Immerse yourself in the pristine wilderness of Chilean Patagonia with our Northern Carretera Austral: Rivers and Glaciers program. This specialized itinerary focuses on the region’s most dramatic water landscapes, from the world-class turquoise rapids of the Futaleufú River to the breathtaking hanging glacier of Queulat National Park. Designed for adventure seekers and nature lovers, this journey takes you through lush temperate rainforests and deep fjords, offering unique opportunities for rafting, hiking, and wildlife spotting. Experience the raw power of nature in a remote sanctuary where the ice meets the jungle.
Low-impact activities for everyone
Travel exclusively with your family and friends
Capture stunning vistas and memorable moments
Spot native animals in their natural habitats
Engage with local traditions and communities
Itinerary
Day 1: Santiago or Punta Arenas – Balmaceda - Puerto Tranquilo – General Carrera Lake (192 km)
From Balmaceda airport we take the Carretera Austral to Puerto Tranquilo along the shore of General Carrera Lake. In this adventure tour we will discover beautiful forests of lengas and other autochthonous tree species. On the way we can admire Chiguay lagoon and the imposing Castillo Mount. We will make different stops along the way. Lunch is Included. Overnight stay.
Day 2: Marble Chapels – Valle Exploradores Viewpoint – Puerto Bertrand
We begin with a 1.5-hour motorboat ride to the Marble Chapels Nature Sanctuary. We then continue toward Valle Exploradores, where we'll embark on a moderate-level hike through an evergreen forest and across a glacial moraine, arriving at the viewpoint overlooking the Exploradores Glacier. Along the way, we’ll also have views of the Northern Patagonian Ice Field and Mount San Valentín. Return to Puerto Tranquilo for lunch. In the afternoon, we travel along the Carretera Austral to Puerto Bertrand. Overnight stay.
Day 3: Full Day in Patagonia National Park – Valle Chacabuco Sector – Cochrane
Today, we head east for approximately 50 minutes toward Patagonia National Park, entering the Valle Chacabuco sector. There, you’ll be able to choose from a variety of hiking trails according to your preference. You’ll also have the opportunity to visit the park’s on-site museum. Box lunch included. In the afternoon, we continue for about one more hour to reach the town of Cochrane. Overnight stay.
Day 4: Full Day in Caleta Tortel
We continue our journey along the Carretera Austral for about 2.5 hours until we reach Caleta Tortel, a town declared a National Heritage Site for its unique architecture and way of life. Here, traditional streets are replaced by wooden cypress walkways that wind through the entire village, helping preserve the area's natural biodiversity. Lunch included. In the afternoon, we return to Cochrane. Overnight stay.
Day 5: Day 5: Patagonia National Park – Tamango Sector / Rafting on the Baker River
In the morning, we’ll visit the former Tamango National Reserve, now part of Patagonia National Park. There, we’ll take a 20-minute boat ride along the Cochrane River, followed by a hike in search of the elusive huemul deer, native to this region. Lunch included. We then continue toward the Puerto Bertrand area, with a stop along the way at the natural viewpoint overlooking the confluence of the Baker and Neff Rivers. To end the day with some adventure, we’ll enjoy a 2-hour rafting experience on the Baker River, the most voluminous river in Chile. Overnight stay in Puerto Bertrand.
Day 6: Puerto Bertrand – Chile Chico – Patagonia National Park, Jeinimeni Sector (131 km)
We depart northeast, following the course of the Baker River during the first stretch, then continuing along the majestic views of the vast General Carrera Lake until we reach the town of Chile Chico. From there, we drive 20 minutes further to visit the former Jeinimeni Reserve, now part of Patagonia National Park. Box lunch included. Overnight stay in Chile Chico.
Day 7: Puerto Ibáñez – Coyhaique
We will head to Chile Chico pier to sail for 2 hours in the General Carrera Lake. Before continuing to Coyhaique, we will visit its incredible falls. We will have Lunch at Villa Cerro Castillo or enjoy a box lunch.
Day 8: Coyhaique – Aeropuerto Balmaceda - Santiago or Punta Arenas
Say goodbye and transfer to the hotel.
Important Notes
On the first day, it is necessary that the arrival at Balmaceda Airport is on flights until noon.
