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Learn how to get to the Cerro Castillo National Reserve in Coyhaique

A territory of islands, archipelagos, canals, glaciers, fjords and ancient forests, the Aysén region has an interesting history of gradual settlement and colonization. In fact, Aysén was one of the last places in the current Chilean territory to be explored, colonized and incorporated. Hernando de Magallanes would be the first to arrive in the area, from the strait that bears his name.

In terms of its geography and natural landscapes, the region presents unparalleled attractions. One of them is the Cerro Castillo Reserve, which has had that status since 1970. In this article we tell you about some of its attractions and directions to get there.

What can you visit in the Cerro Castillo National Reserve?

La Book now Cerro Castillo National It is located in the Aysén Region, in the districts of Coyhaique and Río Ibáñez. With an area of ​​138.164 Ha, this large park protects species such as the huemul, condor, puma, guanaco, Patagonian chingue, red fox and the Magellanic woodpecker, among many other birds. Being a protected area, its visitors must respect certain rules to take care of it and know how to act in front of a wild animal.

The flora of the reserve has forests with the presence of different species that lose their leaves year after year in winter. Among the varieties that you can find is the lenga, the ñirre, the notro or ciruelillo and the calafate. Of the latter, tradition says that whoever eats the fruit of calafate will surely return to Patagonia. 

The reserve is currently managed by CONAF, which ensures the protection, promotion and restoration of this ecosystem. Since 2018 the concessionaire Cerro Castillo National Park supports CONAF in the improvement and creation of tourist services, so that the state service focuses its work on the conservation and restoration of the flora and fauna of the area.

The reserve offers its visitors excursion and trekking trails to its main peaks: Cerro Castillo (2318 m) and Cerro Las Cuatro Cumbres (2273 m). However, there are other lower hills, such as Morro Negro (1689 m), which also offer a unique challenge and experience.

Currently, there are sections demarcated and differentiated by their kilometres, type of difficulty (low, medium and high) and geographical and climatic conditions. It is very important to review this information before starting the trip to the park.

In addition, the reserve has camping facilities every 10 kilometers approximately. Each area has defined spaces for tents, rustic tables and booths. When visiting the reserve it is important to camp only in the designated areas, as it allows you to actively care for the native flora and fauna.

How to get to the Cerro Castillo National Reserve?

Cerro Castillo in Coyhaique

The Cerro Castillo National Reserve is located 64 kilometers south of Coyhaique, in the districts of Coyhaique and Río Ibáñez. Villa Cerro Castillo and Balmaceda are the closest towns to the reserve. 

It is possible to access the reserve through the CONAF-enabled entrance on the Carretera Austral (Route 7 South), kilometer 64. The transfer time from the Balmaceda airport is approximately 30 minutes.

You can also enter through private or private land in the Las Horquetas and Estero Parada sectors, where there are registration booths of the Parque Cerro Castillo concessionaire. If you want to enter the Cerro Castillo National Reserve through the Estero Parada access, a 4×4 vehicle is recommended. 

In Coyhaique, MITTA offers you the best Rent a Car service. Located in a strategic sector of the city, we have a complete service for you to travel to the last corner of Coyhaique, reach the Cerro Castillo National Reserve and explore the surroundings of the Aysén Region.

Travel simply and safely, accessing a catalog 2022-2023 first level. We also have alliances, special offers and optional services. All this to make your leisure trip memorable. Get a quote and anticipate your trip on our site, writing to reservasnac@mitta.cl or calling 22 360 8666.

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