Destinations
For all those who long for the open road this road trip has got to be one of the ultimate self drive adventures. Whilst of course you could easily spend longer and fill a whole month for a trip of this kind, we’ve condensed it down to just 16 nights and included what we feel are some of the incredible highlights of the Aysen region. This part of Chile is without doubt full of natural wonders and whether you choose to hike, ride, paddle or just sit – you can expect a magnificent holiday and full immersion in quite an incredible landscape. It is as if all self drives lead to this one epic drive and we’re sure that you will love it. October to April is the main window to do this trip.
Upon arrival in Santiago you would be met and transferred to your hotel which is located in a nice neighbourhood with good restaurants and shops. A chance to relax after your long journey. You then have a day to explore Santiago. Either in the morning or afternoon you will be briefed on the self drive journey that you will be doing by our representative in Santiago.
Transfer to the airport for an early morning flight to Puerto Montt. Overnight here.
A big day of adventure ahead. Your vehicle will be delivered early to your hotel, in time for you to drive and catch your various ferries today. Overnight at Caleto Gonzalo.
Enjoy the day exploring in Parque Pumalin. Overnight at Chaiten, approx 1 hr further south.
Day 6
Continue south to El Pangue lodge, near to 4 - 5 hrs drive along the Carretera Austral.
Take a short drive to one of the highlights of this route, a 2 night stay at this superb lodge. Enjoy the hots springs, great hiking, sea kayaking, bird watching all in a stunning setting.
A 5 hour drive south to Coyhaique where you will overnight. We suggest either Raices guesthouse or Nomades Boutique hotel for a more luxury option or Pampa del Corral.
Enjoy a full day's drive as you head south again to another highlight. For your second day, it would be a great to go for a hike or a horse ride. Plus the marble caves is also a must!
A further 4 - 5 hours of scenic driving further on and you reach Tortel. This is a uniquely car free town and built almost entirely of wood. Enjoy dinner at the lodge's own restaurant, providing typical Patagonian dishes made with local ingredients.
Full morning's drive (4 hrs) to reach Patagonia National Park. Your chance to visit a rewilding project in the Patagonia National Park. The fences of this estancia have been removed with birdlife, deer, guanacos & pumas having taken the land back. Drive through the grasslands, lenga forests, past lakes and follow enormous rivers. There are hikes aplenty in this inspiring National Park.
A further morning to enjoy this park before continuing on to Chilo Chico.
Take the ferry across Lago General Carrera to Puerto Ibanez (2 hr 15 min ferry ride) and drive to Balmaceda airport where you will drop off your vehicle and fly back to Santiago. Upon arrival in Santiago you will be met and privately transferred to your hotel for your last night.
Head back to the international airport today for your flight home.
Having a good, quality vehicle is key to every self-drive journey. We work carefully with our local team to source you the best vehicle available for your self-drive journey.
All our itineraries are tailor made, but here are some of our favourite routes and camp combinations.
Simply, because we care. Whether you have travelled in Africa with Safari Drive or whether this is your first journey with us, we will be working hard behind the scenes to support your trip and ensure sure you have a fantastic self drive adventure.
Your entire holiday is designed around your requirements. We will create the perfect trip, at your own pace, to your budget.
All our team in Latin America live in-country and have travelled extensively. Their knowledge and input is key to a successful self-drive safari.
We don’t mark up for our services, we only take commissions from the suppliers we use. Tailor-made does not have to mean expensive.
All our holidays are 100% financially protected.
