Chiloe National Park (located 38 kilometers from the area of Chonchi)

This national park possesses a highly valuable forestry reserve, as it is one of the few remaining areas in the world that retains the pristine nature of its flora and fauna. With a surface of 43,057 hectares, the park is divided into three areas: the Chepu sector (7,800 ha), the small island of Metalqui (50 ha), and the Anay sector (35,207 ha).

The relief is of the mountain type, progressing from sea level up to 850 m. height. A series of torrential rivers empty into the Pacific Ocean. On the southern side are the Cucao and Huillinco lakes.

The predominant vegetation type is evergreen forest, with great extensions of tepuales. The park is connected with the Huilliche communities of Chanquin and Huentemo, which confers a special ethnic interest.
This area is visited by a great number of tourists and Chilean and foreign scientists that are attracted by its eco-systems.

Services: The administration is in the Chanquin sector, 1.000 meters from the town of Cucao. Entrance fee is 1,000 pesos; senior adults are free of charge. The park ranger's office works with a permanent timetable, and there are campsites and refuges.

In Cucao there are hostels, restaurants, an "abarrote" market, a public telephone office, rental of horses and daily shuttle transport from Castro.

Source: www.sernatur.cl