Caminando en Patagonia – Parque Nacional Conguillío

Conguillío National Park
Is located in the central south of Chile, some 148km (92miles) from the city of Temuco towards the Andes Mountains, in the Araucanía region. The region is famous for it´s links with indigenous culture, being the last place of defence against the Spanish colonists by the Pehuenche/Mapuche. The culture is still strong in the region where one can see the brightly coloured skirts and heqadbands of the women selling their wares in the streets.

Conguillio National Park encompasses 60.000 hectares of Nothofagus and Araucaria forest. Although it is known by locals, it hasn´t yet become a mecca for foreign tourists. Inside the Park, Volcano Llaima offers mountain climbers a challenge and there are many other walks less technical.

Captren Lagoon
Is a small lagoon formed formed from melting ice from the giant Volcano Sierra Nevada that is now but a remnant. The lagoon is located near the northern entrance of the Park and has a carpark. From here begins the northern access point to Volcano Llaima. On arrival to the Park one crosses lava flow with few signs of vegetation and fabulous views of Volcano Llaima.

A much gentler walk can be done circumnavigating the lagoon which is 2,6km (1.6 mi). The walk is relatively flat with small undulations and glimpses of the lagoon through the trees along the whole length. Some sections can be inundated after rain or in spring.

Birdwatchers enjoy visiting this lagoon where abundant waterbirds visit or inhabit. You can see some of theses birds at: Aves de Chile

When is the best time of year to visit Conguillio National Park?
Some times in the year access to all the attractions of the Park an be difficult or impossible. In winter it is closed when there is abundant snow, for example and after heavy rain and in spring the muddy roads makes it impassable for two wheel drive cars to pass.

There is a bus service from Temuco nd Curacautín with a limited timetable, it´s best to take the bus and stay in the Park a day or two prior to returning. There is one authorised camp ground at Conguillio Lake (Campamento Sendas Chile).