Queulat National Park

Home of the Hanging Glacier

Queulat National Park protects one of the most breathtaking natural treasures along the Carretera Austral in Aysén. Its dramatic terrain and dense Patagonian cold rainforest are crowned by the imposing Hanging Glacier (Ventisquero Colgante), a suspended ice mass whose meltwaters cascade into spectacular waterfalls plunging toward Laguna Témpanos.

Along trails such as Mirador Morrena and Laguna Témpanos, hikers take in floating ice floes, lush evergreen forests, and rushing rivers. A protected habitat for the pudú, güiña wildcat, Magellanic woodpecker, and elusive river otter, this mountain sanctuary dazzles with pristine wilderness forged by millennia of tectonic, volcanic, and glacial forces.

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Plan your trip to Queulat National Park

How to get there

How to get there by air

Fly into Balmaceda Airport (BBA), 55 km south of Coyhaique. From there, travel north through Coyhaique and continue along the Carretera Austral (Route 7). The total journey to the park entrance takes about 4.5 to 5 hours (220 km) by rental car, private transfer, or regional bus service.

How to get there by land

From Coyhaique, travel 165 km north along the Carretera Austral (Route 7) via Villa Mañihuales, crossing the winding Cuesta Queulat pass (a 4-hour drive). The main entrance to the Hanging Glacier is located approximately 20 km south of Puerto Puyuhuapi. Drive cautiously along narrow gravel stretches with sharp switchbacks.

Must-Know Tips

Advance booking is mandatory on pasesparques.cl; the official campground is closed (overnight in Puyuhuapi or La Junta). Under CONAF regulations, open fires, camp stoves, pets, and drones are strictly forbidden. Pack waterproof layers and sturdy trekking boots, and reduce driving speed when crossing the steep Cuesta Queulat pass.