Chile is a country with a unique geography and impressive diversity. Arid deserts, lush forests, glaciers, mountains, natural hot springs, and volcanoes are part of the country's biodiversity, which is protected in an extensive network of parks and natural reserves.
In total, in Chile there are 109 wild areas protected by the State administered by CONAF, which are divided into 46 national parks, 45 national reserves, and 18 natural monuments. In turn, there are different private reserves that contribute to the conservation of nature.
With such a wide variety of destinations, here are some options for you to visit.
How to visit Chile's protected wild areas
Planning your visit is essential to enjoy these areas safely and responsibly. Read the following carefully:
- Public Parks (CONAF): The vast majority of national parks and public reserves are administered by the National Forest Corporation (CONAF). To enter many of them, it is mandatory to buy your ticket online in advance through its official platform: PasesParques.cl.
- Private Reserves: The private reserves and parks, such as Huilo Huilo or Tantauco, have their own ticket sales and reservation systems. You should visit their official websites to check rates, schedules, and availability.
- Key Recommendations:
- Check the season: Always check the opening hours and if the park is operating, especially outside the high season (summer).
- Book in advance: For popular destinations such as Torres del Paine, the camps and shelters of the "W" and "O" circuits must be booked months in advance.
- Respect the rules: Find out about the local rules. In most parks it is strictly forbidden to make fires (except in authorized areas), bring pets, and use drones.
- Equipment: Bring appropriate clothing for climate changes (especially in Patagonia), water, sunscreen, and a basic first aid kit.
Chile's public wild areas
In total, the areas protected by the State total 18.8 million hectares, which is equivalent to 21% of the national territory. Here we tell you about two of the best known.
1. Torres del Paine National Park
Located in the Magallanes Region, the Torres del Paine National Park is a jewel of Patagonia and perhaps the most iconic park in Chile. Recognized worldwide for its majestic mountains, glaciers, diverse fauna, and turquoise lakes, this destination is a paradise for people who enjoy hiking and photography.
In addition to a wide range of activities, from short walks to the famous “W” and “O” circuits, you can also take boat trips on the Grey Glacier or explore the Patagonian steppes that are home to condors, pumas, and guanacos. And if you arrive early, you can enjoy the spectacle that is generated at dawn, when the famous Torres del Paine are tinged with reddish tones as the sun peeks over the horizon.
- Approximate price: From $6 USD for national tourists and from $26 USD for foreign tourists. You can buy your ticket here.
2. Conguillío National Park
Located in the La Araucanía Region, the Conguillío National Park is famous for being home to the Llaima Volcano, one of the most active in the country. This park protects ancient araucaria forests, millenary trees that have survived since the time of the dinosaurs, creating an almost prehistoric landscape.
The park offers well-marked trails that allow you to explore its unique landscapes, including lakes formed by volcanic eruptions and rivers of petrified lava. One of the most popular tours is the Sierra Nevada trail, which offers incredible panoramic views of the Llaima Volcano and the surrounding forests.
- Approximate price: The entrance fee varies for Chilean or foreign visitors, with prices ranging from $3 USD onwards. You can buy your ticket here.
Private areas
In addition to the state system, Chile has an important network of private parks and reserves. These projects, often focused on ecotourism and high-quality conservation, are fundamental to protect unique ecosystems and offer exceptional nature experiences.
1. Huilo Huilo Biological Reserve
Located in the Los Ríos Region, the Huilo Huilo Biological Reserve is a prominent example of private conservation in Chile. This reserve covers more than 100,000 hectares of temperate forests with amazing biodiversity, protecting endangered species such as the huemul and the pudú.
Within this reserve there is a unique variety of high-quality accommodations that are integrated in harmony with the natural environment. The Nothofagus Hotel Spa, the Montaña Mágica Lodge, Reino Fungi Lodge, Canopy Village, Marina del Fuy Lodge, Nawelpi Lodge, Karü Domos, the forest and Enchanted Forest cabins, in addition to its camping area, are the most outstanding accommodations in Huilo Huilo.
- Approximate price: Access to the trails and activities of the reserve costs between $15 to $30 USD, depending on the activity chosen. The cost increases considerably if accommodation is included. You can find official information here.
2. Tantauco Park
The Tantauco Park, located on the Isla Grande de Chiloé (Los Lagos Region), comprises almost 118,000 hectares, combining private conservation with ecotourism.
Among the species that are protected in this place are Darwin's fox (which is in danger of extinction), along with the pudú, the black woodpecker, and the choroy. The park is ideal for hiking, as it has 150 kilometers of well-marked trails that cross different types of forests between lagoons and mountains.
Its lagoons and rivers will allow you to take boat or kayak rides, while you will also have the possibility of camping in some of its camping areas, which are equipped with everything you need for a comfortable stay in a quiet and natural environment.
- Approximate prices
- Entrance: $10,000 to $20,000 CLP per person (depending on the season).
- Camping: From $15,000 CLP per night.
- Shelters: From $40,000 CLP.
