Carretera Austral Patagonia Section
Patagonia's legendary gravel highway
The Carretera Austral stretches 1,240 kilometers through some of Chile’s most remote territory, connecting isolated communities between Puerto Montt and Villa O’Higgins. This gravel highway crosses dozens of rivers, skirts massive glacial lakes like Lago General Carrera, and provides access to marble caves, hanging glaciers, and temperate rainforest. The route includes multiple ferry crossings and notorious washboard sections that can shake your rig apart if you’re not careful.
Difficulty varies from easy gravel cruising to challenging washouts and river crossings during rainy season. High-clearance vehicle essential, 4WD recommended for side routes and wet conditions. April through October brings unpredictable weather and potential road closures. Fuel stations are sparse—plan for 300-kilometer stretches without services. Stock up on supplies in Coyhaique and Puerto Rio Tranquilo. This is overlanding at its finest: genuine remoteness, stunning scenery, and the satisfaction of completing one of South America’s most iconic drives.
Trail Specs
| Difficulty | Moderate |
|---|---|
| Trail Type | Overland Route |
| Surface | Gravel |
| Features | Camping, Historic, Remote, Scenic, Water Crossings |
| Length (miles) | 770 mi / 1240 km |
| Duration | 8-12 days |
| Max elevation (ft) | 3280 ft |
| Best season | November-March |
| Minimum vehicle | High-clearance recommended |
| Nearest town | Puerto Montt, Los Lagos |
| Land manager | Dirección de Vialidad MOP |
| Permit required | No |
| Cell service | None |
| Water crossings | Yes |
| Dispersed camping | Yes |
| Start coordinates | |
| End coordinates | |
| Copy both for Google Maps directionsClick to copy the directions URL · or open it directly in a new tab | |
| Find on Google | Search on Google → |
Location
Trail Conditions
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Frequently asked questions
Can a stock Hilux or 4Runner handle the Carretera Austral, or do I need a lifted rig?
A stock high-clearance 4WD handles the route fine under normal conditions. Lift and lockers aren't required, but all-terrain tires are strongly advised — the gravel gets loose and washboarded, and some southern sections near Cochrane and Villa O'Higgins get genuinely rough after rain.
Is the Carretera Austral driveable in winter (June–August)?
Technically possible but not advisable — heavy rainfall, mud, and snow at higher passes can close sections entirely, and many ferry crossings reduce frequency or suspend operations. Stick to November through March; March still has decent weather and far less traffic than January.
Do I need any permits or special paperwork to drive the Carretera Austral?
No trail permit is required, but you'll need a valid passport and Chilean vehicle entry documentation (or rental paperwork) if crossing from Argentina. Some segments require paid ferry crossings — notably at Hornopirén and Chaitén — book these ahead in peak season because slots fill up.
What's the hardest section of the route and what should I expect?
The stretch south of Cochrane toward Villa O'Higgins is the most punishing — deep gravel, limited maintenance, and creek crossings that run fast after rain. The final push to Villa O'Higgins is also a dead end by road; you either turn back or take a boat across Lago O'Higgins into Argentina.
How far apart are fuel stops, and should I carry extra?
Fuel gaps can exceed 200 km between some towns — Coyhaique is the most reliable resupply hub on the entire route. Carry a minimum 20-liter jerry can and top off every time you have the chance; prices increase and availability drops the further south you go.
Trail track
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