Juncal Andean Park: Hiking over a Glacial Tongue

Juncal Andean Park is an ecological reserve created in 1911. This private property, preservation of a pristine andean ecosystem is located in the middle of Juncal valley, just two hours north from Santiago. It has unique natural features and a remarkable beauty. In may of 2010 the park was designated “RAMSAR wetlands of international importance” such as other 11 recognized sites in Chile. Wetlands are a focus of conservation for its vital importance as a source of life, especially in harsh environments as the Juncal. We’ll reach the park entrance alongside a forgotten train railway that used to crossed the Andes. From here we will hike into Juncal valley following a low slope trail by the eastern bank of the namesake river. The trail will lead us to a huge wetland, a mountain oasis plenty of life due to the presence of water during all year round. After crossing “Monos de agua” river we´ll get prepare for the last section that will become less clear and steepest as we continue through a drawer that reveal the presence of a huge ice body. In this last section we´ll begin to feel the steep moraine configuration, realizing that we are already over Juncal glacier.