Spent some time at the Marlborough FF Show with my friend Bob L.,
co-owner of Las Torres Lodge in Chile. Over some steaks at a local
eatery with Bob and the owners of Lakewood , I asked about DIY trips
in the area. He sees no reason why it can't be done.

There is a trekking store in Coyhaique in Aysen Region, at the foot of
the Andes. You would fly into Balmaceda, a very small town SE of
Coyhaique. There are vehicles, including pick-up trucks, you can
rent, and maps of the local area. He thought you may be able to rent
a tent and camping equipment at either the trekking store or the
sports store in Coyhaique. Or, buy the stuff and make someone happy
when you leave. He says that camping along side the road is not
unheard of and that it is safe. There are also national parks in the
region. He says the police are very helpful and honest, unlike what
you would find in Central America (Panama, Costa Rica, Guatamala,
etc.)

There are good supermarkets in Coyhaique that also stock beer, wine,
and booze. So, your food bill should be inexpensive.

I'll be in Chile in March for about ten days, so I'll see what else I
can find out.

Dave (anyone up for a 2009 Chile Clave?)