Quirilluca cliffs extend from the north of Horcon to Maitencillo as an imposing rocky strip that reflects the natural richness of Puchuncaví. Officially recognized as a Geosite by the State of Chile, they stand out for their high geological, paleontological, ecological and scenic value, evidencing marine and tectonic processes that have shaped the landscape for millions of years.

With heights ranging between 20 and 40 meters (66 and 131 feet), they are composed of sediments of the Horcon Formation, sculpted by erosion on slopes that reach 30° to 40°. This structure generates three distinct ecological zones: The upper part with native coastal vegetation; the middle part, exposed and without vegetation, where seabirds such as piqueros (boobies) nest; and the lower part, made up of intertidal platforms with high marine biodiversity and taphonis of unique spherical shapes, also the habitat of the chungungo (marine otter).

Parque Quirilluca has incorporated trails, viewpoints and light infrastructure with interpretive signage that allow you to explore this geosite in a safe and educational way. In addition to its scenic attraction, the cliffs play a fundamental role in environmental education and scientific research, consolidating the park as an exemplary space for conservation, knowledge, and responsible access.

At the heart of Parque Quirilluca is the Northern Acorn Forest, a unique ecosystem of coastal Mediterranean sclerophyll forest in central Chile, adapted to the dry climates and stony soils of the Cordillera de la Costa Mountain Range. With an area of 10.98 hectares, this forest is of great importance because it is home to 196 specimens of northern acorn (Beilschmiedia miersii), an endemic species and key to the park’s natural heritage.

This ecosystem is complemented by other native species such as boldo, peumo, quillay, litre, and maiten, which together regulate humidity, provide shelter for diverse life forms, and sustain the ecological balance. Its biogeographic importance lies in the fact that it represents the southernmost coastal population of northern acorns, and it is a legally protected species declared a Natural Monument.

For its protection and enhancement, the park has developed interpretive trails, information stations, and a restoration and continuous monitoring plan. These actions reflect Parque Quirilluca’s commitment to active conservation, environmental education, and the generation of scientific knowledge about emblematic species of the central coast.

In the northern cliffs of Parque Quirilluca lies the southernmost continental nesting colony of piqueros (Sula variegata), an iconic seabird of the South Pacific. These birds nest on high, inaccessible rocky formations and can gather in the thousands during the breeding season, from October to March. The colony is georeferenced and protected as an area of high ecological value, with permanent monitoring in place.

The piquero, endemic to the Humboldt Current, is distributed in Chile, Peru, Ecuador, and Colombia, and is most common in the first two countries. It is considered a bioindicator species, as its presence depends on the health of the marine ecosystem and the availability of fish. This information is even interpreted by artisanal fishers to identify productive areas, reinforcing the species’ ecological and cultural value.

Parque Quirilluca offers viewpoints, signage, and guides that allow visitors to observe piqueros in a safe and educational way. In addition to seabirds, the park is home to a variety of continental bird species such as loicas, turcas, codornices, perdices, and several raptors, making it one of the prime birdwatching destinations in central Chile.

The chungungo (Lontra felina), or sea otter, inhabits the South American Pacific coastline from southern Peru to Chiloé, preferring rocky, well-preserved coastlines. n front of Parque Quirilluca, it lives naturally in the rocky areas of the coastline, where its constant presence has made it possible to identify key sighting points that are integrated into an environmental interpretation circuit.

If you are lucky and have good eyesight, you will be able to observe it in its habitat, which is one of the most valued experiences in the park. To encourage respectful and low-impact observation, elevated viewing platforms and informative signage have been installed, and park rangers have been assigned to the area. From these points, it is possible to see the chungungo swimming, feeding, or resting among the rocks.

This circuit offers high scenic and tourism value and also plays an important role in environmental education and scientific outreach about a species that is still not widely known.