Self-Drive: Villa O'Higgins & Chacabuco Valley

Itinerary

This itinerary is a short 4-day extension to the Southern Carretera Austral itinerary, which will take you even further down south, to the edge of the Southern Ice-field.

Day 1

CALETA TORTEL – VILLA O´HIGGINS (144 KM / 89 MI)

This drive will take you to the end of the Carretera Austral and to the town of Villa O´Higgins. The village, isolated between mountains, fjords, and the Patagonian ice fields makes for a picturesque setting. (B)

Day 2

VILLA O´HIGGINS

A day at leisure for you to enjoy. A trip to the great O´Higgins Glacier located in Bernardo O’Higgins National Park is highly recommended. It is one of the principal glaciers of the Southern Patagonian Ice Field and is about 2 km (1.2 mi) wide. Overnight in or near Villa O´ Higgins. (B)

Day 3

VILLA O´HIGGINS – CHACABUCO VALLEY (248 KM/154 MI)

Today you will drive back towards the town of Cochrane and have the opportunity to enjoy the lovely landscape once again. Cochrane was founded in 1954 but didn’t have road access to the rest of Chile until 1988 when the Carretera Austral was opened. After passing the city, continue on the route to reach the Chacabuco Valley which for generations was a vast sheep and cattle ranch. Overnight in or near the Chacabuco Valley. (B)

Day 4

CHACABUCO VALLEY – BALMACEDA (299 KM / 186 MI)

Head back to Balmaceda to drop off your car and continue your travels. (B)

Rates in 2020/2021

Self-drive itineraries are highly flexible and can be adjusted to your preferences. The rates below are sample rates for this itinerary with the specific car types and hotels mentioned in the table. However, Hotels are subject to availability as well as your choice. The final rate of this itinerary will reflect the specific options you have chosen in the course of developing your itinerary.

Rates are per person, based on double occupancy. For single or triple rates, different hotels or extra nights, please inquire.

Car Type	valid thru Apr 30, 2020	Oct 15, 2020 - Apr 30, 2021
Europcar cat J3	$943	$943
Mitta cat J	$943	$943

Balmaceda is the closest airport to Coyhaique, the cultural centre of the Aysen region of northern Patagonia. There are flights from Santiago to Balmaceda, most of which connect through Puerto Montt.

Program includes:

5 nights incl. breakfast
6 days car rental including unlimited free mileage
Local tax
Full CDW coverage
Self-drive brochure
Roadmap and descriptions.
Deductible regarding to general conditions (see above).

Chile car rental companies charge an additional airport service fee when the vehicle will be picked up from the airport. This service charge is not included in the published rates. This extra fee has to be paid upon returning the car.

Weather

Northern Patagonia has a relatively temperate and wet climate. Even during the summer months, one can expect some rain. Clothing When it comes to packing, it is best to think in terms of layers and to try to be prepared for all kinds of weather, when travelling to this region of Chile. Gas Gas stations are few and far between. Thus, it is prudent to fill up the tank whenever there is an opportunity to do so.

Car types

Europcar cat J3 – Mitsubishi L200 Katana Crt 4×4 (Mt) or similar Hertz cat J – Mitsubishi L200 4×2 Katana or similar Please note that car rental companies only reserve a specific category of cars, not a specific type of car within that category. Please mention at the time of booking if you need a vehicle with automatic transmission. Rental cars do not come with a GPS system by default. They can be added on at an additional cost, but the cover is not complete in remote areas. Driving License Foreign nationals must have an international driver’s license in order to be able to drive in Chile.

Lodge Robinson Crusoe The lodge, which is inspired by the adventurer Robinson Crusoe, is located in the small town of Villa O’Higgins. Each one of the 12 modern styled rooms has a private terrace, heating and a private bathroom. The various areas of the Club House make the travellers stay more comfortable and enjoyable. After a full day of explorations, passengers can relax by the fireplace or enjoy some time in the outdoor hot tubs. Lodge Chacabuco The Lodge Chacabuco is a modern, cozy and sustainable lodge, situated in the heart of the Patagonia National Park, facing Mount Tamanguito. It is comprised of 6 luxurious and comfortable rooms equipped with antique wooden furniture. This accommodation also offers delicious dishes for breakfast and dinner, as well as box lunches for those guests wishing to explore their surroundings. After an exciting day, the travelers can relax around the fireplace or simply enjoy the common areas.

inquire