Coyhaique

A Young CityCoyhaique was founded in 1929 on the edge of the grazing lands of the Sociedad Industrial de Aysén, a livestock company that had leased large parts of the region in the early 20th century. The settlement was initially called Baquedano and was renamed Coyhaique in 1934 to avoid confusion with a place of the same name in northern Chile. The five-sided Plaza de Armas was designed by surveyor Héctor Monreal, and the five short streets around the square bear the names of the first city council members.The old buildings of the livestock company in Coyhaique Bajo today house the Museo Regional de Aysén, which tells the story of the indigenous population, the settlers, and the livestock industry.Livestock Farming and Daily LifeThe city's culture is closely linked to sheep and cattle farming. In summer, rodeos and 'jineteadas' take place in the surrounding area, where gauchos display their skills. At the craft stalls in the center, you'll find wool products, leather goods, and wood carvings from the region. Mate is part of the daily routine for many locals, often as a shared ritual at work or at home.

In the CityThe city center around Plaza de Armas is small and easily explored on foot. For longer distances, such as to the Museo Regional in Coyhaique Bajo or the bus terminal, take a taxi or a Colectivo, a shared taxi with a fixed route and fare. The number on the roof indicates the line.Arrival & Onward TravelBy Air: Balmaceda Airport is located approximately 55 kilometers southeast of the city. LATAM and Sky fly year-round from Santiago and Puerto Montt, with additional seasonal connections. Transfers operate to the city center coinciding with arrivals.By Bus: From the terminal, buses run to Puerto Aysén, north to Puyuhuapi, and south to Puerto Río Tranquilo and Cochrane. Not daily on secondary routes.Car Rental: Coyhaique offers the largest selection of rental providers in the region. For the Carretera Austral, a vehicle with high ground clearance is recommended; book early during peak season.