This 7 day self-drive itinerary explores the wilderness of the southern Carretera Austral. The Carretera Austral leads through some of the most stunningly beautiful and dramatic scenery in southern Chile, yet, due to its remoteness, it remains off the beaten path. If you are looking for pristine wilderness, this is where it can still be found in the lakes and fjords and ancient (and now rare) native forests that still clad the Andes.

Day 1: Balmaceda Airport - Pto Rio Tranquilo (195 km / 120 mi)

Pick up your car at the car rental desk at the Balmaceda airport. The dry Pampa will gradually give way to the green forests as you cross the pass at the National Reserve of Cerro Castillo. On the other the side of the pass the road descends to the beautiful river valley to Ibañez, crossing a forest that is covered with thick layers of ashes from the volcano Hudson, which erupted violently in 1991. In the afternoon you arrive at your hosteria at Pto Rio Tranquilo.

Day 2: Pto Rio Tranquilo - Pto Guadal (65 km / 40 mi)

Before you drive on to Pto Gaudal, you have time to explore the natural surroundings of Pto Rio Tranquilo. A drive up to the hardly explored "Valle Exploradores" is worth it, and even more exciting is a visit to the 'Marble Cathedral', An eroded limestone cliff riddled with caves, that lies off shore from Rio Tranquilo (by boat from Puerto Rio Tranquilo or from Puerto Bahía EL Marmol). In the afternoon circle around the lake and stay at cabins close to Pto Gaudal. (B)

Day 3: Lake General Carrera

You have all day to discover the surroundings of Lake General Carrera, the biggest and one of the most beautiful lakes in Chile, with its dramatic backdrop of the snowcapped Andes. Various excursions can be arranged in the area, ranging from horseback riding to kayaking and hiking. Overnight close to Puerto Guadal. (B)

Day 4: Puerto Guadal - Tortel (340 km / 212 mi)

The drive from Pto Gaudal to Cochrane is relatively short. On the way you can make stops along the crystal clear Rio Baker and visit the beautiful National Reserva Tamango, which is particularly noted for its relatively large population of the almost extinct 'huemul', a miniature Patagonian deer. From there we carry on to the more southern Caleta Tortel. This town has only wooden walkways, therefore cars have to be parked outside the town. Overnight in Caleta Tortel. (B)

Day 5: Tortel

An early departure is advisable, to explore the southern most parts of the incredible Southern Highway. You could visit Villa O´Higgins or ask for some excursions in the area to get a deeper sense of this amazing place. The village of Tortel was only recently connected to the „mainland“ by road; this unique village is completely built on wooden pillars rising from the water of the Pacific Ocean. The natural surroundings accompanying this drive are astonishing. Overnight in Caleta Tortel. (B)

Day 6: Tortel - Coyhaique (420 km / 250 mi)

Drive to Coyhaique, the capital of the region, along the Carretera Austral amidst its spectacular scenery. You will pass the magnificent Lake General Carrera once more. Make frequent stops along the way to enjoy the magnificent scenery. In Cerro Castillo you can visit some caves displaying prehistoric paintings. Overnight in Coyhaique. (B)

Day 7: Coyhaique - Balmaceda (40 km / 25 mi)

Drive back to the airport of Balmaceda to drop off the car and board your connecting flight. (B)

Please note that all our itineraries can be customized and modified to suit your wishes.

For further information and booking inquiries please send us and e-mail.

Hotels used with this itinerary:

Hostal El Puesto Hostal El Puesto is located in the little hamlet of Rio Tranquilo. It is built of natural materials typical of this region. El Puesto has three rooms with en suite bathrooms as well as a big living room. The hostal's services include lunch / dinner service, money exchange, internet access and others. Various excursions and tours, such as hiking, tours by boat or riding are offered.

Cabañas Mirador de Playa Guadal Cabañas Mirador de Playa Guadal, situated on the shore of Lake General Carrera, features 6 cozy cabins with a capacity for up to 10 people. Each caba&ntile;a offers a view of the lake and is equipped with a kitchen, en suite bathroom, TV, heating, barbecue area with grill. The cabins are built with local Cypress and Lenga wood, which creates a warm and cozy ambience, echoeing the rustic beauty of the native forest. The hotel offers a wide range of activities, such as Trekking, Hiking, Horseback Riding, relaxed Sight Seeing, Fly Fishing

Hotel Entre Hielos Lodge*** Located in the unique town of Caleta Tortel with its houses on stilts and wooden walkways, this Lodge is an excellent choice for experiencing the unique ambience of Patagonia. the lodge features 6 comfortable rooms, restaurant service, a great bar and an always inviting hot tub are just some examples of this great lodge.

Hosteria Coyhaique*** Hostería Coyhaique, located in a beautiful park near Coyhaique, has 40 rooms (2 suites) decorated in classic style, equipped with telephone, TV, safe deposit box, central heating. All rooms offer a fabulous view, whether of the park or the mountains. General facilities include 2 restaurants for 210 guests serving international cuisine, cozy bar, 3 meeting rooms for up to 200 people, outdoor swimming-pool, games room, room service, laundry service