Lykkers, buckle up for five unforgettable Chilean road trips. From temperate rainforests to arid deserts, each route reveals epic panoramas.
This narrow of South America is a road-tripper’s dream, offering journeys as diverse as its landscapes. Ready to hit the open road?
Carretera Austral
The Carretera Austral spans 1,200 km (Puerto Montt to Villa O’Higgins) over two weeks. Expect 40 percent unpaved roads, with car ferries (≈CLP 25,000) bridging fjords. Rent a 4×4 for CLP 60,000/day; budget CLP 30,000/night for cabins or campsites. Must‑see stops: Pumalín National Park (free entry), marble caves at Puerto Río Tranquilo, and the stilted village of Caleta Tortel. Stock supplies in Coyhaique before venturing south.
Budileufü Heritage
Circle the 100 km Budileufü Route around Lago Budi in 2–3 days. Begin in Puerto Saavedra, driving scenic coastal roads to Puerto Domínguez. Car rental runs CLP 40,000/day; local buses cost CLP 2,000 per leg. Stay in thatch‑roofed ruka homestays for CLP 20,000/night. Learn Mapuche traditions, shop pilwa bags (CLP 15,000), and savour heirloom dishes spiced with merkén.
Route of Stars
The 110 km Ruta de las Estrellas links La Serena to Pisco Elqui over 3–5 days. After landing at La Serena Airport, rent a car for CLP 35,000/day or hop the bus for CLP 4,000. In Vicuña, astronomical tours run CLP 10,000 (2 hours), and hostel beds start at CLP 12,000/night. Visit Gabriela Mistral’s Montegrande birthplace (entry CLP 2 000) before ending in Pisco Elqui— stargaze under desert skies.
Central Coast
Cruise 235 km from Matanzas to Zapallar in 3–5 days. Rent a compact car for CLP 30,000/day. Stop at Isla Negra—Pablo Neruda’s house (CLP 5,000 entry)—then Quintay’s former whaling station (CLP 3,000). Ascend Valparaíso’s funiculars (CLP 300 one‑way) and stroll Viña del Mar’s beaches free of charge. Conclude at Zapallar, where day‑use beach passes run CLP 5,000 and seaside cafés serve fresh ceviche for CLP 8,000.
Route of Missions
Trace 230 km of heritage from Arica to Putre in 3–5 days. Begin with the Museo Arqueológico San Miguel de Azapa (CLP 2,000), then follow the Ruta de las Misiones through adobe and Aymara villages. A 4×4 rental at CLP 70,000/day is advised for mountain passes. Overnight in Tingolo for CLP 15,000/night, sampling alpaca‑wool markets and chapels. End in Putre, gateway to Lauca National Park (CLP 5,000 entry) and high‑altitude lagoons.
Conclusion
These five epic drives showcase Chile’s staggering diversity—lush forests, salt flats, starry deserts, coastal gems, and living heritage. Armed with drive distances, vehicle options, costs, and standout stops, you can craft a tailor‑made adventure. So, which road will you conquer first?
