Introduction

The Laguna Verde route can be found in the park Reserva Nacional Coyhaique, a small area protected by Conaf and some 4km from the town of Coyhaique. Within this protected sector you will find many lakes with diverse species of fauna: birds, aquatic life and mammals (including pumas). The most well-known and famous lake in the reserve is the Laguna Verde, which, with its calm water, is a great place to visit.

This route is 3900m in distance and in just 1½ to 2 hours you will reach this beautiful lake in the middle of the Patagonian forest. The tranquillity of its waters contrasts greatly with the impressive view of the surrounding landscape and this makes it worth the effort to complete this route. This route connects two connecting routes: i) Los Leñeros, which starts at the entrance point of the Reserva Nacional Coyhaique and ends at the Casa de Brujas campsite, and ii) Los Carreros, which starts at Casa de Brujas and ends at Laguna Verde. It is important to point out that in this protected area, 200m of cement path has been installed to provide disabled access to the shores of Laguna Verde and the nearby viewpoint so that everyone can enjoy this beautiful landscape.

Appropriate season

All year round.

Access

Coyhaique - Reserva Nacional Coyhaique

From the town of Coyhaique, follow route 7 heading north. After approx. 2.5km along an asphalt road, you will reach a dirt track that leads east (left) towards the reserve. This intersection is well signposted. Continue along the dirt track for approx. 1.5km until you reach the entrance for this protected area, where you will need to register your entry and pay the corresponding entry fee.

There is no public transport to the reserve. However, you can take a taxi from the town, or even hitchhike there and back. Another option is to walk to the reserve from Coyhaique, which takes between 1 and 1 ½ hour.

Permits / Prices

The entry fees to the reserve are as follows: Chilean adult CLP$1000 (approx. US$2), Chilean child CLP$500 (approx. US$1), foreign adult CLP$3000 (approx. US$6), foreign child CLP$1000 (approx. US$2).

Accommodation / Facilities

Along the route you will find 2 camping areas set up by Conaf. The first, called Casa de Bruja, is located in the middle of the route to the Laguna Verde, and the second is on the shores of this lake.

Recommendations

• Keep a camera close to hand. There are many species of interesting fauna in the area, and it is important to be aware and ready to take photos.
• If you have enough time and are in good physical condition you can join this route to the Las Lagunas circuit which connects Laguna Verde with three other lakes: Los Mallines, Venus y Los Sapos. Otherwise, you can complete the smaller Laguna Verde circuit around the lake in around 20 to 40 minutes
• The last 200m of the path are paved and suitable for disabled access. You can reach this point by car from the entrance of the reserve.

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. Coyhaique – Laguna Verde route - Coyhaique