Chelenko Geopark Project

Considering this background, over more than a decade, the Aysén Regional Mining Authority (SEREMI de Minería) has implemented various programs, mostly funded by the Regional Government of Aysén. These efforts laid the foundation for the «Public Good» project known as the Chelenko Geopark, which is currently being executed by the National Service of Cultural Heritage through the Aysén Regional Museum.

This project is the result of extensive work by the Ministry of Mining and various collaborators, and is now continuing with new momentum thanks to funding from the Regional Government of Aysén (GORE Aysén) and CORFO. Its ultimate goal is to have the General Carrera Province officially declared as part of the UNESCO Global Geoparks Network.

The initiative also involves the municipalities of Chile Chico and Río Ibáñez, the National Tourism Service (SERNATUR), the National Geology and Mining Service (SERNAGEOMIN), Andrés Bello University, and the Chelenko Corporation.

The Aysén Region stands out for its unique heritage on the planet: it boasts stunning landscapes, a culture rich in traditional crafts and customs, and is home to the largest number of geosites in Chile.

A geosite is a site or geological formation notable for its scientific and visual appeal, and as such, should be protected as part of our natural heritage. The Geological Society of Chile has identified more than 21 geosites across the country—13 of which are located in the General Carrera Province. However, recent research conducted by the team of geologists from the Chelenko Geopark Project estimates that there could be more than 80 geosites in the province alone.

Considering this background, over more than a decade, the Aysén Regional Mining Authority (SEREMI de Minería) has implemented various programs, mostly funded by the Regional Government of Aysén. These efforts laid the foundation for the «Public Good» project known as the Chelenko Geopark, which is currently being executed by the National Service of Cultural Heritage through the Aysén Regional Museum.

This project is the result of extensive work by the Ministry of Mining and various collaborators, and is now continuing with new momentum thanks to funding from the Regional Government of Aysén (GORE Aysén) and CORFO. Its ultimate goal is to have the General Carrera Province officially declared as part of the UNESCO Global Geoparks Network.

The initiative also involves the municipalities of Chile Chico and Río Ibáñez, the National Tourism Service (SERNATUR), the National Geology and Mining Service (SERNAGEOMIN), Andrés Bello University, and the Chelenko Corporation.