The Carretera Austral, or Southern Highway, in Chile, is a legendary and challenging road trip stretching through Chilean Patagonia. It offers breathtaking landscapes including fjords, rainforests, glaciers, and snow-capped mountains. Accessibility can be difficult due to gravel roads and limited public transportation; a 4x4 vehicle is highly recommended. While solo travel is possible for experienced adventurers, guided tours are beneficial for navigating the remote terrain and accessing specialized activities like trekking and glacier hikes. The best time to visit is during the Southern Hemisphere's summer (November to March) as other times may have weather-related closures. Costs can vary significantly, but expect to budget for vehicle rental/fuel, accommodation, park entrance fees, and activities, making it a moderately expensive trip. The duration of a typical visit depends on the length of the route covered, and can range from a few days to several weeks.