Explore Chiloé's extraordinary 'Stone Forest' reserve — a surreal landscape of ancient volcanic rock formations erupting from dense native temperate rainforest. One of southern Chile's best-kept secrets, best experienced with an expert naturalist guide.
What to expect
The journey from Castro winds through farmland and into the cool, cathedral-like Valdivian rainforest, where lichen-draped coigüe trees tower over moss-carpeted trails. The reserve's signature rock pillars — shaped by millennia of volcanic activity and erosion — rise dramatically from the forest floor, creating natural viewpoints over the island's rolling green interior. Your naturalist guide explains the geology, points out Chiloé woodpeckers and austral parakeets in the canopy, and shares Huilliche plant lore at every turn. The pace is unhurried and deeply immersive.
Good to know
4–6 hours round trip from Castro. Wear sturdy walking shoes and waterproof layers — the forest floor is damp year-round. This is a moderate-level walk; not suitable for guests with mobility limitations.
Sail there
Luxury cruises that call at Castro — book through us, the fare is identical and your concierge stays on your side.