Puyehue National Park

Puyehue Overview

Puyehue National Park, or Parque Nacional Puyehue in Spanish, is a stunning protected area in southern Chile, located in the Los Ríos and Los Lagos regions. Covering approximately 425 square miles (1,100 square kilometers), this park sits along the Andes mountain range, bordering Argentina.

It is part of the Valdivian temperate rainforest, one of the world’s most ecologically significant ecosystems, characterized by lush forests, volcanic peaks, and an abundance of rivers, lakes, and thermal springs. The terrain is defined by rolling hills, deep valleys, and dramatic landscapes shaped by volcanic activity, with the dominant feature being Puyehue Volcano.

The park also includes the Antillanca volcanic complex and the striking El Caulle mountain range, offering visitors remarkable views of rugged peaks and glacial formations. Waterfalls, such as Salto del Indio, cascade through the dense greenery, and crystal-clear lakes like Lago Gris reflect the surrounding forests.

The park is home to a diverse array of plant species, many of which are endemic to the Valdivian rainforest. Towering coigüe, lenga, and alerce trees form a dense canopy, sheltering an understory rich with ferns, mosses, and bamboo.

The park’s high humidity fosters a lush, almost mystical atmosphere, with mist often rolling through the valleys. Among the varied vegetation, visitors can find native flowers like the Chilean firebush, which bursts into bright red blossoms, adding vivid color to the landscape.

Wildlife is abundant, with several mammals and bird species calling the park home. The elusive puma roams the forests, while the smaller and rare kodkod, a wild cat, can sometimes be spotted among the dense vegetation. The park also shelters pudús, the world’s smallest deer, which are often seen moving quietly through the undergrowth.

Other common mammals include the South American gray fox and the Molina’s hog-nosed skunk. Birdwatchers will find Puyehue to be a paradise, as it hosts species such as the majestic Andean condor soaring above the cliffs, the striking Magellanic woodpecker tapping against tree trunks, and the torrent duck navigating fast-moving rivers.

Among its most popular attractions, the Aguas Calientes hot springs provide a relaxing way to enjoy the park’s geothermal activity, offering naturally heated pools surrounded by pristine forests. The Antillanca ski center attracts visitors in the winter, providing an excellent opportunity for skiing and snowboarding on the volcanic slopes.

For hikers, trails like the Sendero El Pionero lead through scenic terrain, while those seeking more challenging treks can explore routes toward the volcanic summits. The park is also a great place for camping, with designated areas allowing visitors to immerse themselves in the natural beauty.

Conservation efforts in Puyehue National Park have been largely successful in preserving its delicate ecosystems. Efforts to protect native species and combat deforestation have helped maintain biodiversity, though challenges remain, such as controlling invasive species and managing the impact of tourism.

The park’s remote location and strict environmental protections have contributed to its well-preserved landscapes, ensuring that future generations can continue to experience its beauty. Rangers and local conservation groups work to monitor wildlife populations and maintain the park’s infrastructure sustainably, balancing human activity with environmental protection.

Park Map

Puyehue National Park Highlights

Wildlife

Puyehue National Park, located in Chile’s Los Ríos and Los Lagos regions, is a stunning protected area known for its volcanic landscapes, lush temperate rainforests, thermal springs, and glacial rivers. The park is part of the larger Andean Patagonian forests and features active volcanoes, including Puyehue Volcano. Its diverse habitats provide refuge for a variety of wildlife, from large mammals to elusive forest creatures, making it one of Chile’s most ecologically significant parks.

Puma (Puma concolor)
As the park’s apex predator, the puma roams the forests and mountain slopes in search of guanacos, rodents, and other prey. Though rarely seen, it plays a crucial role in maintaining the ecosystem’s balance.

Huemul (Hippocamelus bisulcus)
One of Chile’s most endangered deer species, the huemul thrives in the park’s remote valleys and forests. It is a symbol of Chilean conservation efforts and is highly protected within the park.

