Here we recommend the stops you can make to make the most of your adventure.

Stop 1: Puerto Montt to Puerto Varas

If your trip begins in Santiago, you must take a flight to Puerto Montt, where you can begin this journey, since that is the starting point. This region is known for its gastronomy, and just 2 hours away you can visit the Island of Chiloé and its typical cities: Ancud, Castro and Quellón. Visit our Tour to Chiloé Island here. 
Afterwards, travel to Puerto Varas, where you can reach the famous Llanquihue Lake.

Stop 2: Llanquihue Lake

From Lake Llanquihue you can visit places like: Frutillar, Puerto Varas, Ensenada and Puerto Fonk. Nearby, you will have several parks to visit, there is the Vicente Pérez Rosales Park and the Alerce Andino National Park, places that will allow you to immerse yourself in nature, thanks to the miles of hectares of trees and native species that surround them. Here you can also walk various trails and spot various native animals. Don't miss these walks! 
One of the must-sees in Chilean Patagonia is visiting the Petrohué Falls, from where you can see the Osorno Volcano.

Stop 3: Coyhaique and Balmaceda

Taking a jump on the route, Coyhaique is a beautiful city that is worth visiting, where you can eat typical cuisine, as well as go trekking and hiking. Around it is the Coyhaique National Reserve, and the Queulat National Park; tourist attractions of the city. 

Stop 4: Cochrane

Continue your adventure along the Carretera Austral towards Cochrane. This is an excellent place to enjoy nature. Try delicious local food at La Pérgola Restaurant. Here you can taste typical dishes of the region. 
In this region is the Tamango National Reserve, where you will have excellent views of Lake Cochrane, and if you are lucky, you will be able to see a huemul, a typical Chilean animal.

Stop 5: Caleta Tortel 

From Cochrane, continue towards Tortel. This picturesque town is characterized by its wooden walkways. Here we recommend taking a walking tour and enjoying the landscape. Remember to bring your camera, as the photos will be unforgettable. Near this cove, it is recommended that you visit the Island of the Dead, a place declared cultural heritage for its history and uniqueness.

Stop 6: Puerto Natales

The trip along the Carretera Austral is coming to an end. One of the last stops that you absolutely must have is the beautiful city of Puerto Natales, three hours from Punta Arenas; which is known as the gateway to the Torres del Paine National Park and its incredible views. This is the epicenter of Chilean Patagonia. 
This park is an icon of tourism in Chile, recognized for its landscapes and the diversity of fauna that can be observed: among them, pumas, rheas, guanacos, foxes and huemules. 
Here you can choose hiking routes that adapt to all levels, from the O to the W circuit. But if you are only looking to tour the park, there are various companies that provide this type of service, learn about our tours to Torres del Paine.

These are recommended stops, but among them there are many towns, lakes, parks and towns that are worth visiting on your journey along Chile's Carretera Austral.
Now, before embarking on this trip, you must take into account various factors, specifically around the weather and clothing. If you travel to Chile between October and February, they are the spring and summer months, therefore the cold decreases considerably, but not the rain. 

Travel tips for traveling the Carretera Austral

1. Plan the routes you will take in advance

Before leaving, it is essential that you have a plan A and B about the routes. Check maps and download them offline, because the signal is likely to be poor in several places. Also, if you travel with a rented car, consider that the distances are long and that some roads are gravel, so it is essential that someone in the group knows the basics of changing a tire, for example.

2. Book accommodation

During spring and summer, prices in Chile tend to rise, especially in January and February, which are high season months. We recommend you book in advance. There are options ranging from campsites to cabins and hotels. 

3. Food 

In some parts of the Carretera Austral, fuel stations and places to eat are limited. Bring snacks and water for the road, it's best to be prepared! Good provisions can make a difference. 

4. Check the weather

The climate in Patagonia can be variable. Wearing appropriate clothing for sudden changes in temperature is essential, especially footwear for mud and dirt and a good windbreaker and waterproof jacket. 

5. Medicines and first aid

Emergencies can happen at any time, it is best to have a first aid kit and necessary medications in case of a cold, stomach pain or other unforeseen events. 

6. Respect nature and its parks

The Carretera Austral is a natural paradise. Make sure you follow conservation rules and take your trash with you. On the Sernatur website, you can find official information about tourist attractions in the Patagonia region, including national parks. In addition, CONAF is the institution in charge of the administration of parks and reserves in Chile. On their site you will find information about hours, fees and regulations for each park.

7. Enjoy the experience

Every corner of the Carretera Austral has something unique. Along it you will meet countless travelers, make friends and share route information, this could be the experience of your lives! Stop to enjoy the local viewpoints and attractions. Remember that the journey is part of the experience.
Traveling the Carretera Austral is a unique experience that combines nature, culture and adventure. With these stops and travel tips, you're ready to make the most of your Patagonia adventure. Get ready to travel and discover everything this incredible destination has to offer! Check out our tour to the Carretera Austral here.