The town of Chaitén has gained worldwide recognition through its namesake volcano. It rises majestically at the heart of wild, unspoiled nature. This is the preferred destination for explorers and hikers seeking adventure and authenticity, thanks to its volcanic activity and spectacular landscapes. Climbing its steep slopes, observing the unique flora and fauna surrounding it, or delving into the fascinating history of its eruption—these are just some of the unforgettable experiences this extraordinary place promises. We're heading to southern Chile.

Its eruptive history

Once considered dormant, Chaitén surprised the world with its eruption in May 2008, marking its first activity in nearly 7,400 years. This eruption gave rise to a caldera following a volcanic surge that released pumice. However, studies indicate more recent eruptions, approximately 200 to 300 years before 2008.

On May 2, the eruption began with a volcanic plume exceeding 21 km, even reaching Buenos Aires. This activity triggered the preventive evacuation of 900 to 1,500 people within a 30 km radius, including the town of Chaitén. Ash covered up to 30 cm at 65 km away, also affecting Argentina.

On May 6, a total evacuation was ordered within a 50 km radius, displacing 4,000 to 5,000 people. Sadly, an elderly person lost their life. The ash and pyroclastic flows caused significant destruction, peaking in May with ash columns of 30 km.

Thereafter, the eruption's intensity decreased, but in October, a new intensification was observed with the formation of a new lava dome. Its rapid growth eventually exceeded the caldera rim in height. By January 2009, the caldera was completely filled, allowing pyroclastic flows to escape. An avalanche in February threatened Chaitén.

The following months showed stabilization of activity, but with continued growth of lava domes. In September, a third lava dome was observed. Since then, volcanic activity has continued.

Chaitén: a journey into the heart of wild Patagonia

Welcome to the top of the world, where the Chaitén volcano stands majestically at 1,122 meters elevation, dominating the far north of Chilean Patagonia. This giant, administratively linked to Palena Province in the Lakes Region, sits just 10 km south-southwest of the town of Chaitén, the provincial capital.

Located 200 km south of Puerto Montt, across the water from Chiloé, and near Pumalín Douglas Tompkins National Park, Chaitén offers magnificent panoramas of the Chaitén and Corcovado volcanoes. The landscape is characterized by a caldera with a lava dome, and unlike other volcanoes, it is not capped by a glacier. Much of its territory is composed of protected parks, making Chaitén a privileged destination for travelers exploring the region.

Two small lakes once occupied the caldera floor on the western and northern sides of the lava dome.

If you have time to spare, discover the volcano's translucent gray obsidian, which played a crucial role in pre-Columbian cultures. It served as raw material for crafting artifacts and was discovered up to 400 km south and north, for example in Chan-Chan.

Ascending Chaitén Volcano

Climbing Chaitén volcano is a vision both formidable and deeply respected. To begin this adventure, the trail entrance is just 20 minutes' drive north of town. From the first steps, you discover one of many "tree cemeteries," a powerful reminder of nature's force. Yet this zone, in the process of regeneration, emanates a strangely captivating atmosphere. Here begins the challenging ascent of one and a half to two hours toward the summit.

As you gain altitude along the winding trail, rest areas allow you to admire panoramic views of the surrounding countryside stretching to the sea. The approach to the summit becomes evident as you leave the dense forest for a barren slope, devoid of life. Walking on volcanic gravel, surrounded by the remains of trees eternally frozen in time, the atmosphere evokes Dante's world. It feels like climbing a "staircase to hell." Gaseous emissions from the volcano mingle with threatening clouds. Fortunately, these clouds dissipate, revealing Chaitén volcano in all its splendor.

Chaitén is located 200 km south of Puerto Montt. To reach Chaitén, take the Carretera Austral toward Caleta La Arena. Once there, board the first ferry heading to Caleta Puelche. No reservation is necessary.

Another option is to reach Caleta Puelche from Cochamó and Puelo via the V-69 road. From Caleta Puelche, continue your journey to Hornopirén.

At Hornopirén, you'll need to take another ferry heading south. However, book in advance for the Hornopirén-Leptepu and Fiordo Largo-Caleta Gonzalo routes. Once at Caleta Gonzalo, travel 34 miles to reach Chaitén.

If departing from Coyhaique, follow the Carretera Austral northward for 262 miles. If coming from Argentina, cross the border at Futaleufú Pass, then drive 75 km to Villa Santa Lucía. From there, take the Carretera Austral northward for 63 km to arrive at Chaitén.