The park is home to numerous iconic Patagonian species, including the endangered Andean condor, puma, guanaco, and Andean deer (huemul). The grasslands support large populations of guanacos, which have rebounded significantly since the removal of sheep ranching. Bird species are abundant, with notable residents including black-browed albatross, Chilean flamingo, and various birds of prey. The rivers and lakes harbor native fish species such as brown and rainbow trout. The park also provides habitat for smaller mammals like the Patagonian fox, European hare, and various rodent species.
The park encompasses diverse ecosystems including Patagonian steppe, southern beech forests, and high Andean vegetation zones. Notable plant species include the lenga beech (Nothofagus pumilio), ñire (Nothofagus antarctica), and calafate (Berberis microphylla). The grasslands feature various bunch grasses and hardy shrubs adapted to the windy conditions. Alpine areas above treeline support unique cushion plants and small flowering species that have adapted to extreme conditions. The park's restoration efforts have successfully reestablished native vegetation in previously degraded areas.
The park's landscape was dramatically shaped by glacial activity during the last ice age, resulting in distinctive U-shaped valleys, moraines, and glacial lakes. The Baker River, Chile's largest river by volume, runs through the park, carving deep valleys. The park sits at the intersection of three tectonic plates, which has created a diverse geological landscape including the Northern Patagonian Ice Field to the west and the Chacabuco Valley's dramatic rock formations. The area features both volcanic and metamorphic rocks, with some formations dating back millions of years.
The park was established in 2018 as part of an unprecedented conservation effort led by Kristine and Douglas Tompkins through their foundation Tompkins Conservation. The land, formerly consisting of overgrazed sheep ranches, was purchased and restored over many years before being donated to the Chilean government. This donation, combined with existing national reserves, created a vast protected area of approximately 304,527 hectares. The park represents one of the most significant private land donations in history and forms part of the Route of Parks of Chilean Patagonia, a network of 17 national parks stretching from Puerto Montt to Cape Horn.
Key attractions include the dramatic West Face trail offering views of Mount San Lorenzo, the park's highest peak at 3,706 meters, and the scenic Chacabuco Valley, known for its sweeping grasslands and wildlife viewing opportunities. The Baker River provides world-class fishing and rafting opportunities. The Stone House Museum, housed in a restored 1920s sheep ranch building, offers exhibits on the area's natural and cultural history. The park features well-maintained camping facilities, hiking trails of varying difficulty, and the Lodge at Valle Chacabuco, which provides luxury accommodations. The Avilés Trail and Lagunas Altas Trail are among the most popular hiking routes, offering spectacular views of the surrounding landscape.
Patagonia National Park experiences a cold semi-arid climate with significant seasonal variations. Summers (December to February) are mild with temperatures ranging from 10°C to 20°C (50-68°F), while winters (June to August) are cold with temperatures often dropping below freezing. The region is known for its strong winds, particularly in spring and summer, with gusts that can exceed 100 km/h. Rainfall is distributed throughout the year, though slightly higher in winter months. Weather conditions can change rapidly, and visitors should be prepared for four seasons in one day, with sudden shifts from sunshine to rain or snow, even in summer.
Chile
-47.2000°, -72.5500°
2018
3040
Patagonia National Park encompasses vast grasslands, mountains, and rivers in Chilean Patagonia. The park is a result of a historic conservation effort and land donation by Kristine Tompkins. It protects diverse ecosystems and provides habitat for numerous native species including guanacos and Andean condors.