Cucao has a number of trail heads to the park. The Sendero Dunas de Cucao is a leisurely 2-kilometer hike through overgrown forests, across an open dune field speckled with low, colorful plants, to a long stretch of sandy beach. Don’t plan on swimming here—the water is cold and there are dangerous currents.

The Sendero Interpretivo El Tepual is a kilometer-long trek on winding wooden bridges, through twisting tepú trees and over boggy terrain. Backpackers can follow the coastal trail three kilometers north to an Huilliche settlement at Lago Huelde. It’s another nine kilometers to a refugio at Río Cole Cole, with a fire pit for cooking. River Anay is another eight kilometers north, with a similar refugio.

Note that all refugios are in various states of repair, and it’s best to bring a tent or inquire about their condition before leaving Cucao.

Horses are available for rent at Cucao, but are not suitable for untrained riders, and cannot access certain forest trails.
ENTREE: $2