Things To Do
in Puerto Aysén

Puerto Aysén is a small port town in Chilean Patagonia perched at the mouth of the Aysén River, framed by fjords, islands, and rugged peaks. The town serves as a quieter, gateway-style stop for travelers exploring the Patagonian coast and Carretera Austral. Fishing boats, wooden waterfronts, and a windswept landscape create a distinctly maritime Patagonian atmosphere.

Visitors typically come for the scenery, seafood, and easy access to nature beyond the town limits.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Arrival in Puerto Aysén
morning
:

Arrive in Puerto Aysén and check into your accommodation, taking a moment to admire the stunning views of the surrounding mountains and rivers. Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at a local café, sampling some traditional Chilean pastries and coffee. Take a stroll along the Río Aysén to stretch your legs and acclimate to the peaceful ambiance of the region.

afternoon
:

After lunch, embark on a guided tour of the Aysén River, where you can engage in kayaking or simply relax while taking in the breathtaking landscapes. The river is surrounded by lush forests and dramatic cliffs, offering a serene environment for exploration. Capture some stunning photographs as you witness the vibrant local flora and fauna.

evening
:

As the sun sets, head to a traditional Chilean restaurant for dinner, where you can savor local dishes such as fresh salmon or Patagonian lamb. Engage in lively conversations with locals, learning about their culture and stories of the region. End your evening with a peaceful walk along the riverbank, soaking in the tranquil atmosphere.

day 2
Exploring the Marble Caves
morning
:

Depart early for the Marble Caves at General Carrera Lake, a stunning natural wonder featuring intricate formations carved by the water. Enjoy a picturesque boat ride across the lake, soaking in the breathtaking views of the Andes Mountains. Keep your camera ready as you approach the vibrant blue and white marble caves that are truly mesmerizing.

afternoon
:

After exploring the caves, enjoy a picnic lunch on the shores of the lake, surrounded by the spectacular scenery. Spend the afternoon swimming or relaxing on the beach, taking full advantage of the serene environment and beautiful weather. Look for opportunities to spot local wildlife, such as birds and possibly even seals.

evening
:

Return to Puerto Aysén in the evening, and wind down by visiting a cozy bar known for its local craft beers. Share your adventures with fellow travelers and enjoy the camaraderie that comes with exploring such a unique destination. Cap off your day with a stroll through the charming town center.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant$8-12
🍽️Three-course meal for two$25-40
Coffee/tea$2-4
🚌One-way local transport ticket$0.75-1.50
🏨Budget hotel room per night$40-90

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Stunning Patagonian scenery and seascapes
  • Fresh seafood and hearty regional cuisine
  • Relaxed, small-town atmosphere with fewer crowds than major hubs
  • Weather can be unpredictable and windy
  • Limited nightlife and international dining options
  • Longer travel times to major airports and services
  • "Hola" - Hello
  • "Gracias" - Thank you
  • "¿Cuánto cuesta?" - How much does it cost?
  • "¿Dónde está el baño?" - Where is the bathroom?
  • "Por favor" - Please
  • "Buenas tardes" - Good afternoon

Places to Visit in Puerto Aysén

Visit one of these nice places.

Puerto Aysén Waterfront

A broad, photogenic riverside with boats, wooden pilings, and mountain backdrops—particularly striking at dawn or dusk.

Costanera del Río Aysén

A scenic promenade along the estuary offering expansive water views, cloud-filtered light, and calm composition opportunities.

Old Pier at the Port

Historic wooden pier with seasonal activity; great for long-exposure shots of boats and water reflections.

Colorful Street Corners in Town

Vivid murals and colorful façades provide charming, everyday Patagonian scenes against the backdrop of rugged terrain.

Culinary Guide

Food in Puerto Aysén

Puerto Aysén’s cuisine centers on ultra-fresh seafood from fjords and rivers, hearty Patagonian meats, and simple, comforting preparations that highlight the coastal climate and rural traditions.

Puerto Aysén Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Caldillo de congrio

A Chilean conger eel stew, rich with aromatics and often enjoyed with crusty bread.

Must-Try!

Chupe de jaibas (crab chowder)

Creamy seafood soup featuring crab, potatoes, and herbs, popular in coastal towns.

Trucha a la plancha

Grilled rainbow trout with herbs and lemon, reflecting river-fresh catch.

Cordero patagónico

Patagonian lamb prepared slowly to emphasize tender meat and rustic flavors.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Mercado Municipal de Puerto Aysén

A central market where locals sell fresh seafood, produce, and prepared snacks; try fish empanadas and seasonal offerings.

Puesto de pescadores en el puerto

Small stalls along the pier offering fried fish, shellfish, and simple snacks with waterfront views.

