Bernardo O’Higgins National Park, one of Chile’s largest and most remote national parks, is an adventurer’s dream. With towering mountains, expansive glaciers, dense forests, and rugged fjords, this park embodies the wild beauty of Chilean Patagonia. Named after Chile’s founding father, Bernardo O’Higgins, the park offers an unparalleled blend of history and nature. While it may take some effort to get here, the awe-inspiring landscapes and the sheer sense of isolation make the journey worthwhile. If you’re looking for untouched wilderness and are ready for an off-the-beaten-path experience, this park has everything you need.
Covering over 13,000 square miles, Bernardo O’Higgins National Park stretches across multiple regions of southern Chile, making it the country’s largest protected area. The park’s vast expanse includes portions of the Southern Patagonian Ice Field, one of the largest ice fields in the world. This remote paradise is known for its glaciers, most notably the Pío XI Glacier (or Brüggen Glacier), which is one of the few glaciers in the world still advancing rather than retreating. Established in 1969, the park’s rugged landscapes are home to a range of wildlife, including condors, guanacos, dolphins, and even sea lions. Access to the park is mostly by boat or on foot, giving visitors a true sense of adventure in an untamed natural environment. Because of its remote location, Bernardo O’Higgins National Park remains one of Chile’s least-visited parks, preserving its wild charm.
Bernardo O’Higgins National Park Attractions
- Pío XI Glacier: This immense, advancing glacier is the park’s star attraction, offering stunning views.
- Balmaceda and Serrano Glaciers: Located near Puerto Natales, these glaciers are accessible by boat.
- Southern Patagonian Ice Field: A massive ice field that gives rise to many of the park’s glaciers.
- Serrano River: Ideal for boat trips and kayaking through pristine Patagonian landscapes.
- Puerto Edén: A small, isolated village with strong indigenous Kawésqar cultural roots.
- Mount Balmaceda: A dramatic mountain that’s perfect for glacier-viewing.
Bernardo O’Higgins National Park Activities
- Glacier Tours: Boat excursions to Pío XI Glacier and other nearby glaciers are must-do experiences.
- Hiking: Trails are limited due to the park’s remoteness, but options include hiking near Puerto Natales and Puerto Edén.
- Kayaking: Paddle along the Serrano River or in the fjords, taking in the stunning landscapes from the water.
- Wildlife Watching: Spot condors, guanacos, seals, and dolphins in their natural habitat.
- Photography: With towering glaciers, rugged landscapes, and wildlife, the park offers endless photo opportunities.
Bernardo O’Higgins National Park Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Bernardo O’Higgins National Park is during Chile’s summer, from November to March. These months offer milder temperatures, longer daylight hours, and fewer weather-related challenges. Daytime temperatures usually hover between 41°F and 57°F (5°C to 14°C), making it ideal for outdoor exploration. Keep in mind that Patagonian weather can be unpredictable, with strong winds and sudden rain, so being prepared for all conditions is essential. Winter visits are challenging due to extreme weather and limited access, but they offer solitude for those willing to brave the elements.
Bernardo O’Higgins National Park Practical Information
- Entry Fees: Access to the park itself is generally free, but fees are required for boat tours and guided excursions.
- Permits: No special permits are required, though advance booking is recommended for boat trips.
- Accommodation: Options are limited, but Puerto Natales offers nearby hotels, hostels, and lodges. For the truly adventurous, camping is possible with proper gear and planning.
- Packing Essentials: Bring layered clothing, waterproof gear, sunscreen, and insect repellent.
Bernardo O’Higgins National Park Getting There
Accessing Bernardo O’Higgins National Park is part of the adventure. The park is mainly reached by boat from Puerto Natales, a town that serves as a gateway to Chilean Patagonia. Boat tours often include visits to the Balmaceda and Serrano glaciers, with some tours also going further into the park. Another option is to reach Puerto Edén, an isolated village within the park, accessible only by ferry from Puerto Natales or Punta Arenas. For those planning to hike, Puerto Natales also has a few trailheads leading into the park’s outskirts.
Bernardo O’Higgins National Park Nearby Attractions
- Torres del Paine National Park: Just a short distance from Puerto Natales, this famous park offers well-marked trails, iconic mountain views, and more visitor amenities.
- Cueva del Milodón: A prehistoric cave with ancient remains of the Milodón, a giant ground sloth, located near Puerto Natales.
- Puerto Natales: This bustling town offers local shops, cozy cafes, and plenty of tour options for exploring the surrounding region.
- Magdalena Island: A penguin colony that’s accessible by boat from Punta Arenas, providing a great wildlife viewing opportunity.
Final Thoughts
Bernardo O’Higgins National Park is a place for those who seek the true essence of Patagonia—raw, remote, and unspoiled. Its dramatic glaciers, breathtaking fjords, and wildlife make it a hidden gem that is still relatively undiscovered by the tourist crowds. Whether you’re drawn to the adventure of navigating fjords, exploring glaciers up close, or simply experiencing the pristine beauty of southern Chile, this park offers an unforgettable journey into the heart of the Patagonian wilderness.
