Oncol Park
Los Ríos
Oncol Park is a private natural reserve located approximately 30 kilometers northwest of Valdivia in Chile's Los Ríos Region. Covering an area of about 7.54 square kilometers, the park centers on Cerro Oncol, which rises to 715 meters and is the highest point in the Valdivian Coast Range. Despite its elevation, the park lies only 5 kilometers from the Pacific coast, offering visitors a unique blend of coastal and mountainous landscapes. The park preserves a significant tract of Valdivian temperate rainforest, one of the world's most biologically diverse temperate forests, with native tree species such as canelo, ulmo, olivillo, and mañío. The park's diverse flora also includes rare species like the tupa rosada (Lobelia bridgesii) and the toxic palo de brujos (Latua pubiflora), along with a rich variety of ferns and mosses. Visitors can enjoy several hiking trails, camping and picnic areas, and four viewpoints that provide sweeping panoramas of the surrounding region. From the summit of Cerro Oncol, it is possible to see eleven volcanoes, including Llaima, Villarrica, Osorno, and Tronador on the Chile-Argentina border, as well as views of both mountain ranges and the central valley. The park is owned by the forestry company Celulosa Arauco y Constitución and is open year-round, welcoming nature lovers and hikers to explore its rich biodiversity and scenic vistas.
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Tip: The best time to visit Oncol Park is during daylight hours from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM when the park is open year-round. It is advisable to purchase tickets online in advance to avoid queues and benefit from available discounts for children, seniors, and students. Visitors should prepare for hiking with appropriate footwear and bring water and snacks to enjoy the picnic areas. Early visits can offer clearer views from the summit. The park provides accessible viewpoints reachable by vehicle as well as trails for more adventurous hikes.
Interesting facts
- •Cerro Oncol, at 715 meters, is the highest peak in the Valdivian Coast Range.
- •From the summit, visitors can see up to eleven volcanoes, including Llaima and Villarrica to the north and Osorno and Tronador to the south.
- •The park protects rare plant species such as Lobelia bridgesii (tupa rosada) and Latua pubiflora (palo de brujos).
- •Oncol Park is located only 5 kilometers from the Pacific coast, combining coastal and mountainous ecosystems.
- •The park is owned and maintained by the forestry company Celulosa Arauco y Constitución.
History
Oncol Park was established as a private forest reserve to protect a significant portion of the Valdivian temperate rainforest along the Chilean coast.
The park's land is centered on Cerro Oncol, the highest peak in the Valdivian Coast Range, which has long been recognized for its ecological importance.
Over time, the park has been managed by the forestry company Celulosa Arauco y Constitución, balancing conservation with sustainable use.
The region's history includes indigenous Mapuche presence and later forestry development, with the park serving as a vital refuge for native flora and fauna amid regional land use changes.
Place Guide
Cerro Oncol Summit
The highest point of the park at 715 meters, offering panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean, surrounding mountain ranges, and multiple volcanoes. Ideal for hiking enthusiasts seeking rewarding vistas.
Miradores (Viewpoints)
Four viewpoints are available in the park, two accessible by vehicle with views towards Valdivia city, and two at the summit area with extensive panoramic views of the sea, mountains, and central valley.
Valdivian Temperate Rainforest Trails
Trails winding through dense native forest featuring species such as canelo, ulmo, olivillo, and mañío, providing opportunities to observe diverse flora and fauna in their natural habitat.
Camping and Picnic Areas
Designated spots within the park for camping and picnicking, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in nature and enjoy extended stays.
Contact
Phone: 800 370 222
