Occupying most of the peninsula only a short distance east of Puerto Montt and south of Lago Chapo, adjoining the Carretera Austral,Parque Nacional Alerce Andino takes its name from the Andean false larch, which survives both in and around the 39,255-hectare unit. Hiking its rugged woodland trails and camping on the shores of several alpine lakes are its main attractions; because of its proximity to Puerto Montt, it makes an ideal day trip but is also suitable for an overnight.

Conaf has ranger posts at Sector Correntoso, Sector Sargazo, and Sector Chaicas; park admission costs US$2 except at Correntoso, where there’s no charge.

Getting There

From Puerto Montt, Buses JB goes to the village of Correntoso (US$2, one hour), the northerly access point to Parque Nacional Alerce Andino, six times daily except Sunday, when it goes only twice (early in the morning and late in the evening). There is no public transport to Sector Sargazo, which means a nine-kilometer walk for those without their own vehicles.

Several southbound bus companies on the Carretera Austral, including Buses Fierro, Buses Jordán, and Kemelbus, will drop passengers at Lenca (US$1.50), where a seven-kilometer gravel road ascends the Río Chaica valley to the park. As at Sargazo, there is no public transport along this route.