Coyhaique, Chile

Capital City

With a population of just 61,210, Coyhaique is a remote outpost in Chilean Patagonia that feels worlds away from the rest of the country. Founded less than a century ago, this young city has grown rapidly thanks to government investment, but its isolation remains a persistent challenge. Winters are chilly and wet, with temperatures dipping below freezing and the risk of heavy snowfall. And the city's air quality is among the worst in the Americas, thanks to wood smoke from residents' efforts to stay warm. While Coyhaique offers access to stunning natural scenery and fly fishing, its harsh climate and bureaucratic headaches make it best suited for the most rugged and self-sufficient adventurers.