Huilo Huilo is a private biological reserve covering thousands of hectares of Valdivian temperate rainforest — a forest type that exists only in this corner of the world and a couple of other places in the southern hemisphere. It sits on the far side of the mountains from Pucón, towards Neltume, and the drive is part of the day.
What strikes you on arrival is not one landmark but the density: coigüe and ulmo trees and giant ferns blocking the light, moss hanging off everything, and a green humidity unlike any other forest in Chile.
What you see
The reserve concentrates several tall waterfalls fed by snowmelt, running hard in spring. They are reached on boardwalks and prepared trails through the forest.
The other draw is the architecture. Huilo Huilo has buildings that look lifted from a fairy tale: the Magic Mountain, a lodge covered in vegetation with a waterfall pouring from its peak, is the photo everyone takes home. There is also the deer sanctuary, where the animals can be seen at close range.
It is a long day because of the distance — a good share of it on the road, the rest walking short sections between points.
How hard is it
Low. You walk a fair amount in total, but always in short sections on prepared trails and boardwalks, with no significant climbing. What makes the day demanding is its length, not the terrain.
Reserve entry tickets
Huilo Huilo is private and charges admission separately, through a system of “portals” — each pack covering a different set of attractions. As a 2026 reference, the pack covering the Huilo Huilo Portal, La Leona Falls and the Deer Forest runs around CLP 8,500 per adult and CLP 6,500 for children and seniors; fuller packs adding the Volcanic Cavern and other portals start around CLP 13,000.
The reserve updates these seasonally. Ask us when booking to confirm the current rate and whether it is included in your tour price.
When to go
Year-round, and each season changes the place considerably. Spring brings the strongest waterfalls from snowmelt. Autumn turns the native forest red and gold. Winter means fewer people and mist between the trees, which is hard to beat.
This is a rainforest: it rains on many days of the year, and that is exactly what keeps it the way it is. Turning up expecting sunshine is missing the point.
What to bring
- A waterproof jacket, whether or not it is raining when you leave
- Comfortable footwear with grip — wet boardwalks are slippery
- Insect repellent in summer
- A camera, and something to keep it dry
- Water and snacks for the drive
