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Nature reserve · Coyhaique, Aysén do General Carlos Ibáñez del Campo
Reserva Nacional Río Simpson
Narrow, green valley of the Río Simpson, on the road between Coyhaique and Puerto Aysén, with waterfalls such as the Velo de la Novia and the Cascada de la Virgen, humid forest and short riverside trails.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
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About Reserva Nacional Río Simpson
The Reserva Nacional Río Simpson protects about 40,000 hectares of the valley through which the Río Simpson descends from Coyhaique toward the Río Aysén and the Pacific. The paved road that links Coyhaique to Puerto Aysén crosses the reserve, and much of the scenery can be seen from the road itself: rock walls covered in forest, the green-blue river below and waterfalls flowing down the slopes.
The waterfalls are the reason to stop. The Velo de la Novia drops in a long, thin ribbon that resembles a bridal veil, hence the name, and is right next to the road. The Cascada de la Virgen descends a tributary of the Simpson, as does the Río Correntoso, all surrounded by dense vegetation.
For walking, there is a trail of about 2.5 km, of low difficulty, that follows the river along a path once used by settlers, and two short trails of about 200 meters. In the forest live the pudú, one of the world's smallest deer, the fox and the gato-guiña, a small and elusive felid. Among the birds are the kingfisher, the chucao and the rayadito.
On the exit from Coyhaique, before entering the valley, the Piedra del Indio appears from the bridge over the Río Simpson: it is a rock that resembles the profile of a human face. The Simpson is well known among fly-fishers, who come from afar seeking trout and salmon in its waters.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
Two to three hours, including stops at the waterfalls and one of the trails. Those who continue on to Puerto Aysén can make a full day of it.
Best time
The waterfalls gain volume in spring with the snowmelt, and after days of rain. From November to March the trails are usually drier. In winter the road remains open, but there can be ice on the roadway; drive slowly.
How to get there
Leave Coyhaique on the road to Puerto Aysén, to the west. The reserve begins a few kilometers from the city, and the waterfalls are beside the road, about 25 to 30 km from the center. There are frequent buses between Coyhaique and Puerto Aysén, which can drop visitors along the way; check with the driver.
Tip
Stop only at pullouts and prepared areas, because the road is winding with sharp curves. Bring a rain jacket: the valley is much more humid than Coyhaique. Those who fish need a Chilean recreational fishing license.
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Reserva Nacional Río Simpson
Where is the Velo de la Novia waterfall?
In Reserva Nacional Río Simpson, beside the road between Coyhaique and Puerto Aysén, about a half-hour drive from Coyhaique. It can be seen from the road and you can stop at a viewpoint.
Can you visit Río Simpson without a car?
Yes. Buses between Coyhaique and Puerto Aysén pass by the reserve. There are also agencies in Coyhaique that include the waterfalls in half-day tours. Arrange your return in advance.
What is the Piedra del Indio?
It is a rock on the bank of Río Simpson, near Coyhaique, whose outline resembles the profile of a face. It can be seen from the bridge over the river on the road leaving the town toward Puerto Aysén.