Carretera Austral Km 0 Marker Chile
The humble Kilometer 0 marker in Puerto Montt, Chile, signifies the start of the legendary Carretera Austral, a breathtaking Patagonian road trip.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Carretera Austral Km 0 Marker Chile
Best Time
Best for photos and atmosphere
Highlights
Must-see attractions
The humble Kilometer 0 marker in Puerto Montt, Chile, signifies the start of the legendary Carretera Austral, a breathtaking Patagonian road trip.
"The origin of the most beautiful road in the world is in Puerto Montt, come travel the Carretera Austral and discover Patagonia."
📸 Photo Op Alert
It's a simple sign, but a crucial photo op! Capture your start to the Carretera Austral adventure.
🤔 Humble Beginnings
Manage expectations: the marker is understated. Many wish for a grander monument .
Quick Facts
Rating
4.1 · 42 reviews
Type
Tourist Attraction
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Kilometer 0 Marker
Puerto Montt Waterfront
The official starting point of the legendary Carretera Austral. A simple sign marking the beginning of an epic Patagonian adventure.
Puerto Montt Waterfront
Near the marker
Enjoy views of the Pacific Ocean and nearby islands. A scenic spot to reflect before embarking on your journey.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
The Humble Beginning
Plan for a quick photo op rather than a major attraction.Gateway to Patagonia
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
📸 Photo Op Alert
It's a simple sign, but a crucial photo op! Capture your start to the Carretera Austral adventure.
🤔 Humble Beginnings
Manage expectations: the marker is understated. Many wish for a grander monument.
🗺️ Start Your Journey
This is the official start of Route 7, the gateway to Patagonia's wonders. +1
🚗 Rental Car Hub
Many travelers rent cars in Puerto Montt to begin their Carretera Austral road trip.
Tips
from all over the internet
📸 Photo Op Alert
It's a simple sign, but a crucial photo op! Capture your start to the Carretera Austral adventure.
🤔 Humble Beginnings
Manage expectations: the marker is understated. Many wish for a grander monument.
🗺️ Start Your Journey
This is the official start of Route 7, the gateway to Patagonia's wonders. +1
🚗 Rental Car Hub
Many travelers rent cars in Puerto Montt to begin their Carretera Austral road trip.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors acknowledge the Carretera Austral's immense beauty and the significance of its Kilometer 0 marker as a starting point. However, many feel the marker itself is underwhelming and doesn't match the grandeur of the route it represents. There's a strong sentiment that Puerto Montt should invest in a more impressive monument to honor this world-renowned road.
"A spacious and well-lit space. The kilometer 0 sign for the Carretera Austral stands out against the streetlights, framed by buildings and the nearby sea, creating a very photogenic scene. Ideal for a quick stop and capturing a special memory at the beginning of the Carretera Austral.
10/10"
Yetro SANTIBÁÑEZ
"Such an important start with such a poor sign, they should put an arch or some more appropriate structure as it is now named one of the 6 most impressive roads in the world, it would be a nicer tourist spot for Puerto Montt"
Giannina Schafer River
"The origin of the most beautiful road in the world is in Puerto Montt, come travel the Carretera Austral and discover Patagonia"
Mauricio Baeza
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Kilometer 0 marker is located on the waterfront in Puerto Montt, Chile. It's easily accessible by car or taxi from the city center. Many travelers start their Carretera Austral journey from Puerto Montt, often renting a car here.+1
Yes, it's a well-known landmark for those starting the Carretera Austral. Look for the sign on the waterfront, often illuminated at night.
Many opt for a rental car or SUV for flexibility. Some sections require 4x4. Ferries are essential for certain legs, like crossing to Chaitén.
+1
While possible using buses and ferries, a car offers the most freedom to explore the diverse landscapes and remote areas of the Carretera Austral.
Key towns include Puerto Montt (Km 0), Hornopirén, Chaitén, Puyuhuapi, Coyhaique, Puerto Río Tranquilo, Cochrane, and Villa O'Higgins (Km 1240).+1
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, the Kilometer 0 marker itself is a public sign and does not have an entrance fee. It's a free photo opportunity.
The waterfront area is generally accessible at all times, though it's best visited during daylight for photos. The surrounding city of Puerto Montt has standard business hours.
If you plan to drive the Carretera Austral, booking rental cars and especially ferry tickets in advance is highly recommended, particularly during peak season.+1
Generally, no special permits are needed for driving the Carretera Austral itself. However, some national parks or reserves along the route may have entrance fees or require bookings for specific activities.
While larger towns have ATMs and accept cards, it's wise to carry cash (Chilean Pesos) for smaller villages, remote gas stations, and some ferry payments.
📸 📸 Photography
The main photo op is with the Kilometer 0 sign itself. The waterfront setting also offers scenic views of the bay and surrounding hills, especially with the streetlights at night.
A versatile camera setup is ideal. A wide-angle lens is great for landscapes, while a telephoto can capture wildlife. A sturdy tripod is useful for low-light conditions and long exposures of waterfalls or glaciers.
Embrace the dramatic weather! Golden hour light can be stunning, but don't shy away from moody, overcast days which enhance the rugged beauty. Protect your gear from rain and dust.
Beyond Km 0, iconic spots include the Marble Caves (Capillas de Mármol), Cerro Castillo National Park, Queulat National Park (Ventisquero Colgante), and the General Carrera Lake.+1
Absolutely! Modern smartphones have excellent cameras. Focus on composition and lighting. Many creators share stunning shots using just their phones.+1
Social
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