Aysén Region, Administrative region in Northern Patagonia, Chile
Aysén Region is an administrative territory in Northern Patagonia between the Pacific Ocean and Argentina, marked by extensive ice fields, fjords, mountains, lakes, and temperate rainforest. The landscape shifts from rugged coast with deep waterways to glaciated peaks inland.
The territory remained sparsely settled until the late 19th century and attracted European immigrants following border agreements between Chile and Argentina in 1881. Development through roads and towns occurred only in the 20th century.
Residents maintain a blend of Chilean cuisine and Argentine traditions through asado prepared over open fires. In small communities, horses remain working animals and riders wear traditional gaucho clothing that belongs to local identity.
Travelers reach the territory through Balmaceda Airport or via the Carretera Austral, which stretches 1,240 kilometers (770 miles) from Puerto Montt to Villa O'Higgins. The road is mostly unpaved, and weather can shift quickly, so flexible travel planning is recommended.
The Northern Patagonian Ice Field in the interior forms the third-largest continental ice mass on Earth after Antarctica and Greenland. Its meltwater feeds numerous rivers and lakes flowing through the territory.
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