Introduction

The trail Los Quiles is found alongside the lake Cucao in the Chanquín area of the Parque Nacional Chiloé . The route is 250m in length and allows visitors to see and enjoy an excellent example of an evergreen forest and marshland which is typical in the south of Chile. Walkways with railings and benches have been installed along the walk, ensuring that people of all ages can complete the trail safely and comfortably, including those with disabilities.

The Parque Nacional Chiloé is a protected area which was created in November 1982 by the Ministerio de Bienes Nacionales (Chilean Ministry of National Heritage). It can be found on the western coast of the largest island of Chiloé, and its 42,567 hectares help the conservation of dense forests of native species of tree including Arrayán, Tepa, Alerce, Olivillo, Quila, Coihue and Ciprés de las Guaitecas (part of the Cypress family). On the shores of the lakes, rivers and Pacific Ocean, there are marshes where peat bog and Tepual grow in abundance. Both type of flora can be seen from the trail Los Quiles.

All along the route there are signs with information helping you to identify the previously mentioned species of flora. Finally, in the middle of the trail the walkway widens and leads to a viewpoint which offers panoramic views of the lake Lago Cucao and the neighbouring woodland.

Appropriate season

The trail can be completed at any time during the year regardless of weather conditions due to the walkways that are installed.

Access

Public Transport

From the terminal in Castro, take a bus towards Cucao (CLP$1500 / US$3) where you will find Conaf offices. The buses that complete this route leave everything 30min starting from 7:00am. The last to Cucao leaves at 8:00pm. The journey takes approx. 2h.

Private Transport

From Castro to the park entrance, drive 24km heading south on route CH-5 along an asphalt road until you reach a junction called Cruce Notuco. From here, turn right (southwest) towards Huillinco/Cucao on route W80. Continue on this road for 35km until arriving at Cucao, and when you reach the end of the village cross the bridge over the river Desaguadero (also known as Cucao). After another 800m, you will arrive at the main entrance to the Parque Nacional Chiloé. There is free parking in the park. The trail starts just a couple of metres from the entrance, beside the Conaf museum.

Permits / Prices

You will need to pay the park entrance fee in the Conaf office in Cucao. It costs CLP$1500 (US$3) for Chilean adults, CLP$3000 (US$6) for foreign adults, CLP$750 (US$1.50) for Chilean children, CLP$1500 (US$3) for foreign children, CLP$750 (US$1.50) for Chilean pensioners and CLP$1500 (US$3) for foreign pensioners.

Accommodation / Facilities

In Cucao, Chanquín and inside the National Park you will find various types of accommodation including campsites, cabañas, B&Bs, hotels and lodges.

Recommendations

• Be sure to take a camera with you
• Water is available from the visitors’ centre in the Parque Nacional Chiloé.

Gear

• Rainproof coat
• Sun protection

Schedule

1. Castro – Los Quiles trail – Castro