Austral Road

The Austral Road (Carretera Austral), which begins in Puerto Montt and ends in Caleta Yungay began construction in 1979, the last stretch inaugurated in 1996. It is an entirely gravel road that makes it necessary to require the use of ferryboats along the route. This road seizes the visitor with a world of incomparable and awe-filled beauty. It is a well-planned road, that is sometimes narrow but that has well constructed concrete bridges. However, it lacks a good supportive infrastructure, therefore the traveler should remember to carry enough benzine.

Location

Extends from Puerto Montt (X Region) to Puerto Yungay (XI Region). Map.

When to go

Year round.

Attractions

Chaiten, El Amarillo Hot Springs, Palena River, Puyuhuapi Hot Springs, Queulat National Park, Coihayque, Rio Cisnes, Pedro Aguirre Cerda Lagoon, Puerto Bertrand, Cochrane.

How to get there

Santiago-Puerto Montt: by plane or road. See Transport

Activities

Wildlife watching, horseback riding, mountaineering, trekking, mountainbike, fishing, sea kayak, white water kayak and photography. Activities Index.

Services

Lodging, food, transportation.