Chaitén Postal Codes: 5850000 | Palena, Los Lagos

Key Facts

Chaitén is a commune located in the Palena Province of Chile's Los Lagos Region. Situated in the northern part of Chilean Patagonia, this remote commune occupies a strategic position along the country's southern coastline, characterized by its dramatic fjords, temperate rainforests, and volcanic landscapes. Covering approximately 8,471 square kilometers of diverse terrain, Chaitén serves as an important administrative and transportation hub for the surrounding area despite its relatively small population of around 4,000 residents. The commune is administratively divided into several smaller districts and settlements that dot its extensive coastline and interior valleys. Chaitén gained international attention in 2008 when the nearby Chaitén Volcano erupted dramatically, forcing the complete evacuation of the town and causing significant geological changes to the region. Today, the area has largely recovered and continues to be known for its stunning natural beauty, including the Pumalín Douglas Tompkins National Park, which protects vast tracts of ancient alerce forests and provides opportunities for ecotourism and outdoor recreation. The commune's economy traditionally relies on fishing, livestock farming, and increasingly on tourism, with visitors drawn to its pristine wilderness areas and unique geological features. For those seeking detailed postal and administrative information about Chaitén's various districts and settlements, comprehensive resources are available to assist with navigation and communication throughout this remarkable Patagonian commune.

Neighboring Regions

• Futaleufú
• Palena
• Hualaihué