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Nature and birdwatching · Ancud, Los Lagos
Chepu
Valley of rivers and wetlands south of Ancud, formed when the 1960 earthquake sank the coastal forest. Kayak and boat trips take you to Muelle de la Luz and Parque Nacional Chiloé.
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 Chepu
Chepu is a valley in the northwest of Isla Grande, where the Chepu River and its tributaries meet the Pacific. During the 1960 earthquake the land sank and the sea flooded the coastal forest. The dry trunks that remained standing in the water form the so‑called submerged forest, the area's best‑known landscape.
The basin's wetlands cover about 1,900 hectares and are a nature sanctuary. Herons, ducks and other waterbirds use the river and its banks, and the valley is popular for birdwatching, kayaking and fishing.
From Puerto Anguay, boats go up the rio Chepu in about 25 minutes to a landing from which a short walk leads to Muelle de la Luz. The wooden sculpture, by the same artist as Muelle de las Almas, projects over the coast and evokes the mysterious lights that locals say they have seen at sea.
Chepu is also the gateway to the northern sector of Parque Nacional Chiloé. From the river mouth, a 14 km coastal trail leads to the ranger house at rio Lar, a route of about five hours for those who are prepared.
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
Half a day for the boat to Muelle de la Luz or a kayak trip. A full day if you include the park's coastal trail.
Best time
From November to March, with long days and a greater chance of stable weather. Dawn usually brings still water and more active birds.
How to get there
From Ancud, follow 25 km along Ruta 5 south to the Chepu turnoff and then about 14 km on an unpaved road to Puerto Anguay. There is no regular bus to the landing: go by car or on a booked tour.
Tip
Book the boat or kayak in advance, especially outside summer. Bring insect repellent, a raincoat, and footwear that can get wet.
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Chepu
What is the submerged forest of Chepu?
It's the coastal forest that became submerged when the land sank in the 1960 earthquake. The dead trunks still stand in the middle of the wetlands.
How to get to Muelle de la Luz?
From Puerto Anguay, by boat along the rio Chepu in about 25 minutes, plus a short walk. The trip is usually arranged with local operators.
Does Chepu belong to Parque Nacional Chiloé?
The valley sits at the gateway to the park's northern sector, which begins on the coast south of the river mouth.