Puerto Aisen

The city of Puerto Aisén is placed to 1,009 miles to the south of Santiago, Chile and 41 miles to the northwest of Coihaique. It is located in the shores of the Aisén River (Río Aisén) and has a population of almost 14,000 inhabitants. At the present time, most of its inhabitants are concentrated in Puerto Aisén, working in the services to all the insular territory.

Puerto Aisén, was founded in 1914 as a wharf and warehouses of a cattle company.

The city of Puerto Aisén is placed next to the river. Originally, it had an excellent location to receive large dimensions ships. However, due to fires of the forest in the interior, originated by pilgrims that tried to fit out prairies for cattle, the rivers dragged enormous amounts of sediment that filled up the port. At the present time, it is only fit for fishing ships and schooners.

In a visit to Puerto Aisén, don’t miss the fluvial valleys Aguas Muertas and the Palos. It is also very attractive the Hydroelectric Power Station (Central Hidroeléctrica), that is among steep hills. This road continues to the north surrounding the hills until reaching Los Palos lake in mile 7, placed in a valley of pilgrims, surrounded by vegetation. Another option is to make a circuit of 32 miles of roundtrip through the White River Canyon to the Riesco lake, a lake of calm waters and apt for fishing. Right from there, head to the Valley Lagunas to Coihaique.

The city of Puerto Aisén has a regular layout and a seat of aged trees. It offers services, gasoline, lodgings and a good restaurant.