Located on the coast of the continent, opposite the island of Chiloé, close to the mouth of the river Yelcho. It has a population of 3,258 and is located 204 km south of Puerto Montt.

Chaitén has good communication links with the rest of the region, by means of an airdrome and a port with a breakwater and berthing ramp, giving access for cross-channel ferries coming from Chonchi, in Chiloé.

Nowadays it is a center for services, communications and business.

The town is laid out like a checkerboard, with wide streets, and a seaside promenade with an exceptional view of the Corcovado volcano.