30 km from Chañaral, between the coast and the desert in the regions of Atacama and Antofagasta, lies a natural treasure of incomparable beauty: The Pan de Azúcar National Park in Chile.
This park is of vital importance for the ecosystem of northern Chile, due to the large number of species of flora and fauna that live there. In fact, 192 species of native flora coexist in the park, representing 19,6% of all species in the Atacama Region, of which 146 are native to Chile.
It is an ecological sanctuary that captivates visitors with its unique landscape and biological diversity. Do you want to know a little more about the Pan de Azúcar National Park and incorporate it as a possible next tourist destination? Well, keep reading the article.
Sugar Loaf in Chile: A little of its history
Thanks to the constant presence of the camanchaca or coastal fog and the warmth of the northern area, a varied and unique landscape develops in the Pan de Azúcar National Park. It is believed that its name originates from the white guano that birds deposit on the islet, which gives a constant whitish and “sprinkled” appearance to the top of it.
People have lived in this area since long before it became a National Park. Among them, there are shellfish gatherers, fishermen, artisans and cooks, dedicated mainly to the tourist activity of the Pan de Azúcar Park.
There is evidence that copper was shipped from the Pan de Azúcar cove for the first time in this place. For this reason, its fishermen have been in charge of keeping alive the memory and importance that their cove has had in the lives of those who live there.
What to do in Pan de Azúcar in Chile?
Sugar Loaf Tour: There are various activities that can be developed in the park. Boat rides with qualified guides to the islet, visits to the cove and cook shops, observation of flora and fauna, hiking, bike rides and visits to caves.
The flora is undoubtedly one of the most recognized and important attractions for the existence of the fauna. The park has a wide spectrum of cacti and xerophytic plants that feed on the coastal mist coming from the sea, which is only 2 km away.
In the continental sector of the park there is a fauna in a vulnerable state of conservation, such as guanacos and chilla and culpeo foxes. The marine sector has a fauna of birds and marine mammals that reproduce in the coastal and insular areas of the park, such as Humboldt penguins, otters and sea lions.
Pan de Azúcar viewpoint and beach: The park has extensive viewpoints that allow you to appreciate the coast safely and widely, from different places.
Sugar Loaf Camping: There are also different recreational opportunities, whether for the day or longer, as the park offers camping areas and cabins.
How to get to Pan de Azúcar National Park?
With Chañaral as a reference, the Pan de Azúcar National Park can be accessed through three passable roads throughout the year, from Monday to Sunday, because the road to access it is public, so there is no closure of access. .
Entry to the park is by vehicle, and the first access is through Route C-120 that connects the city of Chañaral (where you can refuel).
If you travel from the north, you have the possibility of entering through Route 5 North, then taking Route C-112 at the Las Bombas sector; and the third, also along Route 5 North, a little further south of the previous one, Route C-110 at Km 968.
Travel to Pan de Azúcar National Park with Mitta
Visiting the Pan de Azúcar National Park can be a great experience. To help you with this, MITTA has the Rent a Car service, which you can quote and reserve from our website and pick up your vehicle at our branches located in Copiapó.
By renting a MITTA vehicle you will enjoy a comfortable experience adjusted to your own times and needs. You can choose from a large fleet and at convenient prices for everyone.
We are the only Rent a Car Chile that accumulates LATAM Pass Miles. In addition, by hiring our service you can access important discounts and promotions. Don't miss out on traveling, learn about our service also in Copiapó!
