7-Day Northern Carretera Austral: Puerto Montt to Coyhaique

Your adventure begins in Puerto Montt, the gateway to northern Patagonia. Upon arrival, collect your pre-booked 4WD vehicle, which is essential for this journey. Spend the day stocking up on groceries, essential supplies, and extra fuel containers. Most importantly, confirm your ferry reservations from Hornopirén to Caleta Gonzalo for tomorrow. Use this day to organize your vehicle and prepare for the remote sections ahead. Explore the waterfront market for fresh seafood and enjoy a last taste of urban amenities before heading into the wild.

Today marks the true beginning of your Carretera Austral journey. Start early, driving south from Puerto Montt to La Arena, where you will take your first short ferry crossing to Puelche. Continue driving to Hornopirén, the departure point for the longer, scenic ferry across the fjords to Caleta Gonzalo. This ferry ride offers stunning views of untouched coastline and dense forests. Upon disembarking, drive the final gravel stretch through Pumalín National Park to Chaitén, a town famously rebuilt after the 2008 volcanic eruption.

Begin your day by exploring the immediate surroundings of Chaitén, including the remnants of the 2008 volcanic eruption and the nearby hot springs if time permits. Then, take a detour from the Carretera Austral, heading east on X-924 to Futaleufú, Chile's renowned whitewater rafting capital. The drive itself is incredibly scenic, passing through lush valleys and alongside pristine rivers. Spend the afternoon exploring the charming town of Futaleufú or engaging in optional adventure activities such as rafting or horseback riding.

After a morning in Futaleufú, retrace your path back to the Carretera Austral (Ruta 7) and continue south. This section of the road is famed for its dense Valdivian rainforests, dramatic fjords, and countless waterfalls. Keep an eye out for Cascada de la Virgen, a prominent roadside waterfall. Your destination is Puyuhuapi, a small, picturesque village nestled at the head of a fjord, known for its German influence and proximity to natural hot springs. Enjoy a well-deserved soak at the thermal baths if time allows.

Today's journey is one of the most iconic on the entire Carretera Austral, taking you through Queulat National Park. Allocate ample time to hike the trail to the Ventisquero Colgante (Hanging Glacier) viewpoint. The sight of the glacier tumbling between two peaks is breathtaking and one of Chile's most photographed natural wonders. After your hike, continue south. The landscape gradually transitions from dense rainforest to more open, steppe-like terrain as you approach Coyhaique, the largest city in the Aysén region and a good place to refuel and resupply.

Take a well-deserved break from driving in Coyhaique, the bustling capital of the Aysén region. This is an ideal day to replenish supplies, check your vehicle, and relax. Explore the city's unique hexagonal Plaza de Armas, visit local artisan shops, or enjoy a meal at one of the many restaurants. You could also embark on a short hike in the surrounding hills or visit the nearby Reserva Nacional Coyhaique for panoramic views of the city and surrounding valleys.

On your final day, you have two options. If this is a standalone 7-day trip, head to Balmaceda Airport (BBA), about 55 km south of Coyhaique, for your departure flight. If you are continuing with the southern section of the Carretera Austral towards Cerro Castillo, Marble Caves, and Villa O'Higgins, today is the perfect transition day. Use any remaining time to explore Coyhaique or drive to Balmaceda at a relaxed pace, savoring the last views of the Aysén region.