What and where is the Carretera Austral?

The Carretera Austral, officially known as Route 7 or “Ruta 7”, is a stunning 1,240-kilometer (770-mile) highway in southern Chile, winding through some of the most beautiful and remote landscapes in the world. From Puerto Montt in the north to Villa O’Higgins in the south, this route offers a mix of paved and gravel roads, dense forests, fjords, rivers, and majestic mountains. It’s a paradise for every adventure motorcyclist seeking a challenging and rewarding journey.

When to travel

The ideal time to travel the Carretera Austral is during the Southern Hemisphere summer, from December to March. The weather is milder, and the days are longer, providing more daylight for riding. However, be prepared for unpredictable weather at any time of year, with possible rain and cold temperatures.

Is it safe to travel the Carretera Austral?

Traveling the Carretera Austral by motorcycle is generally safe for experienced riders who are well-prepared for the journey. However, there are several factors to consider to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip:

• Road Conditions: Expect a mix of paved and gravel roads, with possible landslides and construction work. Ride with caution, especially in wet conditions.
• Weather: Be prepared for sudden changes in weather. Carry extra fuel and water in case of delays.
• Wildlife: Watch out for wildlife on the road, particularly in remote areas.
• Communication: Inform someone of your travel plans and check in regularly when possible and purchase a spot.
• First Aid Kit: Carry a well-stocked first aid kit and know basic first aid procedures.
• Spare Parts and Tools: Carry essential tools and spare parts, such as inner tubes, a tire repair kit, and extra fuel, as services can be sparse.

The Experience

Traveling the Carretera Austral in Chile is an adventure filled with stunning natural beauty, challenging roads, and encounters with remote and welcoming communities.

Scenic Beauty

• Diverse Landscapes: The route takes you through a variety of landscapes, including dense temperate rainforests, towering fjords, glacial rivers, turquoise lakes, and snow-capped mountains.
• National Parks: Several national parks and reserves along the way, such as Pumalín Park, Queulat National Park, and Cerro Castillo National Reserve, offer opportunities for hiking, wildlife viewing, and exploring pristine environments.

Small Towns and Local Culture

• Charming Villages: You’ll pass through quaint villages and small towns like Chaitén, Futaleufú, and Puyuhuapi, where you can experience local culture and hospitality.
• Friendly Locals: The people you meet along the way are often friendly and helpful, eager to share their stories and assist travelers.

Adventure Activities

• Outdoor Activities: The region is a playground for outdoor enthusiasts, offering activities such as hiking, fishing, kayaking, and rafting. For example, Futaleufú is renowned for its world-class white-water rafting.
• Wildlife: The diverse ecosystems support a variety of wildlife, including condors, huemuls (a type of deer), and marine life in the coastal areas.

Sense of Isolation

• Remote Wilderness: The Carretera Austral offers a profound sense of isolation and tranquility. Some stretches of the road are far from civilization, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in nature.
• Limited Services: In remote areas, services such as fuel stations, restaurants, and accommodations can be sparse. Planning ahead and carrying extra supplies is crucial.

Highlights and Must-Sees

• Exploradores glacier: a large mass of ice that descends from Mount San Valentín, the highest mountain in Patagonia. This approximately 18 kilometers long glacier, offers trekking that begins in the Exploradores Bay.
  

  

   

• Marble Caves on General Carrera Lake: Accessible by boat, these caves are famous for their stunning, swirling blue patterns.

 

• Caleta Tortel: A unique village with wooden walkways instead of streets, offering a glimpse into traditional Patagonian life.

 

• Villa O’Higgins: The southern terminus of the Carretera Austral, offering access to more remote adventures and a ferry connection to Argentina.

 

Where to Sleep along the Carretera Austral?

Here are some accommodation options along the Carretera Austral in Chile:

Hornopiren

• Hotel Hornopiren
  • Website: Hotel Hornopiren

Chaitén

• Cabañas Brisas Del Mar
  • Facebook Page: Cabañas Brisas Del Mar
  • Address: Avenida Corcovado 254, Chaitén, Chile
  • Email: cababrisas@hotmail.com
  • Phone: +56 65 273 1284

Puyuhuapi

• Cabañas Turin
  • Google Business Page: Cabañas Turin
  • Address: Calle Hamburgo 130, Puyuhuapi, Aysén, Chile
  • Phone: +56 999 311 321

Coyhaique

• Cabañas El Embrujo Patagón
  • Website: Cabañas El Embrujo Patagón
  • Address: Km 4 Camino Lago Atravesado, Coyhaique, Aysén, Chile
  • Phone: +56997842814

These accommodations provide various options from hotels to cabins, ensuring you have comfortable and convenient places to stay while exploring the stunning landscapes of the Carretera Austral.

Where to find gasoline along the Carretera Austral?

Finding gasoline along the Carretera Austral requires some planning due to the remote and sparsely populated nature of the route. Here is a list of towns and locations where you can typically find fuel:

Major Fuel Stops

1. Puerto Montt: As the northern gateway to the Carretera Austral, Puerto Montt has numerous gas stations to fill up before you start your journey.
2. Chaitén: After taking the ferry from Puerto Montt, Chaitén is the first significant stop where you can refuel.
3. La Junta: A small town with essential services, including a gas station.
4. Puyuhuapi: Known for its hot springs and nearby Queulat National Park, Puyuhuapi has at least one gas station.
5. Coyhaique: The largest city along the Carretera Austral, offering multiple gas stations and the chance to stock up on supplies.
6. Puerto Río Tranquilo: A key stop for visiting the Marble Caves, with fuel available in the town.
7. Cochrane: A small town with essential services, including a gas station.
8. Villa O’Higgins: The southern terminus of the Carretera Austral, where you can find fuel before venturing further or taking the ferry to Argentina.

Additional Tips for Fuel Management

• Plan Ahead: Due to the long distances and the remote nature of some sections, always plan your fuel stops in advance. Check your map and make sure you have enough fuel to reach the next gas station.
• Carry Extra Fuel: It’s advisable to carry extra fuel in a jerry can or fuel bladder, especially for stretches where gas stations are far apart or in case a station is temporarily out of fuel.
• Ask Locals: Local residents and other travelers can provide up-to-date information about fuel availability and the locations of gas stations.
• Fuel Availability: Be aware that some smaller gas stations might not have a consistent supply of fuel, so it’s best to refuel whenever you have the opportunity.

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