Discover Patagonia with Big Magazine

A Journey into the Unseen Landscapes of Chilean Patagonia

This is not a typical trip.

It is a journey into one of the last truly untouched territories on Earth—where distances expand, landscapes dominate, and time begins to slow down.

Designed and curated by Big Magazine, this expedition takes you deep into the heart of Chilean Patagonia, following a route that connects remote communities, national parks, and some of the most extraordinary natural environments in the world.

It’s an experience shaped by contrast:

Fjords and glaciers
Forests and open steppe
Silence and scale

Whether you are drawn by nature, exploration, or simply the desire to disconnect, Patagonia offers something increasingly rare—a place that still feels undiscovered.

This is not just about where you go.
It’s about how you experience it.

The Green Corridor Patagonia

The Green Corridor Patagonia is a project created, designed, executed, and promoted by Big Magazine.

It is not just a route—it is a new way of experiencing Patagonia.

This initiative brings together electric mobility, conservation, and curated travel, allowing travelers to explore one of the most extraordinary landscapes on Earth through a more conscious and connected approach. By integrating EV infrastructure with a carefully selected network of destinations, the Green Corridor transforms Patagonia into a continuous, accessible journey—where infrastructure supports experience, and travel becomes part of the territory.

Choosing the Ideal Time

When to Visit

The essence of Central Patagonia—stretching from Puerto Montt to Villa O’Higgins—reveals itself between October and April.

Spring (October–November): Quiet, fresh, and full of contrast
Summer (December–February): Longer days, warmer weather, more activity
Autumn (March–April): Deep colors, fewer travelers, a more introspective landscape

Patagonia’s weather is part of the experience—unpredictable, dynamic, and constantly shifting. Being prepared for sudden changes is not a limitation, but part of what makes the journey unique

Embarking on Your Journey

Getting There:

Your journey begins with a flight from New York (JFK, LaGuardia, or Newark) to Santiago, Chile.

Santiago’s international airport (SCL) serves as the main gateway to Patagonia, with:

Direct flights (~9.5 hours) via LATAM or Delta
One-stop options (~13.5 hours) via American Airlines

One key advantage: Chile operates in a similar time zone to the U.S. East Coast, meaning minimal jet lag upon arrival.

From Santiago to Balmaceda: Upon landing in Santiago, catch a domestic flight to Balmaceda Airport (BBA) in Coyhaique. This 2.5-hour flight marks your entry into Central Patagonia, where your adventure truly commences.

The Driving Experience:

The Green Corridor Patagonia has been designed with electric vehicles in mind—but it remains fully accessible by traditional vehicles.

The journey spans approximately 1,247 km (750 miles) along the Carretera Austral—one of the most spectacular scenic routes in the world—connecting forests, fjords, mountains, and remote communities.

Driving here is not just transportation—it is the experience itself.

Roads are generally well maintained north of Coyhaique
South of Cerro Castillo, expect extended gravel sections
The stretch around Cuesta Queulat can be rough and subject to ongoing improvements

A 4x4 is not essential, but a mid-size SUV with good ground clearance is strongly recommended for comfort and flexibility.

Stay Connected:

Connectivity in Patagonia is surprisingly reliable.

Most towns and key destinations offer 4G and 5G coverage, allowing for seamless navigation and communication. While signal interruptions can occur in more remote stretches, connectivity typically returns as you approach the next village.

And occasionally, losing signal is part of the point.

Itinerary – Patagonia Trip

November 7 – New York → Santiago de Chile - Nov 8th - 6.50 AM
November 8 – Night in Santiago, Hotel Solace (TBD)
November 9 – Flight Santiago → Balmaceda (BBA) 7:28 am (Latam)
November 9–10 – Puerto Chacabuco, Hotel Loberías del Sur ( 2 nights )
November 11–12 – Chile Chico, Hotel El Engaño (2 nights)
November 13 – Puerto Guadal, Terra Luna Lodge (1 night)
November 14–15 – Cochrane, Cabañas Ribera Cochrane (2 nights)
November 16–17 – Caleta Tortel, Entre Hielos Lodge ( night of the 16 ) + Cabaña Diana Muñoz ( night of the 17 )
November 18–19 – Villa O’Higgins, Hotel Rumbo Sur (2 nights)
November 20 – Puerto Bertrand, Hotel TBD (1 night)
November 21–23 – Puerto Río Tranquilo, Hotel TBD (3 nights)
November 24 – Balmaceda → Santiago de Chile (Latam 4:49 pm) → New York

November 9, Balmaceda Airport to Puerto Chacabuco.

