Introduction

The Reserva Nacional Federico Albert must be one of the few places in Chile where exotic species of trees such a eucalyptus and pine trees are protected. Even though these may seem strange, there is a very good reason for the conservation of these non-native trees. In 1890 the German botanist Federico Albert arrived in Chile, and the president Federico Balmaceda gave this scientist a very special and important mission: to stop the advance of the sand dunes which were threatening the village of Chanco. In order to save this settlement, Albert decided that he would employ the quickest and more effective solution he could find: he would plant pine (pinus radiata) and eucalyptus trees (eucaliptus globulus) among other species which grow quickly enough in difficult climates to stop the advance of the dunes.

Albert managed to successfully stop the dunes from destroying the village and the forest was left there, and to this day it protects Chanco from erosion. Over the years native species such as boldo (peumus boldus), peumo (cryptocarya alba), corcolén (azara celastrina) and maqui (aristotelia chilensis) have been cropping up in the area, whilst the original pine and eucalyptus trees have grown to enormous specimens, and are probably the largest in Chile. The forest has also become home to native fauna such as the quique (galicitis cuja), zorro culpeo (lycalopex culpaeus), zorro chilla (lycalopex griseus) and then chingue (conepatus chinga).

The village of Chanco, located close to the sea, suffered significant damage in the 2011 earthquake but thanks to the dunes it was protected from the following tsunami. A large number of traditional mud-brick houses were destroyed by the extreme seismic activity, and Chanco lost some of its charm. However, the village has slowly been working to restore the exteriors of the houses. The village also conserves the tradition of producing excellent cheeses which have made it famous throughout Chile.

Appropriate season

All year around.

Access

The Reserva Nacional Federico Albert is located to the north of the village of Chanco, located 157km to the west of Talca via the Ruta de los Conquistadores or 170km to the west of the same city via the route which passes through Constitución. If travelling by public transport, ask for information regarding timetables and prices in the Talca Bus Terminal.

It is also possible to reach Chanco from the town of Cauquenes, which is just 45km away via paved road and with frequent public transport.

From Chanco, you can reach the reserve on foot or by car from the Plaza de Armas (main square). If you choose to drive you can park your car safely in the reserve.

Permits / Prices

The entry fees to the Reserva Nacional Federico Albert are as follows: Chilean adult CLP$2000 (approx. US$4), foreign adult CLP$3500 (approx. US$7), all children CLP$600 (approx. US$1).

Accommodation / Facilities

In the Reserva Nacional Federico Albert, there is an excellent campsite which is open all year round. The campsite, as well as being large enough for various tents, has electric lights and hot water showers.

Recommendations

• If you are staying in the campsite, it is better to resist temptation and not light a fire.

Gear

• Camera

Schedule

1. Talca - Reserva Nacional Federico Albert – Talca