Las Palmas de Cocalán National Park

Las Palmas de Cocalán Overview

Las Palmas de Cocalán National Park, known locally as Parque Nacional Las Palmas de Cocalán, is a protected area situated in the Libertador General Bernardo O’Higgins Naitonal Park Region of Chile, specifically within the commune of Las Cabras.

Established in 1971 and officially designated as a national park in 1989, it spans approximately 3,709 hectares (about 14.3 square miles or 37.09 square kilometers) . Notably, it is one of the few national parks in Chile located on private land, primarily owned by Sociedad Agrícola y Forestal Hacienda Las Palmas de Cocalán y Cía. Ltda. and Hacienda Agrícola y Forestal Palmas de Cocalán Ltda.

The park is renowned for its dense population of Chilean palms (Jubaea chilensis), with approximately 3,500 specimens, many of which are centuries old . These palms represent one of the southernmost populations of their species, thriving in the park’s unique microclimate.

The terrain is characterized by rolling hills and valleys, interspersed with native vegetation such as roble (Nothofagus obliqua), quillay (Quillaja saponaria), boldo (Peumus boldus), litre (Lithraea caustica), peumo (Cryptocarya alba), and patagua (Crinodendron patagua) . This diverse flora contributes to a rich and varied landscape that changes with the seasons.

Wildlife in Las Palmas de Cocalán National Park includes a variety of mammals and bird species. Mammals such as the culpeo fox (Lycalopex culpaeus), chilla fox (Lycalopex griseus), and the Geoffroy’s cat (Leopardus geoffroyi) inhabit the area .

Bird enthusiasts can observe species like the Austral thrush (Turdus falcklandii), turca (Pteroptochos megapodius), Austral blackbird (Curaeus curaeus), Harris’s hawk (Parabuteo unicinctus), and the giant hummingbird (Patagona gigas) . The park’s ecosystems also support various reptiles, amphibians, and insects, contributing to its biodiversity.

A prominent feature of the park is the Cerro Poqui, a popular hiking destination offering panoramic views of the surrounding landscapes . The trails leading to the summit traverse through diverse habitats, providing hikers with opportunities to experience the park’s rich flora and fauna firsthand.

Additionally, the extensive palm groves are a significant attraction, showcasing the majestic Chilean palms that are emblematic of the region.

Visitors can engage with the park primarily through guided tours, as the area is privately owned and access is restricted to protect its delicate ecosystems . Since August 2018, authorized local guides have been offering educational tours that emphasize conservation and sustainable interaction with the environment .

These tours often include hiking, birdwatching, and photography, allowing guests to immerse themselves in the natural beauty of the park. It’s essential for visitors to arrange tours in advance and adhere to guidelines set by the park’s management to minimize human impact on the environment.

Conservation efforts in Las Palmas de Cocalán National Park have been both challenging and rewarding. The primary challenge lies in balancing the preservation of the Chilean palm populations with the fact that the park is situated on private land used for agricultural and forestry activities .

However, the establishment of the park has led to increased awareness and protection of these ancient palms, ensuring their survival for future generations. Collaborative management strategies between landowners and conservation authorities have been implemented to maintain the ecological integrity of the area while allowing for controlled public access.

In summary, Las Palmas de Cocalán National Park serves as a vital sanctuary for the Chilean palm and a diverse array of native species. Its unique status as a privately owned national park presents both challenges and opportunities in conservation, highlighting the importance of sustainable practices and community involvement in preserving Chile’s natural heritage.

Park Map

Las Palmas de Cocalán National Park Highlights

Wildlife

Birds

Las Palmas de Cocalán National Park is also home to a wide variety of bird species, many of which depend on the park’s dry forests, riparian zones, and rocky hillsides for food and nesting.

Burrowing Parrot (Cyanoliseus patagonus)
A social and vocal parrot, the burrowing parrot nests in cliffs and forages in the park’s woodlands, playing a key role in seed dispersal.

White-throated Tapaculo (Scelorchilus albicollis)
A secretive bird that thrives in dense undergrowth, the white-throated tapaculo is more often heard than seen, with its loud and distinctive calls.

