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Reserva Nacional Coyhaique: A Natural Escape

Discover Patagonia's beauty just minutes from Coyhaique. Hiking, wildlife, and stunning views await in this accessible national reserve.

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Just a short distance from the city of Coyhaique, this national reserve offers a quick immersion into Patagonia's wild beauty. Established in 1948, the reserve features diverse landscapes, including forests, lagoons, and the prominent Cerro Cinchao, providing panoramic views and a variety of outdoor activities.

A brief summary to Reserva Nacional Coyhaique

  • Tuesday 9 am-2:30 pm
  • Wednesday 9 am-2:30 pm
  • Thursday 9 am-2:30 pm
  • Friday 9 am-2:30 pm
  • Saturday 9 am-2:30 pm
  • Sunday 9 am-2:30 pm

Local tips

  • Purchase your entrance tickets in advance online at pasesparques.cl, as they are required for entry.
  • Wear layers, as the weather in Patagonia can change quickly. Be prepared for wind and rain, even in summer.
  • Bring water and snacks, as there are limited facilities within the reserve.
  • Check with park rangers for trail conditions and weather updates before embarking on longer hikes, especially the Cerro Cinchao trail.
  • Be aware of the opening and closing times, and plan your visit accordingly to avoid being rushed.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From the center of Coyhaique, head north on Avenida General Baquedano, crossing the bridge over the Rio Coyhaique. Continue for approximately 3 kilometers. Turn right onto the gravel road leading towards the reserve entrance. The walk from the highway turnoff to the park entrance is a steep, 1.5-kilometer climb. Allow approximately 1.5 hours to walk from Coyhaique's city center to the reserve entrance. Entrance fee is approximately $4.50 USD for adults.

  • Public Transport

    Take a bus (COYHAIQUE / EMPERADOR GUILLERMO, COYHAIQUE / VILLA ORTEGA, or COYHAIQUE - LAGO VERDE) from Coyhaique towards Puerto Aysén. Ask the driver to drop you off at the turnoff to Reserva Nacional Coyhaique (approximately 3 kilometers outside of Coyhaique). From there, it is a 1.5 kilometer walk up a gravel road to the reserve entrance. Bus fare is approximately $1 USD. Entrance fee to the reserve is approximately $4.50 USD for adults.

  • Taxi/Ride-share

    A taxi or ride-share from Coyhaique city center to the Reserva Nacional Coyhaique entrance will cost approximately $8-12 USD. The drive takes around 15-20 minutes. From the taxi drop-off point, there is still a 1.5 kilometer walk up a gravel road to the reserve entrance. Entrance fee to the reserve is approximately $4.50 USD for adults.

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Discover more about Reserva Nacional Coyhaique

Reserva Nacional Coyhaique, established in 1948, is one of the oldest protected areas in the Aysén region of Chile. Located just 5 kilometers northeast of Coyhaique, it serves as a convenient escape into nature for locals and tourists alike. The reserve spans 2,150 hectares, encompassing a diverse landscape of rolling hills, higher mountains, and several picturesque lagoons. The reserve was initially created to protect the soil on slopes exposed by extensive fires in the early 20th century. Over time, it has become a site for experimenting with forest species, both native and introduced, to aid in soil recovery. Today, the reserve showcases a recovering native forest with species like lenga, coigüe, and ñirre. Visitors can explore several well-marked trails that cater to different skill levels. The most popular trails lead to Laguna Verde, Laguna Venus, Laguna Los Sapos, and Laguna Los Mallines. For a more challenging hike, the Sendero Las Piedras leads to the summit of Cerro Cinchao, the highest point in the reserve at 1,361 meters, offering stunning views of Coyhaique and the surrounding landscape. The reserve is also home to a variety of wildlife, including pumas, foxes, condors, and various bird species, making it a great place for wildlife observation. The Reserva Nacional Coyhaique provides recreational opportunities, and plays a crucial role in environmental education. Its proximity to Coyhaique makes it an ideal destination for a day trip, offering a chance to connect with nature and appreciate the unique beauty of Patagonia.

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