For many hundreds of kilometers in every direction, the only vegetation that is naturally supported by the arid land are cacti. Yet, a remnant from former times when the climate was more humid and nourished abundant forests remains;
the
stands of native tress perched upon 600 meter high mountains above the
wide expanse of the Pacific in Fray Jorge. The uniqueness
of the flora found in Fray Jorge National Park has earned it recognition
as a United Nations International Biosphere Reserve. The park does not
only offer a habitat for interesting flora, but its forests are a refuge
for white owls and its coastal area is home to numerous Humbolt Penguins
and sea lions. Access: Due to the fragile ecosystem, Fray Jorge is open
to the public only on weekends and holidays throughout the year (April-Nov,
Sat and Sun 8am-6pm; Dec-March Mon and Thurs same hours). The turnoff
for the park is about 390 kms north of Santiago on the Panamerican Highway
(Route 5), 100 kms south of La Serena. From the main highway there is
a windy dirt road for 22 kms west to the CONAF admission office. The
road is dusty but passable for any passenger vehicle. Admission costs
US$3 per person. |
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Camping, cabañas | |||
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| General Info A short distance beyond the CONAF office is a shaded picnic and camping area (sites cost US$12 with water and bathrooms). Due to the increasing number of visitors, 15 kms of new trails will soon be open for those who wish to enjoy the park on foot or horseback. Several new cabañas are also available where the Rio Limari, the park´s southern border, meets the ocean. It is only possible to arrive at this lodging by hiking or horseriding. Accommodation costs US$12 per person. This is the same price as the three rooms that are available at the park administration building for those who wish to stay but have no interest in camping or hiking. |
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