HomeProtected PlacesPumalin Douglas Tompkins National Park
Pumalin Douglas Tompkins National Park adventures

Pumalin Douglas Tompkins National Park Adventures

Pumalin Douglas Tompkins National Park is a vast protected area in southern Chile known for its temperate rainforests, rugged coastline, and diverse outdoor recreation opportunities including hiking, camping, and wildlife viewing.

420,000
Acres Protected
100+
Miles of Trails
20,000 (estimated)
Annual Visitors
2018
Year Established

About Pumalin Douglas Tompkins National Park

Pumalin Douglas Tompkins National Park
 

Pumalin Douglas Tompkins National Park, situated in the Los Lagos Region of southern Chile, covers a sprawling area of temperate rainforest, fjords, mountains, and coastal landscapes along the Pacific Ocean. The park was established through the efforts of conservationist Douglas Tompkins, who helped protect and preserve this ecologically significant region by buying and donating private lands. With dense evergreen forests dominated by ancient alerce trees, rivers, waterfalls, and volcanic peaks such as Volcán Chaitén nearby, the park offers both scenic beauty and natural diversity. Wildlife includes the endangered huemul deer, pudú (the world's smallest deer), pumas, and a variety of bird species such as the Andean condor. Visitors come for backcountry hiking on extensive trails through lush forests and coastal cliffs, camping in primitive and designated sites, kayaking along fjords, and fishing in clear rivers. The park's remote access enhances the sense of tranquility and wilderness, often rewarding explorers with breathtaking vistas and solitude. Key attractions include the Ventisquero Colgante waterfall, the Chaién Fjord, and the diverse marine ecosystems accessible by boat. The park represents one of the largest private protected areas in the world that has been incorporated into Chile’s national park system, protecting over 400,000 acres of unique ecosystems and offering environmentally responsible outdoor adventures.

Highlights

Highlight

Ventisquero Colgante (Hanging Glacier) waterfall – a dramatic 600-foot cascade

Highlight

Temperate rainforest with ancient alerce trees exceeding 2,000 years old

Highlight

Coastal fjords offering pristine kayaking and marine wildlife watching

Highlight

Remote backcountry trails with views of volcanic peaks and ocean cliffs

Notable Natural Features

Ventisquero Colgante Waterfall

A spectacular hanging glacier feeding a 600-foot waterfall visible via hiking trails–a highlight of the park.

Alerce Forests

Home to ancient alerce trees, some over 2,000 years old, among the oldest tree species on Earth.

Chaitén Fjord

A scenic fjord with marine wildlife and dramatic ocean views accessible by boat or kayaking.

We use cookies for analytics and marketing. See our Privacy Policy.