How to Leave Villa O’Higgins: Returning to Santiago or Crossing into Argentina

After reaching the southernmost village of the Carretera Austral, many travelers ask themselves: Now what? Villa O’Higgins is the end of the road, but it doesn’t have to be the end of your adventure. Whether you’re heading back to Santiago or planning to cross into Argentina to visit El Chaltén or El Calafate, here’s what you need to know.

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Option 1: Returning to Santiago (Chile)

There is only a very small airport in Villa O’Higgins, and 90% of the time, flights are booked by locals, so going back to Santiago involves a combination of bus and flight.

Here’s the most common route:

Step 1: Villa O’Higgins to Cochrane

• Take a bus with Buses Gardy, the local transport company.
• This is a long but scenic journey (approx. 11 hours).
• The service doesn’t run daily, so check the schedule in advance at their small office in Villa O’Higgins or contact them via WhatsApp:
• +56 9 7820 5363
• +56 9 6209 4347
• Payments are cash only.

Step 2: Cochrane to Coyhaique

• From Cochrane, you can continue north by bus to Coyhaique, the regional capital.
• This is a more regular route with buses most days of the week.

Step 3: Fly from Balmaceda to Santiago

• Coyhaique is close to Balmaceda Airport (BBA).
• From there, catch a direct flight to Santiago (SCL) with LATAM, Sky Airlines or Jetsmart.

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Option 2: Crossing into Argentina (towards El Chaltén / El Calafate)

This is one of the most adventurous and beautiful crossings in all of Patagonia. It includes boats, hiking, and stunning views.

Step 1: Take the boat from Villa O’Higgins to Candelario Mansilla

• Operated by Turismo Las Ruedas de la Patagonia.
• Contact via WhatsApp: +56 9 6627 8836
• The boat usually departs in the morning, weather permitting.
• You can take your bike or backpack on board.

Step 2: Hike from Candelario Mansilla to Laguna del Desierto

• Approx. 22 km hike (or push your bike). The trail is not technically difficult, but expect mud, rivers, and remote terrain.
• It usually takes between 6 and 10 hours, depending on weather and your load.

Step 3: Cross Laguna del Desierto by boat

• You’ll arrive at Puerto Bahamondes, where a second boat takes you across the lake to Puerto Natales.
• Ferries don’t run daily—book ahead, especially in high season.

Step 4: Take a bus to El Chaltén or El Calafate

• Once in El Chaltén, you can continue to El Calafate by bus, where you’ll find a regional airport with flights to Buenos Aires or other parts of Argentina.

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Extra Tips for Both Routes

• Carry cash: Remote areas often don’t accept cards.
• Confirm transport dates in advance: Schedules change, especially off-season.
• Check ferry availability: Wind and weather can delay crossings.
• Have a flexible plan: Patagonia teaches patience and spontaneity.