Bosque Fray Jorge National Park

In the semi-arid region of Coquimbo in Chile, lies the wonderful Bosque Fray Jorge National Park. With its unique climate and hydric ecosystem, this park is an oasis in the middle of the desert, providing refuge to countless species of flora and fauna, being one of the most unique wonders of the South American country.

Bosque Fray Jorge National Park Information

Geographical Location

Bosque Fray Jorge National Park is located in the Ovalle commune, Coquimbo Region, Chile, near the city of Ovalle and about 110 km from La Serena in the Limarí Province.

Situated in the coastal sector facing the Pacific Ocean, on the Talinay Mountain Range, it combines lush forest with the Atacama Desert, the driest in the world.

Its boundaries are to the west with the Pacific Ocean and to the south with the Limarí River. Among its most prominent elevations are Mozambique Hill (560 m), Centinela Hill (556 m), and Punta del Viento Hill (667 m).

It can be geographically located by the coordinates: 30°39′45″S 71°40′58″W / -30.6625, -71.682777777778.

History and Declaration as a National Park

Declared a National Park on April 14, 1941, Bosque Fray Jorge National Park is a natural heritage part of the World Network of Biosphere Reserves since 1977. Its history is linked to conservation and scientific study.

The establishment of the park was carried out during the government of Juan Antonio Ríos, with the aim of preserving one of the most exclusive relic ecosystems in the country, protecting rich and diverse semi-arid ecosystems that include mist forests of the coastal mountain range summits.

Meaning of the Name

The park’s name honors Fray Jorge, a Franciscan monk, and reflects the spirituality and tranquility that characterize this protected area.

Protected Area

It covers an area of 8,863 hectares. This protected territory safeguards a relic hydric forest from the Quaternary period, a sample of what today is the Atacama Desert, considered the driest place in the world. Over 30,000 years ago, during the last glaciation, humid forests extended to relatively low latitudes, and the area now comprising the park was part of this forest extension.

As a result of climatic changes over millennia, Bosque Fray Jorge has become a rare oasis in the midst of the arid desert. The importance of this protected area lies in its role as a living vestige of a past era, preserving a significant sample of the biodiversity that once spread throughout the region.

The 8,863 hectares of the park harbor a diversity of unique flora and fauna, many of which are endemic species and others adapted to extremely particular conditions. The protection and conservation of this area are essential to preserve a valuable natural heritage and to better understand the ecological and climatic processes that have shaped the region throughout its geological history.

Geographical Features and Climate

Geology and Topography

The park boasts diverse geology with unique rock formations. Its varied topography includes cliffs, terraces, and a landscape that fascinates geologists and tourists alike.

Climate of Bosque Fray Jorge

It presents an interesting climate variation between desert and Mediterranean climates. The average annual temperature is 13°C and the average annual precipitation is 113 mm, with an average relative humidity of 85%.

Within the forest, conditions change considerably. Precipitation in the forested area ranges between 800 and 1,000 mm per year, which represents a significant difference compared to the surrounding desert environment.

Unique Ecosystem: The Hydric Forest

Climate variability is essential to maintain the hydric forest, which largely depends on the condensation of coastal fog (camanchaca) and precipitation to maintain its particular humid environment, creating unique conditions that have allowed the existence and persistence of the forest over time, despite being located in a region as arid as the Atacama Desert.

Recent genetic research based on metazoans indicates that Bosque Fray Jorge is a remnant of the forests that used to cover that area during the Paleogene/Neogene, over 20 million years ago. These forests receded due to the aridification of the region, but Bosque Fray Jorge has persisted thanks to a special climatic phenomenon: the condensation of coastal fog (camanchaca) generated by the interaction of the Humboldt Current and winds from the sea. This combination creates a particular humid microclimate that has preserved, albeit in a significantly deteriorated state, the characteristics of the forest. The area receives an annual rainfall exceeding 250 mm and can even reach values close to 800 or 1000 mm in rainy years.

