Cochrane to Caleta Tortel

From Río del Salto, the route continues to gradually ascend into dusty mountains and passes a series of lakes (to the west) before an epic descent into the Río Barrancas gorge, featuring fantastic views of Cordon los Nadis. After the epic descent, just as the Carretera Austral takes a sharp turn south, there is a good spot to camp at the bridge over Río Barrancas. Consider making a detour from the Austral onto X-902, where you can visit the confluence of Río de los Nadis and Río Baker as well as a stellar organized campground.

From the Río Barrancas bridge, continue south on the Carretera Austral. The road smooths and the condition of the ripio improves as the route tracks Río de los Nadis for ~10 kilometers, before turning west and gradually climbing into a massive valley (FYI this is the valley shared by Caleta Tortel). The route then snakes its way along Río Carrera – then Río Vargas – before reuniting with Río Baker. You're certainly back in the rainforest now, and natural water sources (included roadside waterfalls) are a common sight.

Nine kilometers after reaching Río Baker, the Carretera Austral intersects with X-904, the road to Tortel. Take a right fro the detour to the stilted fishing village (or continue straight up the hill for Puerto Yungay and Villa O'Higgins).

The road to Tortel follows the final leg of Río Baker before it drains into the Pacific Ocean. Although it's mostly flat, there are some sections with loose ripio and corrugated road, which can make for a tough and exhausting riding, especially at the end of a long day on the steed. Finally, there is a short but steep ascent, then a quick descent into Tortel.