seamlessly integrated into the itinerary and tailored to individual interests.
Private horseback riding across open Patagonian steppe
Fly fishing with expert local guides on the Baker River
Scenic rafting or gentle river exploration (weather dependent)
Private charter flight over the Northern Ice Field for aerial glacier perspective
Travel insurance (mandatory)
Personal expenses
Optional gear rental
Gratuities
Curated Additional Experiences
Guests may further personalize their expedition with a selection of exclusive, privately arranged experiences — seamlessly integrated into the itinerary and tailored to individual interests.
Private horseback riding across open Patagonian steppe
Fly fishing with expert local guides on the Baker River
Scenic rafting or gentle river exploration (weather dependent)
Private charter flight over the Northern Ice Field for aerial glacier perspective
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.
