Getting Oriented

Getting Oriented

If you're like most people, you'll explore Chiloé by car. Because of the island's relatively small size, driving is a pleasure. Major towns and landmarks are usually no more than an hour or two away. The Pan-American Highway (Ruta 5) that meanders through northern Chile ends at the Golfo de Ancud and continues again on Isla Grande. It connects the major cities of Ancud, Castro, and Chonchi before coming to its end in Quellón. Paved roads also connect the Pan-American to Quemchi and Dalcahue, and Achao on Isla Quinchao. There are plans to pave the coastal route that connects the village of San Antonio de Chacao with Dalcahue. Another, more scenic, route than the Pan-American leads from Chacao to Caulín and Ancud, via Huicha. The road west from Ancud has been paved as far as the crossroads to the lighthouse at Corona Point and the colonial fort at Ahui.