Giant Hummingbird (Patagona gigas)
The largest hummingbird in the world, the giant hummingbird hovers near flowers in search of nectar and is well adapted to the park’s Mediterranean climate.

Chilean Tinamou (Nothoprocta perdicaria)
A well-camouflaged, ground-dwelling bird, the Chilean tinamou forages for seeds and insects in the park’s dry grasslands and shrublands.

Variable Hawk (Geranoaetus polyosoma)
A powerful bird of prey, the variable hawk soars above the park’s valleys and open spaces, hunting rodents and small reptiles.

Andean Condor (Vultur gryphus)
One of the largest flying birds in the world, the Andean condor is occasionally seen gliding over the park’s ridges, searching for carrion.

Plain-mantled Tit-Spinetail (Leptasthenura aegithaloides)
A small, active songbird, this species is commonly seen flitting through the park’s forests, foraging for insects among the dense vegetation.

Chilean Mockingbird (Mimus thenca)
A highly vocal and inquisitive bird, the Chilean mockingbird is found throughout the park, feeding on insects and fruits while singing melodious songs.

Black-chested Buzzard-Eagle (Geranoaetus melanoleucus)
A dominant raptor in the region, this eagle is frequently seen perched on rocky cliffs, hunting for small mammals and birds.

Rufous-tailed Plantcutter (Phytotoma rara)
An unusual bird with a powerful beak, the rufous-tailed plantcutter is known for its ability to eat tough vegetation, including leaves and buds.

Las Palmas de Cocalán National Park is a vital refuge for Chile’s Mediterranean ecosystems, offering visitors the chance to explore ancient palm groves, rugged hills, and diverse wildlife in a protected setting. Whether hiking through the dry forests, observing rare birds, or learning about the conservation of the Chilean Palm, the park provides a fascinating glimpse into one of Chile’s most unique landscapes.

Las Palmas de Cocalán National Park, located in the O’Higgins Region of central Chile, is a unique protected area dedicated to the conservation of the Chilean Palm (Jubaea chilensis), one of the most endangered and ancient palm species in the world. The park features a Mediterranean climate with rolling hills, dry forests, and deep ravines, creating a habitat for a diverse range of wildlife. As one of the last strongholds of the Chilean Palm, the park plays a critical role in preserving Chile’s natural heritage.

Puma (Puma concolor)
The top predator in the park, the puma is a secretive and elusive hunter that preys on rodents, birds, and smaller mammals. Though rarely seen, it plays a key role in regulating the ecosystem.

Culpeo Fox (Lycalopex culpaeus)
Also known as the Andean fox, this highly adaptable carnivore hunts rodents, birds, and insects and is frequently spotted in the park’s forests and open clearings.

South American Gray Fox (Lycalopex griseus)
A smaller and highly adaptable fox, the South American gray fox scavenges and preys on small vertebrates, fruits, and insects, thriving in the park’s Mediterranean landscapes.

Molina’s Hog-nosed Skunk (Conepatus chinga)
A nocturnal forager, this skunk digs for insects, small vertebrates, and plant material. Like other skunks, it has a powerful defensive spray to deter predators.

Lesser Grison (Galictis cuja)
A small but aggressive mustelid, the lesser grison preys on rodents, birds, and reptiles in the dry woodlands and rocky outcrops of the park.

Monito del Monte (Dromiciops gliroides)
An ancient marsupial considered a living fossil, the monito del monte is a crucial seed disperser in the park’s Mediterranean forests, helping to regenerate native vegetation.

Darwin’s Leaf-eared Mouse (Phyllotis darwini)
A small but ecologically important rodent, this species helps with seed dispersal and serves as prey for many of the park’s predators.

Andean Hairy Armadillo (Chaetophractus nationi)
A burrowing mammal well adapted to dry environments, the Andean hairy armadillo forages for insects, roots, and small invertebrates in the park’s open areas.

Chilean Tree Iguana (Liolaemus chiliensis)
A striking lizard species, this reptile thrives in the park’s dry woodlands and rocky slopes, where it hunts insects and small invertebrates.

Southern Long-nosed Bat (Platalina genovensium)
A nectar-feeding bat species, it plays an essential role in pollination within the park’s Mediterranean shrublands, helping native plants reproduce.