Route: Balmaceda Airport → Puerto Chacabuco
Distance: 175 km
Driving Time: Approximately 2–2.5 hours
Accommodation:
- November 9: Gran Hotel Aysén
- November 10: Hotel Loberías del Sur
The Drive
Your journey begins as you leave Balmaceda and descend into the Aysén region—one of the least explored and most pristine areas of Patagonia.
The road follows the Río Aysén, winding through forests, valleys, and open landscapes. It’s a relatively easy drive, but already introduces the scale and silence that define Patagonia.
What to Do
- Aysén Fjord
  One of the defining landscapes of the region—deep, quiet, and expansive.
- Presidente Ibáñez Suspension Bridge
  A historic and iconic crossing that connects the town and frames the fjord.
- Optional: San Rafael Glacier Excursion
  A full-day boat trip to one of Patagonia’s most impressive glaciers.
  If timing allows, this is one of the most memorable experiences in the region.

Accommodation: Hotel Loberías del Sur

Hotel Loberías del Sur is a grand-style property and the most established accommodation in Puerto Chacabuco.

Set against the backdrop of fjords and mountains, it offers a comfortable and refined base from which to explore the Aysén region. Its location provides immediate access to some of Patagonia’s most striking landscapes, while maintaining a sense of calm and isolation.

The hotel features a restaurant and bar, along with expansive views of the surrounding natural environment—making it an ideal place to unwind after the first days on the road.

Activity — San Rafael Glacier Boat Expedition

Departure: Puerto Chacabuco

One of the defining experiences of this region is a full-day boat expedition to the San Rafael Glacier—a journey that reveals Patagonia at its most raw and monumental.

The route begins through the Aysén Fjord, navigating deep channels framed by dense forests and steep, untouched mountains. As the boat advances into Laguna San Rafael, the landscape becomes increasingly dramatic, opening into a vast glacial amphitheater.

Approaching the glacier, the scale becomes evident.

A massive wall of ancient ice rises directly from the water. At any moment, large sections can break off—falling into the lagoon with a deep, resonant sound that echoes across the landscape. It’s both powerful and hypnotic.

This is not just a visit—it’s an encounter with one of Patagonia’s most iconic natural forces.

Images: Hotel Loberías del Sur

November 11 — Puerto Chacabuco → Puerto Ibáñez → Chile Chico

Route: Puerto Chacabuco → Puerto Ibáñez → Chile Chico
Driving Distance: ~192 km
Driving Time: 3–3.5 hours

Ferry: Puerto Ibáñez → Chile Chico
Duration: ~2 hours across General Carrera Lake

Tip: Ferry reservations are highly recommended, especially during peak season.

The Journey

This is one of the most dynamic days of the trip.

The drive south follows the contours of Patagonia’s interior—forests, rivers, and open valleys gradually giving way to wider landscapes as you approach Puerto Ibáñez.

From here, the journey continues across water.

Ferry Crossing — General Carrera Lake

The ferry crossing over General Carrera Lake is one of the defining moments of the route.

This vast, glacially-fed lake—shared between Chile and Argentina (where it is known as Lake Buenos Aires)—is famous for its intense turquoise color, created by fine glacial sediments suspended in the water.

Surrounded by the Andes, the scale of the landscape becomes fully apparent here:

Open horizons
Deep, mineral-colored water
Remote, almost untouched surroundings

The crossing is not just a transfer—it’s an experience in itself.

Arrival — Chile Chico

On the southern shore, you arrive in Chile Chico, often referred to as the “Sun City” of Patagonia due to its noticeably warmer and drier microclimate.

The contrast is immediate:

More open terrain
Softer light
A slower, quieter rhythm

Accommodation — Hotel El Engaño

2 nights

A simple and well-located property in the heart of Chile Chico, offering a comfortable base to explore the surrounding landscapes.

Activity — Valle Lunar

A short distance from Chile Chico lies Valle Lunar—one of the most unexpected landscapes in Patagonia.

Shaped by thousands of years of wind and erosion, the terrain reveals a series of sculpted rock formations in soft tones of ochre, red, and grey. The result is a landscape that feels almost extraterrestrial—silent, vast, and otherworldly.

Walking through the valley, the contrast with the surrounding Patagonia becomes striking.
This is not the green, rugged imagery most associate with the region—this is something more minimal, more abstract.

A place defined by texture, light, and stillness.

Guide: Patricio Garnica

A local expert who brings depth and context to the landscape, offering insight into the geology, history, and subtle details that make Valle Lunar such a unique place.

November 13, 1 night:: Chile Chico to Puerto Guadal

Distance: Chile Chico to Puerto Guadal: 110 km
Estimated Time: Around 2.5 to 3 hours, depending on road conditions and weathe
Accommodation: Terra Luna Lodge
Activities: Embark on one of the most scenic drives along the southern shore of General Carrera Lake. This route offers breathtaking views of the lake’s turquoise waters, rugged mountains, and dramatic cliffs. The journey itself is a highlight, with numerous viewpoints and photo opportunities along the way. Take your time to soak in the stunning landscapes that make this region so unique.

