Navidad Formation

The Navidad Formation is a sedimentary deposit along the Chilean coast composed of sandstone, siltstone, and conglomerate in distinct layers. These stacked rock formations reveal the geological history of an ancient marine environment.

The British naturalist Charles Darwin encountered this formation during his HMS Beagle voyage in 1834 and later documented his observations in scientific publications. His analysis helped establish understanding of South America's coastal geology.

The formation holds evidence of ancient marine life that once thrived in these waters. Visitors can observe preserved remains of sharks and early crab species embedded within the rock layers.

The formation can be reached along the coastal areas, where steep cliffs serve as natural landmarks to guide visitors. Sturdy footwear is recommended since the terrain is rocky and uneven throughout the site.

The sedimentary layers hold pollen and spores that hint at wildfires from prehistoric times. These botanical fossils reveal a mix of plant species from both Gondwana and tropical origins that once grew in this region.