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Chiloé Island to El Chaltén

Updated: March 11, 2024 09:10 AM
El Chaltén

Chiloé Island to El Chalten - Language, Currency, Distance, How to Reach, Expenses, Best time to go, What to Eat, Where to Go, FAQ

Chiloé Island is a magical place, full of natural beauty and rich culture. It is located in the southern part of Chile, and it is known for its wooden churches, its colorful houses, and its delicious seafood. El Chalten is a small town in the south of Argentina, and it is the gateway to the Torres del Paine National Park. It is a popular destination for hikers and climbers, and it offers stunning views of the Fitz Roy mountain range.

If you are planning to travel from Chiloé Island to El Chalten, here is a guide to help you with the planning process.

Language

The official language of Chile is Spanish. However, many people in Chiloé Island speak Chilote, a dialect of Spanish that is unique to the island. The official language of Argentina is Spanish as well. However, some people in El Chalten speak English, especially in the tourism industry.

Currency

The currency of Chile is the Chilean peso (CLP). The currency of Argentina is the Argentine peso (ARS). You can exchange your currency at banks, exchange bureaus, and hotels.

Distance

The distance between Castro (the main town on Chiloé Island) and El Chalten is approximately 700 kilometers (435 miles).

How to Reach

There are a few different ways to travel from Chiloé Island to El Chalten.

  • By bus: There are several bus companies that offer direct buses from Castro to El Chalten. The journey takes approximately 12 hours.
  • By plane: There are no direct flights from Chiloé Island to El Chalten. However, you can fly from Puerto Montt (the capital of the Los Lagos region) to El Calafate (the nearest city to El Chalten). The flight takes approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes. From El Calafate, you can take a bus to El Chalten (approximately 3 hours).

Expenses

The cost of travel from Chiloé Island to El Chalten will vary depending on the mode of transportation and the time of year. However, you can expect to spend approximately $50-$100 on transportation.

Best time to go

The best time to visit Chiloé Island and El Chalten is during the shoulder seasons (April-May and September-October). During these months, the weather is generally mild and there are fewer tourists.

What to Eat

Chiloé Island is known for its seafood. Some of the most popular dishes include:

  • Curanto: A traditional stew made with seafood, meat, and vegetables.
  • Milcao: A potato pancake filled with meat or seafood.
  • Cazuela: A beef stew with vegetables.

El Chalten is known for its grilled meats. Some of the most popular dishes include:

  • Asado: A barbecue made with various cuts of meat.
  • Empanadas: Fried or baked pastries filled with meat, cheese, or vegetables.
  • Locro: A hearty stew made with corn, beans, and meat.

Where to Go

Chiloé Island is a great place to explore nature and culture. Some of the most popular tourist attractions include:

  • Chiloé National Park: A UNESCO World Heritage Site that is home to a variety of flora and fauna.
  • Castro: The capital of Chiloé Island, and home to a number of historical churches and buildings.
  • Dalcahue: A small town known for its colorful wooden houses and its artisan market.

El Chalten is a great base for exploring the Torres del Paine National Park. Some of the most popular tourist attractions include:

  • Fitz Roy: A stunning mountain that is one of the most popular hiking destinations in the world.
  • Laguna Torre: A beautiful lake located at the base of Fitz Roy.
  • Laguna de los Tres: A stunning lake that offers panoramic views of the Fitz Roy mountain range.

FAQ

Here are some frequently asked questions about traveling from Chiloé Island to El Chalten.

  • Is it possible to travel from Chiloé Island to El Chalten on a budget? Yes, it is possible to travel from Chiloé Island to El Chalten on a budget. The cheapest way to travel is by bus.
  • Is it necessary to book accommodation in advance? It is not necessary to book accommodation in advance, but it is recommended if you are traveling during the peak season.
  • What is the best way to get around Chiloé Island and El Chalten? The best way to get around Chiloé Island and El Chalten is by bus. There are regular buses that connect the main towns and cities.

*Distance calculation may be aerial distance.

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