Between Campiche and Maitencillo, in the Puchuncaví commune, lie more than 125 hectares of high ecological and geological value on the central coast. Within this area is Quirilluca Park, a conservation area that has become a regional and national benchmark thanks to the work of the Maratué team, park rangers, and various specialists dedicated to safeguarding this fragile yet valuable ecosystem. The park’s landscape is defined by its cliffs, a geosites that hold key information about geological evolution. “The Quirilluca cliffs are a true research center of great value, providing essential information about the geological formation history of central Chile,” explains Franco Venegas, Sustainability Manager for the Maratué project, which is responsible for its conservation.
In addition to its geological value, the park is home to one of the few remaining coastal sclerophyllous forests in central Chile. Among boldo, litre, peamo, and maiten trees grow specimens of the northern belloto, an endemic species classified as vulnerable. Declared a Natural Monument, it reaches its southernmost coastal populations here. “This ecosystem is highly vulnerable, historically fragmented, and especially susceptible to the negative effects of climate change,” explains Juan José Sáez, the biologist in charge of flora and fauna monitoring in the park. “Without protective measures, we run a real risk of losing this unique plant formation,” he adds. Conservation efforts are also reflected in the fauna. Boobies (seabirds) migrate each year to nest on the cliffs of Quirilluca. They are joined by resident species such as the marine otter (chungungo), a small marine mammal, and the northern belloto itself. Quirilluca Park is probably “the only place where all three converge”—boobies, otters, and belloto—Sáez emphasizes. ‘This convergence highlights the need to implement and maintain conservation measures and systematic monitoring programs over time to ensure the preservation of its environmental values,’ it adds.
THE ROLE OF PARK RANGERS
The conservation of Quirilluca National Park does not depend solely on scientific studies. Park rangers play a central role in this task: educating, guiding, and protecting. In addition to leading delegations and providing information, they conduct patrols, clean-up rounds, and participate in flora and fauna monitoring. Access to the park is free year-round, but it is governed by clear rules that aim to guarantee responsible use: no pets, no camping, no fires, and no drones are some of the measures that are not arbitrary prohibitions, but rather necessary actions to safeguard a living and vulnerable ecosystem. An example of the importance of responsible visiting is the restriction on dogs, as they disturb wildlife, and their feces can even transmit diseases. ‘It is important that visitors respect these measures and understand that they are entering an ecologically vulnerable area.
It is everyone’s responsibility to collaborate in the conservation of the ecosystem,’ says Venegas. Signage, talks, and infographics reinforce this message, making each visit an educational experience. ‘It is essential to protect this area, as it constitutes a significant representation of coastal sclerophyllous forests,’ notes Sáez. The orderly access and the presence of professionals allow for ‘direct observation of Chilean flora and fauna, which is fundamental for the development of quality environmental education for the communities,’ he adds. Quirilluca Park is a natural space, a living heritage of biodiversity, a refuge for unique species, and a meeting point between nature and society. This area gives territorial identity to the municipality, so conserving it is a shared responsibility that ensures future generations can also know and learn from this unique corner of the central coast.