Juncal Andean Park

Juncal Andean Park is an ecological reserve created in 1911 by the Kenrick family. This private property, preservation of a pristine andean ecosystem, has an area of 13,796 hectares and is located in the middle of the Juncal valley, just two hours north from Santiago.

It has unique natural features and a remarkable beauty. In may of 2010 the park was designated “RAMSAR wetlands of international importance” such as other 11 recognized sites in Chile. Wetlands are a focus of conservation for its vital importance as a source of life, especially in harsh environments as the Juncal. This area has magnificent glaciers that are slowly receding as a result of the climate change.

We’ll reach the park entrance alongside the intriguing and forgotten train railway that used to crossed the Andes. From here we will hike into Juncal valley following a low slope trail by the eastern bank of the namesake river. The trail will lead us to a huge wetland, a mountain oasis plenty of life due to the presence of water during all year round.

After crossing «Monos de agua» river we´ll get prepare for the last section of the path that will become less clear and steepest as we continue through a drawer that reveal the presence of this huge body of ice. In this last section we will begin to feel the steep moraine configuration, realizing that we are already on the glacier.