Climate Guide

Weather

Patagonian climate in Puerto Aysén is cool and windy year-round. Summers are mild with variable rain, while winters are cold and wet, with strong winds common throughout the year. Conditions can change quickly, making layered clothing essential for comfort in all seasons.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greetings

Greet with a warm, brief hello; in formal settings use usted. A handshake is common.

Language

Spanish is predominant; English is less common in smaller establishments, so learning a few phrases helps.

Respect for nature

Show consideration for natural areas, follow local guidance on trails, and avoid disturbing wildlife.

Punctuality

Timeliness is appreciated, but Patagonian pace in social settings is flexible.

Safety Guide

Safety

Patagonian areas are generally safe, but travelers should be prepared for rapidly changing weather, sea conditions, and rough terrain. Wear sturdy footwear for uneven surfaces, stay on marked trails, and keep valuables secure in busy ports. In winter, inform someone of travel plans when heading into more remote areas.

Tipping in Puerto Aysén

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Etiquette

Tipping is appreciated but not always expected; in restaurants, 10% is a common guideline if service is not included in the bill.

Payment Methods

Cash and cards are widely accepted; some small vendors and markets may prefer cash; ATMs are available in town.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Summer

Longer daylight hours, cooler temperatures by late mornings, and frequent but typically mild rain; winds remain common, so pack a windbreaker and layer clothing.

Autumn (Mar–May)

Milder days interspersed with wind and rain; fall colors appear in surrounding hills; evenings grow crisper.

Winter (Jun–Aug)

Colder, wetter, and windier with occasional frost; some outdoor activities may be limited by weather; expect shorter daylight hours.

Spring (Sep–Nov)

Warming temperatures with increasing daylight; rain is possible but nature tends to come alive with new growth and migratory birds.

Nightlife Guide

Puerto Aysén at Night

Nightlife in Puerto Aysén is low-key compared with larger cities. Expect quiet bars, casual waterfront pubs, and occasional live music during peak tourist seasons. Most venues close earlier in the off-season, with a relaxed, friendly atmosphere and opportunities to mingle with locals over seafood and regional drinks.

Hiking in Puerto Aysén

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Puerto Aysén Coastal Walk

Easy coastal loop offering sea views, seabirds, and a chance to observe local flora.

Aysén River Lookout Trail

Moderate hike along the riverbank with forested sections and scenic overlooks.

Cerro La Virgen Lookout Trail

Steeper climb with panoramic Patagonian vistas across fjords and mountains.

Airports

How to reach Puerto Aysén by plane.

Balmaceda Airport (BBA)

Regional gateway with domestic flights to Santiago and other hubs; from Balmaceda you can reach Puerto Aysén by road or bus.

Punta Arenas International Airport (PUQ)

South Patagonia gateway with broader international and domestic connections; from PUQ you can connect to Balmaceda or Coyhaique via domestic flight.

El Tepual International Airport (PMC)

Puerto Montt gateway; from PMC you can reach Coyhaique and Puerto Aysén by domestic flights or road transfer.

Getting Around

Walkability

Puerto Aysén is compact and walkable along the waterfront and town center. Most key sights and eateries are reachable on foot, but some excursions and nearby natural areas require a car or local transport. Side streets can be windy and uneven in places, so wear sturdy shoes.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Local residents

Maritime workers, fishermen, and families who have lived in the area for generations.

Tourists

Domestic and international visitors seeking Patagonian scenery and seafood.

Seasonal hospitality workers

Temporary staff in tourism, accommodation, and food service during peak travel seasons.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Fishing

A central pastime in the region, with opportunities for river and coastal angling depending on season and regulations.

Soccer

A popular local sport with informal games and stadiums in the region.

Hiking and Trekking

Patagonian treks and day hikes are common activities for visitors and locals alike.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic is light within town; hiring a car or using local buses is common for reaching surrounding areas. Road conditions on some routes can be variable, especially during bad weather; allow extra time for travel in winter months. Parking is generally available in town centers and near the waterfront.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Puerto Aysén.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian

Vegetarian options exist in most restaurants, including salads, soups, and vegetable mains; communicate clearly with staff, and ask for adaptive dishes or sides.

Gluten-free

Many seafood and meat dishes are naturally gluten-free; request sauces or breads to be prepared without gluten and verify cross-contamination in kitchens.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Basic healthcare services are available in Puerto Aysén through local clinics. For more comprehensive care, many visitors travel to larger hubs like Coyhaique or Balmaceda, where hospitals and specialists are available. Travel insurance is recommended for remote or outdoor activities.

Discover Chile

Read more in our Chile 2025 Travel Guide.

Chile Travel Guide