The relict forest has a major impact on the distribution of various flora species in Chile. Some species, such as the olivillo tree (Aextoxicon punctatum), the epiphytic vine medallita (Sarmienta scandens), and the copihue (Lapageria rosea), Chile’s national flower, find their northernmost limits here. However, it has been suggested that the copihue may have been introduced into the park during the 20th century.

In recognition of its ecological importance and uniqueness, Bosque Fray Jorge was declared a Biosphere Reserve by UNESCO in 1977. This designation highlights the area’s relevance in biodiversity conservation and the protection of a valuable natural heritage that has endured over millions of years.

Biodiversity in Bosque Fray Jorge National Park

Flora

The flora of Bosque Fray Jorge National Park includes a diversity of plant species, many of which are characteristic of the hydric forest, while others adapt to the conditions of the semi-arid climate and the microclimate generated by the condensation of coastal fog. Some of the flora species present in the park may include:

• Olivillo (Aextoxicon punctatum).
• Belloto del Norte (Beilschmiedia berteroana).
• Litre (Lithraea caustica).
• Boldo (Peumus boldus).
• Arrayán (Luma apiculata).
• Lingue (Persea lingue).
• Quillay (Quillaja saponaria).
• Litre (Lithraea caustica).
• Almácigo (Pouteria splendens).
• Canelo (Drimys winteri).

The flora of the area is diverse and represents a unique blend of species that have adapted to the particular climatic conditions of the region.

Fauna

The fauna of Bosque Fray Jorge National Park is diverse, with a total of 227 documented animal species. Most of these species are birds, followed by mammals and to a lesser extent reptiles. Among the birds, some endangered species can be found, such as the Partridge, the Peregrine Falcon, the Turtle Dove, and the Humboldt Penguin. Additionally, quails, loicas, thrushes, diucas, pequenes, hummingbirds, and tencas can be observed.

Regarding mammals, the most common is the culpeo fox, a typical species of the region. The marine otter can also be found, although in smaller numbers. Other less common mammal species but possible to see in the park include wild cats, skunks, marsupials, and small rodents, as well as bats.

This varied fauna finds in Bosque Fray Jorge a unique refuge, thanks to its microclimate and particular characteristics that make it a suitable habitat for these species. Protecting the park is essential to preserve this diversity of wildlife and ensure the survival of those species that are endangered. Park visitors have the opportunity to appreciate and enjoy bird and mammal watching in their natural habitat, making it an unparalleled experience in the midst of the desert oasis of Coquimbo, Chile.

The combination of the hydric forest and the microclimate generated by coastal fog produce a unique habitat in the world, creating a suitable place for wildlife diversity, making this park an exceptional place for the observation and study of the region’s fauna.

Conservation and Protection Efforts

Conservation programs focus on protecting local flora and fauna, including joint efforts with communities and environmental organizations.

Tourist Attractions and Recommended Activities

The main tourist attractions of the national park are wildlife and flora observation, also being a place of historical and archaeological interest, with medicinal water sites used in religious ceremonies.

Sensory Trail in the Hydric Forest

The Hydric Forest Trail is the main attraction of the park. After climbing a winding path, you will start the journey in a semi-arid area that gradually leads you to a Valdivian-type forest. The route is made on wooden walkways and has a length of approximately 1 km, located about 500 meters above sea level. Taking your time, it will take you just over an hour to complete the journey. The morning fog adds a magical touch to the landscape, but make sure to bring warm clothing and suitable footwear to enjoy the walk.

Viewpoint of Fray Jorge National Park

During the Hydric Forest Trail, you will find several viewpoints, but one that stands out is located at a point with privileged views of the sea. It is an emblematic place of the park and many visitors take advantage of it to take photographs. However, due to the frequent presence of fog, visibility may not be optimal on some days.