Accommodation: Terra Luna Lodge

Terra Luna Lodge is a unique and remote accommodation located on the shores of Lake General Carrera in Puerto Guadal, Chile. Surrounded by the breathtaking scenery of Patagonia, the lodge offers a blend of adventure and tranquility. It’s known for its stunning views of the lake and the Andes mountains, making it a perfect base for exploring the rugged natural beauty of the region.

November 14-15, 2 nights:: Puerto Guadal to Cochrane

Distance: Puerto Guadal to Cochrane: 75 km
Estimated Time: Around 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on road conditions and weather
Accommodation: Cabañas Ribera Cochrane
Activities: Glaciar Calluqueo

Accommodation: Cabañas Ribera Cochrane

Cabañas Ribera Cochrane is a charming accommodation located in Cochrane, a small town in Chilean Patagonia. The cabins are set along the banks of the Cochrane River, offering guests a peaceful and scenic environment perfect for relaxation and outdoor activities. These rustic yet comfortable cabins are equipped with basic amenities, providing a cozy retreat in the heart of Patagonia.

Activities: Glaciar Calluqueo

The Glaciar Calluqueo is a stunning glacier located near the town of Cochrane.. This glacier is part of the Northern Patagonian Ice Field, one of the largest ice masses in the southern hemisphere. It descends from the snowy peaks of the Andes, creating a spectacular landscape of ice, snow, and rugged mountains. It is a popular destination for adventurous travelers interested in hiking, mountaineering, and glacier exploration. Visitors can take guided tours that include trekking on the glacier's surface, where they can witness the ice formations, crevasses, and deep blue ice caves up close. The surrounding area is also known for its rich biodiversity, including a variety of native flora and fauna.

Our Guide: Gonzalo Bustos

November 16-17, 2 nights:: Cochrane to Tortel

Distance: Cochrane to Tortel: 125 km
Estimated Time: Around 2 to 2.5 hours, depending on road conditions and weather
Accommodation: Entre Hielos Lodge
Activities: Explore the maze of walkways, bridges, and stairs that make this village famous. Tour to La Isla de los Muertos.

Accommodation: Entre Hielos Lodge

Caleta Tortel is one of the highlights of the Carretera Austral route, known for its unique charm and scenic beauty. Nestled between the Baker River and the fjords of the Pacific Ocean in the Aysén region, this remote village is famous for its intricate network of wooden walkways, which replace traditional streets and connect the stilted houses that characterize the town.

Entre Hielos Lodge is a charming accommodation located in the picturesque village of Caleta Tortel, in the Aysén region of Chilean Patagonia. This unique lodge offers guests a comfortable stay amidst the breathtaking natural beauty of southern Chile, where rivers, fjords, and lush forests converge. The lodge is known for its cozy and rustic design, blending seamlessly with the natural surroundings. Guests can enjoy modern amenities while experiencing the remote and tranquil environment of Caleta Tortel, a village famous for its wooden walkways and bridges that connect homes and businesses across the landscape.

Isla de los Muertos is a historically significant and culturally rich site located near Tortel in the Aysén region of Chile. This small island, situated in the Baker River, is known for its cemetery, where over a hundred workers who were part of the region’s early 20th-century timber industry were buried. These workers were involved in the extraction of the valuable cypress wood, known as ciprés de las Guaitecas, in the remote and challenging conditions of Patagonia. Unfortunately, many of them succumbed to harsh weather, isolation, and disease, leading to the creation of this cemetery on the island. The site is now a protected area and serves as a poignant reminder of the difficulties faced by these pioneers.

November 18-19, 2 nights:: Tortel to Villa O’Higgins

Distance: Tortel to Villa O’Higgins: 155 km
Estimated Time: Around 3 to 3.5 hours, depending on road conditions and weather
Accommodation: Cabañas Las Ruedas
Activities: Continue to the end of the Carretera Austral, reaching Villa O’Higgins, the gateway to the Southern Patagonian Ice Field. Consider a boat trip to the O’Higgins Glacier.

The journey from Caleta Tortel to Villa O’Higgins is one of the most remote and adventurous sections of the Carretera Austral. Covering a distance of approximately 155 kilometers (96 miles), this route offers a dramatic and breathtaking drive through the heart of Patagonia's rugged wilderness. This section of the Carretera Austral takes you deep into one of the most isolated regions of Chile, where civilization feels a world away. The journey is an adventure in itself, offering a true escape into nature.

