This day trekking is offered to people that enjoy walking in the forest while not really needing to hike so stenuously.These trails were used on older days to smuggle cattle between Chile and Argentina and is one of the most important trails used by the locals who live in the valley of Cochamo.The whole trek lasts for about 6 hours and depending on the people’s pace. Chance to see the wonderful mountains surrounding, incredible flora, fungus, lichens, fresh air, silence and relaxed pace.I wouldn’t recommend this hike for people with vertigo since a hanging bridge must be crossed which can be a bit tricky.( 2024. Update. the bridge was destroyed however is possible to cross with the help of boards across it.) The drive is one of the most scenic in the region with mountains, rivers, lakes Valdivian forest and sea.The trail runs up the side of the Cochamó River sometimes losing sight of the river itself but never the sound of the water cascading down huge waterfalls and gorges. As you get deeper and deeper in the valley, the granite walls grow larger and larger as you become encased in a beautiful, pristine forest that is full of towering alerce trees that can live up to 1,000 years.
Cochamo Valley is located in southern Chile, east of Puerto Montt and Puerto Varas cities, the road is tarmac for most of the drive going across Ensenada town, and reaching the mouth of the Puelo Valley into the Estuary of Reloncavi. West of the Argentinean border and Bariloche, in the heart of the Patagonian Andes. The trails were originally opened by gauchos and local people travelling between the two countries when borders where not clear among Chile and Argentina. Also history and legends say that Buch Cassidy and Sundance kid used come this way to smuggle cattle to sell in Chile. I wouldn’t recommend this hike for people with vertigo since a hanging bridge must be crossed which can be a bit tricky. The drive is one of the most scenic in the region with mountains, rivers, lakes Valdivian forest and sea.
Start and ends: 8.00 am.Puerto Varas or Pto Montt. 7 am.
Location: Cochamo Valley. Lake District, South of Chile.
Duration:9 hours. 1,20 hour drive from Pto Varas. Walk: 6 hours.
Difficulty level: Medium/Demanding. Terrain: Trails with muddy and slippery sections. In the shade of unforgettable forest with sunny sections. Mostly a gentle uphill but some flat sections too.
Transportation: Private vehicle.
Equipment to bring: Warm clothes according to weather and time of the year.
Trekking poles , shoes, rain jacket, sun and skin protection (sunglasses, hat).Snack, water 1 lts.
Safety: Emergency equipment and first aid kit. Need to cross a hanging narrow bridge. Not suitable for people with vertigo. Ask for alternatives ihikes.
Included: Private transportation.Entrance fee to the parking, box lunch, private guide with Wilderness First Responder Certificate and knowledgeable in native flora and fauna.
Cochamo Hike. Patagonia Trails
Terrain: Trails with muddy and slippery sections. In the shade of unforgettable forest with sunny sections. Mostly flat but some uphills too.
Guide: English, Italian and Spanish is spoken, with http://www.ecomed.org.ar" ,WFR first aid certificate and expert in native flora and fauna.