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Oncol Park: A Coastal Rainforest Escape

Discover Oncol Park in Valdivia: Hike through lush rainforest, witness diverse wildlife, and enjoy panoramic views of the Pacific and Andes.

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Oncol Park, a nature preserve near Valdivia, Chile, offers a lush rainforest experience with diverse flora and fauna. Hike trails to panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean and Andes volcanoes, immersing yourself in the region's natural beauty and history.

A brief summary to Oncol Park

Local tips

  • Visit early in the morning to enjoy the tranquility and increase your chances of spotting wildlife.
  • Wear comfortable hiking shoes, as the trails can be uneven and hilly.
  • Bring your own picnic to enjoy at one of the designated areas within the park.
  • Check the weather forecast before your visit and dress appropriately.
  • Bring a camera to capture the breathtaking views and landscapes.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    To reach Oncol Park via public transportation from Valdivia, head to the main bus terminal at Avenida Picarte 2000. Look for buses heading towards 'Los Laureles' or 'Parque Oncol'. The bus ride takes approximately 30 minutes. The fare is about CLP 1,500-2,500. Once in Los Laureles, it's a 10-minute walk to the park entrance at Los Laureles 222.

  • Taxi

    For a direct route, take a taxi or rideshare from Valdivia to Oncol Park. The journey takes 30-40 minutes, depending on traffic. Expect to pay around CLP 15,000 to 25,000. Confirm the fare with the driver before starting. Taxi fares in Valdivia have an average starting price of CLP 11,425 for an 8 km trip. A taxi from Valdivia to Oncol Park (28.7 km) may cost $22–27.

  • Driving

    If driving from Valdivia city center, head east on Calle Chacabuco and turn onto Av. Los Lagos. Continue for 6 km, then turn left onto Ruta 5. Follow signs for Oncol Park, about 30 km from Valdivia. Take the exit toward Los Laureles and follow signs to Los Laureles 222. A parking lot is available at the park entrance. Driving yourself is estimated to cost $4-6.

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Discover more about Oncol Park

Oncol Park, located 32 km (20 miles) from Valdivia, is a natural reserve that preserves the native Valdivian forest along the coastal mountain range. Created in 1989, the park spans 7.54 square kilometers, with most of it situated on Cerro Oncol, the highest peak (715 m or 2,345 feet) of the Valdivian Coast Range. Despite its elevation, it's only 5 km (3 miles) from the coast. The park lies within a 15 square kilometer area of continuous Valdivian temperate rainforest, known for its rich biodiversity. This area is home to a wide variety of trees, many of which are massive in size, creating a rainforest-like atmosphere with wet, fern-covered undergrowth. Visitors can explore the park's diverse ecosystems through well-marked trails, suitable for both leisurely walks and more adventurous hikes. From the summit of Cerro Oncol, a viewing platform provides unobstructed views of the Pacific Ocean and the distant Andes volcanoes, including Llaima, Villarrica, and Tronador. The park is also home to a rich array of wildlife, including various bird species, making it a popular destination for birdwatchers. The park's serene atmosphere offers an ideal escape from the city. Oncol Park also holds historical significance, with traces of ancient coastal indigenous populations and influences from Spanish and German colonization in the 16th and 19th centuries. In 1989, it was declared a High Value Area of Conservation, recognizing its crucial role in environmental and cultural preservation.

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