Located 30 km from Chañaral, between the coast and the desert in the Atacama and Antofagasta regions, lies a natural treasure of incomparable beauty: Pan de Azúcar National Park in Chile.
This park is crucial to the northern Chilean ecosystem due to the large number of flora and fauna species that inhabit it. In fact, the park is home to 192 species of native plants, representing 19.6% of all species in the Atacama Region, 146 of which are exclusive to Chile.
It is an ecological sanctuary that captivates visitors with its unique landscape and biological diversity. Would you like to learn more about Pan de Azúcar National Park and consider it as your next tourist destination? Keep reading the article.
Pan de Azúcar in Chile: A Bit of Its History
Thanks to the constant presence of camanchaca, or coastal fog, and the mild climate of the northern region, Pan de Azúcar National Park develops a varied and unique landscape. It is believed that its name originates from the white guano that birds deposit on the islet, giving its summit a constant whitish and “dusty” appearance.
People have inhabited this area long before it was designated a National Park. Among them are shellfish gatherers, fishermen, artisans, and cooks, mainly dedicated to the park's tourism activities.
There is evidence that copper was first shipped from the Pan de Azúcar cove. As a result, its fishermen have worked to preserve the memory and significance of the cove in the lives of those who live there.
What to Do at Pan de Azúcar in Chile
Pan de Azúcar Tour: There are various activities to enjoy in the park, including boat trips with qualified guides to the islet, visits to the cove and kitchens, flora and fauna observation, hiking, biking, and cave visits.
The flora is undoubtedly one of the park's main attractions, essential for the existence of the fauna. The park is home to a wide variety of cacti and xerophytic plants that feed on the coastal mist from the nearby ocean, just 2 km away.
In the continental section of the park, vulnerable species such as guanacos and chilla and culpeo foxes can be found. The marine sector has a diverse fauna of birds and marine mammals that breed in the coastal and insular areas of the park, including Humboldt penguins, otters, and sea lions.
Mirador and Pan de Azúcar Beach: The park features extensive viewpoints that offer safe, wide views of the coast from various locations.
Camping Pan de Azúcar: The park also offers recreational opportunities, either for a day or longer stays, with camping areas and cabins available.
How to Get to Pan de Azúcar National Park
Using Chañaral as a reference, Pan de Azúcar National Park can be accessed via three passable roads year-round, from Monday to Sunday, as the access road is public and not closed.
Access to the park is by vehicle, with the first route being via Route C-120, which connects the city of Chañaral (where fuel can be purchased).
If traveling from the north, you can enter via Route 5 North, then take Route C-112 near the Las Bombas sector. A third option is also via Route 5 North, a little further south, taking Route C-110 at km 968.
Travel to Pan de Azúcar National Park with Mitta
Visiting Pan de Azúcar National Park can be an incredible experience. To help with that, MITTA offers a Rent a Car service that you can quote and reserve on our website and pick up your vehicle at our Copiapó branches.
By renting a MITTA vehicle, you’ll enjoy a comfortable experience tailored to your schedule and needs. Choose from a wide fleet of vehicles at affordable prices for everyone.
We are the only Rent a Car service in Chile that accumulates LATAM Pass Miles. Additionally, by booking with us, you can access important discounts and promotions. Don’t miss the chance to travel; check out our service also in Copiapó!