German
Chile: Curanipe, Arcos de Calan & Iglesia de Piedra
January 2025
Paso Pehuenche - Argentina to Chile
The drive over the Paso Pehuenche was interesting and varied. Tarred roads with many crash barriers, which were damaged or torn away by falling rocks or debris. Gauchos on horseback herding herds with their dogs, lonely farmsteads, magnificent Andean landscape with crystal clear, deep blue lakes. We were thrilled.
While waiting to leave Argentina, an Argentinean woman asked us if we knew the make and model of tires on our motorhome. Wide-eyed, we wanted to know why. Yes, many Argentinians go to Chile to shop, as well as tires, and when they return, customs officials check their purchases and compare the recorded exit and entry tires on the vehicle. International tourists are exempt from this.
Curanipe
The fishing village of Curanipe is located on the Pacific Ocean with rather cool water and a black sandy beach. We spent a week in the harbor area. We observed numerous fishing boats of various colors come and go, reminiscent of a different era. We bought freshly caught seafood and fish directly from the fishermen and enjoyed ourselves. The swell on the beach also attracts many surfers here.
Arcos de Calan
We reached the secluded bay of Arcos de Calan via a bumpy dirt road. The view of the beach with its impressive waves thundering over the many rocks is breathtaking. Incredible vegetation in unique rock formations.
Collecting seaweed
Many people in Chile live from fishing and collecting seaweed. Cochayuyo seaweed is also a traditional staple food in Chile. Wrapped in bundles, they are dried in the sun. Then used as food and to produce cosmetics.
Iglesia de Piedra
North of Cobquecura is a beach with rock formations. The most important formation is a large natural monument, a large vault like a church.
On the way in Chile, we often spent the night in secluded bays, quiet with an impressive starry sky.
Star Children
In Los Angeles, Chile, we visited the café and restaurant run by the German association Sternenkinder. Some disabled people work there in an integrated manner.
The Sternenkinder association also supports an all-day school for people with mental and physical disabilities between the ages of 3 and 28. The aim of the project is to give people with disabilities a perspective. Around 150 pupils in 11 classes are currently being looked after and supported, depending on the degree of disability.
We were very impressed by the entire project.
