Hidden Gems: Chaitén

Why it's hidden: It's not listed on most maps or tourist guides and requires navigating a rough, unmarked track.

How to find it: From Chaitén, head north on Ruta 7 (Carretera Austral) for approximately 25 km until you pass the small community of Santa Bárbara. Look for a barely visible dirt track on your right, marked only by a faded ribbon on a tree, shortly after crossing a small bridge. Drive carefully for about 2 km on this track until you reach a small clearing where you can park. From there, follow a faint foot trail for about 15 minutes through dense forest to reach the falls. Road conditions on the track can be very muddy after rain. Parking is limited to 2-3 cars. A 4x4 vehicle is highly recommended for the dirt track.

Best time: Spring (October-November) for lush greenery and strong water flow, or late summer (February-March) for easier trail conditions.

Why it's hidden: These are not commercially developed and require a significant drive on a gravel road, deterring most package tourists.

How to find it: From Chaitén, take Ruta 7 south for about 30 km towards Lago Yelcho. Before crossing the Yelcho bridge, turn right onto a gravel road (Ruta 241) that follows the western shore of Lago Yelcho. Continue for approximately 15 km. The hot springs are small, warm pools right next to the lake, often marked by steam rising from the shore. There are no signs. You'll need to look for a small, unofficial pull-off area where you can park. The road is gravel but generally well-maintained, though a car with good ground clearance is advisable. Parking is informal by the roadside.

Best time: Anytime, but especially magical during cooler weather or at sunset for star gazing. Avoid heavy rain as the access road can get slippery.

Why it's hidden: It's an unofficial lookout, only known by a few locals and isn't marked on any tourist maps.

How to find it: From Chaitén, drive north on Ruta 7 towards Puerto Cárdenas. Approximately 10 km before reaching Puerto Cárdenas, look for a small, gravel side road veering left, just after a sharp bend in the main road. Drive slowly for about 1 km up this steep, narrow track. There is a small, unpaved area at the top where 1-2 cars can park carefully. The track is suitable for 4x2 but better with a 4x4, especially in wet conditions. The view is just a short walk from the parking area.

Best time: Clear days for optimal visibility, morning or late afternoon for beautiful light.

Why it's hidden: It's located off a less-trafficked section of the park and requires a short but unmarked hike.

How to find it: From Chaitén, drive north on Ruta 7 into Pumalín Park. Continue past the main turnoffs for popular trails. Approximately 40 km north of Chaitén, after passing the El Amarillo sector, look for a small, inconspicuous pull-off on the left side of the road, often used by park rangers. There is no sign. From here, follow a faint path that descends through the forest for about 20 minutes to the beach. The access road (Ruta 7) is gravel within the park but generally good. Parking is roadside at the pull-off, enough for 2-3 cars. Good hiking shoes are recommended.

Best time: Summer (December-February) for milder weather, but even on cloudy days, the dramatic scenery is captivating.

Why it's hidden: It's not as promoted as other park trails and its trailhead is subtle, making it easy to miss.

How to find it: From Chaitén, drive south on Ruta 7 towards Futaleufú. Approximately 20 km past the main turnoff for the Chaitén Volcano, look for a small, rustic wooden sign on the left side of the road indicating 'Sendero Bosque'. The trailhead begins here. There is a small gravel area opposite the sign for parking, suitable for 3-4 cars. The road is paved initially then turns to gravel but is in good condition. The trail itself is well-maintained but can be muddy. A 4x2 car is sufficient.

Best time: Late spring to early autumn (November-April) for drier trail conditions and pleasant hiking weather.

Why it's hidden: Most tourists only see the current Caleta Gonzalo ferry terminal; the 'old' area is often overlooked or mistaken for part of the active park facilities.

How to find it: From Chaitén, drive north on Ruta 7 towards Caleta Gonzalo (approximately 50 km). Just before reaching the main ferry terminal and visitor center, look for a small, unpaved road veering sharply to the right. This road leads to older, abandoned buildings and structures. You can park informally at the beginning of this road. The road is rough but passable with a regular car. Explore on foot, being mindful of overgrown areas. Parking is informal by the roadside.

Best time: Any dry day. The atmosphere is particularly intriguing on cloudy or misty days.

Why it's hidden: It has no official signage or online presence and operates from a family home, catering primarily to the local community.

How to find it: This one requires local knowledge. Ask around in Chaitén for 'El Secreto' or 'Don Juan, el pescador'. It's usually located on the southern edge of town, slightly off the main street, on a side road near the river. There's no fixed address, so asking a local at a gas station or small shop is the best way. You'll likely need to drive a short distance from the town center. Parking is usually available on the street nearby. No car is strictly needed if you're staying in Chaitén's center, as you could walk or take a short taxi, but a car makes it easier to find and reach.

Best time: Lunchtime (1-3 PM) for the freshest options, but calling ahead (if you find a number!) is recommended.