Cochamo.com

Brief History

Before the 1990s, only cattleman, a few settlers, rumors of Butch Cassidy and the occasional tourist passed through Valle Cochamó, or Cochamó Valley. Only since the late 90s, hikers and climbers began walking and climbing amidst the waterfalls, turqoise pools, 1000-meter walls and snow-capped peaks. Their stories of this Yosemite-like valley have brought many more to follow and, in turn, their ecological views have helped preserve this valley as a tourist destination and not threatened by timber yard nor center for hydroelectric plants. Both these ecological threats came close to reality, and the latter continues to threaten the area. Over development is another concern. As long as it remains a hike in, and not a drive in, the gems of the valley will hopefully remain unspoiled, its quiet forests vibrant with life and a recreational destination for all to enjoy.

Basics You Should Know

When to go. See the when to go page.

Getting there. All visitors to Cochamó Valley's center, La Junta, are hikers. Getting there (unless you horseback) requires a 4-to-6-hour muddy trek through thick forests that abruptly opens into grassy pampas and views of the surrounding granite domes. From there many day hikes exist to river pools, waterfalls, granite walls and peaks with amazing views. See the getting there pages for detailed logistics and maps.

Accomodation. The Refugio Cochamó (bed & breakfast) makes a great base centered in the valley's epicenter. See the lodging section for a list of amenities available for guests and make a reservation. You can also opt to camp at the Camping La Junta.

Packhorses or/and horseback. You can choose to have your baggage, packs, etc. carried in by packhorses. You can also opt to ride in and out. See the packhorses section and horseback section for more details.

The trails. It's important to know that these are not typical national-park trails. The terrain is more dramatic. Some trails provide incredible, yet scary for some, exposure. They are, nevertheless, fun, adventurous and some of the best hikes in Chile. The map below show some of Cochamó Valley's hikes. There are also a few detailed descriptions of hikes in the trails section.

Some experience & physique. Have some hiking experience is essential. And being in descent shape helps. People with heart conditions should take extra precautions or avoid this area.

Communication. It's a very isolated destination, but you're not without some communication via VHF radios and satelite Internet at the Refugio Cochamó.

Trails Map

Move the map by clicking and moving the mouse. Click +/- to zoom in/out and the lines or icons for info.

Hiking Essentials

Hours from any city, supermarket or hospital, it's important to have everything you need before you arrive. So the following lists can give you some suggestions of what you need to have. Also, we included a list of items you can usually find at the Refugio Cochamó, which is located at the center of most activities in the valley.

Don't forget the following essentials regardless of your plans in the valley.

Head lamp & extra batteries.

Rain gear.

Lighter or matches.

First aid kit.

Sunscreen.

Toilet paper & Ziploc baggies. All visitors must pack their trash out with them and back to a public trash facility for proper disposal, and not leave it in the outdoors to negatively impact nature and wildlife.

Water bottle. Most visitors fill their bottle in tributaries to the Cocahamó River or other small rivers without treating it. Use your own discrepancy.

Food. Whether you plan to cook yourself or buy meals at the refugio, you should bring favorite snacks or at least a sandwich (something containing protein like turkey, chicken or cheese) or even just an energy bar or two for lunch.

Money. Even if you don't plan to spend a cent, there are too many unpredictable factors that may imply needing money. Twisting an ankle may entail hiring a horse to take you out or a shortage in your food supply may require you to buy bread at the refugio.

Be somewhat fit. Unless you plan to come in by horse, there are not easy hikes and a degree of physical fitness is required. If you have a heart condition or other medical problems, consult your doctor before coming.

Communication. There is no phone or cell phone coverage in Cochamó Valley. Refugio Cochamó, nevertheless, offers satelite Internet during specific times of the day. You can also bring your VHF radio (148.000 / 100.0) to communicate with the Refugio Cochamó. Contact the Refugio Cochamó at www.cochamo.com/contact.

Tell someone. One last general "must" is to always tell someone (spouse, friend, family) your planned route and when you intend to return.

Footwear

The trails, especially the main valley trail, can vary from dry and firm to having deep mud and large pools. It all depends on the unpredictable weather. Summer tends to be the driest season but conditions can change fast and, therefore, it's essential to have good footwear.

Waterproof hiking boots or rubber boots.

Gaters for hiking boots.

Extra socks.

Sandals or walking shoes are not nessary but can be a comfortable escape from those boots.

Refugio Cochamó (bed & breakfast)

If you plan to stay in the Refugio Cochamó (bed & breakfast), check out the lodging section for a list of amenities available for guests.

If You Plan to Camp

Check out the camping section to see the available amenities and more info.