San Fabián

San Fabián is a highland commune in Ñuble Region spanning roughly 1,570 square kilometers of central Chile with settlements scattered across mountain valleys. The territory includes areas like Paso Ancho, La Vega, and Los Puquios connected by regional roadways at varying elevations.

The commune was officially established on December 7, 1865, as an independent administrative entity within Ñuble Region during a period of territorial organization in central Chile. This founding initiated its development as a highland municipality serving the mountain settlements and surrounding valleys.

The settlements here maintain a rural character shaped by small-scale farming and livestock herding across the highland valleys. Community ties remain strong through shared use of local markets and gathering spaces that reflect mountain village traditions.

Access to the communes requires traveling through regional roads that vary in condition by season, so advance planning is recommended for visitors. Accommodations are available in the small settlements and local guides can help navigate the mountain terrain and its scattered communities.

The mountain terrain here supports distinctive forest and grassland ecosystems at altitude that receive limited attention from most travelers visiting central Chile. These ecological patterns create an unexpected natural setting that differs markedly from the more familiar lowland agricultural zones of the country.

Location: Punilla Province

Inception: December 7, 1865

Capital city: San Fabián de Alico

Elevation above the sea: 1,349 m

Website: http://sanfabiandealico.cl

GPS coordinates: -36.55000,-71.55000

Latest update: December 7, 2025 19:29