Ancient Araucaria Trail

Trek through forests of monkey puzzle trees, araucarias that have stood for thousands of years. These living fossils survived the dinosaurs and now shelter some of Chile's rarest wildlife.

3 days

3 stops

Best season: Dec, Mar

Difficulty: Moderate

Highlights

Reserva Nacional Altos de Lircay

Begin at the Enladrillado plateau. Ancient araucaria groves at 2,000m with panoramic views of the Andes.

Parque Nacional Radal Siete Tazas

Hike through mixed araucaria and lenga forests to reach the iconic seven-tiered turquoise pools.

Parque Natural Tricahue

Finish in the Claro River gorge among tricahue parakeets and the southernmost araucaria stands.