Lahuen Ñadi Natural Monument

The Lahuen Ñadi Natural Monument is an authentic ecological refuge, a sanctuary that jealously guards the last vestiges of the larch forests of Chile's central valley. In this magical corner of the Lakes Region, a short distance from the regional capital, Puerto Montt, visitors can immerse themselves in a forest of giants and enjoy trails accessible to the general public.

Ancient larch forest

Located 13 km from Puerto Montt, on the way to El Tepual airport, the Lahuen Ñadi Natural Monument is a protected natural area that is home to one of the longest-lived species in Chile's forests. The name of this reserve finds its origin in the prominent presence of the alerce tree and the peculiar characteristics of the terrain. "Lahuen" is the Mapudungun term for the alerce, while "ñadi" refers to the volcanic soils that give shape and name to this unique landscape.

The arboreal vegetation is dominated by the imposing alerce (Fitzroya cupressoides), an emblematic species in the region that stands as a symbol of strength and resistance to the passage of time. It is the tallest native tree in the region and some specimens reach 1800 years of age. They seem to defy existential logic, whose ages are counted in centuries and millennia. Its roots sink deep into the earth, anchoring its presence in this world since time immemorial.

In addition to the alerce trees, the forest is home to a rich variety of flora, where cinnamon trees, coihues and myrtles add to a diverse ecosystem. In terms of fauna, the forest is witness to many species of birds, such as the chucao, the huet huet, the diucón, the rayadito, the choroy, the bandurria. Among the mammals, you can see the monito del monte, the chingue, the gray fox and the pudú.

The tour offers two carefully laid out trails, accessible to all ages. The first is Los Chucaos, a 600-meter, 30-minute hike, and the second is Los Carpinteros, a 2-kilometer, 2-hour hike that allows visitors to immerse themselves in the very essence of the temperate rainforest. These trails are wide and well maintained to ensure a safe and pleasant experience for hikers.

Lahuen Ñadi's proximity to the city of Puerto Montt is ideal for those who long for an encounter with nature without going too far from the city. Upon arrival, visitors must contact the park ranger on duty, according to the information provided on the entrance signs, to gain access to the park.