Chile Scheduled Expedition
Araucarias & Valdivian Rainforest
November 26 to December 1 I 2027
November 26 to December 1 I 2028
TRIP TYPE
Scheduled
DURATION
6 days, 5 nights
DEPARTING FROM
Temuco
GROUP SIZE (MAX)
7 Guests
ABOUT THIS TRIP
Lush Valdivian Rainforest and unique Monkey Puzzle Trees in Southern Chile
This tour combines two emblematic elements of Chile’s diverse and unique flora: the Araucaria trees (Monkey Puzzle trees) and the Valdivian temperate rainforest.
At Conguillío National Park, we will be captivated by the vast Araucaria forests. The Llaima Volcano and numerous bodies of water provide the perfect backdrop for this experience. Futangue Park, for its part, is a private reserve committed to the protection of the extraordinary biodiversity of the Valdivian rainforest. One of Futangue’s most iconic inhabitants is Darwin’s Frog. On a dedicated excursion, we will head out specifically to search for this small amphibian. Through further easy hikes, we will have the opportunity to discover and immerse ourselves in the forest’s unparalleled biodiversity.
PRICING
USD 4,634
Per person, double occupancy · small groups of min 2 guests, max 7
rEADY FOR YOUR NEXT TRIP?
Itinerary in brief
After your arrival to the city of Temuco (on a morning flight), we will drive directly eastwards to the Andes foothills, to Conguillío National Park. In its splendid temperate forests, we will start to familiarize ourselves with a wealth of woody species, such as Coigue (Nothofagus dombeyi) and Chilean Cedar (Austrocedrus chilensis). We'll be impressed by the massive lava fields and the outstanding Llaima volcano.
Today will certainly become one of the finest of our journey finding plant species in southern Chile. From tall trees to small herbs, Conguillío National Park will slowly reveal its floristic secrets. We will have the opportunity to study huge Araucarias (Araucaria araucana), Winter's Bark Tree (Drimys winteri) and Coigues (Nothofagus dombeyi) and different species of the genus Berberis or miniature herbs such as Adenocaulon (Adenocaulon chilense), Anemone (Anemone multifida) or Yellow Viola (Viola reichei). The spectacle of our sightings will be enriched by the striking panoramic views of the volcanic surroundings of this incredible park.
In the morning, we'll keep on exploring and enjoying the natural beauty of Conguillío National Park. Short walks will take us to scenic lookouts, giant Araucaria trees and stunning waterfalls. Towards the end of the morning, we'll make our way southwards to the private Futangue Park. Especially while driving along Lake Ranco, we will enjoy magnificent views of the lovely landscapes of northern Patagonia. Our hotel is located amidst the Futangue reserve, hence in a very quiet place and fully surrounded by nature.
Today, an exciting excursion is arranged especially for us. We'll go on a leisurely 2-hour outing in search of the endangered Darwin's frog. This tiny amphibian belongs to the Rhinodermatidae family and is characterized by its special brooding method. The female lays the eggs in the leaf litter, after which they are fertilized by the male. Around 3 weeks later, as soon as the first larvae move, the male takes all the eggs into his vocal sac, where he facilitates their development. He nourishes them with a viscous secretion. As soon as the tadpoles have metamorphosed into small frogs, they are released into the outside world by the father.
During the rest of the day, we'll explore further areas of the park's eastern sector (Riñinahue sector). Depending on the interests of our guests, the focus will be rather on botany, birds, landscapes or photography. The Riñinahue sector, like all the other parts of the park, offers largely untouched forests, numerous water bodies, interesting topography and fascinating flora and fauna.
Today we'll spend most of the day at the Pitreño sector. This western part of the park encompasses Cerro Mayo and Don Lalo hills, and therefore is characterized by great viewpoints. But you will also be impressed by the inhabitants and landscapes of this area. Rippling water, different ferns, birds, insects etc. are waiting to be discovered and marveled at in this Valdivian rainforest.
On the way back to the lodge, we'll enjoy a very scenic stopover at the south-eastern end of Lake Ranco. An easy stroll takes us to a stunning waterfall, set into the lush, green forest.
After another tasty and strengthening breakfast, we'll head to the city of Puerto Montt, located on the shores of Reloncaví Sound. We'll enjoy the scenic drive, especially along Lake Ranco, and stop at one or another lookout point, from where we'll enjoy the breathtaking views of this big lake. In Puerto Montt, we'll bring you to your hotel, where the trip ends.
WHAT MAKES THIS TRIP SPECIAL
Trip Highlights
Visit Conguillío National Park with its impressive and active Llaima volcano, surrounded by vast lava fields and stunning volcanic landscapes.
Marvel at magnificent views of ancient Araucaria forests (Monkey Puzzle trees) amidst stunning volcanic slopes — a living fossil that dates back to the dinosaurs.
In-depth explorations of the Valdivian temperate rainforests at Futangue Park, home to 58 endemic plant species and extraordinary biodiversity.
Observe the endangered Darwin's frog in its natural habitat on a dedicated private excursion, and learn about its unique brooding method where the male carries the tadpoles in his vocal sac.
Discover Futangue Park's remarkable botanical diversity, counting 58 endemic plant species found nowhere else on Earth.
This trip is suitable for the keen botanist, birder, nature photographer and the nature enthusiast alike — combining iconic trees, endemic flora, unique amphibians and breathtaking landscapes.
PLAN YOUR NEXT ADVENTURE
Dates & Rates
PRICE PER PERSON
$ 4,634 USD
SINGLE SUPPLEMENT
$ 985 USD
Trips are guaranteed to depart with a minimum of 2 participants. Maximum group size of 4 participants.
Departures
Group Size:
Trips are guaranteed to depart with a minimum of 2 participants. Maximum group size of 7 guests. The above price is per person in USD, based on double occupancy. All payments are in US Dollars. A single room supplement will be added if single accommodations are requested.
WHAT’S INCLUDED
Trip inclusions & exclusions
WHAT’S INCLUDED
- All accommodations
- All meals as stated in the itinerary
- Expert guide services throughout
- Private ground transportation during the tour
- Park entrance fees
- One drink included at each lunch and dinner at Futangue Hotel
WHAT’S NOT INCLUDED
- Domestic flights
- Tipping for restaurants and guides
- Travel insurance
- Entrance tax to Chile
- Excess baggage charges
- Private excursions
- À la carte dishes, snacks, drinks
- Laundry, telephone calls
- Anything of a purely personal nature
GALLERY
Wildlife & landscapes





Need help planning?
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