What are AMA Torres del Paine’s current conservation projects?
Learn more about each project here.
Reconstruction of the Base Torres Trail
In progress
Patagonia Towers, together with AMA Torres del Paine, ConservationVIP, Legacy Fund and CONAF, have developed a plan to create a new section of trail that reduces erosion, improves soil composition, avoids steep slopes, and reduces the effect of rainfall. Approximately 5 kilometers (3 miles) of trail have been built to date, with an emphasis on logistical and pedestrian trails. The next step is to extend the trail to the Chileno Hostel, adding an additional 1 to 1.5 kilometers (approx. 1 mile). The total investment is close to $400 million pesos (approx. $425,000 USD), which covers the first sections and sets aside future funds for complementary infrastructure.
Reconstruction of Interpretive Trail
Completed
The Interpretive Trail, which is open to the public, is a 2.2 kilometer (1.4 mile) trail designed for hikers of all ages. With walkways made of wood-plastic composite, the trail allows visitors to explore nature without damaging it. In approximately 1.5 hours, visitors can see more than 30 species of birds, orchids, and native trees, as well as learn about the geomorphology and formation of glaciers.
Pionero Bar - Eco Design
In progress
We recycle glass bottles to make glasses for the Pionero Bar at Hotel Las Torres. We have produced up to two thousand glasses a year. Each bottle weighs 1.8 kilograms (4 lbs.), so there are 3,600 kilos (8,000 lbs.) of glass available to be recycled. The glasses weigh 1.2 kilograms (2.6 lbs.), and about 66% of the bottle is used to make each glass, so that only 216 kilograms (476 lbs.) of the total glass is discarded.
Seed Orchard Project
In progress
The project's main objective is to collect and conserve lenga beech seeds for use in the restoration and conservation of native forests. It was established as a space dedicated to the production of high quality seeds, thus helping to preserve genetic diversity and promote the natural regeneration of lenga forests.
Forest Nursery
In progress
The main objective of the Forest Nursery is to grow lenga saplings for use in reforestation, ecosystem restoration, and biodiversity conservation projects in Las Torres Reserve and Torres del Paine. Through eco-friendly nursery practices, we seek to ensure the availability of these trees to improve tree cover and the health of natural ecosystems.
Torres del Paine Fire Brigade
In progress
The Fire Brigade is a team of volunteers that specializes in preventing, controlling, and extinguishing forest and structural fires, focusing on the conservation of biodiversity and the landscape. Its work is essential to protect human life and natural resources, employing strategies to prevent and respond quickly to emergencies.
Park Ranger Corps
In progress
Our park rangers work round the clock, monitoring the behavior of visitors, providing guidance, and helping with evacuation on the trail to the las Torres lookout point.
They also help with trail maintenance, safety and interpretive signage, patrols against to prevent fires and bad practices, and other functions in collaboration with CONAF.
Sustainable Trails Project
In progress
The Sustainable Trails project aims to build and maintain access routes to natural areas, ensuring that the environment is preserved and providing a positive experience for visitors. It focuses on minimizing environmental impact through sustainable tourism management practices.
Huemul “Andean Deer” Project
Pending
This project focuses on the ecology and conservation of the Andean Deer, an iconic Patagonian species in danger of extinction. Through research on their habitat, behavior and factors affecting their survival, we strive to develop effective conservation strategies.
Native Feline and Canine Ecology Project (Pumas and Foxes)
In progress
The Native Feline and Canine Ecology Project focuses on understanding the dynamics between these species and human communities. By studying their behavior, habitat and interactions with the human environment, we seek to promote conservation strategies that encourage living with them peacefully.
Geoffroy’s Cat Project
In progress
This project is focused on studying the ecology of the Geoffroy’s Cat in Las Torres Reserve. Using wildlife monitoring techniques, such as camera traps and tracking, we will research their distribution, habitat, and behavior. In addition, we will assess the potential threats facing this species, such as habitat loss and interaction with human activities. With the data we collect, we will make recommendations on how to effectively conserve the Geoffroy’s Cat in Las Torres Reserve, with the goal of ensuring its long-term survival in this unique ecosystem.
10 Thousand Lengas a Year for Torres del Paine
Pending
10 Thousand Lengas for Torres del Paine is a reforestation campaign created and organized by AMA. Ten thousand lenga trees will be planted in the park every year for the next 10 years.