Aysén

Aysén, officially the Aysén Region of the General Carlos Ibáñez del Campo, is one of Chile’s 17 administrative regions, located in southern Chile within the Patagonian zone. The regional capital is Coyhaique. The region takes its name from the Aysén River and is known for its rugged coastline, fjords, glaciers, temperate forests, and remote landscapes.

Geography and borders: Aysén lies between the Los Lagos Region to the north, Argentina to the east, the Pacific Ocean to the west, and the Magallanes Region to the south. It is subdivided into four provinces—Coyhaique, Aisén, General Carrera, and Capitán Prat—encompassing numerous communes. The population is sparse and concentrated in a few towns, the largest being the capital Coyhaique.

Economy and culture: The economy is based on forestry, fishing, livestock, and growing tourism, especially nature and adventure tourism. The Carretera Austral (Route 7) runs through much of the region, connecting remote communities and access to natural attractions. Notable sites include General Carrera Lake (shared with Argentina) and its Marble Caves near Puerto Río Tranquilo, Queulat National Park with its hanging glacier, and Laguna San Rafael National Park, home to the San Rafael Glacier. Indigenous heritage from Huilliche and Mapuche communities influences local culture, cuisine, and traditions, alongside a distinct Patagonian rural lifestyle.