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Karukinka Natural Park: Tierra del Fuego's Untamed Heart

Explore Karukinka Natural Park: a pristine wilderness in Tierra del Fuego with diverse ecosystems, hiking trails, and unique wildlife encounters.

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Parque Natural Karukinka, a vast private park in Chilean Tierra del Fuego, is a haven of diverse ecosystems, from lush wetlands and lenga forests to rugged mountains. Owned by the Wildlife Conservation Society, it offers incredible opportunities for hiking, birdwatching, and wildlife spotting, including the chance to see guanacos and Andean condors.

A brief summary to Parque Natural Karukinka

  • Timaukel, Magallanes and Chilean Antarctica, CL
  • +56612613334

Local tips

  • Bring layers of clothing, as the Patagonian weather can change rapidly.
  • Visit during the spring or summer months for the best wildlife sightings.
  • Pack plenty of water and snacks, as facilities within the park are limited.
  • Consider hiring a local guide for an enriched experience and to spot hidden wildlife.
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Getting There

  • Car

    From Punta Arenas, take Route 9 south towards Porvenir. Cross the Strait of Magellan via ferry (approx. 30 minutes, CLP 20,000 for a vehicle and passengers). Continue on Route 9 to Porvenir, then take Route Y-565 towards Timaukel. The park entrance is about 29 km from Timaukel. Note that roads can be rough, a 4x4 vehicle may be needed.

  • Public Transport

    From Punta Arenas, take a bus to Porvenir (CLP 7,000 - CLP 10,000). Arrange a local taxi or shuttle service in advance to take you to Parque Natural Karukinka from Porvenir (approx. 30 minutes, CLP 10,000 to CLP 15,000). There is also a weekly bus from Porvenir to Pampa Guanaco, but check the schedule with the Municipality of Porvenir.

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Discover more about Parque Natural Karukinka

Parque Natural Karukinka, meaning 'our land' in the language of the Selk'nam people, is a sprawling 300,000-hectare private natural park located on the Chilean side of Tierra del Fuego. This remote and pristine wilderness, four times the size of Santiago, was donated to the Wildlife Conservation Society (WCS) by Goldman Sachs in 2004, becoming the largest protected forest in Tierra del Fuego. Karukinka stands as a natural laboratory, dedicated to conserving the environment, promoting education, and increasing awareness of Tierra del Fuego's biodiversity. The park's diverse ecosystems encompass old-growth forests, peat bogs, alpine meadows, and river valleys. Visitors can explore various hiking trails, witnessing the unique flora and fauna, including guanacos, foxes, and diverse bird species. Keep an eye out for the elusive Andean condor soaring overhead. The park's remote location enhances its charm, offering a sense of adventure in the heart of Tierra del Fuego. Karukinka's history is intertwined with the Selk'nam people, who inhabited the land for thousands of years. In the late 19th century, European colonization led to resource exploitation, with forestry becoming a primary industry. Today, the park stands as a testament to conservation efforts, preserving this unique environment for future generations. Visitors can engage in various activities, including hiking, birdwatching, and photography. The 'La Paciencia' trail, a 66 km round-trip, offers a well-rounded introduction to the region's extreme climates and landscapes. Other trails, like Laguna del Cura and Pietro Grande Hill, provide shorter day-hike options. The park's coastal marine ecosystem also supports diverse species like elephant seals, albatrosses, and penguins.

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