Protected Areas in Chile

Alberto de Agostini National Park lies deep within the heart of Chilean Patagonia, where the towering peaks of the Cordillera Darwin converge with the relentless waters of the Pacific Ocean and the Beagle Channel. This protected area is not only a sanctuary for some of the region's most remarkable flora and fauna but also holds a profound geological significance: it marks the final point where the mighty Andes Mountains, the longest continental mountain chain on Earth, plunge into the sea.

Alerce Andino National Park is located in the Chilean Andes, in the Los Lagos Region of southern Chile. The park contains ancient Alerce forests, some of which feature the oldest trees on Earth. It is part of the Bosques Templados Lluviosos de Los Andes Australes Biosphere Reserve and Chile's Route of Parks. It is a critical haven for unique biodiversity, significantly supporting global conservation efforts.

Alerce Costero National Park is a testament to Chile's commitment to conserving its natural heritage. Nestled within the picturesque landscapes of the Los Ríos Region in southern Chile, this protected area spans the country's largest protected zone for mainland temperate coastal forests. Located west of Valdivia, the park boasts an array of breathtaking scenery, diverse ecosystems, and unique flora and fauna.

Nestled amidst the towering Andes of northern Chile, the Alto Loa National Reserve is a true testament to the resilience of life in one of the world's most extreme environments. From the imposing Aucanquilcha volcano, a dormant giant that dominates the landscape, to the shimmering salt flats that stretch as far as the eye can see, the Alto Loa Reserve is a captivating tapestry of volcanic grandeur, desert vistas, and a delicate ecology that has adapted to thrive against all odds.

Bernardo O'Higgins National Park is named after Bernardo O'Higgins, the revolutionary leader and first head of state of Chile. It is the country's largest protected area, spanning the remote regions of Aysén and Magallanes and Antártica Chilena and encompassing a vast portion of the Southern Patagonian Ice Field. The park is a symbol of conservation and natural wonder and stands as a testament to southern Chile's rugged beauty and ecological significance.

Nestled amidst the arid landscapes of the Atacama Desert, Bosque de Fray Jorge National Park emerges as a verdant oasis of biodiversity and natural beauty within the Cordillera de Talinay, part of the Chilean Coastal Range. Situated approximately 100 kilometers south of La Serena on the Pacific Ocean, this national park is a testament to the resilience of life in the face of challenging environmental conditions.

Cabo de Hornos National Park stands as the southernmost national park in the world, except for the disputed Chilean Antarctic Territory. Nestled in the remote Wollaston Archipelago within the Hermite Islands complex, this park forms part of the core area of the Cabo de Hornos Biosphere Reserve. A testament to the pristine and rugged beauty of southern Chile's wilderness, it is characterized by its unique geographical features, extreme weather conditions, diverse flora and fauna, and its significant role in global conservation efforts.

At the southernmost tip of the South American continent lies a breathtaking, remote wilderness known as the Cabo de Hornos Biosphere Reserve. Situated in the Magallanes region of southern Chile, this reserve spans pristine marine areas, islands, fjords, forests, and moorlands. Renowned for its dramatic landscapes and harsh weather conditions, Cabo de Hornos (Cape Horn) is both a paradise for nature enthusiasts and a critical site for scientific research.

The Corredor Biológico Nevados de Chillán – Laguna del Laja Biosphere Reserve, located in the heart of Chile, stands as a beacon of conservation and biodiversity. This reserve is recognized globally as a biodiversity hotspot in the northern part of the Patagonia region. With its snow-capped peaks, diverse ecosystems, and rich cultural heritage, the reserve represents a harmonious balance between nature and human stewardship. Its status as a Biosphere Reserve highlights Chile's commitment to environmental preservation and sustainable development.

Chiloé National Park, located on the western coast of Chiloé Island in the Los Lagos Region of southern Chile, is a sanctuary of remarkable biodiversity and natural beauty. The park showcases diverse ecosystems, from temperate rainforests and swamps to rugged coastlines and sandy dunes. Exploring the park's geography, climate, flora, fauna, and recreational opportunities reveals the significance of one of Chile's most enchanting natural reserves.