Plan your trip

Everything you need to know to visit Cerro Castillo National Park .

How to get to the Park

Cerro Castillo National Park is located 64 km south of Coyhaique, right on the Carretera Austral (Southern Highway). The main entrance is in Villa Cerro Castillo, just 30 minutes from Balmaceda Airport. You can get there by car, regional bus, private transfer, or even hitchhike during peak season.

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Tips destacados

  • Los vehículos 4x4 pueden llegar hasta el inicio de los senderos. Los 4x2 solo pueden avanzar hasta el km 3,6 del Camino El Bosque.
  • Buses regionales pasan por la entrada Las Horquetas cada mañana.
  • Transfers privados disponibles en Coyhaique y Villa Cerro Castillo.
  • Hacer dedo es habitual, pero requiere paciencia.

¿Qué llevar al Parque?

El clima patagónico puede cambiar en minutos. Prepárate con capas, equipo impermeable y elementos de camping adecuados para disfrutar tu experiencia con seguridad.

Ropa y abrigo

  • Capas térmicas + polar
  • Chaqueta y pantalón impermeables
  • Botas de trekking (ya amoldadas)

Camping y accesorios

  • Carpa 4 estaciones / doble pared
  • Saco 0 °C + colchoneta aislante
  • Linterna frontal y gas/cocina

Mochila y agua

  • Mochila 35–50 L (travesías: 55–65 L)
  • 2–3 L de agua / botella + filtro
  • Snacks energéticos y bolsa de residuos

Protección climática

  • Cortavientos + guantes + gorro
  • Gafas de sol y protector solar
  • Polainas (barro/nieve) opcionales

Salud y navegación

  • Botiquín y medicamentos personales
  • Mapa offline / GPS / frontal
  • Silbato y bolsa estanca

Calzado

  • Botas impermeables con buen agarre
  • Calcetines técnicos (secado rápido)
  • Zapatillas livianas para campamento

Código de conducta del visitante

Ayúdanos a conservar el Parque Nacional Cerro Castillo. Sigue estas reglas simples y disfruta tu visita con el menor impacto posible.

  • Regístrate siempre en las casetas de ingreso (Las Horquetas / Porteadores).
  • Usa solo senderos y campamentos habilitados para evitar erosión y riesgos.
  • No hay basureros: todo lo que entra, sale contigo (lleva bolsa de residuos).
  • Prohibido encender fogatas y fumar dentro del parque.
  • Respeta la fauna: obsérvala a distancia, no alimentes ni intentes acercarte.
  • No ingreses con mascotas ni ganado.
  • Horarios de ingreso y salida
    • Ingreso diario: 08:00 a 11:00 por Estero Parada, hasta las 12:00 por Mirador Laguna.
    • Ingreso para camping: Hasta las 15:00 para Sendero Estero Parada y Mirador Laguna.
    • Bajada: 15:00 hora tope de bajada para todos los senderos.
  • Mantén silencio en senderos y campamentos; respeta el descanso nocturno.

Recuerda: el clima cambia rápido. Si tienes dudas, consulta a Guardaparques/Rangers en las casetas de información.

Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difficulty level of the Las Horquetas Crossing?

The Las Horquetas Traverse is of medium to high difficulty. The 51 km trail has two high and very exposed passes. Bad weather, the presence of several scree slopes, and steep inclines increase the difficulty.
What is the best time to go trekking?

The months of January through March are the best for trekking, as they offer warmer temperatures and less wind. November, December, and April are highly variable, and snow is possible at the campsites.
What dangers exist on the crossing?

There are several places where the trail is dangerous. Due to its nature and the mountainous environment, there are several areas with loose scree where you could fall. In addition, the strong winds that can occur when crossing the passes create further risks.
Can I hire professional guides in the Park?

There are no guides or porters available for hire directly at Cerro Castillo National Park, but companies offering guiding and porter services can be found in the city of Coyhaique and in the town of Villa Cerro Castillo. Our staff monitors and patrols the trail daily and assists visitors with information and directions within the park.
Is there accommodation or shelter within the Park?

The campsites provide basic services, but there are no hostels or mountain shelters along the circuit.
Is it possible to go in winter/with snow?

Access and routes may have seasonal restrictions and, in some cases, require a certified guide. Always check the latest conditions before planning.
What minimum equipment should I bring?

Warm layers, waterproof/windproof jacket, trekking boots, water, snacks, sun protection, hat/gloves, headlamp and offline map. Trekking poles recommended.
Is there cell phone signal on the trails?

The signal is intermittent or nonexistent. Download offline maps and save your route before you leave.
Where can I spend the night?

Only in designated areas and subject to seasonal capacity. Check availability and rules of use before your visit.
Are drones allowed?

The use of drones is restricted and may require authorization. Please respect signage and conservation regulations.
Are pets allowed?

Pets are not allowed in Protected Wilderness Areas. Only service/assistance animals for people with disabilities will be permitted, provided they have the necessary documentation.
- Disability credential
- Service/Assistance Animal Certificate
- Up-to-date vaccination card
- Leash, harness and implements for their waste.
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