Experiences and local guides in Coyhaique

Nature

Coyhaique is the only city on the Carretera Austral, surrounded by steppe, lenga forests and crystal-clear rivers. To the south, Cerro Castillo with its spires and turquoise lake; Lake General Carrera, the second largest in South America, with the water-carved Marble Caves; and the Exploradores and San Rafael glaciers. Huemul deer, condors and rivers such as the Simpson, Baker and Ibáñez, a world mecca for fly fishing.

Activities

• Trek to Cerro Castillo lagoon (full day) and the 4-day traverse of the reserve; trails of Patagonia National Park in the Chacabuco valley
• Fly fishing on the Simpson, Mañihuales and Paloma rivers and the lakes with local guides, November to April
• Kayaking at the Marble Caves from Puerto Río Tranquilo, rafting on the Baker river
• Ice hike on the Exploradores glacier and cruise to the San Rafael lagoon
• Carretera Austral by car, bike or motorbike: Puyuhuapi, the Hanging Glacier, Cochrane and Caleta Tortel

When to go

November to April: long days, rivers open for fishing and all passes open. March and April bring spectacular autumn colours with less wind. In winter, snow and skiing at El Fraile, with many services closed.

How to get there

Balmaceda airport (BBA) is 55 km away, with flights from Santiago (2 h 15) and Puerto Montt; transfers and buses reach Coyhaique in 1 hour. Overland, the Carretera Austral from Puerto Montt with ferries (2 to 3 days) or from Chile Chico and Argentina. Renting a car is the best way to explore the region; local operators run trips to Cerro Castillo, the Marble Caves and the Simpson river.