Carretera Austral Roadtrip
About This Trip:
Roadtrip the Carretera Austral, Patagonia’s Hidden Gem
This is not the Patagonia you see through travel influencers. This is the most authentic Patagonia — remote, vast, and untamed.
Over eleven days, you’ll embark on an epic 800 km/500mi road trip along the legendary Carretera Austral, a journey that weaves fjords, glaciers, rivers, and mountains into one of the most breathtaking drives on Earth. Along the way, you’ll pass through charming villages where life runs slow, meet locals who embody the spirit of the south, and discover that the road itself is the heart of the adventure.
From steaming thermal baths and lush rainforests to the surreal Marble Caves and the mighty Northern Ice Fields, each day reveals a new face of Patagonia’s wild beauty. And at the end of the road — in Villa O’Higgins — you’ll stand at a true frontier, where silence and wilderness stretch as far as the eye can see.
Our Route:
Epic Experiences:
The Ultimate Roadtrip
Glaciers & Ice Fields
Wild Trails & Nature
Marble Caves
Charming Villages
The End of the Road
Epic Explorers:
Expedition December 2024
“Epic offers the ideal conditions and facilities to develop a trip that would be much more difficult to accomplish on my own.
The perfect balance between an organized experience and the freedom of traveling independently, without a plan that ties you down 100% like large agencies with a large number of people.
It was a unique experience that I would definitely repeat.”
Expedition March 2025
“I’ve been wanting to take this trip for many years, and it’s truly been a dream come true.
Reaching the base of the Torres del Paine Mountains was the most epic moment for me. After having seen many, many mountains throughout my life, seeing the Torres del Paine Mountains was indescribable.
This trip has been about sharing and discovering new things every moment.”
Expedition December 2024
“My experience with Epic Patagonia Trips was excellent, starting with our Expedition Leader coordination. She had everything super well-prepared and made sure we had everything we needed. She’s a great professional and a great person, approachable and committed to the group, making her an adventurer of her own.
If you add to that the beautiful place that is Navarino Island, the trekking, the kayaking, and all the people I met there, then I’m taking away so much more than I could have imagined.
This trip has given me so much energy and reminded me that life is always now and is a gerund; life is enjoyed by doing.”
Dates & Prices
Choose your date of preference and join your next Epic Adventure in Patagonia!
Austral Highway Roadtrip
- Spring Edition23 november to 03 december 2026$ 3,990.00Book this!
- Summer Edition14 to 24 february 2027$ 4,390.00Book this!
- Autum Edition22 march to 01 april 2027$ 3,990.00Book this!
Key Info:
Itinerary
Day 1
Santiago – Welcome to Chile
Arrive in Santiago, Latin America’s most modern and vibrant capital. With the Andes as a towering backdrop over the city’s skyline, Santiago blends tradition and innovation. Our team will greet you at the airport and transfer you to your hotel. In the evening, meet your fellow travelers for a welcome dinner where Chilean flavors and local wine set the tone for the journey ahead.
Day 2
The Journey Begins - Welcome to the untamed Patagonia
Fly south to Aysén and begin your epic road trip along the Carretera Austral. The route takes you through valleys, rivers, and forests until reaching the town of Puyuhuapi, a small village founded by German settlers. Between the fjords you can soak in natural thermal baths surrounded by wilderness a unique experience in Patagonia.
Day 3
Queulat National Park – Glaciers & Rainforest
Today’s hike leads into Queulat National Park, famous for its hanging glacier suspended between mountain peaks. Walk through lush temperate rainforest, listen to waterfalls crashing down, and admire the spectacle of ice looming above the valley. Afterward, continue the journey to Coyhaique, the regional capital, nestled between rivers and mountains and enjoy the local cuisine.
Day 4
Crossing Forests, Rivers & Pampa – Gateway to Lake Chelenko
Travel deeper into Patagonia along the winding Carretera Austral. The road unfolds across forests, rivers, and pampas before reaching the small village of Río Tranquilo, gateway to the immense Lago General Carrera — also known as Lake Chelenko. The afternoon is free to stroll by the lake or simply absorb the tranquility of this remote Patagonian town.
