Reserva Biósphera Las Araucarias
Malalcahuello and the surrounding national parks were declared by the United Nations Organisation for Education Science and Culture (UNESCO) as an Internationally important Biosphere Reserve in two stages: 1983 and 2010.
The unique coexistence of the Mapuche indigenous tribes and the Araucaria auracana (Monkey Puzzle Tree) is something very special about this region of Chile and is recognized in this declaration of Biosphere Reserve. The Araucaria tree was sacred to the Mapuche and it´s fruiting events instrumental in directing the lives of the Pehuenches (people of the Araucaria) of this area. There is still a strong connection and dependence on the seasonal fruiting of the tree by local indigenous families.
Our 120 hectare conservation property is protecting this species and we are seeing a lot of regeneration of the Araucaria. Here we, along with the animals and local people, also harvest the fruit in seasons when it is abundant. We have them pre-cooked, ready for guests to try with the simple recipes that we provide.
The area around Malalcahuello has also been recognized by UNESCO for its significant volcanic and glacial geology. Geopark Kütralkura
The UNESCO declarations seek to promote sustainable development in areas of high conservation value, finding ways to integrate people with nature in culturally respectful ways. Our declaration of 120 hectares for conservation is our small contribution to this effort.
