v2.webp){kind=logo}
- Araucaria (Monkey Puzzle) Groves — The park’s signature trees: ancient, sculptural araucarias that dominate ridgelines and make for dramatic photos. They’re ecologically and culturally important (the piñón is a local food), and walking among them feels like stepping into a prehistoric forest. Personal favorite: there’s nothing like catching light through those spiky crowns at golden hour.
- Summit Viewpoints — Short hikes lead to high, exposed miradores with wide, clear views. On a good day you can see the Andes’ volcano silhouettes to the east and the Pacific haze to the west; sunrise and sunset up here are worth the climb.
- Old-growth Mixed Forest Trails — Trails winding through coihue, lenga and mossy understory give you that lush southern-Chile vibe: damp, green, and quiet. Expect rich
- Araucaria (Monkey Puzzle) Groves — The park’s signature trees: ancient, sculptural araucarias that dominate ridgelines and make for dramatic photos. They’re ecologically and culturally important (the piñón is a local food), and walking among them feels like stepping into a prehistoric forest. Personal favorite: there’s nothing like catching light through those spiky crowns at golden hour.
- Summit Viewpoints — Short hikes lead to high, exposed miradores with wide, clear views. On a good day you can see the Andes’ volcano silhouettes to the east and the Pacific haze to the west; sunrise and sunset up here are worth the climb.
- Old-growth Mixed Forest Trails — Trails winding through coihue, lenga and mossy understory give you that lush southern-Chile vibe: damp, green, and quiet. Expect rich fungal life after rain and a peaceful, shaded hike even on warm days.
- Birdwatching for Big-forest Species — This is one of the better mainland spots to try for species like the Magellanic woodpecker and noisy understorey birds such as the chucao. Bring binoculars and listen first — birds betray themselves long before you see them.
- Pudú and Other Shy Mammals — The miniature deer (pudú) and small foxes use the park’s cover; you’ll mostly get glimpses at dawn or dusk, but those brief sightings are memorable. Walk quietly and be patient.
- Starry Skies and High Campsites — Far from city lights, the higher camp spots offer excellent stargazing. If you’re into astrophotography or just want a quiet night under the Milky Way, plan an overnight and bring warm layers.
- Mapuche Cultural Links and Seasonal Piñón Harvest — The araucaria is central to local Mapuche culture. If you visit in autumn you might encounter seasonal piñón collection or learn about traditional uses and stories — a nice cultural counterpoint to the natural highlights.
Spotted a mistake or missing something? Contact us.
Best Backpacking
.jpg)
Hi, I’m Johan (Netherlands 🇳🇱), the creator of TakeYourBackpack. Over the past decade, I’ve backpacked through 80+ countries across six continents, gaining extensive experience with independent travel, long-term trips, and overland routes.