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Port of Chacabuco

Plizio editorial teamUpdated: Jun 2026Data Sources

Port

Weather…

Puerto Chacabuco is the primary seaport of the Aysén Region in Chilean Patagonia, situated at the eastern end of the Aisén Fjord. It serves as a vital lifeline connecting this geographically isolated region with the rest of Chile, as the majority of essential supplies arrive via maritime routes. The port is the centerpiece of the local economy, particularly facilitating the export of farmed salmon and aluminum products from regional processing plants. Its memorable natural surroundings also make it a key departure point for tourists heading to the Laguna San Rafael National Park. The port infrastructure has undergone modernization to keep pace with the demanding logistics of the aquaculture industry that thrives in the nearby channels. Despite the significant logistical hurdles posed by the remote location and rugged terrain, Puerto Chacabuco remains a strategic asset for regional development and national connectivity in the far south.

Location: Chile
Top sights: Rest Shipwreck M/V "Viña del Mar" · Waterfall viewing platform · Lago Riesco
Nearby: Puerto Río Tranquilo (42 km)

Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is Jan, Feb, Dec.

	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Avg °C	10	11	9	7	5	3	2	3	4	6	7	9
Rain mm	118	98	135	148	180	191	148	162	111	151	151	139

📋 Practical info

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What is this place?

The Port of Chacabuco is the principal maritime gateway to the Aysén Region in Chile, handling both passenger ferries and cargo traffic. It plays a central role in supplying remote settlements and supporting tourism in Patagonia.

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Visiting

The port is accessible to the public, especially the ferry terminal used by passengers. The cargo area is partially restricted, but the port grounds can be well observed from the public waterfront walkway.

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Where to view it

The best public viewpoint is the waterfront walkway along Chacabuco Bay, offering a direct view of the ferry docks and ship traffic. The hills above the town also provide a beautiful panoramic view.

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Local products

In the Aysén region, salmon and other farmed fish are mainly produced and exported through the Port of Chacabuco. Travelers can discover local seafood, lamb meat, and artisan cheeses at markets in Puerto Chacabuco and Coyhaique.

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Active season

The port operates year-round, with the main season for passenger ferries in the summer months of December to February. Cargo traffic is relatively constant but increases in autumn when agricultural and aquaculture products are transported.

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Nearby

A visit to the Port of Chacabuco can be excellently combined with exploring the city of Coyhaique, the San Rafael Lagoon, and Queulat National Park. Boat trips to the glaciers and fjords of the region are also popular.

Geography

Coordinates

-45.45930, -72.82520

Facts

Primary port for the isolated Aysén Region.
Main export point for Chilean farmed salmon.
Located at the head of the scenic Aisén Fjord.
Gateway to the Laguna San Rafael National Park.
Logistics hub for the nearby city of Coyhaique.
Handles significant volumes of regional aluminum.

Explore nearby

Notable places around

Puerto Río Tranquilo42 km · NWExplore →

Queulat National Park48 km · NEExplore →

Cochrane66 km · NWExplore →

Coyhaique84 km · NExplore →

Chaitén85 km · EExplore →

Pumalín National Park98 km · EExplore →

Caleta Tortel109 km · SWExplore →

Church of Quinchao115 km · SEExplore →

Route planner — Car & Motorhome

Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.

Start Destination Via (optional)

Overnight stops

Vehicle

Only stops with (optional): 💧 Water ♻️ Disposal 🔌 Power 🚻 Toilets 🚿 Shower

Sights in the town Port of Chacabuco (7)

Rest Shipwreck M/V "Viña del Mar"📍 landmark

The rusted metal remains of the M/V Viña del Mar shipwreck, visible in the coastal waters near Puerto Chacabuco.

Waterfall viewing platform 🌿 nature

A designated wooden viewing platform providing close-up views of a natural waterfall cascading near Puerto Chacabuco.

Lago Riesco 🌿 nature

A vantage point overlooking the pristine, glacially-fed waters and surrounding mountains of Lago Riesco.

Cascada Barbas del Viejo 🌿 nature

A scenic lookout directed towards the distinct, flowing cascades of the Barbas del Viejo waterfall.

Ensenada Acantilada📍 landmark

A photogenic coastal bay framed by steep, rugged cliffs near Puerto Chacabuco.

Bahía Acantilada 📍 landmark

A scenic coastal attraction known for its dramatic cliffside terrain plunging into the bay at Puerto Chacabuco.

🕒 Mo-Su 07:00-23:00

Playa 🎡 recreation

A natural expanse of coastal beach with a mix of sand and pebbles along the shoreline of Puerto Chacabuco.

Sights nearby

Frequently asked questions

What is the main function of Puerto Chacabuco?

It is the main seaport of the Aysén region for cargo and ferries.

How do you get to Coihaique from here?

Via a well-maintained road in about an hour's drive.

Do cruise ships dock there?

Yes, it is a popular stop for ships navigating the fjords.

What can you visit in the surroundings?

The Río Simpson National Park and the impressive glaciers.

Is the town large?

No, it is a small, functional port town with few residents.

Port of Chacabuco: where is it located?

Port of Chacabuco is located in Chile.

Port of Chacabuco: what is there to see?

Highlights include Rest Shipwreck M/V "Viña del Mar", Waterfall viewing platform, Lago Riesco.

Port of Chacabuco: when is the best time to visit?

The most pleasant time to visit is Jan, Feb, Dec.

Port of Chacabuco: why is it worth visiting?

Puerto Chacabuco is the primary seaport of the Aysén Region in Chilean Patagonia, situated at the eastern end of the Aisén Fjord.

View on map → The Top 50 Attractions → OpenStreetMap →

Port of Chacabuco

Best time to visit & climate