In the previous two parts of ‘The Wonderful Wildlife of Chile’ we looked at the country’s fascinating land mammals such as the elusive Puma as well as under water creatures such as whales and dolphins. That leaves us with another kind of animal that we haven’t yet covered. Up in Chile‘s vast skies, looking down over the longest stretching mountain range in the world and the deep blue waters of the Pacific coastline, the animals are as varied up here as they are on the ground or in the sea below. Now, when talking about Chile’s bird life, a special mention must be given to the Lauca National Park, located high up in the Andes and close to the border with Bolivia. The huge ecosystem that exists here in the Altiplano, the High Andean Plateau, has one of the highest altitudes in the world, but despite the plummeting night time…
It’s that time again! Who else is hungry? This week I will be teaching you about the good old South American empanada (and its closest relatives). The Lowdown In Argentina the empanada is a firm favourite for filling a rumbling belly, adults and kids alike. The typically savoury snack (if you need a visual, it resembles a small Cornish pasty) dates back centuries and was originally brought over from Galicia, Northwest Spain where it was invented as a portable lunch for workmen. I have to say that a visit to Argentina is not complete until you have tried a locally baked (or deep fried) empanada with any of the various fillings. The flavoursome pastries are most commonly stuffed with either ham and cheese, spinach and ricotta, minced beef or shredded chicken and accompanied by chopped onion and a mixture of spices. A plate of warm empanadas is ideal shared as…
After Brazil, Chile has the largest area of protected conservation land in South America. Most of this protected land falls in the rugged and highly untouched expanse of Patagonia. From top to bottom there are a total of 36 National Parks in Chile, all with something a little different to the other, from magnificent volcanic landscapes of Hornopiren to the temperate ‘enchanted’ rainforests and hanging glaciers further South in Queulat. Once inside these parks you can’t help but marvel at the never-ending mountain ranges and beautiful natural wonders that nature has created. It is here that nature has the power to make you feel tiny and insignificant. An important place for wildlife in Chile is the recently rehabilitated Valle Chacabuco, part of which was once a working sheep farm or estancia. Today Chacabuco’s much greener pastures are home to many of the animals that you will find described below. Interestingly,…
Many travel from Santiago to Valparaiso, and along the road between the two you will find a turn-off sign posted Vina Matetic in the Casablanca Wine Valley. Take the turn and in minutes you will arrive at a luxury, retreat where tranquility and wine await. The guesthouse is a beautiful 7 room boutique hotel in the heart of the vineyards, built in a traditional colonial style with galleried walkways and period touches, surrounded by extensive, perfectly-manicured gardens. Within minutes the hustle and bustle of the cities will be a distant memory. Find yourself at the end of the garden and you will find a lovely pool area complete with cabana style beds that are perfect for easing away a few hours in the sun. Of course all this relaxing is thirsty work, and the best thing about staying on a vineyard is refreshment is not far away. Crisp Sauvignon Blanc…
