Brazil
Argentina
Colombia
Peru
Uruguay
Germany
Belgium
Spain
France
Greece
the Netherlands
Ireland
Italy
Portugal
the United Kingdom
Switzerland
National park · Pucón, Araucanía
Parque Nacional Huerquehue
CONAF park northeast of Pucón with araucarias, waterfalls and mountain lakes such as Tinquilco, Chico, Verde and Toro, connected by trails.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
Discover
About Parque Nacional Huerquehue
Parque Nacional Huerquehue protects 12,500 hectares of mountains northeast of Pucón, between 750 and 2,000 meters elevation. It was officially created in 1967 and is managed by CONAF. The best-known tree is the araucaria, a pine with an umbrella-shaped crown sacred to the Mapuche, which forms forests at higher elevations.
The entrance is next to Lago Tinquilco. From there the most popular trail departs, climbing through the forest, passing waterfalls and reaching a chain of mountain lakes: Lago Chico, Lago Verde and Lago Toro. Along the way there are viewpoints over Lago Tinquilco and, on clear days, to Volcán Villarrica.
The ascent is long and steady, with sections of rock and roots, and takes a full day round-trip. Those who want a shorter outing can walk only to the first viewpoints or stay at the shores of Tinquilco.
The park receives many visitors in summer. There is a camping area near the entrance and longer, multi-day trails that continue into the interior and to other lagoons.
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
A full day for the trail to Lago Chico, Lago Verde and Lago Toro; two to three hours to reach the first viewpoints.
Best time
From December to March the trails are usually dry and snow-free. In autumn, in April, the forest changes color. Start early to allow time to return in daylight. Opening days and hours vary throughout the year: check before you go.
How to get there
Leave Pucón via the road to Lago Caburgua and, near km 20, turn right toward Paillaco and Tinquilco. The entrance is about 2 km past Lago Tinquilco; the last stretch is on gravel. Buses run from Pucón to the park several times a day.
Tip
Buy the ticket in advance through CONAF's official system in high season. Bring water, snacks and a jacket: the temperature drops up there. Do not feed the animals and take your trash back with you.
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Parque Nacional Huerquehue
What is the distance from Pucón to Parque Nacional Huerquehue?
About 35 km, most of it paved, via the road to Lago Caburgua. The trip takes around 45 minutes by car.
Is the lakes trail in Huerquehue difficult?
It's of moderate difficulty, with a steady, long ascent. It requires good fitness and a full day, round trip.
Are there araucaria trees in Huerquehue?
Yes. The araucarias form groves in the higher parts of the park, near the lakes Verde and Toro.