The Southern Highway is the only gateway to the heart of Patagonia 🛣️, as vital as the Hexi Corridor.
“Wilderness greets you the moment you land,”—this is my most immediate impression of the Southern Highway.
The entire Southern Highway is divided into northern and southern sections, with the largest town 🏡, Coyhaique, serving as the midpoint.
[FireworksR] The northern section features Chaiten, Puyuhuapi (home to a stunning hanging glacier), and a stopover in Coyhaique;
[FireworksR] The southern section includes Tranquilo (famous for the Marble Cathedral), Cochrane (gateway to Patagonia National Park), and Villa O’Higgins (the end of the Southern Highway on Route 7 🏁).
Among these, I was particularly eager to embark on the multi-day trek to Castillo. However, due to a desire for rest, I reluctantly decided to skip it. [DisappointedR]
Beyond the specific attractions, the highway itself is a scenic marvel, making the journey worthwhile even if you travel the entire route by bus.
[Side-eyeR]
[RightR] Transportation Guide
[OneR] From Puerto Montt, ferries 🚢 and buses 🚌 are available to Chaiten.
[TwoR] Departing from Chiloé Island, take the ferry from Castro to Chaiten, or from Quellon to Puerto Cisnes.
[DaggerR] Heading south, there are several ways to exit the Southern Highway.
[OneR] Depart from Balmaceda Airport near Coyhaique.
[TwoR] Travel by land from Chile Chico to Argentina.
[ThreeR] Take a boat from Tortel south to Puerto Natales.
[FourR] And I chose the most adventurous route: taking a ferry from the southernmost Villa O’Higgins, then hiking 30 kilometers, and finally arriving at El Chalten in Argentina.
Just in time, I’m setting off tomorrow morning to hike into Argentina! [SlyR]
