Visit a privately owned park in a serene Chilean forest that celebrates the traditional way of life through organic farming, mythology, and local customs.
Starting off from the pier, you will follow the scenic coastline south to Ayaltué, a cultural park and village in Chile's pristine Northern Patagonia. Meaning beautiful and beloved land in one of the local dialects, Ayaltué is privately owned and ensures an intimate, hands-on cultural experience.
Upon arrival at the Park's Welcome Center, you will receive a short briefing about the Park and then proceed to the museum. Amongst the exhibits you will find a replica of a traditional kitchen in a Northern Patagonian country home. You will also see tools used for working the land and fishing. From the museum, you will next walk along a winding trail in a forest of native species that include towering canelos, which are Winter's bark trees that the ancient people of Chile considered sacred. Depending on the trail you take, you may find examples of traditional homes built by the agrarian Veliches Indians, or vessels built by the seafaring Chono Indians. Later, you will be offered samples of smoked salmon, a locally caught staple.
In the Mythological Park, you will encounter sculptures of several beings deeply rooted in the local mythology and learn the rituals associated with them. Rituals are also essential to the harvest, as you will discover by watching the park's organic farmers harvest potatoes, strawberries and medicinal herbs.
After what will surely be a fascinating visit experiencing up-close the unique cultural heritage and nature of this amazing land, you will re-board your coach for the drive back to Puerto Montt. Arriving at the port gate, you will have the option of disembarking the coach and heading off to do some independent exploration of the city, or going straight back to the ship.
Please note: This tour includes approximately 2-hours of walking which can be strenuous at times and is over uneven and natural surfaces. The tour is not available to wheelchair guests and not suitable for those with mobility concerns. Layered, comfortable clothing and flat, comfortable walking shoes are suggested.