What is the first place that pops up in your mind when we say Patagonia Chilena? Torres Del Paine, Chile’s natural wonderland. Chilean Patagonia or Patagonia Chilena in Spanish is famous for its glistening glaciers, gorgeous terrains, and all other kinds of magnificent views that nature can provide. Include some of these treasures in your Patagonia itinerary.
Updated to April 2024
The vast open landscapes offer you all the opportunities you need to travel, trek, and hike during your Patagonia itinerary.
It is all good until it becomes too crowded. Therefore, if you are looking for pieces of Patagonia’s Paradise for your own then don’t worry we have got your back.
Here are five hidden gems of Chilean Patagonia that are less crowded:
1. Patagonia Itinerary & Marble Caves- Nature’s Masterpiece
It took the tides around the cave 6000 years to carve this intricate structure of the Marble Caves. This is yet another proof that Nature is truly the most skilled artist man has seen.
Where to find it? The lone sculpture stands on the glacial waters of Carrera Lake. By boat or by kayak, once you arrive prepare to get stunned at these marvelous swirls surrounded by pristine waters.
This is just a boat ride away from Puerto Tranquilo, a must-stop on the Carretera Austral. Yet, many people do not make an effort to go visit here. This is why you will have the chance to see this Marble Cathedral without intrusion.
Read more about Carretera Austral’s unmissable stops.
2. Caleta Tortel- The Lost Village
This old fishing village is tucked between the icy fields of Rio Baker, the biggest river in Chile. To arrive you can do it by plane from Santiago to Coyhaique, or if in Coyhaique already you can go on tour to this Caleta.
History tells us that it was the original residence of the ancestors of the canoe wanderers the Alacalufe. This powerful tribe and their hideaway were able to resist colonization till the mid-1950s.
Although the tiny village has become a historical site it remains untouched. Many believe it is because of the unpaved paths or the whispers of the past tribes that still haunt it. A genuinely unspoiled mysterious visit in your Patagonia itinerary.
3. Jeinimeni Lake National Reserve- The Rival
This picturesque reserve has been long overshadowed by the hype created around the scenic beauties of Torres Del Paine. It may be a smaller, remoter nature retreat. Yet, it is just as beautiful as its southern counterpart. Jeinimeni Lake is located inside the Patagonia National Park and a full visit can take up to 5 hours.
The region has steep terrains to climb on, incredible wildlife to watch, and tranquil milky waters to glide through. In short, every eye-pleasing sight on your wishlist.
Read more about must-visit Patagonia Chilena National Parks.
4. Villa Cerro Castillo- The Residence of Natural Beauty
This little hiker’s haunt also promises to be the ‘next Torres Del Paine’ in Patagonia Chilena.
The jagged basalt spires watch over a trail that is dotted with glaciers, greenery, and steep peaks. If you get tired of all the hiking, you may take a short walk to the caves in Aleros de las Manos. This ancient residential spot is still marked with pre-Columbian paintings and handprints that have been preserved over time.
The best part is that you will barely find tourists in this area although it’s located in the famous Aysen Region. This is because the park recently opened in 2017.
5. Chilean Fjords – Nature at its Best
Hidden treasure, off-the-beaten-path destination, Patagonia best kept secret. No words are enough to explain the imposing beauty visitors are about to witness when arriving at the fjords in Patagonia Chilena.
Located across de Aysen, Magellanic, and Antarctic regions, the Chilean fjords are home to mighty glaciers, waterfalls, and stunning views of the legendary and captivating beauty of Patagonia Chilena. The main reason why visitors do not often travel to this land is that in many cases the only possible access is by boat only.
And it’s worth the ride. Postcard-like landscapes are joined by the unique marine wildlife of the area home of the blue, grey, and humpback whales—an unspoiled piece of land where to find beauty at the edge of existence.
Yes, most of the spots on this list are from this same region.
However, we had to mention it as a whole. This is because this side of Patagonia is super underrated and mostly ignored. Moreover, it has all the elements to become an explorer’s playground. You can go off the trail and stumble upon breathtaking sites no one knows about.
Are you ready to go on this scavenger hunt?
Let this wonderful Patagonia Chilena adventure begin! To start planning your trip to Chile you can find all the important information in this extended article. Check out too our favorite Patagonia itinerary to Argentina.
Or you can talk to one of our expert local guides.
