Today we want to tell you about Conguillío Park, a true symbol of the Araucania region, yet often neglected in favor of Pucón and its surroundings.
For those who want to wander away from the classic routes, and who are willing to rent a car, then this park is for you! Let’s take the road south to discover one of our favorite national parks, completely off the beaten path!
The landscapes of the Conguillío Park
This park features native species such as the millennial araucaria trees and other trees such as the nothofagus, set against the backdrop of the impressive Llaima volcano.
Among the highlights not to be missed: the sublime Sierra Nevada hike (north of the park), the Conguillío lago and the Arcoíris and Verde lagoons.
The park is an excellent destination for hiking enthusiasts. The park’s most beautiful hike is Sierra Nevada.
It’s a rather accessible route; the hike to the top is completed in about 5 hours round trip, covering 7.5 miles and almost 2,300 feet of elevation to reach a spectacular viewpoint on the snowy slopes of the Llaima volcano and the turquoise waters of Lago Conguillío. The hike is punctuated by viewpoints over almost the entire park, regularly rewarding your efforts with great views.
Families can choose a more accessible adventure with the Las Vertientes trail in the heart of the volcanic rocks (1 hour), that of the Cañadon de TrufulTruful and its waterfall (45 minutes), or the self-guided Las Araucarias route (1 hour).
Finally, experienced hikers are not left out thanks to a 22-mile circuit that takes you to the Conguillío lagoon, followed by the eastern slope of the Llaima volcano, to arrive at the Truful-Truful waterfall.
And for the climbing fanatics, be sure to check out our article on the hidden glacier of Araucania.
Where to stay at Conguillio Park
Within the park there are many camping opportunities, most of which are managed by the Sendas organization, and which allow you to sleep a few feet from the banks of Lake Conguillío.
The organization also offers more comfortable lodging in the heart of the park.
And for those whose pockets aren’t as deep, there are also pretty, less expensive cabañas on the edge of the park, near Melipeuco, such as our favorite cabaña.
The independent campsite Ngen-Trayenko (the only one not located in Sendas in the park, to our knowledge), should also delight those seeking tranquility and nature. Hidden in the middle of the forest cleared by the lava flows of the Llaima volcano, near the southern entrance of the park, this campsite has some sites with a nice view of the volcano, for a more affordable rate.
How to get to Conguillio Park
The easiest way to arrive is to rent a car from Temuco and enter the park through the village of Melipeuco, where the entrance will cost you $6,000 pesos ($8 USD) per person, or $4,000 ($5 USD) if you are a resident of Chile.
You can also reach the northern entrance of the park via Curacautín. The road connecting the two cities that crosses the park is in good condition in dry weather, but be cautious using standard vehicles in inclement weather.
Ideal as a stop on a roadtrip through the South of Chile, where the natural parks are legendary, this park is a must-see. It is also offered in our tour specially dedicated to lovers of active vacations in which we suggest many treks (including volcano ascents) in Araucania, the Lake District and Patagonia, alongside thrilling activities such as rafting, kayaking at the foot of glaciers, and horseback riding. More seasoned hikers will top off their stay with the ascent of the secret glacier of Sollipulli.
You will find ideas for itineraries including Conguillio Park in winter or the complete exploration of the Lake and Chiloé region on our tours page. If you want to personalize your stay in Chile, complete our request form for a custom-made quote, and we will contact you as soon as possible.
