city, southern Chile, located on the Aisén 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 Aisén 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 city to Coihaique and Balmaceda and continues into Argentina. Pop. (2002)16,936.