Three places full of mysteries on Chiloé that you should know about

We will tell you about three places full of mystery on Chiloé, with fascinating stories that you will remember for the rest of your life.

Churches declared World Heritage, amazing stilt houses, local cuisine, and beautiful craftsmanship are the core of the rich culture on Chiloé.

Another element that makes this destination in the south of Chile so special are its myths and legends, with tales that have been passed down through several generations whose value is immeasurable.

1. Aucar Island: The place where sailing souls arrive

Photo: @viajerosenchile

A typical area that has been the cradle of innumerable tales. Aucar Island is a small island/cemetery connected to the Greater Island of Chiloe by a wooden bridge more than 500 meters long.

It was named “Isla de las Almas Navegantes” (meaning “Island of the Sailing souls”) by the Chilote writer Francisco Coloane, who compared it to a ship whose dead sailors await to set sail.

Next to the cemetery, there is a statue in honor of Nuestra Señora de la Merced and a botanical park, where you can find species such as chilco blanco, cinnamon trees, luma, tepú, olivillo, hazel trees, and quistal. There is also a marsh, inhabited by black necked swans among other species.

How do I get to Aucar Island?

From the Quemchi area, you will have to travel 6 kilometers south, leaving by the Puerto Fernandez crossing. You can also get there by going along the east coast of Chiloé.

2. Muelle del Tiempo

Photo: @muelledeltiempo

A poetic place found within the Tepuhueico Park, built by sculptor Marcelo Orellana Rivera, nicknamed “Chumono”, who also created other iconic works in Chiloé such as Muelle de las Almas de Chonchi or Muelle de la Luz in Chepu Ancud.

Muelle del Tiempo perfectly integrates with the landscape. You can take a priceless picture of yourself there, with the vast Pacific Ocean as a backdrop. This is a hidden treasure in Chiloé and a perfect place to reflect on important matters.

How do I get to Muelle del tiempo?

From Cucao, you have to drive 11 kilometers until you reach the entrance of the Tepuhueico Park. From this point on, you have to drive another 1.6 kilometers by car to reach the access, where a park ranger will explain the route to you.

You will be crossing the Pirulil River and the Pilol Beach on a trek, and you will find the pier at the very end. Keep in mind you will be walking through some muddy areas, so we recommend you wear trekking shoes. It will be a beautiful trip accompanied by the songs of the marvelous chucaos!

3. Sail through the archipelago and find Friendship Island

Photo: Sernatur audiovisual bank

Friendship Island is one of the most fascinating urban legends in our country.

After an alleged contact with its inhabitants at the end of the eighties, there have been different rumors surrounding it, such as it being inhabited by aliens, or a technologically advanced community. However, there are no geographical records of the area.

There is even a documentary about it, Isla Alien, released in 2023, that explains the mysteries surrounding this place in depth.

You could be the first one to find Friendship Island! There are numerous tours on Chiloé that will take you to sail through the archipelago, from luxury ships and cruises to wooden yachts where you will live a unique experience.