Chanco, a coastal district in the Maule Region, in spite of its size (it is only 500 kms2), it enjoys a wide and unique variety of ecosystems.
Its protected areas, which altogether amount to over 700 hectares, are interesting places to explore.
Nature lovers will not want to miss this beautiful countryside with its mountains, rivers, dunes, flora and fauna.
LOS RUILES National Park: opened in 1982 and administered by CONAF, this is located along the Cauquenes to Chanco road. It comprises 270 hectares, the purpose being to protect a young forest of ruil trees (Nothofagus alessandri), a very large tree, characteristic and unique to the coastal mountain range in this region which reaches its maturity after 250 years.
It is rich in flora and fauna, the most striking being the long-leafed mañíos, ciruelillos, peumos, hazelnut trees, copihues (the Chilean national flower), as culpeo foxes, chingues , grisons and pudúes.
The park allows its visitors a chance to interact with nature, be it through the signposted paths you can follow or by enjoying the river and its natural pools.
FEDERICO ALBERT National Park: created in 1981, it has 145 hectares and is administered by CONAF.
This is the indelible proof of the work of Federico Albert Faupp ( a German scientist). It is a park designed to restrain sand dunes and was the first of its type to be carried out in Chile. It is home to exotic species such as the eucalyptus, Australian aromo, pines, etc.
Presently it offers picnic and camping facilities, with electricity, running water, toilets, tables and games for children. It also has an environmental information centre.
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