Things To Do
in Coyhaique
Coyhaique is the capital city of the Aysén region in Chile, known for its stunning natural beauty and remote location. It is surrounded by mountains, rivers, and forests, offering a variety of outdoor activities such as hiking, fishing, and kayaking. The city itself has a small-town feel with colorful houses and a laid-back atmosphere.
Coyhaique is a gateway to the nearby national parks and the renowned Carretera Austral, a scenic highway that traverses through Patagonian landscapes.
- "Hola" - Hello
- "¿Cómo estás?" - How are you?
- "Gracias" - Thank you
- "Por favor" - Please
- "Adiós" - Goodbye
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $30 - $100
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $10 - $25
- ☕ Coffee: $2 - $5
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $1 - $2
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $30 - $70
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $25 - $50
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a stroll around the Plaza de Armas, enjoying the local vendors and fresh air. Visit the nearby artisan market for unique souvenirs.
Head to the Coyhaique River for a scenic picnic and some relaxation by the water. Consider renting a kayak to explore the river further.
Wrap up your day with a delicious dinner at a local restaurant, sampling traditional Chilean dishes. Enjoy the sunset views over the surrounding mountains.
Set off early for a hike in the Queulat National Park, known for its stunning waterfalls and biodiversity. Bring a hearty breakfast to enjoy amidst nature.
Continue your hike to see the famous Ventisquero Colgante glacier. Spend time taking pictures and soaking in the breathtaking views.
Return to Coyhaique and unwind at your accommodation. If you're up for it, explore the nightlife in town with music and local drinks.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Stunning natural landscapes, including mountains, rivers, and national parks.
- Rich cultural heritage and traditions of the Patagonian region.
- Outdoor activities such as hiking, fishing, and skiing available year-round.
- Relatively low population density, providing a peaceful environment.
- Access to fresh, local food and a growing artisanal market.
- Harsh weather conditions, including cold winters and strong winds.
- Limited access to certain amenities and services compared to larger cities.
- Higher cost of living relative to some other areas in Chile.
- Transport options may be limited, making travel to and from the city challenging.
- Isolation can lead to a sense of disconnection from urban conveniences.
Best Activities in Coyhaique
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Enjoy stunning views of the city and surrounding mountains while hiking in Cerro Mackay, located just a short distance from Coyhaique.
Experience world-class fly fishing in the pristine waters of Rio Simpson, known for its abundance of trout and beautiful natural surroundings.
Explore the breathtaking landscapes of Valle La Paloma on horseback, immersing yourself in the natural beauty of the region.
Embark on a thrilling kayaking adventure along the Aysén River, experiencing the region's magnificent scenery from a unique perspective.
Places to Visit in Coyhaique
Visit one of these nice places.
A rock formation with panoramic views of the city and surrounding mountains.
Scenic viewpoint overlooking the city and the Simpson River valley.
Hiking trails with stunning vistas of the Andes mountains and the Cerro Castillo peak.
Beautiful natural landscapes with opportunities for photography along the Simpson River.
Food in Coyhaique
Coyhaique Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A traditional dish featuring a variety of seafood, meats, and potatoes, all cooked in a hole in the ground with hot stones and covered with nalca leaves. Best enjoyed at local gatherings or special events.
Must-Try!
A comforting lamb stew filled with potatoes, pumpkin, corn, and rice, seasoned with cilantro and cumin. Find this dish at family-owned restaurants and as a Sunday special at local eateries.
Savory pastries filled with a blend of local cheeses, often served at bakeries and food stalls throughout Coyhaique.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
This bustling market is a treasure trove of fresh produce, artisanal cheeses, cured meats, and local sweets. It's a great place to sample traditional street foods like sopaipillas and choripanes.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Coyhaique, it is important to be on time for meetings and social gatherings as punctuality is valued in Chilean culture.
Chileans generally value personal space, so it's important to maintain an appropriate physical distance when interacting with others in Coyhaique.
