Juncal Andean Park: Hiking over a Glacial Tongue
5.0
10 Ratings
Embark on an exhilarating hike through the Juncal Andean Park, where you'll discover unique natural features and the awe-inspiring Juncal Glacier, just two hours from Santiago.
Duration: 10 hours
Cancellation: 1 day learn more
Highlights
  • E-781 - Juncal Andean Park is an ecological reserve created in 1911. This private property, preservation of a pristine andean ecosystem is located in the middle of Juncal valley, just two hours north from Santiago.

It has unique natural features and a remarkable beauty. In may of 2010 the park was designated “RAMSAR wetlands of international importance” such as other 11 recognized sites in Chile. Wetlands are a focus of conservation for its vital importance as a source of life, especially in harsh environments as the Juncal.

We’ll reach the park entrance alongside a forgotten train railway that used to crossed the Andes. From here we will hike into Juncal valley following a low slope trail by the eastern bank of the namesake river. The trail will lead us to a huge wetland, a mountain oasis plenty of life due to the presence of water during all year round.

After crossing “Monos de agua” river we´ll get prepare for the last section that will become less clear and steepest as we continue through a drawer that reveal the presence of a huge ice body. In this last section we´ll begin to feel the steep moraine configuration, realizing that we are already over Juncal glacier.

What's Included
  • Comfortable transport
  • Hotel pick-up and drop-off
  • Professional guide
  • Trekking poles
  • First aid kit
  • Use of binoculars
  • Box lunch included
What's Not Included
  • Accident insurance
  • Personal clothing
Additional Information

Take a journey through the Andes by trekking in the Juncal Andean Park, a location known for its extraordinary natural sights and breathtaking scenery. Situated just a two-hour drive from Santiago, this private park, established in 1911, encompasses the Andean wetlands, a critical conservation area due to its crucial role as a life source that hosts a diverse range of bird species. The primary excursion in the park leads to the largest glacier outside of Patagonia and Antarctica, the magnificent Juncal Glacier, which intriguingly faces the north and basks in sunlight, mesmerizing those who choose to visit.

