Parque Nacional Queulat
Parque Nacional Queulat is a national park located in the Aysén Region of Chile. It is characterized by its dense temperate rainforest, turquoise lakes, and the breathtaking hanging Queulat Glacier. Visitors can explore the park's hiking trails, witness the cascading waterfalls, and marvel at the imposing glacier. Parque Nacional Queulat offers a pristine wilderness experience and a glimpse into the wonders of the Patagonian rainforest.
Emplacement et comment s'y rendre
Parque Nacional Queulat is situated along the Carretera Austral (Route 7), approximately 170 kilometers north of Coyhaique in Southern Chile. The park spans the Aysén Region, with its main entrance near the small village of Puyuhuapi. The nearest major hub is Coyhaique, accessible by air or bus from Santiago or Puerto Montt.
- By Car: The most flexible option is to drive from Coyhaique via the Carretera Austral (4–5 hours). Rental cars are available in Coyhaique, but note that some sections of the road are unpaved.
- By Bus: Regional buses run from Coyhaique to Puyuhuapi, though schedules are limited. From Puyuhuapi, taxis or hitchhiking are common ways to reach the park entrance.
- By Tour: Organized day trips from Coyhaique or Puerto Cisnes often include transport.
Heures d'ouverture et billets
The park is open year-round, but access may be limited during heavy winter snowfall (June–August).
- Hours: Generally 8:30 AM to 6:30 PM, with seasonal adjustments.
- Entrance Fee: Approximately 5,000 CLP (Chilean pesos) for adults, with discounts for children and seniors. Tickets are purchased at the park entrance; online reservations are not available.
Meilleur moment pour visiter
The park is most accessible and vibrant from November to April (austral spring to autumn). Summer (December–February) offers warmer weather but more visitors. For solitude, consider shoulder seasons (November or March–April). The hanging glacier (Ventisquero Colgante) is a year-round highlight, but trails may be muddy outside summer.
Durée de la visite
A half-day suffices for short hikes like the Mirador Ventisquero Colgante (1–2 hours). For deeper exploration, including the Puma Trail or kayaking on Laguna Témpanos, plan a full day or overnight stay.
Activités
- Hiking: Trails range from easy (30-minute walks to viewpoints) to challenging (multi-day treks). The Ventisquero Colgante trail is a must for glacier views.
- Kayaking & Boat Tours: Available on Laguna Témpanos (seasonal).
- Wildlife Watching: Look for foxes, pudú (small deer), and diverse birdlife.
- Photography: Misty forests, waterfalls, and the glacier provide dramatic backdrops.
Installations
- Restrooms: Available at the main entrance and some trailheads.
- Parking: Free parking near the entrance.
- Food & Drink: No cafes inside the park; bring snacks and water. Puyuhuapi has basic restaurants.
- Accessibility: Limited; most trails are unpaved and uneven.
Ce qu'il faut apporter et porter
- Sturdy hiking shoes (trails are often wet and rocky).
- Layered clothing (weather shifts rapidly).
- Rain gear (the area is notoriously rainy).
- Cash (no ATMs in the park; cards rarely accepted).
- Insect repellent (especially in summer).
Règles et règlements
- No pets allowed.
- Camping only in designated areas (permits required).
- Fires are prohibited; use portable stoves.
- Pack out all trash; no bins provided on trails.
Informations sur le contact
For updates, consult the CONAF (Chilean National Forestry Corporation) website or their Coyhaique office. Phone: +56 67 221 2105 (Coyhaique CONAF).