Cerro Castillo

A legendary mountain in Patagonia

Cerro Castillo National Park dazzles along the Carretera Austral with its towering stone spire overlooking the Ibáñez River Valley. This iconic Patagonian sanctuary protects lush Andean forests of lenga and ñirre, representing the most vital refuge for Chile's protected huemul deer.

World-class routes like Las Horquetas and the ascent to turquoise Laguna Cerro Castillo lead mountaineers past hanging glaciers, moraines, and sheer basalt pinnacles under the watchful gaze of condors. Featuring regulated alpine trails that require certified guides and environmental stewardship, this destination delivers one of the wildest and most exhilarating backcountry treks in all of Patagonia.

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Plan your trip to Cerro Castillo

How to get there

How to get there by air

Fly into Balmaceda Airport (BBA), located 55 km south of Coyhaique. From the terminal, travel south by private vehicle, transfer, or bus along Route 7 directly to Villa Cerro Castillo (around 80 km). In Balmaceda or Coyhaique, you can rent vehicles or hire authorized mountain tour operators.

How to get there by land

From Coyhaique, drive 100 km south along the Carretera Austral (paved Route 7) to Villa Cerro Castillo or the trailheads at Laguna Chiguay and Las Horquetas (1.5 hours). Drive at reduced speeds: this highway is a prime crossing zone for endangered huemul deer.

Must-Know Tips

Las Horquetas and Laguna Castillo trails require certified guides under CONAF authorization; verify requirements beforehand. The Laguna Chiguay campsite is closed; stay in Villa Cerro Castillo. Pets are strictly forbidden to protect huemuls; campfires and drones are prohibited. Bring mountain gear and seal food against hantavirus.