Pumalín – Douglas Tompkins National Park, one of Chile’s largest protected areas, spans over 400,000 hectares (988,000 acres) in the Lakes & Volcanoes District. This park stands as a testament to the conservation efforts of Douglas and Kris Tompkins. As part of the Ruta de los Parques de la Patagonia, Pumalín is a prime example of ecological preservation and adventure.
A Legacy of Conservation: Douglas and Kris Tompkins
Douglas Tompkins (1943 – 2015), founder of The North Face and co-founder of Esprit, significantly impacted Patagonia through his conservation work. Together with Kris Tompkins, former CEO of Patagonia Inc., they created Tompkins Conservation, which has helped establish over 14 million acres (5.6 million hectares) of protected areas, including Pumalín and Patagonia National Parks.
Douglas Tompkins dedicated his later life to environmental activism and conservation. He purchased vast tracts of land in Chile and Argentina to protect them from deforestation and development. His vision led to the establishment of several national parks and protected areas.
Kris Tompkins continues this mission through Rewilding Chile, focusing on ecological restoration and sustainable tourism, ensuring these environments are preserved for future generations. Her leadership has been instrumental in creating and expanding national parks in Patagonia.
The Tompkins’ vision was to develop a contiguous network of protected areas in Patagonia, known as the Ruta de los Parques de la Patagonia. This route, stretching over 2,800 kilometers (1,740 miles), includes 17 national parks, each showcasing unique landscapes and ecosystems.
Discovering Pumalín Douglas Tompkins National Park
Pumalín Douglas Tompkins National Park features diverse landscapes, including old-growth forests, fjords, rivers, granite cliffs, snowfields, volcanoes, waterfalls, and mountain lakes. This varied environment provides a sanctuary for numerous species of flora and fauna.
Location and Accessibility
- Location: Situated in the Los Lagos Region of southern Chile (The Lakes & Volcanoes District), approximately 1,200 kilometers (746 miles) south of Santiago.
- Access: Visitors can reach the park by flying into Chaitén from Puerto Montt, a 40-minute flight. The park is also accessible by road via the Carretera Austral.
Best Time to Visit
- Season: The ideal time to visit is during the Austral summer, from December to March, when the weather is milder and the days are longer, perfect for outdoor activities.
- Climate: The park experiences a temperate maritime climate with moderate rainfall. Summer temperatures range from 10°C to 20°C (50°F to 68°F).
Flora and Fauna
- Vegetation: The park’s temperate rainforests are home to ancient Alerce trees (Fitzroya), some over 3,000 years old, as well as a variety of native plants, including Luma, Tepa, Canelo, Tineo, Tiaca, Coigüe, Ulmo, and Notro.
- Wildlife: The diverse habitats support species such as pumas, Andean deer (huemul), river otters, and numerous birds, including the Magellanic woodpecker and the black-necked swan. In the fjords, visitors often see Toninas (Commerson’s Dolphins), Cormorants, Penguins, Herons, and Kingfisher.
Eco-Tourism and Adventure Activities
Pumalín offers a range of activities for nature enthusiasts and adventurers:
Hiking Trails
- Alerce Trail: Explore the ancient Alerce trees on this scenic path.
- Cascadas Trail: Discover hidden waterfalls and lush greenery.
- Chaitén Volcano: Hike to the summit for panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.
- Michinmahuida Trail: Visit the glacier on the Michinmahuida Volcano.
- Ventisquero Trail: Explore the glacial landscapes.
Kayaking and Water Activities
- Navigate the park’s fjords and rivers, surrounded by stunning cliffs and untouched wilderness.
Cultural Heritage
Pumalín’s parklands are ancestral territory of the now extinted Chono people, a nomadic group that navigated the islands and channels in canoes. They hunted sea lions, fished, and gathered shellfish and seaweed along the coast.
Connect with KMS Travel
At KMS Travel, we offer an exclusive program to experience the wonders of Pumalín National Park. Our Fly-In Hiking Caleta Gonzalo Tour provides a unique opportunity to explore the park’s breathtaking landscapes and hidden gems.
Program Highlights
- Duration: Options from 3 to 5 days
- Accommodation: Eco-friendly lodges
- Activities: Guided hikes, kayaking, scenic flights, and more
- Itinerary: Includes transfer from Puerto Montt, scenic flights, daily guided hikes, and personalized experiences.
For more details about our program, visit Explore Pumalín National Park: The Fly-In Hiking Caleta Gonzalo Tour.
Pumalín in the Context of Ruta de los Parques de la Patagonia
Pumalín Douglas Tompkins National Park is a key component of the Ruta de los Parques de la Patagonia, an initiative to create a seamless network of protected areas. This route showcases Patagonia’s stunning beauty and ecological diversity, offering visitors a chance to explore some of the world’s most pristine landscapes.
For more information on the Ruta de los Parques de la Patagonia and other destinations, check out our blog on Where Lakes and Volcanoes Meet Patagonia: A Versatile Wonderland of Culture, Nature, and Adventure.
Practical Information
- Area: 994,332 acres (402,392 hectares)
- Climate: Temperate Rainforest
- Rainfall: 235 inches (5,970 mm) annually
- Ecosystem: Rainy and mild
- Founded: February 28, 2018
How to Get There
- From Puerto Montt, follow Route 7 to Caleta La Arena and take a ferry to Caleta Puelche. Continue south to Hornopirén for another ferry to Caleta Gonzalo.
- From the south, take Route 7 toward Amarillo, roughly 75 miles (120 kilometers) from La Junta.
- Daily buses from Puerto Montt to Chaitén.
- Ferries from Puerto Montt and Quellón to Chaitén.
- Daily flights from Puerto Montt to Chaitén, lasting 35 minutes.
Tips
- Park administration has been under CONAF since April 30, 2019.
- Park hours: Monday to Sunday, 8:30 AM to 5:30 PM.
- Entrance is free; fees apply for camping areas.
- No cell signal or electricity within the park.
- Always bring a rain jacket and pants.
- Gas stations and cell coverage in Hornopirén and Chaitén.
- Lodging, food, and excursions in Amarillo and Chaitén.
Embrace the Adventure, Embrace the Beauty
At KMS Travel, we recognize the transformative power of travel. We invite you to visit Pumalín Douglas Tompkins National Park and enjoy our program, designed to provide an authentic and immersive experience, connecting you with nature and the beauty of Patagonia.
Plan your adventure and escape the ordinary by exploring ancient forests, kayaking through tranquil fjords, and experiencing the stunning landscapes of Pumalín.
Plan Your Trip
Ready to explore Pumalín Douglas Tompkins National Park? Visit us to learn more about our programs and start planning your adventure today.
