Introduction

Just 4km from the town of Cochrane, the national park Reserva Nacional Tamango o Lago Cochrane is a small gem in Chilean Patagonia. Famous due to the huemules (South Andean deer) that inhabit the area, this reserve is an unmissable chance to go deep into the forests and Patagonian steppe, as well as a chance to see beautiful and varied fauna.

The circuit Los Huemules is a beautiful and long trail which interconnects five routes within the park: Los Carpinteros, Los Coigües, Los Ciruelillos, Los Huemules and Las Águilas. Along the way you will come across stunning scenery such as Patagonian steppe and forests of native Coigüe and Lenga trees, whilst always having in sight the mountains of the Sierra Esmeralda as well as River Cochrane and Lake Cochrane. The lake, 325km² in size, is a binational lake shared between Chile and Argentina, known in Argentina as Lake Pueyrredón.

The excursion takes between 6h and 7h, and is visited by those who are looking a demanding activity which can be completed in one day.

Appropriate season

The park is open all year round, but we recommend that you visit in Spring and Summer when the temperatures are higher, and access to Cochrane is easier.

Access

Cochrane – Reserva Nacional Tamango

From the main square, Plaza de Armas, in Cochrane to the Reserva Nacional Tamango is approx. 3.5km. Head northeast towards the Artisan Market in the town. When you reach this point, follow signpost which leads to a dirt track which will take you northeast (left). Continue along this road for approx. 2.5km until you reach the reserve where you will need to register and pay the entrance fee. You can park alongside the Conaf guardpoint. There is no public transport to the reserve.

Permits / Prices

The entrance fees are: Chilean adult CLP$2000 ((USD$ 4), Chilean child CLP$500 (USD$ 1), foreign adult CLP$4000 (USD$ 8), foreign child CLP$1500 (USD$ 3).

Accommodation / Facilities

The reserve offers different areas for camping. For this route, you can camp at the beginning of the Carpinteros route, as well as at the beginning and end of the Coigües route. The first gives you the option of taking it easier and completing this route in two days.

Recommendations

• Keep a camera to hand. The fact that there are huemul and other species of animal in the area makes it important to always be ready to take photos.

Gear

• Trekking boots or high-ankle boots.
• Comfortable clothing, windbreaker and hat, gloves, etc. to keep warm.
• Sun-glasses, sun protection.
• Trekking poles (optional).

Schedule

1. Cochrane – Los Huemules Route – Cochrane