PUERTO AISN

also spelled Puerto Aysn capital of Aisn province and commune in Aisn region, southern Chile, located on the Aisn River at the head of a deep fjord facing the Chonos Archipelago. Colonization of the surrounding area of rugged topography and rigorous climate began only in the 19th century. Puerto Aisn is a port and commercial centre for the developing agricultural, mining, and lumbering communities to the south and east. Cattle and sheep are raised there, and wool is an important trade item. Tourism is also significant. There is boat service to Puerto Montt, 270 miles (435 km) north. An all-weather road links the capital to Coihaique and Balmaceda; another road crosses the Andes into Argentina. Pop. (1985 est.) commune, 19,749.