Conguillio National Park – Sierra Nevada lookout track

Conguillío National Park

Is one of the best places to see the threatened species Araucaria araucana or Monkey Puzzle tree, presumably named as such due to it´s very spiky, leathery leaves which make it extremely difficult to get anywhere near the trunk to climb up to eat the tasty fruit that forms at the end of the branches.

Apart from this strange and imposing tree that is extremely long-lived, there is also a majestic cone volcano, called Llaima (pronounced Jaima), a number of lagoons and scenic walking trails.

Sierra Nevada Lookout Track

This track is a two way track, so you will return along the same track. The total length is 12.2km return and could be expected to take around 6 hours depending on the weather and the walker´s physical condition. During winter there may be a lot of snow on the rack and in the Park. Often the Park will be closed in winter. The best time of year is from October to May.

Sierra Nevada is the eroded base of what is considered to be the largest volcano of the region in the distant past. This lookout track is one section of the route to the summit of Sierra Nevada. To reach the summit it´s recommended to take two days, although it could be done in one very long day for experienced climbers. Here we will discuss the shorter, easier version, suited for moderately and not so fit people. It is a very popular track between summer and autumn, probably due to the spectacular views one enjoys and various points along the route.

A topographic (resistant paper) map for the walk can be purchased from Chile Wild chalets https://www.chilewild.com/contact/  or  purchase one online (downloadable or paper) at: https://www.andesprofundo.com/volcanllaima . Sometimes CONAF has a Park map available when you enter but it cannot be guaranteed.

Located in the heart of Conguillío National Park at the edge of Conguillío Lagoon, this track starts from a small carpark area at “Playa Linda” (Pretty Beach) , aproximately 8.9km (5.5 mi) from the Park entrance.  It starts off fairly flat and within a short distance there is the option to go straight ahead down to a beach or turn right and continue on to the Sierra Nevada lookout. The track ascends gradually, gaining some 800 metres ( 2,624 feet) in altitude. There are some steep sections and at least two lookout spots along the way where you can stop to catch your breath and admire views of Conguillío lagoon.

The initial part of the walk is through tall Nothofagus (Beech) forest, which offers protection from the sun in summer. As height is gained the Nothofagus gives way to the Endangered  ancient Araucaria araucana (Monkey Puzzle Tree) forest complex. If walking the track in April or May you may be lucky to come across pine nuts fallen from the trees that are edible. They have a slightly sweet taste and a starchy texture. When you make it to the lookout there are far fewer trees, mostly stunted Lenga (Nothofagus pumilio) and more scree. Within sight is the Sierra Nevada summit and you will be looking over the Conguillío Lagoon. The return is all down hill so generally takes less time than the ascent.

Accommodation

There are different options for accommodation depending on the direction you are coming from or going to. Melipueco near the southern entrance to Conguillío National Park is one option, including some cabins and hostals along the way. From the northern entrance there are options in Curacautín, Malalcahuello and various options en route. Within the Park “Sendas” has a concession for camping sites and cabins.

Transport

Four wheel drive is by far the best option for travelling through this Park. Smaller cars often have difficulty after rain. There are public buses but the timetables are limited and subject to change. The bus lines that travel this route are the  Curacautín Express https://www.facebook.com/p/curacautin-express-100063629374268/?locale=es_LA and Narbus/Igillaima https://www.igillaima.cl/.

If you need a guide to help take all the stress of organizing out of the equation, then there are several agencies and certified guides that offer such services located around the area. For a package that includes accommodation and an experienced guide  see cabins Chile Wild https://www.chilewild.com/contact/