Alerce Andino National Park

Alerce Andino National Park is located in the Los Lagos Region of southern Chile, covering an area of approximately 39,255 hectares within the Llanquihue Province. Established in 1982, the park is a vital component of the Temperate Rain Forests of the Austral Andes Biosphere Reserve. It is world-renowned for its extensive stands of Alerce trees (Fitzroya cupressoides), ancient conifers that can live for over 3,000 years, making them some of the oldest living things on Earth. The park's landscape is characterized by rugged mountainous terrain, deep valleys, and more than 50 lagoons of glacial origin. The diverse Valdivian temperate rain forest also features species such as Coihue, Ulmo, and Luma trees. Wildlife within the park includes rare animals like the Monito del Monte marsupial and the elusive puma. The high levels of annual precipitation contribute to a lush undergrowth of ferns and mosses, as well as numerous waterfalls. The park remains a critical sanctuary for the conservation of Chile's natural heritage and ancient botanical giants.

Nearby cities

Hornopirén

Hornopirén marks the official start of the Carretera Austral's rugged southern stretch and serves as a vital ferry port for Patagonia.

Petrohué

Petrohué is renowned for its turquoise waterfalls cascading over basaltic rock and as the port for Todos los Santos Lake.

Cochamó

Often called the Yosemite of South America, Cochamó is a coastal village leading to a valley of massive granite walls and pristine forests.

Ensenada

Situated on Lake Llanquihue beneath the Osorno Volcano, Ensenada is the primary gateway to Vicente Pérez Rosales National Park.

Puyehue

Famous for its expansive national park, Puyehue is a major gateway between Chile and Argentina via the Andes.

Chaitén

Chaitén is a small town in northern Patagonia, rebuilt after the 2008 volcanic eruption, serving as the southern gateway to Pumalín Park.

Puerto Montt

The dynamic southern port city that marks the beginning of the Carretera Austral and the primary entry point into the Patagonian fjords.

Puerto Varas

Known as the "City of Roses", this picturesque lakeside town boasts deep German architectural roots and stunning volcano views.

Frutillar

A charming lakeside destination heavily influenced by German settlers, offering uninterrupted views of the perfectly conical Osorno Volcano.

History & landmarks

Chiloé Island

A culturally unique island, famous for its wooden churches and colorful stilt houses.

Nature

Vicente Pérez Rosales National Park

Chile's oldest national park with the impressive Petrohué Waterfalls and Osorno Volcano.

Chiloé National Park

A park on the west coast of Chiloé Island, known for its dense rainforests, dunes, and Pacific coast.

More places

Hornopirén National Park

A rugged natural paradise in the Andes with dense Alerce forests and glacial valleys, providing a home for pumas, foxes, and rare bird sp…

Pumalín National Park

A vast nature reserve in the Patagonian rainforest protecting ancient Alerce trees and a rich biodiversity of animals.

Vicente Pérez Rosales National Park

Chile's oldest national park, encompassing deep forests, the Petrohué Waterfalls, and a rich ecosystem for pumas and small marsupials.

Church of Quinchao

The largest of the historical wooden churches of Chiloé, a beautiful example of the unique island architecture.

Church of Achao

The oldest standing wooden church in the Chiloé Archipelago, and a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Chiloé Archipelago

A group of islands in southern Chile, characterized by its unique culture, architecture, and maritime nature.

Fort San Antonio

An old Spanish fortress in Ancud, built in the late 18th century to defend Chiloé Island.

Fort Ahui

A historical military fortification on the Lacuy Peninsula that controlled maritime access to Chiloé.