Exploring the Carretera Austral

• Half-Day Rio Baker Rafting

Experience the thrill of rafting on the Baker River, the most voluminous river in Chile — an adventure that combines nature, excitement, and adrenaline. The activity consists of navigating white waters aboard inflatable rafts, passing through class II and III+ rapids along a route of approximately 6 km.

The descent begins at Lake Bertrand, where participants receive a safety briefing and equipment orientation before starting the adventure. Over the course of two hours, they’ll enjoy the power and turquoise color of the Baker River, surrounded by stunning natural scenery.

• Puerto Guadal / Puerto Bertrand / Puerto Guadal

Departure at the scheduled time from Puerto Guadal to the town of Puerto Bertrand, located 26 km to the southwest, with an estimated travel time of approximately 45 minutes, to take part in a rafting experience on the Baker River, lasting around 2 hours and 30 minutes. Once the activity is finished, it is suggested to explore the surrounding area and visit points of interest such as the Baker and Neff Rivers Confluence, located just 15 minutes south of Puerto Bertrand. After the visits, return to Puerto Guadal via the same route.

• Puerto Guadal – P.N. Patagonia / Tamango – Cochrane

Departure at the agreed time from Puerto Guadal to the town of Cochrane, located 77 km to the southeast, with an estimated travel time of approximately 2 hours. From there, the journey continues 10 minutes further east to reach Patagonia National Park, Tamango sector, where visitors will enjoy its unique landscapes and take a boat navigation on the Cochrane River lasting approximately 20 minutes. This is followed by a quiet walk in search of huemul deer in their natural habitat.

After the visit, return via the same route to the park entrance point and then by vehicle to Cochrane

• Cochrane – Tortel – Cochrane

At the agreed time, the journey will begin to the town of Caleta Tortel, located 126 km to the southwest, with an estimated travel time of approximately 3 hours. Upon arrival, there will be time to explore this unique settlement, declared a Typical Zone, renowned for its distinctive architecture and way of life. In Tortel, streets have been replaced by extensive walkways made of Guaitecas cypress wood, which run throughout the cove and help preserve the area’s biodiversity.

As an optional activity (not included in the price of this quotation), it is suggested to take the excursion to Isla de los Muertos, with an approximate duration of 2 hours and 30 minutes. The island was declared a National Monument in 2001 and is classified as a historical and interpretive circuit of the flora of the Aysén region. It is located in the delta of the Baker River, among Patagonian fjords and channels, very close to the town of Caleta Tortel, and is considered a mysterious and historically rich site, not to be missed when visiting the area.

The navigation departs from Caleta Tortel and takes approximately 40 minutes to reach Isla de los Muertos. The island reflects an important historical process from the early years of colonization, exploration, and exploitation of the Aysén region, particularly in its southernmost area. Covered in native vegetation and surrounded by Patagonian fjords, visitors will relive the history of a late 19th-century tragedy while enjoying the local flora and fauna. Within the island, there are marked trails and wooden walkways.

On its surface of approximately 248 m², there are 33 wooden crosses, vestiges of individual graves dating back to 1906, believed to correspond to workers of the Baker Exploitation Company. Although there is no official version regarding the cause of death, several theories are shared at this destination.

After the visit, return along the same section of the Carretera Austral to the town of Cochrane.

• Approach to Calluqueo Glacier – Chile Chico

Morning departure from the meeting point in Cochrane for an approximately 1-hour transfer to the Calluqueo Glacier viewpoint, where the guide will provide an introductory briefing about the activity. This is followed by a lake crossing in a small boat to Calluqueo Glacier, with a navigation time of approximately 15 to 20 minutes. Upon arrival, a trekking of about 1 hour and 30 minutes begins toward the glacier’s front, where impressive views of the surroundings can be enjoyed along with a well-deserved box lunch.

After taking in the magnitude of this spectacular landscape, the return journey begins back to the boat and then to Cochrane. Later, at the agreed time, the journey continues from Cochrane to the town of Chile Chico, located 178 km to the northeast, with an estimated travel time of approximately 4 hours and 30 minutes. Along the way, near Puerto Guadal, it is suggested to visit the Maqui Waterfalls area. This natural attraction is composed of a series of waterfalls and natural pools, ideal for enjoying the scenery and cooling off. There are trails on both sides of the stream, providing access to different waterfalls and pools, ascending on one side and descending on the other.

The journey then continues to Chile Chico, following the southern shore of Lake General Carrera for most of the route after passing through Puerto Guadal.

• Chile Chico – ferry Puerto Ibáñez – Coyhaique

At the scheduled time, passengers will gather at the Chile Chico pier to board the ferry for a scenic crossing of Lake General Carrera, one of the most beautiful navigations in the region. The journey to Puerto Ibáñez takes approximately 2 hours and 20 minutes, offering stunning views of the Patagonian landscape. Passengers must arrive at the pier at least 1 hour and 30 minutes prior to departure.

• Transfer Coyhaique Hotel / Balmaceda Airport

At the specified time, you will be transferred to the Balmaceda Airport.

Continue your adventure beyond the Carretera Austral by exploring the legendary landscapes of Patagonia. Discover the glaciers of El Calafate, hike the scenic trails of El Chaltén, and experience the dramatic peaks of Torres del Paine National Park. From remote wilderness to iconic natural wonders, Patagonia offers the perfect extension for travelers seeking unforgettable scenery, outdoor activities, and deeper exploration of the southernmost regions of Argentina and Chile.