Puerto Varas: Full Day Alerce Andino National Park.

Nestled in the heart of Chile’s southern Lake District, Puerto Varas serves as the gateway to the breathtaking Alerce Andino National Park. This full-day tour invites visitors to enjoy the park’s ancient forests, tranquil lagoons, and diverse wildlife. With a knowledgeable guide leading the way, travelers can expect an intimate and personalized experience, complete with opportunities to spot elusive species like the Pudú deer and the majestic Andean condor. What awaits beyond the park’s boundaries is a captivating natural wonder that promises to leave a lasting impression.

Key Points

1. Explore the ancient forests and serene lagoons of Alerce Andino National Park on a full-day tour from Puerto Varas, Chile.
2. Spot native wildlife like Pudú, Venado Chileno, puma, condors, kingfishers, and hummingbirds along the park’s hiking trails.
3. Enjoy round-trip transportation, a bilingual guide, park entrance fees, and snacks as part of the inclusive tour package.
4. The tour requires a moderate level of physical fitness and is not recommended for those with certain medical conditions.
5. Pricing starts from $145.00 per person, with free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience and a maximum group size of 10 travelers.

Tour Overview

This full-day tour takes travelers to explore the captivating Alerce Andino National Park from Puerto Varas, Chile.

Visitors will wander through ancient forests and discover serene lagoons, all connected by a network of hiking trails. Along the way, they may spot native wildlife like Pudú, Venado Chileno, puma, condors, kingfishers, and hummingbirds.

The tour includes round-trip transportation, a bilingual guide, park entrance fees, and snacks.

It’s not recommended for those with physical limitations, but children are welcome when accompanied by an adult.

Group size is capped at 10 travelers for a more intimate experience.

Inclusions

The tour includes round-trip transportation by car or minibus, providing convenient pickup and drop-off at the traveler’s hotel.

A bilingual guide accompanies the group, ensuring a smooth and informative experience.

Entrance fees to the Alerce Andino National Park are included, granting access to the park’s ancient forests and picturesque lagoons.

Snacks are provided to keep energy levels up during the tour.

While gratuities for the driver and guide are optional, these can be offered at the traveler’s discretion to show appreciation for the excellent service.

Pickup Information

Hotel pickup is available for this tour, with an alternate meeting point provided for those staying outside the central area of Puerto Varas.

The tour starts at 8:00 am, so guests will be picked up from their accommodations in time to begin the day’s exploration. If your hotel isn’t located in the city center, you’ll meet the group at a designated alternate location.

This ensures everyone arrives at Alerce Andino National Park ready to embark on the guided hike and wildlife viewing experience. The tour has a maximum of 10 travelers, so early booking is recommended.

Traveler Requirements

Who should consider this tour? This full-day adventure in Alerce Andino National Park isn’t suitable for everyone.

It requires a moderate level of physical fitness and may not be recommended for those with certain medical conditions, such as:

• Back problems

• Heart conditions

• Pregnancy

Children must be accompanied by an adult.

The tour is limited to a maximum of 10 travelers, ensuring a more intimate and personalized experience in the ancient forest landscapes.

A small group size of up to 10 travelers ensures an intimate and personalized adventure in the ancient forest landscapes.

Careful consideration of the traveler requirements is essential to ensure a safe and enjoyable excursion.

Pricing and Cancellation Policy

Pricing for this full-day tour to Alerce Andino National Park starts from $145.00 per person, with the exact cost varying based on the group size.

This tour offers a free cancellation option up to 24 hours before the experience. Travelers can expect to receive confirmation of their booking within 48 hours, subject to availability.

With a maximum group size of 10 people, this tour provides an intimate and personalized experience amidst the ancient forests and lagoons of the national park.

Gratuities for the driver and guide are optional, allowing visitors to customize their experience.

Natural Wonders of Alerce Andino National Park

As visitors explore the winding trails of Alerce Andino National Park, they’ll be captivated by the ancient, towering alerce trees that dominate the landscape.

These ancient, slow-growing conifers can live for up to 4,000 years, making them one of the oldest living organisms on Earth.

Beyond the alerce forests, the park boasts:

• Pristine glacial lakes and lagoons

• Diverse native wildlife, including the diminutive Pudú deer and majestic Andean condors

• Cascading waterfalls and rushing streams

• Opportunities for birdwatching, with species like the colorful hummingbird and the striking Kingfisher

Truly, Alerce Andino National Park is a natural wonderland waiting to be explored.

Wildlife Encounters

Visitors to Alerce Andino National Park can expect to encounter a diverse array of native wildlife as they explore the park’s pristine forests and waterways.

The endangered Pudú, a small deer species, is a highlight for many travelers. Venado Chileno, the Chilean huemul, can also be spotted amidst the ancient alerce trees.

A sight to behold, the endangered Pudú and elusive Chilean huemul amidst the ancient alerce trees of Alerce Andino National Park.

Sharp-eyed visitors may catch glimpses of puma, the elusive "ghost of the Andes." Overhead, majestic Andean condors soar, while colorful kingfishers and hummingbirds dart among the foliage.

This wildlife-rich ecosystem offers unparalleled opportunities to observe Chile’s unique flora and fauna.

Frequently Asked Questions

Will We Have Opportunities for Photography During the Tour?

Yes, the tour offers ample opportunities for photography. Visitors can capture stunning landscapes, including ancient forests, lagoons, and diverse wildlife like the Pudú, Venado Chileno, puma, condors, kingfishers, and hummingbirds along the network of hiking trails.

Can We Bring Our Own Packed Lunch or Snacks?

Travelers can bring their own packed lunch or snacks on the tour. The tour includes snacks, but bringing additional food is allowed and can provide more flexibility during the day’s activities in Alerce Andino National Park.

Is There a Bathroom Facility Available During the Hike?

Yes, there are bathroom facilities available along the hiking trails within Alerce Andino National Park. Travelers can use these facilities during the tour, providing convenience and comfort throughout the day’s activities.

What Is the Dress Code or Recommended Attire for the Tour?

Comfortable, weather-appropriate attire is recommended for the tour. Layers, sturdy hiking boots, and rain gear are advised to ensure you’re prepared for the varied terrain and potential changes in weather conditions within the national park.

Can We Extend the Tour Duration or Add Optional Activities?

The tour duration can’t be extended, but there may be options to add optional activities like wildlife spotting or photography sessions. Travelers should check with the tour operator for availability and pricing of any additional activities.

The Sum Up

Enjoy the breathtaking landscapes of Alerce Andino National Park on this full-day tour from Puerto Varas. Discover ancient forests, tranquil lagoons, and the chance to spot diverse wildlife. With round-trip transportation, a knowledgeable guide, and all necessary inclusions, this personalized adventure offers an unforgettable exploration of Chile’s natural wonders.