The Region of Aysén is a privileged area for lovers of virgin and untamed nature. Beyond the well-known Carretera Austral, there are a number of places and beautiful corners that are known only by a few adventurous souls.
The route that joins the National Reserve Lake Jeinimeni with the Patagonia Park is counted among some of the most beautiful and least traveled routes in the country that during 3 days of adventure in the middle of lakes, mountains and Patagonian steppe turn this route into an incredible destination for the more adventurous.
Patagonia Park, currently a private park limited to the Chacabuco Valley area, seeks in the near future the creation of the Patagonia National Park, which will incorporate the Lake Jeinimeni National Reserve.
This is a somewhat difficult path. Whether it is accessed by the north or the south (this route can be done in both directions) there is the disadvantage that there is no public transport. In addition, this is a route that only has a one-way stretch, so going by private vehicle is not an option.
The north access is through the entrance and administration of the National Reserve Lake Jeinimeni, located about 65 km from the town of Chile Chico (accessible from the city of Coyhaique by bus). In Chile Chico there are mainly informal transport services that lead to the reserve. The cost of the trip is approximately CLP 50,000. There is always the alternative of negotiating with local people or hitchhiking (in summer the flow of vehicles going to the Lago Jeinimeni Reserve increases). The route, made from north to south, ends at the Casa de Piedra campsite, very close to where the X-83 route passes, where you can hitchhike (hitchhiking) to reach the city of Cochrane.
The route begins at the entrance to the National Reserve Lake Jeinimeni, 65 km south of Chile Chico, and ends at the Casa de Piedra campsite in the Patagonia Park, after 47 km of walking. The difficulty of this route is that it is very physically demanding, with days that exceed 7 hrs of walking and some sections of high slope (first section). Additionally, rivers and estuaries must be crossed several times.
It is advisable to be in good physical condition and have some experience in this type of activity.
The route that runs through the Lago Jeinimeni Reserve and the Patagonia Park presents the opportunity to enjoy nature in a virgin state, being a little known and visited destination. The route passes next to spectacular green and turquoise lakes, rivers and estuaries, mountain passes, forest sectors and Patagonian steppe, crossing what was once a route used by settlers.
Venture on this route and get to know one of the most important conservation projects in Chile and the world!
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For the most motivated and extreme backpackers, we present this beautiful route located in the XII Region of Chile.
Are you looking for a challenge? What do you think of reaching the southernmost point of the American continent? Nature in its purest state is what this trip promises, combining beautiful landscapes, flora and fauna next to the Strait of Magellan. The strength and severity of the climate will test your will, enriching what will undoubtedly be an unforgettable experience. Corporal Froward is waiting for backpackers like you!
This route begins on the shores of the Strait of Magellan on the San Pedro River, which is 65.7 km from Punta Arenas, a city that has an airport and daily flights to and from Santiago. From Punta Arenas, it is possible to arrive by car to the mouth of the San Pedro River. Ideally, someone will leave us at this point, and go find us 5 days later. In case this is not an option, there are buses that reach the Santa María River, about 3 km north of the San Pedro River. It is recommended to check the departure times when planning the trip
This route begins on the shores of the Strait of Magellan on the San Pedro River and reaches the Cruz de los Mares located at Cabo Froward at 41.8 km. It can be done in 5 days of walking (round trip), but we recommend that it be done in 6 days, to be able to enjoy it fully.
Although this route is notable for its isolation and for the little frequency with which it is traveled, it is very difficult to get lost, since most of the route is on the shores of the Strait of Magellan, on beach terrains and traces that cross native forest. This tour includes crossing rivers, for which special attention should be paid to the tides, which will be addressed later in the Precautions section. The main obstacles of this route are, in addition to the mentioned river crossings, the cold and unpredictable climate, the stretches on slippery rock and often covered with algae, and above all the physical exigency. The days of hiking, which can be more than 6 hours, are on sand, slippery rocks and turbales, particularly exhausting terrain to travel. Not to mention the heavy backpack that is carried on the back.
This tour is unique and full of contrasts that make it an incredible destination for lovers of nature and the historical heritage of the region. Moments of calm, silence and peace give way in a blink to the violence and inclemency of the climate of this area of the country. It is an isolated and desolate place, and yet full of life and beauty. The vestiges of the ancestral human occupation along the way are a trip to the past that allow us to evoke the adventures of the first inhabitants, explorers and pioneers of the area. This tour is not for everyone; It is hard and demanding, and without a doubt one of the most rewarding for those who love the challenges and beauty of one of the most authentic routes in Chile.
No doubt a magical place and unknown to many, but that the bravest adventurers will travel their routes, and you, are you one of them?
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Professional Trekking Guide, with Wilderness First Response Accreditation, all the excursions and transfers mentioned in the program, equipment for the excursions, all accommodations in the program, (check with us for other options), mobile phone/VHF radio, mineral water per person, snack & box-lunch per person (according to your program) and private/shared transportation fully equipped according to your program.
