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Parque Nacional Torres del Paine - Chile
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Parque Nacional Torres del Paine was created in 1959 by the Chilean Government to protect it originally from sheep and cattle overgrazing and in 1978 it was declared part of World Biosphere System by UNESCO.
The park, rising out of the barren steppes, is of astounding beauty: deep lakes are fed by raging rivers cut steeply into lateral valleys, dominated by towering peaks, mythical to mountaineers and trekkers alike. The magnificent Cuernos del Paine and the three granite pillars that have given the park its name are a powerful testament to the last ice age, whilst the ever faster receding glaciers are a poignant reminder of how fragile our ecosystem is. Conservation efforts over the years have brought their rewards: the guanaco, once a dying breed, now roam in abundance and ñandú and flamingos can be easily observed, too.
The trekking opportunities here are in many respects unparalleled. The world famous Paine circuit offers a fabulous insight into this area, and those who are lucky enough to have more time can explore further still. Parque Nacional Torres del Paine will not disappoint.
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