Discover the Yerba Loca Nature Sanctuary
The entrance is located on curve 15 of the road to Farellones and has 11 hectares of pure nature, where native species of flora and fauna can be observed.
It has picnic areas, camping areas, public restrooms, showers and drinking water. It can be accessed both in summer and winter and offers several trails to walk. One of the most spectacular allows you to reach the hanging glaciers of Cerro El Altar and Cerro La Paloma. During the winter, the trails are full of snow, so it is an excellent option for the practice of randonnee, while enjoying the fresh mountain air and beautiful natural landscapes.
Besides this, it has other unique attractions. One of them is the Casa de Piedra Carvajal, which you can reach after a 6-hour hike inland. This place was a shelter for muleteers, dating back to pre-Hispanic times. Today it is used by climbers on their ascent to the glaciers. The Yerba Loca Park ends at the summit of Cerro el Plomo with more than 5200 meters of altitude. Before reaching the summit there are small stone constructions that were made by the Incas, since this was a sacred hill. It is famous for the discovery of the mummy of Cerro El Plomo, an Inca child who was sacrificed in a ceremony known as Capacocha.
It is possible to access this summit through properly marked trails. However, it is recommended to make the ascent in three days, in order to acclimatize to the high altitude and avoid discomfort such as altitude sickness or puna. Whether you want to live a mountain adventure or simply relax in the middle of this mountain valley, Yerba Loca Park is an excellent alternative to disconnect. Remember not to drink water from the Yerba Loca estuary, as it contains sulfates that cause discomfort if consumed - even boiled. Take all your food with you and remember to protect nature from contamination.
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