Vicente Pérez Rosales National Park, Chile (with Map & Photos)

Vicente Pérez Rosales National Park Chile

Vicente Pérez Rosales National Park
was established in 1926 and is the oldest not only in Chile, but also in South America. It is located in the Andean mountain range, in the province of Llanquihue.

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Vicente Pérez Rosales National Park Chile

Osorno volcano is the main attraction of the Vicente Pérez Rosales National Park. Osorno is one of the most active volcanoes in the Chilean Andes. The top of the volcano is completely covered with snow and ice throughout the year, despite the fact that it is located in a region with a rather mild climate. The ice sheet is maintained thanks to the heavy snowfalls that fall here during the winter.

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Vicente Pérez Rosales National Park Chile

Symmetrical in shape, the summit of the Osorno volcano attracts skiers and tourists from all over the world. There is a ski center near the top of the volcano, which has everything you need to practice this sport. From the small village of Ensenada, you can climb to the top of the volcano. In time it takes about 6 hours round trip.

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Vicente Pérez Rosales National Park Chile

The second attraction of the Vicente Pérez Rosales National Park is the Petroue River. It originates from Lake Todos los Santos. The famous Petroue waterfall is located on the river.

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Vicente Pérez Rosales National Park Chile

The Petroue River is considered one of the best rivers for recreational fishing due to the wide variety of fish species and optimal conditions for fishing - fishing can be done from the shore, in a boat, and in the water. The fishing season starts in November and ends in May. Every year hundreds of fishermen from all over the world come to the Petrohué River to enjoy fishing and to compete with each other.

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Vicente Pérez Rosales National Park Chile

In addition, the river is a popular destination for lovers of active recreation. The rapids of the river III and IV classes give the opportunity for thrill-seekers to test their strength in overcoming rapids near the most beautiful volcanoes Osorno and Calbuco. The impressive rapids of the Petroue River make it one of the most beautiful spots in the Vicente Pérez Rosales National Park.

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Vicente Pérez Rosales National Park Chile

The third attraction of the Vicente Pérez Rosales National Park is the Petroue Falls, located in the upper reaches of the Petroue River, near the formation of the river in Lake Todos los Santos. Tourists on the international route between the cities of Bariloche in Argentina and Puerto Montt in Chile are usually offered to stop and take a walk to the waterfall while enjoying the beautiful landscape of the Osorno volcano.

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Vicente Pérez Rosales National Park Chile

The waterfall on the river was formed by cracks in the crystallized lava as it cooled after the volcanic eruption. Water flows through huge masses of solidified lava, resistant to erosion for many centuries. The average water flow in the waterfall is about 270 m3 per second, but during the rainy season it is much higher. During this period, the water level in the lake rises by three meters. The lake water is usually very clear with a bright green tint.

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Vicente Pérez Rosales National Park Chile

 And for lovers of measured contemplative relaxation, we recommend a cruise on Lake Llanquiue or Todos Los Santos. From the deck of the boat you will see the snow-capped peaks of the volcanoes Osorno (2660 m), Cero de La Picada (1710 m), Puntiagudo (2490 m), reflected in its clear blue water.

Vicente Pérez Rosales National Park Map