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Hot Springs: Chile Chico

Chile Chico, the sunniest town in Chilean Patagonia, sits on the southern shore of Lago General Carrera. Its remote location near the Argentine border and the Jeinimeni National Reserve conceals little-known thermal springs in a landscape of steppe, mountains, and turquoise lake waters.

3 hot springsBest Season to Visit: The short summer season from December to March is ...

Introduction

Chile Chico is a small frontier town on the southern shore of Lago General Carrera, the largest lake in Chile and the second largest in South America. Known for its unusually sunny microclimate in an otherwise rainy region, Chile Chico attracts travelers seeking the Marble Caves, the stunning lakeside scenery, and access to the Jeinimeni National Reserve. The geological forces that created this massive lake also produced thermal activity in the surrounding mountains and valleys. While the hot springs near Chile Chico are modest and undeveloped compared to those further north, they offer a unique opportunity to soak in warm water in one of Patagonia's most remote and beautiful settings.

Hot Springs

Termas de Bahía Jara

Natural

Natural warm springs near the shore of Lago General Carrera, where thermal water seeps through rock into small pools. The water temperature is mild, creating a gentle soaking experience. The stunning turquoise lake and surrounding Andes peaks provide a magnificent backdrop.

Temperature: 30-35°C
Entry Fee: Free
How to Get There: About 40 km west of Chile Chico along the lake road toward Puerto Guadal. A short trail leads from the road to the springs. About 1 hour by car on gravel road.
Best time: December to March
informal roadside parking

Termas de Jeinimeni

Wild

Deep within the Jeinimeni reserve, these wild springs emerge in a remote valley surrounded by volcanic rock formations, guanaco herds, and ancient rock art sites. The temperatures are mild but the extraordinary wilderness setting, with virtually no human presence, makes the journey worthwhile for those who love true backcountry exploration.

Temperature: 28-34°C
Entry Fee: Free (reserve entry donation requested)
How to Get There: Within the Jeinimeni National Reserve, about 50 km south of Chile Chico. Requires a high-clearance vehicle on rough roads and a 1-hour hike. A local guide is recommended.
Best time: January to February
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Termas del Lago (Eastern Shore)

Natural

Warm water seepages along the remote eastern lakeshore, only accessible by boat or a challenging overland track. The combination of thermal water, the impossibly blue lake, and the towering Andes creates one of the most visually stunning hot spring settings in all of Patagonia.

Temperature: 30-36°C
Entry Fee: $5,000 CLP for boat transfer
How to Get There: Along the eastern shore of Lago General Carrera, accessible by boat from Chile Chico or a rough coastal track. Local boatmen can arrange transport.
Best time: December to March
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Safety Tips

These springs are in extremely remote locations — never visit alone

Road conditions to Jeinimeni can be very poor; a 4x4 vehicle is essential

Weather on the lake can change rapidly — confirm boat conditions before departure

Carry all food, water, and emergency supplies you might need

Cell service is nonexistent in most spring locations

The Jeinimeni area has puma activity — make noise while hiking

What to Bring

  • Swimsuit
  • Towel
  • Hiking boots
  • Warm layers and windproof jacket
  • Plenty of food and water
  • First aid kit
  • GPS device or detailed map
  • Cash in Chilean pesos
  • Sunscreen (Chile Chico is very sunny)
  • Binoculars for wildlife

Best Season to Visit

The short summer season from December to March is the only practical window for visiting hot springs near Chile Chico. The town's sunny microclimate means clearer conditions than much of Aysén, but the remote springs are still subject to mountain weather. January and February offer the best combination of access and weather.

Getting There

Chile Chico is accessible by road from Coyhaique via Puerto Guadal (about 5-6 hours) or from Argentina via the Los Antiguos border crossing (just 8 km from town). The nearest airport is Balmaceda (BBA) near Coyhaique. A vehicle is absolutely essential in Chile Chico for any hot spring exploration. Fuel is available in town but prices are higher than in larger cities.

Nearby Attractions

Marble Caves (Puerto Río Tranquilo)
Jeinimeni National Reserve and rock art
Lago General Carrera turquoise waters
Los Antiguos, Argentina (cherry capital)
Puerto Guadal and lakeside villages
Leones Glacier boat trip

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Frequently Asked Questions

Are Chile Chico hot springs worth visiting compared to other areas?

Chile Chico's springs are modest in temperature and development. They are best suited for travelers already in the area who enjoy wilderness exploration. The real appeal is the extraordinary remote setting rather than the thermal experience itself.

Can I reach Chile Chico from Argentina?

Yes, the easiest access is from Los Antiguos, Argentina, just 8 km across the border. This is a popular entry point for travelers coming from Ruta 40 in Argentine Patagonia.

Do I need a guide for the Jeinimeni springs?

A local guide is highly recommended. The reserve is vast and trails are not well-marked. Guides can be arranged through accommodations in Chile Chico or at the reserve entrance.

What makes Chile Chico's climate special?

Chile Chico enjoys a rain shadow effect from the surrounding mountains, giving it significantly more sunshine than the rest of Aysén. This makes outdoor activities, including hot spring visits, more reliably pleasant.

Chile Chico

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