This calm Patagonian city sits at the meeting point of the Río Simpson and Río Baker, serving as a key transport hub in Chile's Aysén Region amid the Andes mountains.
Coyhaique, the capital of Chile’s Aysén Region, lies where the Simpson and Coyhaique Rivers meet, surrounded by mountains often covered in snow and forests of evergreen trees. Established in 1929, this city in Patagonia is the starting point for exploring glacial valleys, fishing in the Simpson River, and hiking near Cerro Castillo’s hanging glaciers. Look for rock shapes carved by wind over thousands of years, like the Piedra del Indio, and check local event schedules for the Festival Internacional de Música de la Patagonia. Though isolated east of the Andes, the city provides modern amenities like craft markets and ski areas at El Fraile alongside wild landscapes.
Trails and Natural Areas Near the City
Coyhaique’s surroundings encourage active exploration. Simpson River National Reserve spans 40,000 hectares with valleys, waterfalls, and day hikes through forests of southern beech trees. Watch for huemul deer or the rare Magellanic woodpecker as you walk. Cerro Castillo’s 45-kilometer trek takes three to four days, passing bright blue lakes and offering views of the Northern Patagonian Ice Fields. Between November and May, anglers fish for brown trout and chinook salmon in the Simpson, Coyhaique, and Ñirehuao Rivers, often hiring guides from local companies. In winter, El Fraile ski area operates two lifts for skiing on natural snow slopes 15 kilometers from downtown.
Parks With Glaciers and Forests
Queulat National Park, a two-hour drive north, contains dense evergreen forests and fjords once explored by Spanish sailors. Walk the 3.5-kilometer path to Queulat Hanging Glacier, where chunks of ice break off into a gray-green lake below. Coyhaique National Reserve, just outside the city, has trails like Sendero Laguna Venus—a two-hour loop past small lakes with clear views of the Simpson Valley. From Puerto Chacabuco, 80 kilometers west, boats depart for Laguna San Rafael National Park to see glaciers rising over 70 meters above the water.
City Landmarks and Seasonal Events
Coyhaique’s central Plaza de Armas forms a five-sided shape inspired by the Chilean police insignia, with streets leading to cafes and shops selling wool sweaters. Visit the Monumento al Ovejero statue honoring early sheep ranchers on Baquedano Avenue, or explore exhibits on regional history at the Museo Regional de la Patagonia. In February, the Festival Internacional de Música de la Patagonia hosts classical guitarists and folk bands in outdoor venues. The Feria Artesanal market sells handmade leather goods and cloudberry jam, while locals often meet at the Happy Stone, a large rock by the river for evening gatherings in warmer months.
Weather Patterns and Preparation
Expect cool, wet winters from June to August and mild summers with average temperatures around 14°C between December and February. Summer days can shift quickly from sun to cold winds, so carry layered clothing for hikes. Wood smoke from home heaters sometimes affects air quality in winter—check daily reports if you have breathing concerns. Most visitors arrive through Balmaceda Airport, a one-hour drive from the city, or by bus on the Carretera Austral highway from Puerto Montt.
Planning Your Visit
Stay in Coyhaique to access grocery stores, outdoor gear rentals, and tour agencies. Bring food and fuel when visiting Queulat or other remote parks, as services there are minimal. Before hiking in Cerro Castillo or Simpson River reserves, sign in with park rangers at trailheads. Fishing requires a permit from regional offices or online portals. Reserve accommodations early if traveling in January or February, when trails and festivals see higher visitor numbers.
