Enjoy a 2.5-mile hike in Alerce Andino National Park, spot native wildlife and fauna, and climb up to the Chaica River waterfalls

Enjoy a truly immersive experience, starting with the exceptional convenience of a hotel pick-up service directly from your accommodation in the charming city of **Puerto Varas**. From there, embark on a captivating and scenic journey towards the breathtaking landscapes of **Alerce Andino National Park**, a protected area teeming with natural wonders and ancient history.

Upon arrival at the park, you will most likely find yourself joining a guided trek that stretches approximately 2.5 miles (4 kilometers) through the heart of the ancient forests. This is a truly unforgettable experience, as you navigate through lush greenery and immerse yourself in the sights and sounds of nature. Keep your eyes peeled for opportunities to spot native wildlife and unique fauna that call this park home.

Your trek might lead you to the magnificent **Salto del Río Chaica waterfall**, a stunning cascade of water that plunges into the river below. Here, you’ll have the opportunity to marvel at the colossal Alerce trees, some of the tallest and oldest trees found in all of **South America**. These majestic giants stand as silent witnesses to centuries of natural history, offering a humbling perspective on the power and longevity of nature.

From the waterfall viewpoint, the trail often loops back towards the starting point, allowing you to retrace your steps and perhaps discover details you missed on the initial journey. At the trail’s starting point, your dedicated driver will be waiting to transport you comfortably back to your hotel in **Puerto Varas**, allowing you to relax and reflect on the incredible experiences you’ve had.

**Highlights:**

* Embark on a memorable trek of 2.5 miles, winding through the ancient and enchanting rainforests of **Alerce Andino National Park**. Experience the magic of this protected area and immerse yourself in its natural beauty.
* Prepare to be awestruck as you admire the majestic Alerce trees, renowned as the tallest trees on the entire South American continent. These magnificent giants are a testament to the power and longevity of nature.
* Keep a watchful eye out for the diverse array of exotic birds that inhabit the park, including the vibrant woodpeckers and delicate hummingbirds. These colourful creatures add a touch of magic to the forest canopy.
* Be on the lookout for native wildlife, such as the elusive pudú, the charming Chilean deer, and perhaps even the stealthy pumas. These creatures are integral to the park’s ecosystem and contribute to its rich biodiversity.
* Ascend the specially constructed stairs to gain a breathtaking vantage point of the cascading **Chaica River waterfalls**. Witness the raw power and beauty of nature as the water plunges into the rocks below.

**What you’ll do:**

Your exhilarating trekking adventure begins with a convenient hotel pick-up in **Puerto Varas**, followed by a picturesque drive along the stunning **Paseo Pelluco**, offering breathtaking views of the vast **Pacific Ocean**. The scenic route will weave you through the charming and alluring town of **Lenca**, before leading you directly to the entrance of **Alerce Andino National Park**.

Upon your arrival at the park, you will likely be greeted by a knowledgeable guide or experienced park ranger who will provide you with essential safety instructions and thoroughly walk you through the day’s exciting itinerary. This is a fantastic opportunity to learn more about the park’s history, ecology, and the importance of conservation.

Next, you’ll set out on a captivating 2.5-mile (4-km) trail that leads towards the magnificent **Chaica River waterfalls**. This well-maintained route is primarily flat, meandering gently alongside the river, allowing you to penetrate deep into one of the world’s oldest and most pristine rainforests.

As you hike, take a moment to observe the lush greenery that surrounds you, teeming with exotic birds such as woodpeckers and hummingbirds. Keep an eye out for the endemic chucao tapaculo, and other fascinating creatures, including the adorable pudus, the graceful Chilean deer, and the elusive pumas.

Your knowledgeable guide might lead you to a staircase that allows you to climb up to the spectacular **Salto del Río Chaica**. Here, you can pause and enjoy a moment of complete tranquility as you witness the powerful waterfall cascading onto the rocks below, creating a mesmerizing spectacle.

A little further along the trail, you’ll likely encounter the park’s towering Alerce trees, recognized as the tallest trees in **South America**. These ancient giants have been growing in this protected area for millennia, with some individuals living for up to an incredible 2,500 years.

From this awe-inspiring location, you’ll venture back along the loop trail, which is lined with vibrant forest flowers and delicate ferns. You’ll eventually arrive back at the starting point, where your comfortable transportation awaits. You will then be chauffeured back along **Settlers Road** to your hotel, allowing you to savour the breathtaking natural beauty of **Chile’s Lake District** as your unforgettable adventure comes to an end.

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