Introducing Parque Nacional Chiloé
Running back from the pounding Pacific coastline, and over extensive stands of native evergreen forest, the 43, 000-hectare Parque Nacional Chiloé (adult/child US$2/free) is only 30km west of Chonchi and 54km west of Castro. The park teems with Chilote wildlife, from 110 different types of bird, to foxes and the reclusive pudú, which inhabits the shadowy forests of the contorted tepú tree. Within the park and along the eastern perimeter is a number of Huilliche indigenous communities, some of which are involved with the management of campsites within the park.
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The park comprises three sections. The northern sector is called Chepu and includes Isla Metalqui (and its sea-lion colony), but is difficult to access without a car. In addition, Metalqui is highly restricted because of ecological concerns and can only be visited with special arrangements from the parks service. The middle sector, Abtao, is restricted by Conaf and accessible only by an 18km hike from the Pichihué property. The more accessible southern sector, Chanquín, contains the majority of the 10 official hikes in the park, ranging from quick jaunts to 20km slogs.
Visitors are at the mercy of Pacific storms, so expect rain and lots of it. The mean annual rainfall at Cucao is 2200mm, and anyone planning more than an hour-long walk should have water-resistant footwear, woolen socks and a decent rain jacket. Insect repellent is not a bad idea either.
Last updated: Nov 17, 2010
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