Desertic plains, incredible beaches, and an island too; geographical contradictions in the Pan de Azucar National Park, created in 1985 to protect singular semi deserted areas where rain is scarce and the greenness is kept thanks to the comanchaca, the dense characteristic fog that predominates in the zone.

This National Park's coast presents a variegated fauna, where you can even watch some species belonging to the highlands such as the guanaco (Lama guanicoe) and the condor (Vultur Griphus). There are Andean foxes (Pseudalopex culpaeus), kestrels (Falco sparverius) and swallows too, that live in these places.

There is an important number of sea wolfs and Humboldt penguins (Spheniscus humboldti) on the surroundings of the beaches and on Pan de Azucar, an island which gives its name to the Park, besides many seabirds such as the common red-backed hawk (Buteo polyosoma), the plover, the pelicans (Pelecanus occidenatalis) and the seagulls.

There is an important number of sea wolfs and Humboldt penguins (Spheniscus humboldti) on the surroundings of the beaches and on Pan de Azucar, an island which gives its name to the Park, besides many seabirds such as the common red-backed hawk (Buteo polyosoma), the plover, the pelicans (Pelecanus occidenatalis) and the seagulls.

Regarding the flora, more than 20 cacti species have been recorded with those of the copiapoa cacti genus, an endemic species in Chile, standing out, amongst other plants typical of the coastal desert. Although in rainy years the landscape transforms during the spring, when a mantle of wild flowers covers the zone. This phenomenon of inexpressible beauty is known as "Flowered Desert".

The Park has an extension of 43.769 hs on a territory belonging to the Communes of Chañaral (III Atacama Region) and Taltal (II Antofagasta Region). The National Forest Corporation (CONAF) administers it, and visitors will find at their offices all the services (specialised guides and transportation) needed to know this protected area, which are located at the fishermen's cove of Pan de Azucar.

It is possible to go on amusing hikes and to pedal relentlessly along the mountain bike routes in this life zone, 381 km away from the City of Antofagasta. Aquatic sports such as sport fishing, scuba diving and rides on boats are other alternatives on the menu of adventures.

There are three ways to reach the zones of the Park, which are passable throughout the year. Once inside, travellers will encounter camping areas provided with restrooms, cabins powered with solar energy and a mini market.

Access: It can be accessed flying up to Copiapó, and then going seawards to follow the Pacific coastline northbound. The distance is of 167 km along a paved road and a further 37 km through a dirt road in good conditions.

The traveller will meet attractive spots along the way, such as the beach resort at Inglesa Bay and the Port of Caldera, 133 km away from the Park. There is also the City of Chañaral, where you may buy the necessary supplies, 37 km away from the Park.

There is no public transportation to get to Pan de Azucar though there are organised tours that depart from Copiapó or Inglesa Bay.

Source: www.sernatur.cl