Conguillío National Park
La Araucanía
Conguillío National Park, located in Chile's Araucanía Region, is a spectacular natural reserve known for its unique volcanic landscapes and rich biodiversity. Established in 1950, the park encompasses vast forests dominated by the iconic Araucaria trees, also known as Monkey Puzzle trees, which give the park its local name 'Los Paraguas' due to their umbrella-like shape. The park features the active Llaima volcano, one of Chile's most active volcanoes, and the Sierra Nevada volcanic range, offering breathtaking views and challenging hikes. Visitors can explore diverse ecosystems including extensive forests of Araucarias and Nothofagus species, small lakes, and rivers such as the Truful Truful, popular for fishing and boating. The park is also part of the UNESCO-designated Araucarias Biosphere Reserve and the Kütralkura Geopark, highlighting its global ecological and geological significance. Conguillío's dramatic lava flows contrast with lush vegetation islands, creating a unique and dynamic landscape. The park's natural beauty and ecological importance have attracted international attention, including serving as a filming location for the BBC's 'Walking with Dinosaurs'. With well-maintained trails, camping areas, and visitor facilities, Conguillío offers a captivating experience for nature lovers, hikers, and those interested in volcanic geology and native Chilean flora and fauna.
Planifiez votre voyage en Chili avec l'IA
Créez un itinéraire détaillé en quelques minutes. L'IA suggère les meilleurs endroits, restaurants et un itinéraire optimisé.
Astuce: Plan your visit during the summer months (November to March) for the best trail accessibility, especially for routes beyond the Captrén Hut. Purchase tickets in advance through the official CONAF or Pases Parques websites to ensure entry. Prepare for varying weather conditions, including snow in winter requiring chains or four-wheel drive for certain accesses. The park offers kayak and boat rentals in summer and accessible facilities for visitors with disabilities. Check local conditions before hiking, especially on difficult trails like Río Blanco and Los Carpinteros, and be aware of wildlife such as pumas and wild boars. Early morning hikes offer chances to see condors soaring near the Sierra Nevada volcano.
Faits intéressants
- •The park's name derives from the Mapuche language meaning 'water with Araucaria seeds', reflecting the abundance of Monkey Puzzle trees and lakes.
- •Llaima volcano has recorded about 37 eruptions since 1852, making it one of Chile's most active volcanoes.
- •The park was a filming location for the BBC's 'Walking with Dinosaurs', showcasing its prehistoric-like landscapes.
- •The Araucarias Biosphere Reserve, including Conguillío, covers over 1,140,000 hectares protecting unique Andean and pre-Andean ecosystems.
- •Sierra Nevada volcano offers five lookout points with panoramic views of the park, including the origin of the Blanco River.
Histoire
Originally established as two separate protected areas in the 1940s and 1950s, Conguillío National Park was officially unified and reconstituted in 1987.
In 1983, it was designated as part of the UNESCO Araucarias Biosphere Reserve, recognizing its critical role in conserving ancient Araucaria forests and diverse ecosystems.
The park lies within the Kütralkura Geopark, officially recognized by UNESCO in 2019, emphasizing its geological heritage.
Over the decades, the park has witnessed significant volcanic activity, notably from the Llaima volcano, which has erupted multiple times since the mid-19th century, including a major eruption in 2008 that required evacuation of visitors and staff.
The area's protected status has evolved to safeguard its unique landscapes and biodiversity, making it one of Chile's most important natural reserves.
Guide du lieu
Llaima VolcanoQuaternary period to present
One of the largest and most active volcanoes in Chile, Llaima features a mixed volcanic and shield structure. Its summit reaches over 3,150 meters above sea level, with numerous pyroclastic cones and a history of violent eruptions, including the notable 2008 eruption that led to park evacuation.
Sierra Nevada Volcano and Lookout Points
Sierra Nevada is a volcanic mountain range within the park offering five scenic lookout points. The hike is challenging, taking five to six hours, rewarding visitors with panoramic views of the Blanco River's source, Lake Conguillío, and Llaima volcano.
Araucaria Forests (Monkey Puzzle Trees)
Dominant forest species in the park, these ancient conifers are known for their distinctive umbrella-like shape and longevity. The forests create islands of vegetation amidst extensive lava flows, preserving a prehistoric atmosphere.
Truful Truful River and Water Activities
A clear river flowing through volcanic scoria, popular for fishing, swimming, rowing, and motorized boating. The Saltos del Truful Truful waterfalls nearby are a highlight for visitors.
Contact
Téléphone: (45) 258 1073