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Vicente Pérez Rosales National Park adventures

Vicente Pérez Rosales National Park Adventures

Vicente Pérez Rosales National Park is Chile’s oldest national park, featuring dramatic Andean landscapes, active volcanoes, pristine lakes, and temperate rainforests, offering diverse recreational opportunities from hiking to fishing.

242,000 acres (98,000 hectares)
Acres Protected
Over 50 miles (80 km)
Miles of Trails
Approximately 300,000
Annual Visitors
1926
Year Established

About Vicente Pérez Rosales National Park

Vicente Pérez Rosales National Park
 

Established in 1926, Vicente Pérez Rosales National Park spans a vast area in the Los Lagos Region of southern Chile. The park lies in the heart of the Chilean Lake District and is anchored by the striking Osorno Volcano and the picturesque Petrohué Falls along the Petrohué River. The park encompasses dense stands of native Valdivian temperate rainforest, alpine meadows, glacial lakes—including Lake Todos los Santos—and rugged volcanic peaks. The terrain ranges from gently rolling hills and river valleys to steep volcanic slopes. Its unique geography and climate support a variety of flora and fauna, including native species such as pudú deer and Andean foxes. Recreational opportunities abound, including well-maintained hiking trails around the volcano and lakes, fishing in clear rivers and lakes, kayaking on Lake Todos los Santos, and photography of dramatic waterfalls and volcanic scenery. The park is a key gateway for climbers tackling the Osorno Volcano and serves as a scenic highlight for visitors traveling between Puerto Varas and Bariloche in Argentina. The Petrohué River and its waterfalls offer accessible viewpoints for all visitors. The park is popular during the southern hemisphere's summer months due to relatively mild weather and longer daylight hours, while winter brings snow sports near the volcano’s slopes. Local indigenous history and conservation efforts complement the visitor experience, emphasizing protection of native landscapes and sustainable tourism.

Highlights

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Osorno Volcano – an iconic stratovolcano with panoramic summit views

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Petrohué Falls – stunning waterfalls amid lush temperate rainforest

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Lake Todos los Santos – clear turquoise lake ideal for boating and fishing

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Valdivian Temperate Rainforest – rare ecosystem home to unique wildlife

Notable Natural Features

Osorno Volcano

A conical stratovolcano rising 2,652 meters high, offering hiking routes and ski areas with panoramic views of lakes and Andes peaks.

Petrohué Falls

A series of cascades on the Petrohué River renowned for turquoise waters and volcanic rock formations, accessible via easy walking paths.

Lake Todos los Santos

A large, glacial lake with crystal-clear turquoise water surrounded by snow-capped volcanoes—perfect for kayaking and fishing.