Day Twenty-one - Chacabuco Chile

 

Chacabuco is a small port on the coast of Chile.  We tendered ashore, boarded a coach and journeyed inland to Rio Simpson Nature Reserve.  This park is located in a rugged, yet majestic setting within the Andes Mountain range.  Our guide explained the importance of Nalca to Chileans.  This is a giant specie of rhubarb with leaves nearly 6' across.  The leaves have the texture of "dinosaur skin".

It was raining lightly as we walked along the nature trail toward the Simpson River.

Wild fuchia plants were in fall bloom adding color to the landscape.

From a vista along the walking trail, we enjoyed a magnificent view of Rio Simpson.  The river is well known for its numerous waterfalls and fly fishing.

Located at 1,476 foot elevation, we visited the town of Coyhaique, known as the gateway to Patagonia.  Located on the eastern slope of the Andes, it was established to facilitate the "colonization" of the area.

The town, located in a valley, has a population of 57,000 people and serves as the regional capital. The importance of the area is largely due to it being the intersection of several main roads and two rivers.

One of the unique things about South American Cities are the "town dogs", hundreds of them!  The animals are "homeless", but local residents frequently put out food and water for them.    They are friendly and make themselves at home where ever they wish.  There are no "dog catchers" here.  Coyhaique has its share of homeless dogs.