Day 5
Marble Caves – Kayaking Adventure
Paddle a kayak across Lago General Carrera’s turquoise waters to explore the surreal Marble Caves. Enter shimmering chambers of stone carved by water and wind over thousands of years, where light and reflection create a kaleidoscope of colors. Later, indulge in a local gastronomic experience that celebrates Patagonian flavors and traditions.
Day 6
Northern Ice Fields – Patagonia’s Frozen Heart
Set out for a once-in-a-lifetime adventure at the Northern Patagonian Ice Field, one of the least explored ice masses on Earth. Depending on preferences, you can choose to hike on the glacier with crampons or embark on a boat navigation among its massive ice walls. Either way, you’ll witness the raw, untamed power of Patagonia’s frozen giants.
Day 7
Untamed Rivers – Patagonia National Park
Keep travelling south to the confluence of the Baker and Neff rivers, where turquoise waters collide in a breathtaking natural spectacle. Continue into Patagonia National Park, a vast rewilded landscape where guanacos roam freely. Hike along trails surrounded by mountains and grasslands before ending the day in Cochrane, a quiet town that embodies the soul of the Aysén region.
Day 8
Villa O’Higgins – End of the Road
Drive through some of the wildest and least-traveled stretches of the Carretera Austral, crossing fjords by ferry before arriving at Villa O’Higgins — the very end of the road. Few travelers make it this far. This remote frontier village, surrounded by glaciers, mountains and lakes, marks the ultimate destination of the journey. Celebrate this achievement with a local Patagonian asado (barbecue).
Day 9
Villa O’Higgins – Frontier Hike
Embark on a hike at the edge of civilization. Trails here lead through untouched valleys and rugged landscapes, offering solitude and silence broken only by wind and birdsong. To walk at the end of the road is to truly feel the remoteness of Patagonia.
Day 10
Caleta Tortel – The Village with No Streets
Begin the journey north, stopping in Caleta Tortel, a unique town built entirely on wooden walkways above the fjords. Explore its labyrinth of boardwalks, marvel with the views and absorb the timeless rhythm of the settlers of this remote area. In the evening, continue back to Cochrane for your final night in Patagonia.
Day 11
Departure
We’ll leave paradise on Earth. Your adventure along the Carretera Austral may end here, but the memories — fjords, glaciers, marble caves, and the road itself — will stay with you forever.
Transfer to the airport for your flight back to Santiago.
Difficulty
Food & Accomodations
Day 1
Hotel · Twin share (Santiago)
Day 2
Cabins · Shared (3–4 pax, Puyuhuapi)
Day 3
Hotel · Twin share (Coyhaique)
Day 4
Cabins · Shared (3–4 pax, Río Tranquilo)
Day 5
Cabins · Shared (3–4 pax, Río Tranquilo)
Day 6
Cabins · Shared (3–4 pax, Río Tranquilo)
Day 7
Cabins · Shared (3–4 pax, Cochrane)
Day 8
Cabins · Shared (3–4 pax, Villa O’H.)
Day 9
Cabins · Shared (3–4 pax, Villa O’H.)
Day 10
Cabins · Shared (3–4 pax, Cochrane)
Day 11
Departure Day
What is the style of accommodation?
Along the Carretera Austral, accommodation is part of the adventure. We choose small local hotels and rustic cabins, each with its own charm and strong connection to the landscape.
In Santiago, Coyhaique, and Río Tranquilo, you’ll stay in twin-share hotel rooms, cozy and comfortable after long days on the road. In Puyuhuapi, Cochrane, and Villa O’Higgins — the most remote and less touristy corners of Patagonia — you’ll stay in shared cabins for 3–4 people, simple yet welcoming, where the warmth of wood stoves and the surrounding wilderness create an unforgettable atmosphere.
This blend of comfort and rustic authenticity reflects the true spirit of the Carretera Austral: intimate, communal, and deeply connected to nature.
What's Included
Itinerary Activities
- Epic 800 km (500 miles) road trip along the Carretera Austral, one of the world’s most scenic highways on a private van for the group.
- Guided hike in Queulat National Park to see the hanging glacier.
- Kayaking excursion to the Marble Caves.
- Hike in Patagonia National Park among guanacos and wild landscapes.
- Ferry crossing and exploration at Villa O’Higgins, the true end of the road.
- Visit to Caleta Tortel, a village built entirely on wooden walkways.
