Puyehue's diverse ecosystems support a rich variety of wildlife. Notable mammals include the endangered southern pudú (world's smallest deer), puma, kodkod (Chilean cat), and the monito del monte (a marsupial). The park is home to numerous bird species including the Magellanic woodpecker, Chilean hawk, and the iconic Andean condor. In wetland areas, visitors might spot black-browed albatross and various duck species. The park's waters harbor native fish species including brown and rainbow trout. Several endemic amphibians can be found in the park's streams and ponds, including Darwin's frog and various species of toads.
The park harbors diverse Valdivian temperate rainforest vegetation, one of the world's rarest forest ecosystems. The dominant tree species include coigüe (Nothofagus dombeyi), lenga (Nothofagus pumilio), and alerce (Fitzroya cupressoides) - some of which are centuries old. The understory is rich in bamboo species, particularly quila (Chusquea quila), and features numerous fern species. The park also boasts a variety of flowering plants including Chilean firebush (Embothrium coccineum) and various orchid species. At higher elevations, the vegetation transitions to alpine meadows with hardy shrubs and cushion plants adapted to extreme conditions.
The park's geology is dominated by volcanic features, centered around the active Puyehue-Cordón Caulle volcanic complex. This complex includes the Puyehue volcano (2,236m) and numerous volcanic vents and fissures. The area is characterized by extensive lava fields, pumice deposits, and thermal springs resulting from ongoing volcanic activity. The landscape showcases various volcanic formations including crater lakes, fumaroles, and distinctive columnar basalt formations. The most recent significant geological event was the 2011 eruption, which created new ash fields and modified existing geological features. The park also features glacially carved valleys and numerous hot springs, evidence of the region's intense geothermal activity.
Established in 1941, Puyehue National Park was created to protect the region's unique Valdivian temperate rainforest ecosystem and volcanic landscapes. The park's name comes from the Mapuche language, meaning 'place of small fish.' The area has been historically significant to indigenous Mapuche communities who considered the volcanic thermal springs sacred. During the 20th century, the park became an important conservation area and tourist destination, particularly after the construction of the Antillanca ski center in the 1960s. The park gained international attention in 2011 when the Puyehue-Cordón Caulle volcanic complex experienced a major eruption, significantly impacting the landscape and local ecology.
The park's most prominent attractions include the Antillanca ski center, offering winter sports opportunities with spectacular volcanic views. The Aguas Calientes hot springs provide natural thermal pools surrounded by pristine forest. The Anticura sector features well-maintained hiking trails and the park's main visitor center. The Puyehue volcano and its surrounding volcanic complex offer unique geological formations and panoramic views of the Andes. The Río Gol-Gol provides opportunities for rafting and fishing, while numerous waterfalls, including the impressive Salto del Indio, dot the landscape. The park also features several scenic viewpoints offering views of neighboring volcanoes and Lake Puyehue.
Puyehue National Park experiences a temperate rainforest climate with significant precipitation throughout the year. Winters (June-August) are cold and wet with occasional snowfall, especially at higher elevations, while summers (December-February) are mild and relatively drier. Average temperatures range from 4°C (39°F) in winter to 23°C (73°F) in summer. The park receives approximately 4,000mm of annual rainfall, with the heaviest precipitation occurring between May and August. Due to its location in the Southern Hemisphere, the best time to visit is during the austral summer months when conditions are most favorable for hiking and outdoor activities.
Chile
-40.6670°, -72.1670°
1941
1068
Puyehue National Park is renowned for its temperate rainforests and volcanic landscapes. The park features hot springs, lakes, and diverse wildlife including pumas and pudús. Its ancient forests of coigue and ulmo trees create a mystical atmosphere typical of southern Chile.