Overview
Pumalín Douglas Tompkins National Park protects around 4,000 square km of temperate rainforest between the Pacific fjords and the Andes. Giant alerce trees, some thousands of years old, stand in the forests, and waterfalls, hot springs and snow-covered volcanoes fill the landscape.
The park was created from private land by conservationist Douglas Tompkins and was donated to the Chilean state. It has well-kept trails, campsites and lodges, and is crossed by the Carretera Austral. Short walks lead to waterfalls and viewpoints, and longer trails climb to volcano craters and old forest. Rain is very common.
Highlights
- Cascadas Escondidas and other forest waterfalls
- The Alerce Costero forest and its ancient trees
- The Chaitén volcano crater walk
- Fjord views from ferry crossings on the Carretera Austral
Best time to visit
November to April is the main season, with longer days and slightly less rain. January and February are the busiest. Rain falls throughout the year, and winter has heavy rain and snow.
- JanJanuary: Best
- FebFebruary: Best
- MarMarch: Best
- AprApril: Good
- MayMay: Not ideal
- JunJune: Not ideal
- JulJuly: Not ideal
- AugAugust: Not ideal
- SepSeptember: Not ideal
- OctOctober: Not ideal
- NovNovember: Good
- DecDecember: Best
● Best · ○ Good · blank: not ideal. Conditions vary by year, so check local forecasts and access before you go.
Getting there
Fly to Puerto Montt (PMC), then drive and take ferries along the Carretera Austral, a long day to the park. Buses and ferries operate in summer, and a car gives the most freedom. Check ferry timetables and book ahead.
What to expect
Moderate. Trails are well marked, but can be wet and muddy. The weather is changeable, and services are limited. Camping is simple, with some cabins at the main sites.
Practical tips
- Reserve campsites and cabins as far ahead as possible in summer.
- Carry full rain gear and waterproof footwear.
- Check ferry schedules and car booking requirements on the Carretera Austral.
- Follow park rules about fires and waste.
Frequently asked questions
How do I get to Pumalín?
By road and ferry from Puerto Montt along the Carretera Austral, often over one or two days.
Is the park free?
Entry rules and fees change. Check with CONAF.
What is an alerce?
A giant, long-lived conifer of the Patagonian forests, among the oldest trees in the world.
Official sources
Rules, fees, permits and conditions change. Check the official pages below before you travel.
- Chile Travel, the official tourism website
- CONAF, Chile's national parks agency
- UK government travel advice: Chile
Last reviewed October 2026. Details are for planning only and can change; confirm access, permits and conditions with official sources before you travel. Spotted something out of date? Tell us. Photography: Winniccxx (CC BY 3.0) via Wikimedia Commons.
