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| Image: JC Outdoor Chile on YouTube |
Río Clarillo National Park is a must-visit destination for nature lovers and anyone looking to escape the hustle and bustle of Santiago de Chile.
With its beautiful landscapes, diverse flora and fauna, and easy access from the capital, it’s the perfect place to spend a day surrounded by nature.
From National Reserve to National Park
Río Clarillo was originally declared a National Reserve in 1982. Over the years, it became increasingly popular, receiving more than 100,000 visitors annually. In September 2020, it was officially reclassified as Chile’s first National Park in the Metropolitan Region, making it a natural sanctuary just a short drive from Santiago.
This reclassification was part of an initiative by the National Forest Corporation (CONAF), which manages Chile’s National System of State Protected Wild Areas (SNASPE). Thanks to this effort, Chile now protects more than 18 million hectares of land, distributed among 43 National Parks, 45 National Reserves, and 18 Natural Monuments. It’s no coincidence that, starting in 2019, Chile has won the World’s Leading Green Destination award multiple times from the World Travel Awards.
Location of Parque Nacional Rio Clarillo
How to Get There
- By Car: From Santiago, drive south along Avenida Vicuña Mackenna, continue through Ruta 5 Sur, take the exit toward the commune of Pirque, then follow the signs to the park. The distance is about 42–45 km, and depending on traffic, the trip can take up to about one hour.
- By Public Transportation: Take Metro Line 4 to Plaza de Puente Alto station. From there, you can take the MB-74 (Metrobús) toward El Principal / Río Clarillo, which drops passengers near the first park entrance (about 4 km from the main gate).
Under normal weather conditions, the park can be visited year-round.
Main Features of Río Clarillo National Park
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| Image: conaf.cl |
Hiking Trails and Activities
The park offers several hiking trails, each with different levels of difficulty and scenic value. Among the most popular are Quebrada Jorquera, Aliwén Mahuida, Arboretum, Trikau, El Peumal, and Rincón de los Bueyes. Río Clarillo is also one of the few inclusive parks in Chile, with facilities designed for visitors with special needs. There are accessible circuits, restrooms, picnic areas, viewpoints, and safe access to the river in the El Maitén sector.
Visitors can enjoy hiking, nature photography, birdwatching, and picnicking, making it a great destination for families, hikers, and eco-tourists alike.
Please note that camping is not allowed in Río Clarillo National Park. The park is open only for day visits, with designated areas for picnics and rest.
Flora and Fauna
Río Clarillo serves as a refuge for the endangered Cypress of the Andes (Austrocedrus chilensis), and it preserves one of the last remaining sclerophyllous forests near Santiago. The forest is mainly composed of native species such as peumo, litre, and quillay, which provide habitat for many animals.
The park is also home to several notable species, including the endangered Chilean Woodpigeon, Chilean Iguana, Culpeo Fox, Andean Condor, and a wide variety of birds, reptiles, and small mammals. Some rare species, such as the Chilean Tinamou, have also been recorded in the park.
Ecosystems and Scientific Importance
Three main ecosystems coexist in Río Clarillo: the high Andean steppe, the Andean scrubland, and the sclerophyllous forest, which has suffered significant reduction elsewhere in central Chile.
Because of its ecological diversity, scientists from various universities conduct studies here to monitor environmental health and biodiversity.
Visitor Information
During summer, temperatures can exceed 30°C (86°F), so it’s essential to stay hydrated, use sunscreen, and wear a hat.
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