Andean Adventure: Exploring Parque Andino Juncal

Difficulty

Moderate

Duration

12 hours

Area

Juncal Andean Park

Distance

145 km from Santiago

Season

October to May (subject to park opening)

A day in the heart of the Aconcagua Valley: glaciers, wetlands, and biodiversity

Embark on an adventure to Parque Andino Juncal, just 2.5 hours from Santiago. 

Upon arrival, we will begin a hike to the viewpoint of the imposing Juncal Glacier, covering 9 kilometers with 500 meters of elevation gain.

Along the trail, you’ll discover streams, wetlands, and glaciers.

You may also spot native flora and Andean wildlife, such as condors and vizcachas. 

At the viewpoint, we’ll enjoy a picnic surrounded by breathtaking landscapes before heading back to Santiago. 

The hike takes 6 to 8 hours, but there is an option to shorten it and visit Laguna del Inca, located at the renowned Portillo ski resort.

Highlights

We’ll travel 2.5 hours from Santiago through stunning mountain landscapes to reach Parque Andino Juncal.
Parque Andino Juncal is a pristine natural area and a Ramsar Site for its valuable biodiversity. Here, we’ll explore glaciers, wetlands, and rivers surrounded by majestic mountains.
Spot Andean condors, vizcachas, and endemic flora adapted to the Mediterranean high-altitude climate.
Enjoy a picnic at the viewpoint, surrounded by mountains and the majestic glacier.
Admire ice and rock glaciers alongside wetlands full of rich biodiversity.

Itinerary

7:30 AM

Pick-up in Santiago and departure towards Parque Andino Juncal.

9:30 AM

Arrival at the park and start of the hike to the glacier viewpoint.

1:00 PM

Arrival at the viewpoint and picnic with spectacular views of the glacier and mountains.

1:30 PM

Start of the descent along the same trail.

4:30 PM

End of the hike and preparation for the return to Santiago.

7:00 PM

Estimated arrival in Santiago.

Customizable

This itinerary is a sample and can be adjusted to suit your interests. We’ll decide the final route on the day of the tour, depending on whether you wish to visit Laguna del Inca.

I approached Joaquín to plan a family trip to Patagonia thanks to the recommendation of a friend who also planned his trip with Ecordua. Joaquín is very kind and very patient in helping me plan a rather intimidating itinerary. We were able to coordinate everything through WhatsApp and phone calls without any problems. I would recommend Ecordua's services to anyone.
Mandy
Traveler

Everything you need to know

Included: professional guide with first-aid kit and satellite communication device, entry to Parque Andino Juncal, trekking poles, binoculars and field guides, transportation to and from your hotel, picnic lunch (sandwich, cereal bar, fruit, nuts, chocolate, or similar), 19% IVA tax. 

Not included: travel insurance, optional tips. 

What should I bring?

Wear comfortable hiking clothes (trekking pants, base layer, light fleece, down jacket, and windbreaker), trekking or trail running shoes, sun protection (hat, sunglasses, sunscreen), a water bottle (at least 1.5 liters, ideally reusable), and a small backpack (20-30 liters).

Do I need prior experience?

Not at all! This tour is customizable to suit the abilities of your group.

What if I have dietary restrictions?

Let us know in the registration form after booking, and we’ll adjust the snacks to meet your needs.

Will there be bathrooms during the hike?

Only at the park’s welcome center. Otherwise, you’ll need to follow “Leave No Trace” principles for restroom needs in nature.

Can we choose the final route on the day of the tour?

Yes! We’ll decide the final route together based on how you feel and the weather conditions.

Can children or beginners join the hike?

Yes, since the tour is customizable, we can select routes suitable for beginners or families with children.

What is your cancellation policy?

You can cancel up to 24 hours before the tour for a full refund. In the event of extreme weather, you’ll receive a full refund or the option to reschedule or select a different tour.

Do you still have doubts?

Don’t worry, we are here to help you.

Write to us and we will respond to you as soon as possible.

Also, download our brochure with all the details about this tour, including itineraries, recommendations and what you need to know to fully enjoy this experience.