The Araucanía region, located in southern Chile, is a privileged destination for nature and ecotourism lovers. Its national parks offer impressive biodiversity and breathtaking landscapes. Below, we explore in detail the five national parks that make Araucanía a unique place.
Conguillío National Park
Conguillío National Park is one of the most emblematic parks in Araucanía. With an area of 60,832 hectares, this park extends through the communes of Melipeuco, Curacautín, Vilcún and Lonquimay. It is famous for its volcanic formations, especially the Llaima volcano, one of the most active volcanoes in Chile, and for its ancient araucaria forests, which date back to the time of the dinosaurs. In addition, the park has lakes and lagoons of glacial origin, such as Lake Conguillío, which reflect the majesty of the landscape in its crystalline waters.
Visitors can enjoy a variety of outdoor activities, such as hiking, bird watching and boating. Among the most popular trails is the Sierra Nevada Trail, which offers spectacular views of the lake and volcano.
Huerquehue National Park
Located in the province of Cautín, Huerquehue National Park covers 12,500 hectares of mountain forests and hidden lagoons. Created in 1967, this park stands out for its extensive araucaria forests and diversity of fauna, including species such as the puma and the black woodpecker. Huerquehue’s trails are perfect for hiking, offering panoramic views of the Villarrica Volcano and the Tinquilco, Verde and Toro lakes.
The park also has camping areas and picnic areas, making it an ideal destination to enjoy nature in its purest state. In addition, waterfalls such as Nido de Águilas and Trufulco add a special charm to the landscape.
Nahuelbuta National Park
Nahuelbuta National Park, located in the Nahuelbuta mountain range, is a refuge for endemic flora and fauna. With an extension of 6,832 hectares, the park protects species such as the araucaria, the pudú (the smallest deer in the world) and various birds of prey. The views from the “Piedra del Águila”, the highest point of the park, offer spectacular panoramas of the Pacific Ocean and the Andes Mountains;
This park is ideal for those seeking tranquility and direct contact with nature. The hiking trails, such as the Sendero Piedra del Águila and Sendero El Rincón, are perfect for exploring the biodiversity of the area.
Parque Nacional Tolhuaca
Tolhuaca National Park is located in the province of Malleco, covering the communes of Victoria and Curacautín. This 6,374-hectare park was established in 1935 and is known for its dense forests of araucaria, lenga and coigües, as well as its waterfalls and lagoons. The park’s fauna includes species such as the puma, peregrine falcon and the four-eyed toad.
The park’s trails, such as the Chilpas Trail and the Salto del Malleco Trail, allow visitors to explore its natural wonders, including impressive waterfalls and panoramic views.
The national parks of the Araucanía region are true natural treasures that offer an unforgettable experience for any visitor. From ancient araucaria forests to towering volcanoes, these parks are a testament to the richness and diversity of Chilean nature. Whether you are looking for outdoor adventures or simply enjoying the tranquility of nature, Araucania has something special for you.
