All Hot Springs

Hot Springs: Chaitén

Chaitén, the gateway to the Carretera Austral, sits in a landscape shaped by the dramatic 2008 volcanic eruption. The same geothermal forces that created the Chaitén Volcano heat several hot springs in the surrounding rainforest, offering travelers a soothing welcome to Chilean Patagonia.

3 hot springsBest Season to Visit: The best time to visit Chaitén's hot springs is fr...

Introduction

The small town of Chaitén on the northern Carretera Austral is famous for its volcano, which erupted spectacularly in 2008 after 9,000 years of dormancy. That volcanic energy also heats a network of thermal springs in the surrounding valleys and rainforests. As the first major stop on the Carretera Austral for travelers arriving by ferry from Puerto Montt or Chiloé, Chaitén's hot springs offer an ideal introduction to the thermal culture of southern Chile. The springs here tend to be rustic and surrounded by dense valdivian rainforest, providing an immersive wilderness experience.

Hot Springs

Termas El Amarillo

Developed

Termas El Amarillo is the most accessible and popular hot spring near Chaitén. Named for the yellow sulfur deposits, these developed pools sit in a lush forest clearing beside the Carretera Austral. Multiple pools at different temperatures allow bathers to find their ideal warmth. The facility is simple but well-maintained, and the forest setting is beautiful.

Temperature: 36-42°C
Entry Fee: $7,000 CLP per adult
How to Get There: Located 25 km south of Chaitén on the Carretera Austral near the village of El Amarillo. Directly accessible from the highway.
Best time: November to March
changing roomsparkingbasic campsitepicnic area

Termas de Chaitén

Natural

A collection of natural thermal pools set in dense valdivian rainforest along a mountain stream. The pools are semi-natural, with rocks arranged to create comfortable soaking spots. The surrounding forest of alerces and coigüe trees creates a cathedral-like atmosphere. Less known than El Amarillo, these springs offer a more intimate experience.

Temperature: 34-40°C
Entry Fee: $3,000 CLP donation requested
How to Get There: About 12 km from Chaitén town, accessed via a secondary road heading into the Michinmahuida valley. The road is rough gravel. A 15-minute walk from the parking area leads to the springs.
Best time: December to March
informal parkingbasic trail

Termas del Volcán Michinmahuida

Wild

For the truly adventurous, these wild hot springs sit high on the flanks of Michinmahuida Volcano, accessible only by a demanding hike through pristine forest. The pools are completely natural and untouched, offering a genuine wilderness thermal experience for those willing to earn it.

Temperature: 30-38°C
Entry Fee: Free
How to Get There: A challenging 4-5 hour hike from the Michinmahuida trailhead south of Chaitén. The trail crosses rivers and dense forest. Guide recommended.
Best time: January to February (best trail conditions)
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Safety Tips

Check volcanic activity status for Chaitén Volcano before hiking in the area

The trail to Michinmahuida hot springs is unmarked in places — hire a local guide

River crossings can be dangerous after heavy rain; never attempt if water is above knee level

Bring insect repellent for the dense rainforest environment

Cell phone service is unreliable outside Chaitén town

Carry rain gear year-round, as the region receives over 3,000 mm of rainfall annually

What to Bring

  • Swimsuit
  • Towel
  • Water shoes
  • Rain jacket (essential)
  • Insect repellent
  • Drinking water and trail snacks
  • Cash in Chilean pesos
  • Hiking boots for wild springs
  • Headlamp if hiking in forest

Best Season to Visit

The best time to visit Chaitén's hot springs is from December to March when rainfall is lowest (though still frequent) and access roads and trails are in the best condition. The shoulder months of November and April can also work. Winter visits to El Amarillo are possible, but the wild springs become difficult or impossible to access.

Getting There

Chaitén is accessible by ferry from Puerto Montt (about 10 hours) or from Chiloé (Quellón, about 5 hours). Naviera Austral operates regular ferry services. There is also a small airstrip with occasional charter flights. From Chaitén, the hot springs are 12-25 km south along the Carretera Austral. A rental car is recommended, ideally picked up in Puerto Montt before the ferry crossing.

Nearby Attractions

Chaitén Volcano and destroyed old town
Pumalín Douglas Tompkins National Park
Amarillo River valley hiking
Yelcho Lake fishing
Ferry crossing to Chiloé
Michinmahuida Volcano views

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Frequently Asked Questions

Is Chaitén safe to visit after the 2008 eruption?

Yes, Chaitén was rebuilt and has been safe to visit for many years. The town relocated to higher ground and the old town area is a fascinating open-air museum of the eruption's power. The volcano is monitored continuously.

Can I combine a hot spring visit with Pumalín Park?

Absolutely. Pumalín Douglas Tompkins National Park is directly north of Chaitén, and Termas El Amarillo is south. A day exploring Pumalín trails followed by an evening soak at El Amarillo is a perfect combination.

How much time should I spend in the Chaitén area?

Plan at least 2-3 days to enjoy the hot springs, visit Pumalín Park, and explore the Chaitén volcano area. This gives time to experience both developed and natural springs without rushing.

Are the hot springs crowded?

Chaitén's hot springs are among the least crowded in the Lake District and Patagonia region. Even in peak summer, you are unlikely to share the pools with more than a handful of other visitors.

Chaitén

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