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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Top tips

  • 4x4 vehicles can reach the trailheads. Two-wheel-drive vehicles can only go as far as km 3.6 on the El Bosque road.
  • Regional buses pass the Las Horquetas entrance every morning.
  • Private transfers are available from Coyhaique and Villa Cerro Castillo.
  • Hitchhiking is common, but it takes patience.

What to bring to the park

Patagonian weather can change in minutes. Bring layers, waterproof gear and suitable camping equipment so you can enjoy your visit safely.

Clothing and warm layers

  • Thermal layers + fleece
  • Waterproof jacket and trousers
  • Hiking boots (already broken in)

Camping gear

  • Four-season, double-wall tent
  • Sleeping bag rated to 0 °C + insulated pad
  • Headlamp and stove/gas

Backpack and water

  • 35–50 L backpack (multi-day treks: 55–65 L)
  • 2–3 L of water / bottle + filter
  • Energy snacks and a rubbish bag

Weather protection

  • Windbreaker + gloves + hat
  • Sunglasses and sunscreen
  • Gaiters for mud or snow (optional)

Health and navigation

  • First-aid kit and personal medication
  • Offline map / GPS / headlamp
  • Whistle and dry bag

Footwear

  • Waterproof boots with good grip
  • Technical socks (quick-dry)
  • Light shoes for camp

Hantavirus prevention

Wild rodents are part of the ecosystem, but some of their droppings and urine can transmit hantavirus. How you behave is key to reducing the risk during your visit.

During your visit

  • Use official campsites and designated areas.
  • Pitch your tent in open, clear spots.
  • Keep your campsite clean and tidy.
  • Stay on the trail.
  • Do not enter closed areas or unofficial shelters.
  • Do not disturb nests, burrows or vegetation.

Food and rubbish

  • Store food in sealed bags or containers.
  • Cook and eat away from your tent if possible.
  • Take all your rubbish with you, food scraps included.
  • Do not bury rubbish or food scraps.
  • Do not leave food out.
  • Do not feed wildlife.

Toilets and shared areas

  • Use only official toilets.
  • Air out toilets and enclosed spaces before going in.
  • Avoid sitting or putting your backpack on the ground.
  • Do not enter places that look abandoned.

Hygiene and cleanliness

  • Keep food and utensils clean and stored away.
  • Keep yourself and the area clean.
  • Do not eat wild berries.

Safe water

  • Drink bottled or boiled water.
  • Do not leave bottles or utensils out at camp.

If you have symptoms

  • Fever.
  • Muscle aches.
  • Difficulty breathing.
  • Go to a health centre.

Your behaviour matters: looking after yourself also protects this place.

Visitor code of conduct

Help us protect Cerro Castillo National Park. Follow these simple rules and enjoy your visit with as little impact as possible.

  • Always check in at the entrance booths (Las Horquetas / Porteadores).
  • Use only official trails and campsites to avoid erosion and risks.
  • There are no bins: everything you bring in leaves with you (bring a rubbish bag).
  • Campfires and smoking are prohibited in the park.
  • Respect wildlife: watch from a distance and never feed or approach animals.
  • No pets or livestock.
  • Flying drones is prohibited in the park.
  • Do not swim in rivers, lakes or lagoons.
  • Entry and exit times
    • Day entry: 08:00 to 11:00 via Estero Parada, until 12:00 via Mirador Laguna.
    • Entry for camping: Until 15:00 on the Estero Parada and Mirador Laguna trails.
    • Descent: 15:00 is the latest time to start descending on all trails.
  • Keep noise down on trails and at campsites; respect quiet hours at night.

Remember: the weather changes quickly. If in doubt, ask the park rangers at the information booths.

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.
How can I pay for my ticket?

You can purchase it through our website using national and international credit cards. We also accept payment at the entrance with credit or debit cards only. We do not accept cash or other forms of payment!
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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