Cerro Castillo National Park – Cerro Castillo Lagoon (Aysén)

Overview

Patagonia National Park (a union of Jeinimeni, Tamango, and Chacabuco Valley) is a conservation and rewilding project that restores steppes, wetlands, and mountains for native wildlife such as guanacos and birds of prey. Its trails cross vast open landscapes, ideal for wildlife viewing and trekking.

Information about Chacabuco Valley

Chacabuco Valley is considered the heart of the park and is located about 315 km south of Coyhaique, near the town of Cochrane. Historically, it was a sheep ranch that has been restored for the conservation of wildlife and landscape.

What to do in the Chacabuco Valley area?

• Trekking and hiking: There are several trails available, allowing you to explore the forests and steppes, and enjoy views of lakes and lagoons.
• Mountain biking: There are designated routes for cycling that cross the park landscapes.
• Wildlife observation: You can spot species such as the huemul, puma, and migratory birds.

Coordinates

Visitor Center Chacabuco Valley (reference): -47.147, -72.332

How to get there, distances and times

• From Coyhaique: ~315 km via Route 7 (Baker River). Detour before Cochrane to Baker entrance; 11 km further east to the center.

Entry / prices (reference 2025)

• Purchase passes online at Parques de Chile (prices vary by category and season).

Route and travel time

• Lagunas Altas Circuit: 22 km, 7–9 h (challenging).
• Avilés Trail: 15–45 km (can be segmented), 1–3 days.

Recommendations

• Open steppe: sunscreen, wind protection, water.
• No constant signal; use an offline map.