About This Route
Chile's Carretera Austral is a 1,240-kilometer gravel road through one of Earth's last frontiers. This challenging route passes temperate rainforests, glaciers, turquoise lakes, and tiny frontier towns. Much of it remains unpaved, adding to the adventure of exploring this pristine corner of Patagonia.
Must-See Highlights
1
Queulat National Park
Hanging glacier suspended above a fjord
2
Marble Caves
Stunning blue marble caverns on General Carrera Lake
3
Cerro Castillo
Dramatic basalt peak with glaciers
4
Futaleufú River
World-class whitewater rafting
5
Exploradores Glacier
Accessible glacier for trekking
Traveler Tips
- 1
Rent a 4WD - many sections are unpaved
- 2
Book ferries in advance - they're part of the route
- 3
Carry cash - ATMs are rare
- 4
Fill up at every gas station
- 5
Weather changes rapidly - pack layers