Travelers should be prepared for the remote nature of this journey, with limited services and accommodations along the way, but the experience is truly one of a kind for those seeking adventure and solitude in one of the most beautiful and unspoiled regions of the world.

Villa O’Higgins, the end of the Carretera Austral: Villa O’Higgins marks the end of the 1,247 km journey along the Carretera Austral, making it a significant milestone for adventurers. It’s a place where the road literally meets the wilderness, offering a sense of accomplishment and awe for travelers who reach this remote outpost.

Accommodation: Rumbo Sur Hotel

Rumbo Sur Hotel is a quiet refuge in the heart of Chilean Patagonia, designed for rest, comfort and simple moments well lived. Each room is thoughtfully crafted to offer warmth and quality, creating a space where you can truly disconnect. Hidden in a privileged corner of Villa O’Higgins, and just steps from its cultural, gastronomic and natural highlights, it is both a retreat and a perfect base to explore the end of the road.

November 21, 1 night:: Villa O’Higgins to Puerto Bertrand

Distance: Villa O’Higgins to Puerto Bertrand: 195 km
Estimated Time: This route includes a ferry. Around 6 to 6.5 hours, depending on road conditions and weather
Accommodation: Parador Loberías del Sur
Activities: Drive back north, stopping at Puerto Bertrand, where the Baker River begins. Enjoy fishing or simply admire the stunning turquoise waters.

This is the longest drive of the trip, covering approximately 195 km. The journey takes you through some of the most remote and breathtaking landscapes in Patagonia, offering an unforgettable experience.

If you're driving an electric vehicle (EV), it's crucial to ensure a full charge in Villa O´higgins before embarking on this leg of the journey, as the next charging station is located in Cochrane. The drive offers stunning views of the Southern Patagonian Ice Field and the dramatic Andes mountains, making it a must for any adventurer.

The Baker River, is one of the most significant rivers in the region, known for its stunning turquoise waters and powerful flow. It originates from the Bertrand Lake and flows through the Aysén region before emptying into the Pacific Ocean. The river is approximately 170 km long and is a crucial waterway in one of the most remote and pristine areas of Chile.

Accommodation: Parador Loberías del Sur

Parador Loberías del Sur is a small, comfortable and welcoming hotel located in Puerto Bertrand. It serves as an ideal base for exploring the stunning natural beauty of the region, including the Baker River, nearby glaciers, and various other outdoor activities like fishing and trekking. The hotel offers cozy rooms with beautiful views of the surrounding landscapes, an on-site restaurant that specializes in local cuisine, and a warm atmosphere that makes it a great place to relax after a day of adventure in Patagonia.

Activities: Kayaking in Puerto Bertrand

Kayaking in Puerto Bertrand offers an exhilarating way to explore the pristine waters of the Baker River, one of Chile's most iconic rivers. This activity allows you to paddle through crystal-clear turquoise waters surrounded by dramatic mountain landscapes and lush forests. It's an ideal adventure for both novice and experienced kayakers, offering opportunities to observe the diverse wildlife and experience the raw beauty of Patagonia up close.

Our Guides:

November 22-23: Puerto Bertrand to Puerto Río Tranquilo

Distance: Puerto Bertrand to Puerto Río Tranquilo: 75 km
Estimated Time: Around 1 to 1.5 hours, depending on road conditions and weather
Accommodation: Hotel El Puesto
Activities: Visit the famous Marble Caves by boat. If time permits, consider a trek to the Exploradores Glacier.

The route between Puerto Bertrand and Puerto Río Tranquilo offers breathtaking views of the Patagonian landscape, including the stunning turquoise waters of General Carrera Lake. The drive along the Carretera Austral is one of the most scenic routes in the region, with opportunities to stop and appreciate the natural beauty that surrounds you, from rugged mountains to serene water vistas.

For electric vehicle (EV) users, it's convenient to note that our charger is located in Las Parvas in Puerto Río Tranquilo, ensuring that your journey through this remote and beautiful area is smooth and sustainable.

Accommodation: Hotel El Puesto

Hotel El Puesto is a charming accommodation located in Puerto Río Tranquilo, a small town nestled along the shores of the stunning General Carrera Lake.. This hotel offers guests a cozy and authentic Patagonian experience, with comfortable rooms, rustic decor, and beautiful views of the surrounding natural landscape.

Activities: The Marble Caves.

The Marble Caves, or Cuevas de Mármol, are one of the most stunning natural wonders in Chilean Patagonia, located on the remote General Carrera Lake. This network of sculpted marble caverns, arches, and tunnels is a result of over 6,000 years of wave action eroding the calcium carbonate along the edge of the lake. The constant flow of water has shaped the marble into swirling patterns of blue, gray, and white, reflecting the turquoise waters of the lake, creating a mesmerizing spectacle of color and light.

Our Guide: