Isla Damas
Coquimbo
Isla Damas is a Chilean island located in the Coquimbo region, forming part of the Humboldt Penguin National Reserve established in 1990. Covering approximately 60.3 hectares, the island features two white sandy beaches, La Poza and Las Tijeras, with emerald-green waters. It is famous for its diverse fauna, including seabirds like guanay, lile, yeco, Humboldt penguin, and piquero, which nest on its cliffs and rocky outcrops. Marine mammals such as sea lions, bottlenose dolphins, and the elusive chungungo (marine otter) also inhabit the surrounding waters. The island's flora includes around 59 vascular plant species, notably yellow añañucas, lilies, and cacti. Visitors can explore an 1800-meter trail with nine informative stations about the island's flora and fauna in both Spanish and English. To preserve its delicate ecosystem, visitor access is regulated by Chile's National Forest Corporation (CONAF), limiting stay to one hour and prohibiting swimming or camping since 2015. The island's name derives from a distinctive rock formation resembling a reclining woman, visible from the nearby Punta de Choros pier. Isla Damas is the only island in the reserve where landing is permitted, making it a unique destination for wildlife observation and nature appreciation.
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Astuce: Visitors should plan their trip during daylight hours to fully enjoy the 1800-meter trail and wildlife viewing. Since access is regulated with a strict one-hour limit and swimming and camping are prohibited, booking guided tours in advance is recommended to comply with CONAF regulations. Bringing binoculars and cameras is advisable for birdwatching and spotting marine mammals. Respect for the environment is essential to preserve the island's fragile ecosystem.
Faits intéressants
- •Isla Damas is part of the Humboldt Penguin National Reserve, one of Chile's most important marine protected areas.
- •The island hosts a colony of bottlenose dolphins, often numbering around 60 individuals, which is a popular sight for visitors.
- •The name 'Isla Damas' comes from a rock formation that looks like a reclining woman, visible from Punta de Choros.
- •The island has a walking trail with nine stations providing educational information about its flora and fauna in both Spanish and English.
- •Swimming and camping have been prohibited since 2015 to preserve the island's natural environment.
Histoire
Isla Damas became part of the Humboldt Penguin National Reserve, which was established on January 3, 1990, to protect the region's unique marine and bird life.
Over the decades, regulations have been implemented to restrict human impact, including prohibitions on swimming and camping enacted in 2015.
The island's name originates from a notable rock formation resembling a reclining woman, a landmark recognized since early visits to the area.
The reserve's creation marked a significant milestone in conservation efforts along Chile's coast, safeguarding important species such as the Humboldt penguin and marine otters.
Guide du lieu
Walking Trail with Nine Stations
An 1800-meter trail featuring nine informative stations that educate visitors about the island's diverse flora and fauna in both Spanish and English, enhancing the nature experience.