  • Please advise any specific dietary requirements at time of booking
  • The duration of transfers are approximate, the exact duration will depend on the time of day and traffic conditions
  • A minimum of 2 people per booking is required
  • Minimum age is 14 years
  • Children must be accompanied by an adult
Cancellation Policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Customer Ratings
5.0
(10 Ratings)
5 stars
4 stars
3 stars
2 stars
1 star
781melissaw
Jan 31, 2024
Sore legs well worth it for a great day! Stunning views and great company.. - We had the best day hiking in the Juncal National Park with Nicolas! The views were stunning throughout and we only saw one family the whole day. It really felt like we had the park to ourselves which added to the serenity! Very different to some of the busy tours we’ve been on before. Nicolas was super knowledgeable about the mountains and nature and answered all the questions we through at him! We drunk the freshest water from a mountain stream, waded across a river and enjoyed lunch with views of the glacier 😍. The trek definitely felt long under the molten summer sun, Nicolas did say it was the hottest he’d ever experienced in the park, but the trail itself was easy technically. Nicolas was really great as a guide and by the end of it we felt like we’d spent the day hanging out with a friend. Would definitely recommend this tour!!!
Review provided by Tripadvisor
V8405mnchristinem
Jan 11, 2024
Great Hike - Great day visiting the Juncal Valley to the Juncal glaicer Lake (we did not hike on the glacier). It was a long hike but the pacing was good and not hard. It was hot so prepare for that in the summer. Amazing scenery. Communication was good throughout.
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Damien_n
Jun 28, 2023
Absolutely Spectacular - Highly Recommend! - What a beautiful day! Our guide, Nicolás, took us through breathtaking green-blue Andean mountains - past clear, babbling streams and a wetland area full of life - stopping at Monos de Agua River for a delicious lunch. We reached the glacier shortly after lunch - it was just as spectacular as we imagined. Nicolás was a wealth of knowledge about the local geology, flora and fauna - it's easy to share his love of the mountains. The walk was soothing and peaceful - the perfect adventure for two busy touring actors. I highly, highly recommend this expedition!
Review provided by Viator
J2330nrmatteos
Feb 19, 2023
Great hike at the Juncal!!! - This hike was amazing!!! I knew I had a full day lay over in Santiago since my flight was at 11.30 PM. Therefore, some days before, I contacted Coigüe expeditions to help me make the best out of the day I had. They were super responsive and provided me with all information I needed to prepare for the hike. Nicolas came to pick me up exactly as scheduled with water and food for the day, and drove me the the heart of the Andes, close to the border with Argentina. He is a very nice and knowledgeable guide, and really passionate about hiking and the mountains of his country. The hike is not hard, as you will be walking in a valley at more or less the same altitude. However, you will be hiking between 2500-2900 meters/or 8200-9500 feet, so, if you are not already used to that, be prepared to find yourself catching up with your breath every now and then. The place is really beautiful. The valley is really green and hosts a lot of Andean birds. The glacier is really impressive. I would definitely recommend Nicolas and Coigüe Expeditions to everybody who loves outdoor activities, sports and adventure, and to whoever wants to be completely surrounded by the fantastic nature of Chile.
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Michele
Apr 15, 2019
The best hike of my trip! - I was struggling to find a company that would like a solo hiker and then Nicolas at Coigüe said they would be happy to. I saw breathtaking views, a condor flying overhead and wildflowers. Nicolas is very knowledgeable about this hike and ensured I knew where to cross the river safely and where I needed to step on the glacier to ensure I didn't slip. He is very passionate about hiking and outdoor activities and made this hike a stress-free and enjoyable one. This hike is the highlight of my entire trip! I give Coigüe and Nicolas a 10/10.
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Erin
May 27, 2018
Absolutely amazing hike! Guide was... - <p>Absolutely amazing hike! Guide was wonderful and extremely knowledgeable. Highly recommend!</p>
Review provided by Viator
Lipizzans3
Apr 17, 2018
Phenomenal trek through Juncal Park to the Juncal Glacier with Coigue Expeditions - My 47 year old husband and I did the 13.5 mile roundtrip trek in April 2018. We had an outstanding time on this full day trip. Our amazing guide was Diego, who is extremely patient, knowledgable, and considerate. We were in awe of the natural beauty of the park, and we learned so much about the protected, unique wet areas found in this area. Having lunch on the glacier was just one of the highlights, as was crossing the river on foot, and at the end of the day (as the sun was setting) we saw condors flying above us! We had lovely weather for our visit and we were able to get so many amazing photographs of this beautiful area of the country. I was so happy to not be in a tourist trap and surrounded by crowds. This is a little off the beaten track, but still a pleasant 2 hour drive or so from Santiago. If hiking, nature, and fresh air are what you seek then do consider this trip. I’m so glad that we opted for this smaller, more personalized adventure rather than a bigger tourist bus trip. Coigue made this very convenient with anything you could need: round trip transportation, snacks, food, water, equipment, etc. Somethings to consider if you do this hike: Don’t forget your sunglasses and hat. The sun can be intense! We wore multiple layers and we ended up shedding some when it got warm and added them back on when it got cooler. Do know that this trek takes you alongside streams and there are some spots where my fear of heights kicked in. Diego patiently allowed me to find my way, loaned me some hiking poles, and I ended up being OK. Also, you will trek up to elevations of 3200 meters. My husband and I were in OK shape,as we walk a good amount, but altitude still makes the heart pump harder than we were accustomed to. All in all, this day didn’t leave us sore or regretting a thing. I would definitely do it again. I would also feel very confident in doing any other Coigue tours.
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Minnesota11
Nov 30, 2017
Morado hanging glacier and Juncal andean park glacier,,, Coigue expeditions - my daughter and I hiked with Nicolas to the Morado hanging glacier and Juncal Andean park glacier,, a fascinating experience,, All I can say about our guide Nico is that he is 'first class' in all respects,,, His company deserves more attention,,, Go with Nicolas and you will Not be disappointed...He as he says 'make his clients happy' ska
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Select Date and Tickets
minimum 2 guests
-
up to 8 guests
2 Adult
July 2024
Sun
Mon
Tue
Wed
Thu
Fri
Sat
Today