Posada del Parque

This ecological reserve is a marvellous place to bird near the cities of Valparaiso and Vina del Mar. We booked a three hour guided tour and were extremely pleased with the morning spent there with our knowledgeable guide, Jonathon. The reserve is comprised of many types of habitat: forest, lake, marsh, and ocean shore and so accommodates many species. We managed to see approximately 35 species, including many “lifers”. More time spent there would, of course, result in many more species. We hiked and so sensible footwear was required, especially since the tracks nearer the ocean are quite sandy. We crossed a small estuary via a small pontoon bridge which was slightly rickety – but safe. Someone who might be unsure about their balance would find this difficult. If someone were to book a birding tour they may wish to take their own guide in order to identify the birds by their English names. The owners, Osvaldo and Monica gave us a lift into town as they were going that way. The opportunity to talk with them led us to appreciate their serious concern for nature and habitat preservation in general and their reserve in particular. On the way Osvaldo stopped at a couple of places for us to see roosting birds, including Inca Terns, close-up. We thoroughly enjoyed their company and now regard them as friends. While we didn’t stay overnight at the Posada the lodge area looked inviting and interesting. Given the opportunity, we would stay there in future.