Before you know what to do in the Cochamó Valley, you should take your time here to get to know the valley and see if it's a destination suited for you.
This valley is an isolated paradise in the lake region of Chilean Patagonia. Located two hours northeast of Puerto Montt. The valley is surrounded by the granite peaks of the Andes Mountains. It is famous for being one of the few remaining virgin areas in Chile, where glaciers, waterfalls and lush forests provide an unforgettable experience to those who visit.
How to get therer? When to go?
In the valley there are impressive granite peaks on both sides of the zigzagging and crystalline Cochamó River, which is fed by many tributaries. One of them is the La Junta River, which gives its name to the most popular sector of the valley. Multiple waterfalls appear in the native forest that is home to ancient alerce trees of up to 3,000 years old. In a green pampa that opens up between the river and forest, colorful tents and the roofs of the bonfires emerge. Here nature lovers admire one of the most beautiful landscapes they have ever seen.
Thanks to the absence of cars, and with only one access trail, the valley has become a paradise for hikers, a mecca for climbers and a favorite for nature lovers. The serenity of the rugged environment coupled with unique experiences such as seeing a condor or being in front of a thousand-year-old alerce tree must be cared for, respected and sustained over time so that future generations can also enjoy it. The community responsible for a great part of its protection and conservation in the valley is the Organización Valle Cochamó. Without the donations of its visitors, it could not be as it is today. Please consider donating to the conservation of this valley.
This paradise can quickly transform into hell for some because of rainy weather, high physical demand, lack of experience, inadequate equipment and/or other unforeseen factors. Cochamó Valley requires extensive logistical preparation and being in good shape to ensure an enjoyable trip.
What To Expect When Visiting Cochamó Valley was written by first-time vistor and the article reflects well the experience one can expect.
What to do in Cochamó Valley? There are many outdoor activities in the valley.
The valley offers many outdoor activities. Some of the most common are trekking, the climbing, birdwatching, photography, swimming in the Cochamó River or just enjoying the beach and the surrounding views.
Check out the photos & videos of Cochamó.
Cochamó Valley is located in southern Chile, east of Puerto Montt city, west of the Argentinean border and Bariloche, in the heart of the Patagonian Andes. For detailed maps and directions on how to get there, see the Getting There.
Check out the options for Lodging in Cochamó in the general region. La Junta of Cochamó Valley is the main destination for most visitors to the area. La Junta offers Cochamó Valley's Camping La Junta and one bed and breakfast the Refugio Cochamó.
Just like knowing what to do in the Cochamó Valley, there are attractions not far from the valley to enjoy. They include:
Parque Tagua Tagua: This destination is a Private Protected Area of 3,000 hectares, located in the basin of the Puelo River, on the shores of Tagua Tagua Lake, in the commune of Cochamo, in the Chilean Patagonia. You can visit for the day or stay in three cozy lodges, to walk all the trails enjoying the landscapes, flora and fauna of the pristine forest at any time of the year.
Termas del Sol: Immerse yourself in the soothing thermal waters of the Termas del Sol. These natural hot spring pools provide relaxation and breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.