El Cañi Sanctuary

El Cañi Sanctuary is a private ecological reserve of over 500 hectares, 21 km from Pucón, dedicated to protecting native forests of araucarias, coigües and lengas — among the longest-living species on the planet. The trail to the Melidekiñ lookout (1,550 m) covers about 14 km round trip with a continuous climb and steep stretches. The reward: a 360° view of four volcanoes — Villarrica, Sollipulli, Quetrupillán and Lanín — plus numerous high-altitude lagoons along the way.

🥾 Trekking info

Distance: 14 km (round trip) Technical difficulty: High. Maximum altitude: 1,550 m a.s.l. (lookout/summit) Route type: Out-and-back, same trail. Elevation gain: +1121, -63 (±1184)

🌿 Flora, fauna & fungi

Animals found here include: chilla fox, monito del monte, pudú, güiña, puma, coipo, lesser grison, hog-nosed skunk, Magellanic woodpecker, torrent duck, upland goose, southern churrín, chucao tapaculo, southern hued-hued, patagonian sierra finch, cachaña parakeet, austral pygmy owl, Andean condor, chimango caracara, Chilean flicker, thorn-tailed rayadito. Trees found here include: arrayán, laurel, olivillo, ulmo, lingue, taique, michay (7 varieties present in El Cañi), copihue, chilco, licapodio or pimpinela, corcolén, mañío, coihue, tepa, colihue bamboo thickets, araucaria or 'pehuén', lenga, dwarf canelo, and michay or calafate shrubs.

💡 Route tips

We recommend hiking this trail with company, especially if you're not familiar with the route or the terrain conditions. - Footwear: Wear proper trekking shoes, ideally with good grip and a non-slip sole. - Sun protection: Bring a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen. Sun exposure can be intense even on cloudy days. - Hydration and food: Bring at least 2 liters of water per person. We recommend packing ready-to-eat, easy-to-carry food that provides energy during the activity. - Clothing: Wear appropriate mountain clothing plus an extra warm layer, since temperatures can change along the route. - Safety gear: We recommend trekking poles, a fully charged phone and, if possible, a power bank. A headlamp or flashlight, a small first-aid kit, and basic personal items are also important. - Fitness: Keep in mind that the hike to the lookout/lagoon involves a significant level of physical demand. Stay hydrated, take breaks when needed, and always move at your own pace, respecting your physical limits. - Planning: Before starting the hike, let someone you trust know your itinerary, and check the weather forecast and trail conditions. - Environmental care: Respect the flora, fauna and trail signage. Don't leave any trash behind, and be sure to carry out everything you bring in.

📍 Destination area

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Upcoming trips to El Cañi Sanctuary