Understand

Embark on an epic journey along Chile's Carretera Austral (CH-7), previously known as the Carretera General Augusto Pinochet. This awe-inspiring route spans a distance of 1240 kilometers, stretching from Puerto Montt in the north to Villa O'Higgins in the south. Dubbed the road after the end of the road, the Carretera Austral is not officially part of the Panamerican Highway, which concludes on Chiloe Island. Construction of this remarkable road began in the 1970s and is still underway, showcasing the determination and skill required to navigate Chile's diverse and sparsely populated territories. Prepare to be captivated by the changing landscapes along the Carretera Austral. Immerse yourself in lush forests, breathtaking fjords, majestic mountains, colossal glaciers, and even awe-inspiring volcanoes. Each twist and turn on this scenic route reveals a new wonder waiting to be discovered. As you venture along the Carretera Austral, embrace the mesmerizing solitude that comes with exploring these remote areas of Chile. Witness the untouched beauty of nature and experience a sense of adventure like never before. The Carretera Austral is a testament to the raw and untamed landscapes that make Chile a truly remarkable destination.

Get in

Getting to Puerto Montt in Chile is a straightforward journey, especially if you start from the north. You can also reach the Carretera Austral by taking a ferry from Chaitn or other ports along the way. The schedules for these ferries can be found on the [Naviera Austral](http://www.navieraustral.cl/) website. Additionally, there are several border crossings from Argentina into different parts of the Carretera Austral. If you choose to start from the south, you will have to embark on an interesting border crossing from El Chaltn in Argentina. This entails a rough 40-kilometer road to the southern shore of Lago del Desierto, where you can camp and enjoy the view. From there, you can take a boat ride to the Argentinean immigration post and continue on foot to the borderline between Chile and Argentina. Once on the Chilean side, you can follow a gravel road to the southern shore of Lago O'Higgins. To reach the official southern end of Carretera Austral in Villa O'Higgins, you will need to take a ferry, which operates once a week in shoulder season and up to four times a week in high season. It is recommended to camp at Lago del Desierto for its stunning views of the lake and Mount Fitz Roy during this journey. Alternatively, you can fly to Coyhaique or Puerto Montt on regular flights. There is also a small and affordable private plane option between O'Higgins and Coyhaique, which operates on Mondays and Thursdays. For more information, inquire at the hostel El Mosco in Villa O'Higgins. It is important to note that when crossing the border between Argentina and Chile, certain food items like fruits, vegetables, and meat will be confiscated.

Map & Climate

Map & Climate

Popular Foods

Ceviche is a traditional Chilean seafood dish that features raw fish marinated in citrus juices, typically lime or lemon, and mixed with onions, peppers, and herbs. It is often served chilled and accompanied by sides like sweet potato or corn.

Curanto is a typical Southern Chilean stew made with various meats, including beef, chicken, and fish, along with potatoes, pumpkins, maize, and other vegetables. It is slow-cooked under ground heat in a hole called "olla," surrounded by hot stones.

Pastel de choclo is a unique Chilean dessert made with mashed wheat (similar to mashed potatoes) and layered with milk, sugar, and cinnamon. This creates a rich, creamy texture with a subtle sweetness and warm spice flavor.

Historical Appearance

Traditional Male Clothing

Traditional Female Clothing