- Authentic cultural encounters and shared dinners along the way.
Guides
- Expert, English-speaking Expedition Leader throughout the trip.
Accommodation
- 1 night in a hotel in Santiago.
- 1 night in shared cabins in Puyuhuapi.
- 1 night in a hotel in Coyhaique.
- 3 nights in a shared cabins in Río Tranquilo.
- 2 nights in shared cabins in Villa O’Higgins.
- 2 nights in shared cabins in Cochrane.
Meals & Culinary Experiences
- 10 breakfasts.
- 3 group dinners, including:
- 1 welcome dinner in Santiago.
- 1 gastronomic Patagonian dinner in Río Tranquilo.
- 1 Patagon asado (barbecue) in Villa O’Higgins.
- Vegetarian and other dietary requirements can be catered for with prior notice.
Flights & Transfers
- Personal pickup and hotel transfer from Santiago International Airport (Day 1).
- Domestic flight from Santiago to Aysén with 1 checked bag (23 kg) and 1 personal item (Day 2).
- All group transfers during the itinerary, including ferry crossings.
- Domestic flight from Aysén to Santiago (Day 11).
Permits & Fees
- All national park entrance fees.
- Ferry crossing to Villa O’Higgins.
Not Included
International Flights
- Flights to and from Chile are not included.
- We can assist with advice and post-trip extensions.
Meals
- Lunches and most dinners are not included, giving you the chance to enjoy local restaurants and community kitchens along the Carretera Austral.
- Expect to budget $15–$40 USD per meal, depending on your choice of venue.
- Your Expedition Leader will provide recommendations based on each stop.
Optional activities
- Thermal baths in Puyuhuapi, surrounded by fjords and rainforest.
- Trekking with crampons or navigation among ice walls in the Northern Patagonian Fields
Travel Insurance
- Comprehensive travel insurance is mandatory for all participants.
- Your policy must cover:
- Overseas medical treatment and hospitalization.
- Emergency evacuation and repatriation.
- Coverage for trekking and kayaking activities.
- Protection for baggage and personal equipment.
- Proof of insurance is required before departure.
Tips
- Tips are not included and are at your discretion.
- If you wish to tip, we suggest basing it on the quality of service you received.
Personal Expenses
- Items of a personal nature, souvenirs, extra snacks, or drinks not mentioned in the itinerary.
Extensions & Upgrades
What To Pack?
Luggage
- 1 checked bag (up to 23 kg) plus 1 personal item are included on domestic flights.
- A small daypack (20–30 L) for hikes, kayak, and daily activities.
Clothing & Gear
- Waterproof and windproof jacket (essential against Patagonia’s famous winds).
- Layered clothing: thermal base layers, fleece or insulated jacket, breathable trekking pants.
- Comfortable hiking boots, broken-in before the trip.
- Waterproof backpack cover.
- Gloves, hat, and a buff or scarf for wind protection.
- Lightweight shoes or sandals for evenings in cabins and hotels.
Other Essentials
- Reusable water bottle (1–1.5 L minimum).
- Sunglasses with UV protection and sunscreen.
- Personal toiletries and medications.
- Headlamp or flashlight with extra batteries.
- Camera or smartphone to capture the wild beauty of Patagonia.
Got more questions?
We want you to be crystal clear about everything and 100% sure you’re going to experience this great adventure with us.
If you’d prefer to talk directly, send us a WhatsApp message or email to hola@epicpatagoniatrips.com with everything you need, and we’ll get in touch with you 😉
Dates & Prices
The wild is waiting for you!
Choose your coming adventure in Patagonia!
Austral Highway Roadtrip
- Spring Edition23 november to 03 december 2026$ 3,990.00Book this!
- Summer Edition14 to 24 february 2027$ 4,390.00Book this!
- Autum Edition22 march to 01 april 2027$ 3,990.00Book this!
Flexible Pay
Secure your spot just with $490 USD deposit and pay off the remaining balance in two or three instalments, with no interest or fees.
Team Chat!
Connect with your fellow travelers throught a WhatsApp group and get to know each other before your big adventure together!
Security & Trust
Review the terms and conditions and cancellation policies before your trip to ensure everything is as clear as Patagonia waterfalls!
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