Aysen & Magallanes

Aysen: Chilean Patagonia

The remote region of Aysen encompasses a massive section of Chilean Patagonia. This is the least populous of Chile’s fifteen regions—a wilderness of fractured coastline, fishing villages, and steep mountainsides. Between Puerto Montt in the north and O’Higgins to the south, the Carretera Austral Longitudinal crosses roaring rivers and twists through primordial rainforest.

Pumalin and Laguna San Safael

Along the 770-mile route, you’ll pass seven national parks and protected areas, including Pumalin and Laguna San Rafael. This may be the wildest road trip South America has to offer. Car rental and private transfers can be arranged.

Futaleufu

Aysen (also Aisen) is an ideal destination for outdoor adventure and active pursuits. The region’s main river is the powerful, glacial-blue Futaleufú—big river in the Mapuche tongue—one of the top five rivers in the world for whitewater sports. The trekking and fishing are also world class. The craggy peaks and ancient forests are rarely visited, compared to other parts of Patagonia. Anglers come seeking monster King (Chinook) salmon and trout.

Magallanes

Magallanes, the territory south of Aysen, was named in memory of the great Portuguese navigator. This windswept land was first developed by British sheep companies in the late 1800s. Here the Andes crumble into steppe, and penguin colonies crowd the shores. Punta Arenas, the regional capital, is a busy port town on the Strait of Magellan, where ships depart for Ushuaia, Argentina and flights head south to the sub-Antarctic.

Punta Arenas is also a major departure point for visitors headed to Torres del Paine National Park.

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TouWhat to do in the Aysen & Magallanes

The outdoor adventures in Aysén and Magallanes showcase Patagonia’s rugged terrain and remote wilderness. The region offers a wide range of activities for adventure seekers. Visitors to Aysén and Magallanes can enjoy:

• Hiking
• Whitewater Rafting
• Kayaking
• Canyoneering
• Zip-lining
• Horseback Riding
• Rappelling
• Exploring Blue Lagoons and Caves
• Wildlife Watching and Birdwatching
• Touring Punta Arena’s Gastronomy or Historical Sites
• Enjoy views of Fjords, Glaciers, and Snow-Capped Peaks
• Visiting Penguin Colonies
• Day trips to Magdalena and Marta in the Strait of Magellan

What is the Weather Like?

Chilean Patagonia experiences a dynamic climate with significant seasonal variations. Summer months, from December to January, bring the warmest temperatures, with daytime highs reaching 65°F and nighttime lows around 40°F. During the shoulder seasons of spring and fall, temperatures range from 60°F to below 40°F. Winter, from May through August, is marked by fleeting daylight, daytime highs near 40°F, and freezing nights. Precipitation is light year-round, but Patagonia is known for its powerful winds, which are strongest from late November to mid-March. Visitors should be prepared for rapidly changing weather and dress in layers to ensure comfort throughout their journey.

No matter when you visit, the weather in this area can surprise you. These averages are changing, please check extended weather forecasts using your favorite weather app prior to departure.

Getting There

Punta Arenas is most commonly reached by air from Santiago, a flight of about 3 hours and 30 minutes. Flights are also available from Puerto Montt, in the Chilean Lake District, with a typical duration of 2 hours and 30 minutes.

Punta Arenas is also a major departure point for visitors headed to Torres Del Paine National Park or to Antarctica by air.

Start your journey today