Valdivian Forest

Almost at the end of the trail, the vegetation changes and the landscape becomes more humid. The Valdivian Forest is full of arrayanes, olivillos, and canelos, as well as mosses, fungi, and lichens. It is important to be cautious in this area, as the walkways are often slippery due to humidity. After enjoying this walk through the Valdivian forest, you will be surprised to see how the landscape changes rapidly, returning to the semi-arid climate of the region.

El Arrayancito

El Arrayancito is a picnic area located near the Environmental Interpretation Center. Here, among the trees, you will find 12 wooden tables and educational games for children. It is a perfect place to relax, enjoy a picnic, and spend a pleasant time in the midst of nature.

Environmental Interpretation Center

The first stop in the park is in an area with parking lots and sanitary facilities. It is advisable to use the bathrooms in this area, as there are no bathrooms available in the hydric forest. The Environmental Interpretation Center and an astronomical observation area are also located here. From this place, you can observe the path between the hills that leads to the humid forest, giving you an idea of what awaits you on your journey.

Scientific Research and Environmental Education

Ongoing Research Projects

The park is a living laboratory for research in biology, geology, and ecology. Ongoing projects contribute to the global understanding of the unique ecosystems.

Environmental Education and Awareness Programs

Educational programs promote environmental awareness and encourage active participation in conservation and sustainability.

Cultural Impact and Local Communities

Relationship with Indigenous Communities

The park has strong ties with local indigenous communities, and its management is carried out in collaboration with them, respecting their traditions and ancestral wisdom.

Influence on Local Culture and Economy

The park influences the local economy and culture by promoting sustainable tourism and strengthening community relations.

Challenges and Threats

Climate Change and Its Effects

The park faces challenges due to climate change, with effects on local flora and fauna. Conservation efforts are vital to maintain its ecological balance.

Conservation and Management Issues

Resource management and the implementation of conservation measures are crucial for preserving this fragile ecosystem. Stakeholder cooperation is essential.

External Threats: Urbanization, Agriculture

External threats such as nearby urbanization and agriculture require ongoing monitoring and responsible management to ensure the park’s sustainability.

Entrance Fees

The entrance fees for Bosque Fray Jorge National Park, for different categories of visitors, are as follows:

• Chilean Child (age 11 and under): Free admission.
• Chilean Teenager (12 to 17 years old): 2,100 Chilean pesos.
• Chilean Adult: 4,100 Chilean pesos.
• Chilean Senior (over 60 years old): Free admission.
• Chilean Disabled Child (age 11 and under): Free admission.
• Chilean Disabled Teenager (12 to 17 years old): Free admission.
• Chilean Disabled Adult: 2,100 Chilean pesos.
• Chilean Disabled Senior (over 60 years old): Free admission.
• Foreign Child (age 11 and under): Free admission.
• Foreign Teenager (12 to 17 years old): 4,100 Chilean pesos.
• Foreign Adult and Senior (including those with disabilities): 8,200 Chilean pesos.

It is important to consider these fees when planning a visit to the park, taking into account the visitor’s corresponding category and nationality. Fees may be subject to change, so it is always advisable to verify updated information before visiting the park.

How to Get to Bosque Fray Jorge National Park

To access Bosque Fray Jorge National Park from different points, you can follow the following directions:

From Santiago

Take Route 5 southbound until reaching kilometer 387.
At the marked level crossing, take the dirt road heading west towards the park. This road is in good condition throughout the year.
Travel approximately 27 km through various communities until reaching Bosque Fray Jorge National Park.

From La Serena

Take Route 5 southbound until reaching kilometer 387.
From there, follow the dirt road westward.
Travel approximately 110 km in one hour and 45 minutes until reaching the park.

From Ovalle

There are two access options from Ovalle:

1. Take the Ovalle-Socos variant and access Route 5 northbound until reaching kilometer 387. From there, follow the dirt road westward to the park.
2. From the southern exit of Ovalle, take the road towards the town of Cerrillos de Tamaya. One kilometer before the town, take the detour westward onto a dirt road in good condition. After traveling 7 km on this dirt road, reach kilometer 387 and find the entrance to Bosque Fray Jorge National Park.