Get behind the wheels for the Chilean CH-265, one of the planet’s most scenic roads
Ruta CH-265 is the name of a great drive located in the Aysén Region of the Chilean Patagonia. It is one of the world's most scenic drives. The road is unpredictable, grueling, unsafe and tough, but yet captivating, charming and strikingly beautiful.
How long is CH-265 in the Chilean Patagonia?
Running along the southern shore of the General Carrera Lake, the road is 122 km (75.80 miles) long, running west-east from Puerto Guadal, on the Carrera Austral (Ruta 7) to Chile Chico, on the Argentinian border.
How long does it take to drive CH-265 road in the Chilean Patagonia?
To drive this amazingly scenic drive without stopping will take most people between 2.5 and 3.5 hours. Stunning and fascinating views just completely takes you over and really make you forget the roughness. The route itself is stunning and you can enjoy views of a gorgeous lake, islands and adjacent forest from the cliffside overhanging the lake.
Is CH-265 in the Chilean Patagonia challenging?
The road is mostly unpaved: only the last kilometers, near Argentina are paved. It has excessive dirt, stone and sand. This route has some parts kind a like a roller coaster where it is always up and down up and down. There are very dangerous curves on this road and as you coming downhill to a sharp curve. Most part of this rough road is cruel and in intense condition. This road is frequently used and by people driving much faster than the speed limit. The road is dangerous, with lots of mountains and stiff hills. Make sure you have plenty of food because there aren’t stores for 200 kilometers. Expect amazing stiff hills, wind and rain. The road tops out at 524m (1,719ft) above the sea level.