We will revive the expedition that Darwin did over 180 years ago. The hike begins at the entrance of La Campana National Park accessed through the town of Olmué (Valparaiso Region), where we will set up the ascent to La Campana mount by taking the path of “El Andinista” that goes through a perennial forest represented by boldos (Peumus boldus), litres (Lithraea caustica), bellotos (Beilschmiedia miersii) molles (Schinus latifolius) and canelos (Drimys winteri).
After walking around two hours the vegetation opens allowing us to admire the surrounding landscape and a subtle marine presence from the western horizon. Oak trees (Nothofagus macrocarpa) come into scene as we ascend by a meandering path.
At 1,260m (4,150ft) ASL, we will find an old quartz mine located in an open area, good time to rest and replenish energies for the second tranche. The last hour is more demanding, the slope increases and we start feeling tired as we approach the summit through granite rocks, to finally reach an elevation of 1,920m (6,300ft).
