Hornopirén – Chile (Carretera Austral)

It’s a miracle that Hornopirén hasn’t been converted yet in a bustling tourism mecca. There are few destinations with such a natural diversity, it’s absolutely a must for every traveller to stop here some days! The options are endless. You could do the 3 hr trek to Lago Cabrera or explore the Hornopirén National Park, a fairly undeveloped trekking paradise with glaciers, mountains, snowy volcanoes and giant alerce tree forests. Summit the picture perfect cone of the Hornopirén Volcano or go up the Yates or Apagado Volcano.

Hornopirén volcano.

A volcanic area means thermal activity; it’s heavenly to soak in hot thermal baths. The Termas de Pichicolo are just a 10 min drive away but you could also enjoy the fjord’s thermal baths: the Termas Llancahué, Cahuelmó & Porcelanas.

Yes indeed, Hornopirén has a privileged location at the end of a fjord. It’s an unforgettable experience to go kayaking or boating here, with islands and other fjords nearby, while being welcomed by sea lions, dolphins and birds.

Dolphins!

And Hornopirén still has more on its menu like visiting different waterfalls or crystal clear rivers such as the Río Blanco, and activities including horseback riding, river kayaking or just enjoying the delicious sea food in the town’s central market.

Delicious seafood (paila marina) from the market in Hornopirén.

Daily buses connect Hornopirén with Puerto Montt. One bus coming from Puerto Montt continues south by taking the ferry to the area of the splendid Pumalín Park and further to Chaitén (ATM available in Chaitén).