Forests of the Aysén Region: A Journey Through Its Ecosystems
The Aysén Region is renowned for its extensive and ancient forests, which make up 24.6% of Chile's total forest area, amounting to 4,431,845 hectares. This makes Aysén the region with the highest percentage of forests in the country. However, only 42.2% of this area is currently under legal protection, covering just 1,873,087 hectares.
Each of these forests has unique characteristics that define the landscape and behave differently according to the tree species and the geographical and climatic conditions of each sector of the region. Here are the three main types of forests in the Aysén Region:
Evergreen Forest
The Evergreen Forest is found in places like Queulat National Park. As its name suggests, the vegetation in this forest does not change color or shed its foliage in autumn and winter, maintaining its appearance throughout the year. This forest is characterized by high humidity due to intense rainfall, allowing giants like coihues, cypresses, and ancient larches to thrive. It also hosts a rich biodiversity of flora and fauna.
Deciduous Forest
The Deciduous Forest, present in the Patagonian steppes, dazzles with its color changes in autumn, adorning the colder and drier areas of the region, such as Patagonia and Cerro Castillo National Parks. These forests, mainly composed of lenga and ñire trees, are home to various animal species, such as foxes, guanacos, and caiquenes.
Swamp Forest
The Swamp Forest features permanently wet or flooded soils, where species like arrayán and tepú grow. It is mainly found in coastal areas and valleys between mountains, where water accumulates and promotes the development of this unique ecosystem. This type of forest supports a wide variety of flora and fauna specialized in aquatic environments, such as frogs, fish, and aquatic birds. A notable example is the Enchanted Forest of Queulat National Park.
In conclusion, the forests of the Aysén Region not only represent a significant portion of Chile's forests but also serve as a vital refuge for an impressive diversity of flora and fauna. Understanding and protecting these ecosystems is essential for maintaining the biodiversity and environmental health of our region and the planet.
Whether through hiking, birdwatching, or scientific research, each visit to these forests is an opportunity to appreciate and learn about these valuable natural environments.
Forest Bathing in the Aysén Region: An Experience of Connection with Nature
The forests of the Aysén Region are not only a stunning visual spectacle but also offer a unique sensory experience that deeply benefits physical and mental health. The Japanese practice of shinrin yoku, known in these latitudes as forest bathing, has become increasingly popular worldwide due to its calming and rejuvenating effects.
Paula, who had the opportunity to participate in this experience during her recent trip to Ecuador, describes this practice as a way to activate the benefits of the natural environment, taking advantage of the calm, fresh air, and forest sounds to reflect and find inner peace. Her experience at Hotel Sierra Alisos in the Machachi Valley, near Quito, was profoundly transformative, highlighting how this activity can be practiced in different locations and still provide the same revitalizing effects.
In the forests of Chilean Patagonia, such as those found in Queulat, Patagonia, and Cerro Castillo National Parks, this practice can be enjoyed amidst pristine and lush nature. These forests offer the perfect setting to immerse oneself in the serenity of the natural environment and reconnect with oneself.
Moreover, the growing international evidence of the mental and physical health benefits derived from contact with nature has led to innovative initiatives, such as the "Te Falta Sur" program, promoted by the Patagonia faculty of the Universidad San Sebastián. This program allows doctors at the university's health center to prescribe visits to national parks and natural areas as a complementary treatment for various pathologies. This initiative not only highlights the importance of nature for human health but also recognizes the therapeutic value of natural environments in the recovery and well-being of individuals.
Categorías - Parks - Adventure - Route Patagonian Parks - Nature