Caleta Tortel to Villa O’Higgins

From Embarcadero Río Bravo, the next ~20 km south are relatively flat, and the road meets up with, then tracks, the impressive Río Bravo. This area is abundant with Calafate berry, a delicious berry which can be eaten directly off the bush. Keep an eye out for the blueish berry as you pedal alongside the river and beware of the bush's thorns!

The route then departs from the impressive Río Bravo, passes a waterfall, and begins ascending into the mountains. Look for condors as the road winds its way up into the clouds before a quick descent to Río Sordo. After a short stretch of flat riding, tackle a tough, but steady, ascent, rising above Río Bravo and the surrounding valley – don't forget to turnaround at the top and take in the magnificent view! The climbing isn't quite over yet, though. After a fast downhill stretch and a short reunion with Río Bravo, the route sharply ascends through an area littered with boulders and rocks. The downhills are fast and extreme caution must be exercised as boulders are embedded in the road.

Eventually, the route emerges from the mountains and into a peaceful valley – from here, the route is shielded from westerly winds by a towering mountain range, and it's smooth(er) sailing to Villa O'Higgins. This stretch of route passes glaciers and thunderous waterfalls which can be easily accessed from the road — a great spot to fill your canteens!

Prior to reaching Villa O'Higgins, the route passes a few lakes: the most impressive of which is Lago Cisnes. After navigating along Lago Cisnes' western shore, the route turns east and follows the lake's southern shore before crossing Río Mayer and looping back toward Villa O'Higgins.

Technically, the end of the Carretera Austral is at Puerto Bahamondes, 7.5 kilometers beyond Villa O'Higgins. If you want to snap a photo with the "Fin de Carretera Austral" sign, head here. Additionally, continuing south beyond the Carretera Austral, this is where Lago O'Higgins ferry crossings will depart.