Carretera Austral by bike
- Distance
- about 1,240 km (770 miles)
- Country
- Chile
- Difficulty
- Challenging
- Type of trip
- Cycling route
The Carretera Austral, also known as Route 7, is a 770-mile journey through the heart of Patagonia. This iconic cycling route starts in Puerto Montt and winds its way south to Villa O’Higgins, offering a wild mix of gravel roads, dense forests, snow-capped peaks, and pristine fjords.
Known for its remoteness and stunning scenery, the Carretera Austral is a bucket-list adventure for intrepid cyclists. Be prepared for some tough terrain, but the sheer beauty of Patagonia makes every mile worth it.
Highlights along the way
- Pumalín National Park: Ride through one of Chile’s largest private nature reserves, home to ancient temperate rainforests.
- Queulat Hanging Glacier: Witness this dramatic glacier perched high above a fjord.
- General Carrera Lake: Marvel at the turquoise waters of South America’s second-largest lake.
- Villa O’Higgins: Finish your journey in this remote, picturesque village surrounded by the Andes.
- Wildlife Encounters: Spot guanacos, condors, and possibly even pumas along the way.
Distance
~770 miles (1,240 km)
Best time to go
November to March, during the southern hemisphere’s summer, when the weather is milder, and roads are more accessible.
Flybys from Chile
- Lake Tota, Boyaca, Colombia · Kelly
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