Introduction
420km (260 miles) N of Coyhaique
Chaitén was once the main jumping-off point for exploring Pumalín, Futaleufú, and the Carretera Austral; however, the May 5, 2008 eruption of the Chaitén volcano changed the face of this charming port village forever. When the first rumbles began, most residents thought Volcán Michimahuida was erupting, but they eventually realized the "extinct" Volcán Chaitén, which had been inactive for 10,000 years, was erupting. The town, a few days after being evacuated, was nearly wiped out when the water from a melting glacier mixed with significant ash deposits and a deluge ran right through the center of town. At press time, Chaitén remained buried and residents continued on in shelter homes set up in Puerto Montt. There was talk of rebuilding the town elsewhere and even vague plans from a Chilean businessman to turn the town into a self sustainable eco-community, though no steps in either direction had yet been taken.
If you visit town now, you...
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Hostería Puma Verde
Owned and operated by the Pumalín Park Project, this stylish, wood-shingled bed-and-breakfast is the best lodging option here in Chaitén. Guest...
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Hostería Los Coihues
This is one of the nicer hotels in Chaitén. The unassuming log-cabin building sits several blocks back from the waterfront and has a comfortable...
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Hotel Mi Casa
The Hotel Mi Casa is a traditional hotel perched on a hill just above town, offering a direct view of Volcán Corcovado, the colorful rooftops below,...
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