Overview
Coyhaique is the main city in Northern Chilean Patagonia with 55,000 residents (2012), serving as the essential gateway for travelers heading north or south along the Carretera Austral. The handsome city sits surrounded by dramatic mountain ridges and offers access to some of Chile's most beautiful and unspoiled landscapes without the crowds found further south.
Budget Travel · Day Trips · Nature · Transit Hub · Trekking
Before you go
Connectivity
Free WiFi available at Plaza de Armas. Plan for limited connectivity when venturing onto the Carretera Austral.
Safety
Air quality is extremely poor in winter (June-July) due to wood smoke trapped by mountain ridges. Visit in warmer months for better respiratory conditions.
Transport
Minivans from the airport cost approximately 5,000 pesos per person. The city is walkable, with most attractions accessible on foot from the Plaza de Armas.
Weather
Cold Patagonian climate year-round. Winter brings heavy heating smoke; summer (December-February) offers the best conditions for outdoor activities.