Reserva Nacional Altos de Lircay - Other Activity Talca - Chile

The Altos del Lircay, just 6km past the mountain village of Vilches, is an amazing sight in the central cordillera. The native forest still is intact here, and in the distance there are awe-inspiring views of mountains and volcanoes. Hikers will be in heaven with the multiple backcountry hiking options, while there are plenty of canyons, valleys and summits to set up camp in the 12,163 hectares of forested wilderness. Near the entrance there is an information center that deals out knowledge on the park’s flora and fauna, and on the aboriginals who still reside in the area and ground grain at the Piedras Tacitas.

The best time to visit is before winter sets in and there is a risk of heavy snowfall, so try to pass through between October to May.

Admission to the park is approximately $3.

Camping. There are campgrounds near the entrance of the park where Conaf will charge approximately $15 per camp site, and there also are several private campsites along the dusty road just before the entrance. It is not necessary to use the campsites set up because you can wild camp, especially on multi-day hikes, simply find an appropriate place to pitch a tent. However, it is not permitted to start a campfire due to the risk of wildfires. There are several stores near the entrance where to purchase supplies, but items are generally overpriced so it is more logical to buy and bring necessary items from the stores located in Talca.

Location:
Around Talca, Talca, Chile

Other Activity

Getting There
Buses to and from Altos del Lircay leave from the bus terminal in Talca, which is 67km northwest of the reserve. Most of the road is paved, though the final 27km is not and kicks up constant dust during a dry period in the summer. Buses Vilches takes pass

Relative price: Budget

Travel Skills: None

About this Page

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

Updated: 21 Apr 2009