Juan Fernandez Archipelago National Park

Juan Fernández Archipelago National Park protects the terrestrial portion of the Juan Fernández Islands, an archipelago 670 km west of the Chilean mainland that includes Robinson Crusoe Island, Alejandro Selkirk Island, and Santa Clara Island. The park was established in 1935 and is a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve. The islands are of immense biological importance — they harbour one of the highest concentrations of endemic plant species of any oceanic island group in the world, with over 130 species found nowhere else.

The park was formed by volcanic activity and features dramatic coastal cliffs, deep gorges, and ridges covered in unique vegetation. The best-known endemic species include the Juan Fernández firecrown hummingbird (the world's most endangered hummingbird), the Juan Fernández fur seal, and the distinctive luma tree that dominates the forest canopy.

By Plane

From Santiago (SCL), LATAM flies to Robinson Crusoe Island's airstrip (2.5 hr, 1–2 flights per week). From the airstrip, trails lead into the park.

The park is accessed on foot from the village of San Juan Bautista on Robinson Crusoe Island. No roads exist outside the village — hiking trails are the only means of travel. Guided hikes are strongly recommended.

• El Yunque: the highest peak on Robinson Crusoe Island (915 m), covered in dense forest.

• Plazoleta del Yunque: a plateau at 500 m with extraordinary views and endemic flora.

• Mirador de Selkirk: the ridge where the marooned sailor Alexander Selkirk kept watch.

• Puerto Inglés: a deep, sheltered cove on the north coast.

• Isla Santa Clara: a small rocky island visible from the village.

• Hiking: the park has several trails of varying difficulty. The hike from San Juan Bautista to El Yunque (4 km, 3 hr) is the most popular.

• Birdwatching: the Juan Fernández firecrown hummingbird is the highlight. Also look for the Juan Fernández petrel and pink-footed shearwater.

• Boat tours: circumnavigate the islands to see sea cliffs, fur seal colonies, and sea caves.

• Photography: the endemic flora — particularly the Juan Fernández cabbage tree and the fiery-coloured ñocha — is spectacular.

No food inside the park. All meals are in San Juan Bautista or brought as packed lunches. Freshwater is not available on the trails.

Tap water on Robinson Crusoe Island is from rainwater catchment — treat or boil it before drinking. Bottled water is available in the village stores. There is one simple bar in the village.

No accommodation inside the park. Stay in San Juan Bautista:

• Budget: Hospedaje Robinson Crusoe (shared CLP 20,000).
• Mid-range: Cabañas Juan Fernández (CLP 50,000–80,000).

The village of San Juan Bautista has a few small shops selling basic groceries, crafts, and souvenirs. The island's famous Juan Fernández lobster can be bought fresh at the pier.

• San Juan Bautista village (within the park boundary): the island's only settlement.
• Robinson Crusoe Island (the park's main island): further exploration beyond the park boundary.
• Isla Alejandro Selkirk (175 km west): the second-largest island in the archipelago — even more remote, accessible only by multi-day boat from Robinson Crusoe Island.