Discover the Hidden Sanctuary at Camp Mákemáke: La Reserva Centenario

A Private Nature Reserve on Our Farm

Nestled quietly on the rolling hills of Camp Mákemáke’s farm lies a remarkable treasure that many don’t know about: La Reserva Centenario. This private nature reserve isn’t just a patch of trees; it’s a thriving sanctuary that protects one of Chile’s most unique and endangered ecosystems. For those who visit, it’s a chance to step into a living classroom, a place where nature’s delicate balance can be seen and felt in every leaf, bird call, and whisper of the wind.

What Makes the Bosque Esclerófilo So Special?

La Reserva Centenario is home to the Bosque Esclerófilo—translated into English as the Sclerophyllous Forest. This type of forest is extraordinary because it is found in just a few select places worldwide: central Chile, South Africa, California, southern Australia, and the Mediterranean region of Europe. These regions share a common thread—a Mediterranean climate with hot, dry summers and cool, wet winters—yet each Bosque Esclerófilo is uniquely adapted to its home.

The Chilean Bosque Esclerófilo is particularly rare and endangered. It features native trees with thick, leathery leaves such as Peumo, Quillay, Boldo, Maitén, Espino, and Litre. These adaptations help the forest survive long, dry seasons by conserving water and resisting damage.

A Vibrant Ecosystem Teeming with Life

Far from being just a quiet grove of trees, the Bosque Esclerófilo is alive with activity. The forest-clad hills host thousands of species, from tiny insects busily pollinating flowers to birds and mammals that depend on the forest’s shelter and food.

Birdwatchers are in for a treat here: the rhythmic drumming of the Carpintero Chileno (Chilean Woodpecker), the shimmering flash of the Picaflor de Espalda Verde (Green-backed Firecrown Hummingbird), the cheerful songs of the Chingolo (Rufous-collared Sparrow), the clever calls of the Tordo Chileno (Chilean Mockingbird), and the shy, elusive Chucao Tapaculo, which hides deep in the dense underbrush near streams and wetlands.

The Fragile Balance Under Threat

Despite its resilience, the Bosque Esclerófilo faces serious threats. Increased drought and hotter summers, fueled by climate change, create dangerous conditions for wildfires that can sweep through the dry forest with devastating speed. Invasive plants and animals further disrupt this delicate ecosystem, threatening the survival of native species.

Protecting these forests isn’t just about preserving trees—it’s about safeguarding the water sources these hills store and filtering for local communities, maintaining biodiversity, and preserving the rich cultural and natural heritage of the region.

Inspired by Local Guardians of the Land

The inspiration for La Reserva Centenario comes from a deep connection to the land. Josefina Correa Echinique, who has lived on this land her whole life, along with her son, Alberto García-Huidobro, dedicate themselves to the forest’s protection. Their tireless work has sparked a project that is bringing life back to the hills.

As you read this, a team is planting thousands of native trees—each one a promise to the future, expanding the forest’s reach and healing the earth. Their efforts breathe hope into this endangered ecosystem, ensuring it will thrive for generations to come.

A Legacy of Hope for Future Generations

La Reserva Centenario is more than a forest reserve. It is a symbol of what can be achieved when community, passion, and respect for nature come together. It’s a living legacy—one that invites us all to learn, protect, and cherish Chile’s extraordinary natural beauty. For those who visit, it offers a rare chance to walk among ancient trees, listen to the songs of native birds, and witness the quiet magic of a forest that has survived centuries.

This is nature at its most raw and real, and at Camp Mákemáke, it’s right at our doorstep.