Patagonia – the vast wilderness of snowcapped peaks, crystalline lakes, and verdant forests straddling Chile and Argentina – needs no introduction. But have you heard of the gobsmackingly spectacular Chilean region of Aysén?

Aysén is a land of stirring landscapes, fast-flowing rivers and empty roads that will reignite your passion for travel.  This remote corner of southern Chile is all about picture-postcard cliches:  rugged terrain, snow-capped peaks, winding rivers and verdant forests are the order of the day. Here are some of the unmissable highlights.  

Patagonia National Park: Nature raw in tooth and claw 

Patagonia National Park sprawls across more than a million acres of pristine wilderness, embodying the rugged beauty of southern Patagonia. Established through the visionary efforts of conservationist Douglas Tompkins, the park merges former private reserves with public lands, creating a sanctuary for wildlife and a playground for outdoor enthusiasts. 

There’s an array of well-marked trails catering to every kind of mountain goat. From the moderate Laguna Jeinimeni Trail, which serves up vistas of turquoise lakes and rugged peaks, to the challenging Cerro Tamanguito hike, every trek promises awe-inspiring scenery and encounters with diverse flora and fauna. 

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Guanacos grazing in the fields.

Wildlife funds can expect to spot guanacos, foxes, and majestic condors soaring overhead, while birdwatchers will delight in sightings of the rare Magellanic woodpecker and other endemic species. The park's natural highlights include the mighty Baker River (Chile’s largest river), which is famous for its turquoise waters and world-class fly-fishing opportunities, and ancient lenga forests that carpet the valleys. 

But you don’t have to be in peak physical shape to be blown away by Aysén. Simply driving along the famed Carretera Austral, beneath towering peaks and through expansive valleys, is an experience to savor. Just be sure to factor in loads of time to stop at the frequent panoramic viewpoints. Patagonia National Park also boasts some truly remarkable eco-friendly lodges, allowing you to visit one of the world's last great wilderness areas in comfort and style.

Kayaking through the Marble Caves  

Most Patagonian landscapes are variations on a theme, but there’s nowhere else like the Marble Caves of General Carrera Lake. Accessed from the small town of Puerto Río Tranquilo, the calcium carbonate caves have been carved over millennia by the relentless action of waves. And what better way to explore this watery wonderland than on a guided kayaking excursion with SA Expeditions?

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The rock formations inside the caves have been sculpted into smooth, undulating shapes, creating a labyrinth of passageways and chambers that reflect the vivid blues and greens of the lake's waters. Depending on the time of day and the angle of sunlight, the colors within the caves can shift dramatically, ranging from deep turquoise to shimmering cerulean. 

Aside from their visual allure, the Marble Caves also hold scientific importance. They provide insights into the geological processes that shaped them, demonstrating the power of erosion over geological timescales. Researchers study these formations to understand more about how similar geological structures are formed in other parts of the world.

Hike or horseback ride along the Baker River

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Exploring the Baker River, famed for its turquoise waters and massive trout, (and its equally spectacular tributary the Rio Neff) on foot or on horseback is a great way of appreciating the raw beauty and tranquility of Chilean Patagonia. You’ll follow trails through diverse terrain, from dense forests echoing with the calls of native birds to open meadows carpeted with wildflowers in the warmer months. Other ways to enjoy the Rio Baker include fishing for its enormous trout or rafting its impressive rapids.

Get cultural in Coyhaique

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Coyhaique’s stunning El Queque Ingles mountain.

While the main reason to visit Aysén is undoubtedly its rugged beauty, the regional capital of Coyhaique, a vibrant town steeped in Patagonian culture and history, is well worth exploring. Wander through local markets filled with artisan crafts (woolen goods especially) and sample traditional delicacies like hearty Patagonian lamb and fresh seafood. A couple of excellent museums showcase the region's indigenous roots and the resilience of its settlers and the town is also home to a vibrant arts scene.