La Campana and the Darwin trail
If the hills of Valparaiso inspire you to do some serious trekking or climbing then Cerro La Campana (1.880 m) is a perfect destination for an active and adventurous day trip. La Campana is a national nature reserve at an hour’s drive from Valparaiso. The metro’s terminal – Limache station- is just a few kilometres away from the park’s southern entrance. Charles Darwin climbed La Campana in 1834 and a plaque, halfway up, honours his memory. The 4 hour ’sendero andinista’ takes you through a variety of unique landscapes and the 7km trail should not be underestimated. At the top you can see the Aconcagua (Andes, Argentina) in the distance. Cerro La Campana is steep and the trip is intense. Bring water, trekking shoes, sunscreen and appropriate clothing (layers) with you.
If you are interested in walking the ‘Darwin route’, I recommend checking with my friends from Valparaiso Expediciones. Pato will guide you along the amazing paths under the ancient forests of Central Chile, dazzling landscapes with endemic palm trees, astonishing views and natural beauty. They charge around US$65 for the whole day, including transfers.
