Patagonian fjords, glaciers and rainforest down Chile's wild south. That is what Carretera Austral promises, and it delivers. At about 770 miles (1,239 km), it is a drive best taken slowly, over 10–14 days, with time to pull over whenever the view demands it on the way from Puerto Montt to Villa O'Higgins.
Open this route in XCRSNSetting out from Puerto Montt
Start early, with a full tank and a loose plan. Puerto Montt is where the road begins, and the first miles set the rhythm for everything that follows.
The first big moment is Marble Caves. Give it the time it deserves; it is why many people make this trip at all.
Along the way
The road strings together Chaitén and Coyhaique. Each one makes a natural break, and Coyhaique sits close to the middle if you want to split the drive with a night's sleep.
Do not miss Queulat Hanging Glacier.
Arriving in Villa O'Higgins
Save energy for the final stretch: Pumalín Park is still ahead.
By the end you will have seen Marble Caves, Queulat Hanging Glacier and Pumalín Park, and you will understand why Carretera Austral belongs on any list of great drives.
When to go and how to pace it
The best time to drive it is December–March. Plan on 10–14 days so the drive never feels rushed.
Check route weather and fuel stops on the Plan tab before you go.
XCRSN prices fuel for every leg in the local currency, finds stops along the way and books overnights near each town.
