Embark on the ultimate Patagonian road trip with our Northern Carretera Austral journey, stretching from Puerto Montt to Balmaceda. This legendary route winds through Chile’s most untouched landscapes, featuring lush temperate rainforests, dramatic fjords, and turquoise rivers. You will explore the hanging glaciers of Queulat National Park, navigate the surreal Marble Caves on Lake General Carrera, and witness the rugged beauty of the Andes. Designed for independent spirits and nature enthusiasts, this itinerary offers a deep immersion into the wild and remote heart of Chilean Patagonia.
Low-impact activities for everyone
Travel exclusively with your family and friends
Capture stunning vistas and memorable moments
Itinerary
Day 1: Puerto Montt Airport – Hornopirén.
Leaving Puerto Montt Airport we will start the trip going southwards along the Carretera Austral to Hornopirén. This section combines transfers on land with a sea crossing. Once we arrive at Hornopirén we will enjoy Dinner.
Day 2: Hornopirén – Caleta Gonzalo – Yelcho.
Today we will sail from Hornopirén to Caleta Gonzalo through the Bimodal route. This route is divided into three sections and lasts 4 hours and 45 minutes. Then, we continue on Carretera Austral to reach Yelcholake. On the way, we will visit Pumalin Park to trek in 'Los Alerces' path, admiring the ancient forests in a pristine natural setting. Box Lunch included.
Day 3: Lago Yelcho – La Junta
After breakfast we will walk around the lodge, enjoying the natural surroundings. Later on we will enjoy Lunch at the hotel. In the afternoon, we take the Carretera Autral again towards the town of La Junta. Along the way we will find several interesting spots, such as the town of Santa Lucía and the Palena River.
Day 4: Kayak on Palena River and El Sauce Natural Thermal Hot Springs
Today we will Kayak along the Palena River. On this amazing ride (about 16 km) we will be able to admire the beautiful natural scenery and the varied fauna of Patagonia. After paddling for about 2½ hours, we will reach the beach and leave the kayaks to get on the vehicle that will take us to “El Sauce” hot springs with 100% natural warm water
Note: those who do not want to kayak can make an excursion in Puerto Raúl Marín Balmaceda with lunch at a restaurant.
Day 5: Queulat National Park - Coyhaique
We will go southward on Carretera Austral, finding our first stop: Queulat National Park. We will explore the park through its woods until we reach the amazing Queulat Hanging Glacier viewpoint (600-meters trek). After enjoying our box lunch in the park, we will continue along the Carretera Austral for about 4 hours until we reach Coyhaique to stay for the night.
Day 6: Coyhaique – Horseback Riding
During this adventure trip we will go to a farm located just a few minutes from Coyhaique. Upon arrival we will start the adventure on horseback through a wonderful landscape in Patagonia, admiring the high mountains from the shore of the Simpson River. After approximately 2 hours we will go back to hotel and lunch will be served at a typical Patagonian restaurant
Day 7: Coyhaique –Balmaceda Airport.
Say goodbye and transfer to the airport.
Important Notes
- The Horseback riding is suitable for people without previous experience and lasts 2 hours.
- The start time of the program is subject to change according to the flight schedules of the next season.
- Check optional activities from Coyhaique.
