Pumalín Douglas Tompkins National ParkAbout Pumalín Douglas Tompkins National Park
Pumalín Douglas Tompkins National Park is a large protected area in Chile’s Los Lagos Region that conserves extensive temperate rainforest, valleys and coastal mountain terrain. Much of the park lies on land that was acquired and managed for conservation before being incorporated into the national park system.
The park protects stands of Valdivian temperate rainforest, rivers and rugged coastal and mountain landscapes, and offers trails and backcountry recreation in a low-density visitor setting. Management emphasizes habitat protection and limited-impact public access.
The park is located in the Los Lagos Region of southern Chile and spans remote, mountainous terrain typical of northern Patagonia. Access is by road and boat at different points along the park boundary and via the regional access routes of the Carretera Austral corridor.
- Private conservation to national park: Established from large private conservation holdings donated and transferred to the Chilean state, creating one of the largest protected areas in the region.
Best Time to Visit Pumalín Douglas Tompkins National Park
Southern hemisphere summer (December-February) is the most practical window for hiking and boat access, though shoulder seasons can be quieter and still rewarding.
Weather & Climate near Pumalín Douglas Tompkins National Park
Pumalín Douglas Tompkins National Park's climate is classified as Oceanic - Oceanic climate with mild summers (peaking in January) and cold winters (coldest in July). Temperatures range from 4°C to 21°C. Heavy rainfall (2161 mm/year), wettest in May.
| Month | Comfort | Temp | Feels | Rain | Sky | Humidity | Wind | UV | Daylight |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| January | - | 11° - 20° | 16° | 102 mm | - | - | 4.5 m/s | - | - |
| February | - | 10° - 21° | 15° | 97 mm | - | - | 4.0 m/s | - | - |
| March | - | 10° - 18° | 14° | 126 mm | - | - | 3.5 m/s | - | - |
| April | - | 7° - 16° | 12° | 184 mm | - | - | 3.7 m/s | - | - |
| May | - | 6° - 13° | 7° | 298 mm | - | - | 3.6 m/s | - | - |
| June | - | 5° - 10° | 5° | 288 mm | - | - | 3.7 m/s | - | - |
| July | - | 4° - 10° | 4° | 297 mm | - | - | 3.7 m/s | - | - |
| August | - | 5° - 11° | 5° | 237 mm | - | - | 4.0 m/s | - | - |
| September | - | 5° - 13° | 7° | 164 mm | - | - | 4.0 m/s | - | - |
| October | - | 7° - 15° | 11° | 115 mm | - | - | 4.2 m/s | - | - |
| November | - | 8° - 17° | 13° | 122 mm | - | - | 4.4 m/s | - | - |
| December | - | 10° - 19° | 14° | 131 mm | - | - | 4.7 m/s | - | - |
How to Get to Pumalín Douglas Tompkins National Park
Primary access points include towns such as Chaitén and Caleta Gonzalo; many areas require boat access or long overland drives on rural roads. Check CONAF and park-specific guides for access routes and permit requirements.
Tips for Visiting Pumalín Douglas Tompkins National Park
- Some sections are accessed only by boat or long treks - plan logistics in advance and check seasonal road conditions.
- Many trails and campgrounds require permits; confirm regulations with Chile's National Forest Corporation (CONAF) or the park's administration.
- Bring layers and rain gear: weather in the fjord and temperate rainforest can change quickly even in summer.