Pingüino de Humboldt National Reserve
Pingüino de Humboldt National Reserve, Nature reserve with three islands in Coquimbo Region, Chile
Description
Pingüino de Humboldt National Reserve comprises three islands—Chañaral, Damas, and Choros—stretching along the coast north of La Serena. The 859-hectare site is surrounded by ocean waters where numerous marine animals live and breed.
History
The reserve was established in 1990 to protect the distinctive wildlife populations living along this coast. Its creation responded to the need to safeguard marine animals and their breeding grounds from harm.
Culture
The fishing communities at Punta de Choros and Caleta Chañaral have deep roots along this coast, and their boats and daily routines shape what visitors see. The relationship between people and the sea remains visible in how the villages are organized around maritime work.
Practical
The reserve is best reached from Los Choros village, located north of La Serena. Boat trips to the islands depart from this point, though the road to get there is unpaved.
Did you know?
The islands are home to 59 plant species found nowhere else in the world. This botanical rarity is what makes the site so valuable to researchers and nature lovers.
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Giant Magellan Telescope
86.2 km
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77.8 km
Lighthouse of La Serena
77.1 km
TRAPPIST
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78.3 km
MASCARA
77.8 km
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77.4 km
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65.1 km
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75.1 km
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Iglesia de Santa Rosa de Lima, Freirina
94.1 km
Iglesia de San Pedro, Huasco
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Las Palmeras
77.5 km
Iglesia de Santa Inés
77.1 km
Edificio Los Portales
94.2 km
Casa Herreros
77.4 km
Casa de las Palmeras
77.5 km
Warsaw Telescope
85.8 km
Memorial de La Serena
77.4 kmDiscover hidden gems everywhere you go!
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