Aculeo Lagoon

Aculeo Lagoon is one of the main ecological reserves in the Metropolitan Region. It is located at an altitude of 350 m (1,148 ft.) and measures 4 km (2.5 miles) wide and 8 km (5 miles) long. All 1,100 hectares (2,640 acres) are nourished by melting snow and ice, rain, and estuaries. The shores are muddy and the coastline is more or less smooth, except where the hills reach the water's edge and the lagoon becomes deeper in these areas. There are two islands that reside in the middle of the lagoon, boasting abundant vegetation and numerous animal habitats. The lagoon is surrounded by forests, valleys, ravines, and snow-capped mountains in the winter. Bordering the lake on the south, the Altos de Cantillana feature peaks approximately 2,300 m (7,544 ft.) above sea level, and the smaller mountain chains are confined to the west and north.

The Aculeo Lagoon is divided into two sections: North shore and South shore. Each section provides various services including restaurants, clubs, camping areas, picnic areas, fishing, and horseback riding excursions. The South shore is especially oriented for taking walks and hiking amongst the lush, lovely landscape.

The lagoon's water level is always apt for water sports such as kayaking, sailing, water skiing, and others.

Location

Metropolitan Region. 65 km (41 miles) southwest of Santiago in the Paine Suburb. Map

When to go

Year round.

Attractions

Management houses, Letelier Hacienda, The Cavern of the Virgin of Lourdes, Peralillo Estuary, forests, valleys, ravines, Cantillana mountains, Town of El Manzanito.

How to get there

From Pan-American Route 5 South, pass Paine and approx. 6 km (3.75 miles) after Paine take the detour on the right (Champa-Aculeo Lagoon). Continue 15 km (9 miles) more until you arrive to Pintue, and then continue on towards Rangue.

Activities

Windsurfing, sea kayaking, water sports, fishing. Index of Activities Services

Food, accommodations, entertainment, trail, eco tourism circuits, transportation.

Surroundings

Paine, Pintué, Buin, Champa, Range.