Car Travel

In Chile, the northern part of the Southern Coast must be done with the aid of a ferry, which departs from Puerto Montt, Hornopiren, or Quellón, Chiloé. Another route is to loop through Argentine Patagonia, crossing back into Chile near Futaleufú. This Argentine route takes you to Bariloche, crossing over the Argentina border near Osorno and Puyehue, just north of Puerto Montt.

The Carretera Austral, the road that runs through the southern coast, is mostly a dirt road and during rainy periods requires especially careful driving. The road cuts through awesome virgin nature though, connecting tiny fishing towns and quaint villages all the way from Puerto Montt to Villa O'Higgins.

Navigating the Carretera Austral requires some planning, as communities along the way are sometimes few and far between. Some parts of the highway, especially in the southernmost reaches, are deserted. Check out your car thoroughly, especially the air in the spare tire. Make sure you have a jack and jumper cables. Plan your refueling stops ahead of time and bring along food in case you find yourself stuck far from the nearest restaurant.

Rental Car Contacts

Europcar. Aeropuerto Balmaceda and Errázuriz 454, Coyhaique, Aisén, 60000. 67/267–8640; www.europcar.cl.

Varona. Riquelme 438 , Coyhaique, Aisén, 60000. 67/221–6674; www.varona.cl.