District Lago General Carrera

Settlers by the LakeThe first settlers arrived in the early 20th century, many of them Chileans returning from Argentina after the 1902 border arbitration. They mainly settled on the southern shore around Chile Chico, where the climate is milder than in the rest of the region. When the state leased the land they occupied to a cattle breeder, clashes with the police, known as the Guerra de Chile Chico, occurred in 1917 and 1918. In the end, the government revoked the lease.MiningOn the northern shore lies the abandoned mining camp of Puerto Cristal, where zinc and lead were mined for decades. The last mine closed in 1993, and since 2008, the camp has been protected as a Monumento Histórico.Agriculture and Daily LifeIn Chile Chico, cherry and other fruit orchards shape the townscape, flourishing in the sheltered lakeside climate. Life in these small towns is still defined by livestock farming, tourism, and long distances. Much relies on personal contacts, and many businesses close during the off-season.

Roads and FerryThe Carretera Austral runs from Villa Cerro Castillo via Puerto Río Tranquilo to the turn-off at Puerto Guadal and on towards Cochrane. From Puerto Guadal to Chile Chico, a narrow gravel road winds high above the shore, known as Paso Las Llaves. It requires careful driving and time.Car Ferry: Between Puerto Ibáñez and Chile Chico, a ferry operates across the lake; the crossing takes approximately two hours. Operators, timetables, and prices have changed several times in recent years and vary by season and day of the week. Check the current timetable before your trip and, if possible, book vehicle reservations in advance during peak season.Bus: Buses connect Coyhaique with Puerto Río Tranquilo and Puerto Ibáñez, but they do not run daily.Border: Near Chile Chico, the Río Jeinimeni crossing leads to Los Antiguos in Argentina; it is open daily during daylight hours (approx. 8 AM to 8 PM).Refueling: Gas stations are rare; fill up your tank at every opportunity.