Guanaco (Lama guanicoe)
A large herbivore found in the park’s open areas and volcanic slopes, the guanaco is well-adapted to the cold Patagonian climate and serves as a primary prey species for pumas.

Kodkod (Leopardus guigna)
One of the smallest wild cats in the world, the kodkod is an elusive nocturnal predator that preys on rodents, birds, and reptiles in the dense forests of the park.

Culpeo Fox (Lycalopex culpaeus)
Also known as the Andean fox, this adaptable predator hunts small mammals, birds, and insects, making it a key species in the park’s ecosystem.

South American Gray Fox (Lycalopex griseus)
A smaller and highly adaptable fox, the South American gray fox scavenges and preys on rodents, insects, and fruits in the park’s diverse habitats.

Southern Pudu (Pudu puda)
The world’s smallest deer, the pudu is a secretive forest dweller that feeds on leaves, fruits, and bark. It is often found in the thick undergrowth of the park’s ancient forests.

Southern River Otter (Lontra provocax)
An endangered species, the southern river otter is found in the park’s rivers and lakes, where it preys on fish, amphibians, and invertebrates.

Monito del Monte (Dromiciops gliroides)
A rare and ancient marsupial, the monito del monte is an important seed disperser in Puyehue’s temperate rainforests. It is considered a living fossil and a key species in the ecosystem.

Andean Hairy Armadillo (Chaetophractus nationi)
A burrowing mammal that thrives in drier forested areas, the Andean hairy armadillo feeds on insects, roots, and small invertebrates.

Birds

Puyehue National Park is also a haven for bird species, with its dense forests, high-altitude ridges, and pristine waterways supporting a rich diversity of avian life.

Andean Condor (Vultur gryphus)
One of the largest flying birds in the world, the Andean condor soars over the park’s volcanic peaks and valleys, searching for carrion.

Magellanic Woodpecker (Campephilus magellanicus)
A striking bird with a red head and a powerful beak, the Magellanic woodpecker drills into tree trunks in search of insects in the park’s ancient forests.

Chucao Tapaculo (Scelorchilus rubecula)
A secretive bird with a loud, melodious call, the chucao tapaculo thrives in the park’s dense undergrowth, where it forages for insects and invertebrates.

Black-throated Huet-huet (Pteroptochos tarnii)
Often heard before it is seen, this ground-dwelling bird is known for its deep, echoing calls and thrives in Puyehue’s old-growth forests.

Austral Pygmy Owl (Glaucidium nana)
A small but fierce predator, the Austral pygmy owl hunts rodents and small birds. It is active during the day and frequently spotted in the park’s forests.

Slender-billed Parakeet (Enicognathus leptorhynchus)
An endemic parakeet of Chile, this species flies over the park’s forested areas in noisy flocks, feeding on seeds and fruits from native trees.

Des Murs’ Wiretail (Sylviorthorhynchus desmursii)
A small bird with an elongated tail, the Des Murs’ wiretail is an agile insect hunter that moves quickly through the forest.

White-throated Treerunner (Pygarrhichas albogularis)
This small, woodpecker-like bird climbs tree trunks searching for insects beneath the bark. It is commonly found in the park’s dense forests.

Spectacled Duck (Speculanas specularis)
A rare and beautiful duck species, the spectacled duck is often seen in the park’s rivers and wetlands, recognized by its distinctive facial markings and iridescent wing feathers.

Kelp Goose (Chloephaga hybrida)
A coastal waterfowl species, the kelp goose is well adapted to the park’s wetlands and lakes, with males being pure white and females brown with barred plumage.

Puyehue National Park is a spectacular destination where volcanic activity, glacial rivers, and lush forests converge to create a diverse and thriving ecosystem. Whether hiking through ancient forests, observing rare wildlife, or relaxing in the park’s thermal springs, visitors to Puyehue experience one of Chile’s most stunning and ecologically rich landscapes.