It is a dusty dirt road that leads travelers from Angol 35km west to the entrance of Parque Nacional Nahuelbuta ($3.50, December - March 8 a.m.-9 p.m., April - November 8 a.m.-6 p.m.). The park was created in 1939 to conserve the dwindling population of araucaria trees in the coastal mountains. Some of these trees in the park have reached nearly 50 meters in height, two meters in diameter and are aged almost 1,000 years. While the araucarias are the highlight of the park, it is possible to catch a glimpse of wildlife such as pumas, foxes, deer or woodpeckers. Find all the information about flora and fauna at the information center located approximately 5km west along the road from the park’s entrance.

There is an easy trail near Pehuenco which slithers through the forest, passing sporadic springs until Cerro Piedra del Aguila offers fabulous views of the Andes. Peer toward the southeast to see volcanoes such as the Antuco, Villarrica, Lanín, and on a clear day, Osorno over the southern horizon. At 1,400m above sea level Cerro Anay also offers excellent views of the surroundings and many believe it is the best peak to view the park.

There is no public transportation to the park during winter but in summer Buses Nahuelbuta and Buses Angol make the trip from Angol’s Terminal Rural (Ilabaca 422). Buses Angol also operates tours in the summer, though it is best to stop in Angol’s tourist office at the fork of Bonilla and O’Higgins east of the bridge across the Río Vergara. Buses drop passengers off at El Cruce, which is slightly under an hour’s walk to the entrance of the park. It is also possible to rent a car and make the trek to Parque Nacional Nahuelbuta that way, as well. Remember from June to September there will be snow and a 4WD is necessary to successfully navigate the route.

There are a couple of camping areas at Parque Nacional Nahuelbuta where it costs roughly $9 per night to set up tent. The first camping area is called Pehuenco and is located 5km from the park entrance, near the park’s headquarters. It has 11 campsites complete with picnic tables, bathrooms and cold showers. The other campsite called Coimallín is 5km north of Pehuenco. However, this one has no facilities at all so it is more for the seasoned camper. Remember to bring enough food and water for the trip because there is no where to purchase supplies in the park.

National Park

By Chris Hughes

Traveling South America to give Viva readers the most up-to-date information...

4 & 5** Custom & Scheduled Tours by www.SouthAmerica.travel Create your own travel itinerary with our custom Travel Planner, or choose from one of our 100s of carefully designed itineraries. Special escorted departures. SouthAmerica.travel