Bernardo O'Higgins National Park wilderness guide
National Park · Chile

Bernardo O'Higgins National Park

Bernardo O'Higgins National Park is Chile's largest national park, boasting remote glaciers, rugged mountain landscapes, and pristine waterways that invite exploration and adventure.

National Park8,472,7802+ Trails

Designation

National Park

Total Wilderness Area

8,472,780

Elevation / Terrain

Diverse Wilderness

Field Editorial Guide

About Bernardo O'Higgins National Park

Bernardo O'Higgins National Park is Chile's largest national park, boasting remote glaciers, rugged mountain landscapes, and pristine waterways that invite exploration and adventure.

Wilderness Landscape & Natural Heritage

Bernardo O'Higgins National Park is the largest national park in Chile, covering an area of approximately 8.4 million acres. Located across the Aysén and Magallanes regions, it is home to an awe-inspiring array of natural landscapes, including the Southern Patagonian Ice Field and numerous fjords. The park's geography features glaciers flowing into scenic fjords, with icebergs and temperate rainforests that provide a dazzling display of biodiversity. The park supports wildlife such as the guanaco, Andean condor, and the elusive South Andean deer. Historically, the park was named after Chilean independence leader Bernardo O'Higgins. It offers a range of outdoor recreational activities, from trekking the challenging paths around massive glaciers, engaging in boating tours on the fjords, to exploring remote campsites offering breathtaking views. Visitors are drawn by the stunning natural beauty, the call of adventure in one of the wildest places on earth, and the serene, untamed wilderness that promises a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

Field Guide · National Park
Adventure Destinations

Notable Destinations Near Bernardo O'Higgins National Park

Scenic viewpoints, outdoor landmarks, and notable points of interest within 60 miles.

Key Wilderness Highlights

Southern Patagonian Ice FieldGlacier exploration and boat toursRemote fjord landscapesRare wildlife and bird watching opportunities
Wilderness Recreation

Outdoor Adventures in Bernardo O'Higgins National Park

Explore curated guides for top outdoor sports, trail networks, and wilderness activities.

Park Recreation

Hiking

Available in Bernardo O'Higgins National Park
Park Recreation

Camping

Available in Bernardo O'Higgins National Park
Park Recreation

Wildlife Viewing

Available in Bernardo O'Higgins National Park
Park Recreation

Fishing

Available in Bernardo O'Higgins National Park
Park Recreation

Paddle Sports

Available in Bernardo O'Higgins National Park
Park Recreation

Photography

Available in Bernardo O'Higgins National Park
The Ranger Station

Visitor Logistics & Essential Planning

Everything you need to know about entrance passes, seasons, visitor centers, road transit, and wildlife safety in Bernardo O'Higgins National Park.

Passes & Fees

Entrance Requirements & Interagency Passes

No entrance fees; guided tours often require reservations.

Wilderness Checklist

Carry paper topographic map & compass in remote zones.
Store all food and scented items in approved bear canisters.
Check wildfire / smoke advisories before backcountry departure.
Pack out everything you pack in (Leave No Trace).
Wilderness Stays

Camping & Overnight Stays in Bernardo O'Higgins National Park

Frontcountry developed campgrounds, backcountry wilderness permit guidelines, and starry-night camping advice.

Refugio Tyndall

A remote campsite providing basic facilities and stunning views of surrounding glaciers and peaks.

Camping Torres del Paine

Offers more amenities and is a popular spot for staging before exploring nearby glaciers.

Adventure Basecamps

Gateway Towns Near Bernardo O'Higgins National Park

Stay, dine, and gear up in these mountain towns and scenic basecamps surrounding the park.

El Chaltén, Santa Cruz
30.08 miles
Gateway Basecamp

El Chaltén, Santa Cruz

El Chaltén is Patagonia's trekking capital, offering endless trails and breathtaking views. Ideal for hikers, climbers, and nature lovers seeking adventure in stunning landscapes.

Spring and Summer
Explore Town
El Chaltén, Santa Cruz Province
30.08 miles
Gateway Basecamp

El Chaltén, Santa Cruz Province

El Chaltén, Argentina’s trekking capital, offers adventure seekers breathtaking hiking trails, climbing routes, and diverse wildlife. Experience stunning vistas of Mount Fitz Roy and the surrounding Patagonian terrain.

Summer (November to March)
Explore Town
El Chaltén
30.08 miles
Gateway Basecamp

El Chaltén

El Chaltén is a trekker's paradise in Patagonia, where hiking trails, rock climbing, and breathtaking views collide. A top spot for adventure seekers!

Spring and Summer
Explore Town
Puerto Edén, Magallanes and Chilean Antarctica Region, Chile
48.70 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Puerto Edén, Magallanes and Chilean Antarctica Region, Chile

Puerto Edén is a remote Patagonian fjord town surrounded by magic wilderness. Perfect for kayaking, hiking, and wildlife watching amid pristine channels and ancient forests.

Summer (December to February)
Explore Town