Addressing people using their titles and using polite language, such as 'usted' (the formal form of 'you'), is a sign of respect in Chilean culture.
Safety
Tipping in Coyhaique
Ensure a smooth experience
In Coyhaique, Chile, tipping is not widely practiced and is not expected in most situations. However, in more upscale restaurants or hotels, a 10% service charge may be included in the bill, in which case additional tipping is not necessary.
Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in Coyhaique, especially in larger establishments. However, it's also a good idea to carry cash, as some smaller businesses may prefer this form of payment. Foreign currency may be accepted in tourist areas, but it's generally best to use the local currency (Chilean peso) for transactions.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
The best time to visit Coyhaique is during spring when the weather is mild, flowers are in bloom, and the landscapes are lush and green. This is also a great time for outdoor activities like hiking and fishing.
Summer is another excellent time to visit Coyhaique as the temperatures are warmer, and it is ideal for activities such as trekking, horseback riding, and visiting the nearby attractions like Marble Caves and San Rafael Lagoon.
Autumn is a beautiful time to visit Coyhaique when the foliage turns vibrant shades of red, orange, and yellow, creating picturesque landscapes. It's also a good time for fly fishing as the rivers are full with migrating trout.
Winter is the off-peak season in Coyhaique, but it offers a unique experience for visitors who enjoy snow activities such as skiing, snowshoeing, and exploring the snowy landscapes. It's also a quieter time to visit the town and experience its laid-back atmosphere.
Coyhaique at Night
Hiking in Coyhaique
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A beautiful reserve featuring diverse ecosystems, offering various hiking trails with stunning views of the Patagonian landscape.
A challenging hike that rewards trekkers with panoramic views of Coyhaique and the surrounding mountains. Perfect for experienced hikers.
An accessible trail that leads to a viewpoint offering breathtaking sights of the Coyhaique River valley and the city below. Suitable for all skill levels.
This scenic trail provides a mix of forested paths and rugged terrain, ideal for nature lovers looking to explore the flora and fauna of the region.
Located a bit farther from Coyhaique, this park boasts impressive hanging glaciers and lush forests, with numerous hiking opportunities available.
Aiports
How to reach Coyhaique by plane.
The nearest airport to Coyhaique, located approximately 56 km away. It serves both domestic and limited international flights.
Located about 270 km south of Coyhaique, this is the largest airport in the region with international connections primarily to Argentina and other Chilean cities.
Situated around 700 km north of Coyhaique, this airport handles domestic flights and some international flights, mainly to Argentina.
Located approximately 1,200 km north of Coyhaique, it's the main international airport in Chile, offering extensive international connections.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority population in Coyhaique, constituting a mix of indigenous and non-indigenous ancestry.
Includes groups such as the Mapuche and Aymara, who have a presence in the region.
Comprises individuals from various countries, particularly from Argentina, Peru, and Colombia.
Includes seasonal and skilled workers from other countries, mainly involved in industries like fishing and agriculture.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football (soccer) is one of the most popular sports in Coyhaique, with many local clubs and a strong community interest in both playing and watching the sport.
Rugby has a growing following in Coyhaique, with local teams participating in regional competitions and attracting a dedicated fan base.
Basketball is also popular in the region, with schools and community centers often hosting games and leagues for all ages.
Given the stunning natural landscapes surrounding Coyhaique, hiking is a popular outdoor activity for both locals and tourists, with many trails available in nearby national parks.
Cycling, especially mountain biking, is a favored pursuit in the varied terrains around Coyhaique, accommodating both casual bikers and serious enthusiasts.
Fishing, particularly fly fishing, is a beloved pastime in the rivers and lakes near Coyhaique, attracting anglers from various regions.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Coyhaique.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While traditional dishes often feature meat and seafood, many restaurants in Coyhaique offer vegetarian and vegan versions of classic dishes, along with creative plant-based options.
Visitors with gluten sensitivities can find accommodating menus at various establishments, with a growing awareness of gluten-free alternatives in the region's culinary scene.