Humedal Urbano Río Elqui is a coastal, estuarine, riverine, and palustrine wetland located at the mouth of the Elqui River in the Coquimbo Region of Chile. This unique environment, where freshwater meets the Pacific Ocean, serves as a significant biodiversity hotspot and offers a lush contrast to the nearby Atacama Desert. The region provides diverse terrain suitable for several sports like touring cycling, jogging, mountain biking, and hiking.
Humedal Urbano Río Elqui…
22
Routes
4.7
(70)
Average rating
451
People visited

4.0
(1)
72
runners
Hard run. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.

39
runners
Moderate run. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.

5.0
(2)
36
runners
24.9km
02:57
30m
30m
Hard run. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.

23
runners
10.9km
01:08
40m
40m
Moderate run. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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4.6
(14)
66
riders
34.8km
02:23
60m
60m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.

5.0
(28)
43
riders
13.8km
00:48
20m
20m
Easy bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.

5.0
(8)
26
riders
26.1km
01:34
130m
130m
Easy bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.

5.0
(7)
22
riders
36.2km
02:13
230m
230m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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25
hikers
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

3.0
(1)
11
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

8
hikers
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

5.0
(3)
16
riders
18.0km
00:56
20m
20m
Easy mountain bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Suitable for all skill levels.

5.0
(1)
13
riders
29.4km
02:25
570m
570m
Moderate mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Suitable for all skill levels.

8
riders
28.1km
02:23
620m
620m
Moderate mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Suitable for all skill levels.

3
riders
56.1km
03:09
420m
420m
Moderate mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Humedal Urbano Río Elqui is an urban wetland located in La Serena, Coquimbo Region, Chile. It is a critical ecological site, designated in 2022, serving as a biodiversity hotspot where the Elqui River meets the Pacific Ocean.
The region offers various outdoor activities including Touring cycling, Jogging, Mountain biking, and Hiking. These activities allow visitors to explore the diverse ecosystem and natural landscapes.
Yes, the wetland features marked trails suitable for easy walks and hiking. These paths are ideal for bird observation and experiencing the local flora and fauna. For family-friendly options, consult the Family-friendly hikes in Humedal Urbano Río Elqui guide.
Cycling is a popular activity in the broader Elqui Valley, and the wetland's proximity to La Serena allows for touring cycling. Specific routes and information can be found in the Cycling in Humedal Urbano Río Elqui guide.
Mountain biking is possible in the area, with routes that explore the surrounding region. Details on suitable paths are available in the MTB Trails in Humedal Urbano Río Elqui guide.
Humedal Urbano Río Elqui is a vital refuge for over 160 species of birds, including the Pilpilén (Chilean Oystercatcher). More than 200 species of flora, native fish, mammals, reptiles, and amphibians also inhabit the wetland.
Yes, the wetland offers easy walking trails suitable for families. Guided walking tours focusing on bird observation and environmental education are also available through the Municipality of La Serena. The Family-friendly hikes in Humedal Urbano Río Elqui guide provides specific options.
Humedal Urbano Río Elqui is a well-regarded destination on komoot, with over 450 visitors sharing their experiences. Activities in the area have an average rating of 4.86 out of 5 stars.
Information and arrangements for guided visits can be obtained through the Municipality of La Serena's Tourism Department. They offer tours focused on bird observation and environmental education. Contact them via email at turismo@laserena.cl or by phone at 512-206730.
The terrain around Humedal Urbano Río Elqui and the broader Elqui Valley varies. It includes coastal paths, riverine areas, and routes with views of agricultural fields and vineyards, offering options from moderate to more challenging. The wetland itself features relatively flat paths.
Existing walking trails and coastal areas around the wetland can be used for jogging. For dedicated options, consult the Running Trails in Humedal Urbano Río Elqui guide.
Its designation as an urban wetland provides a significant natural escape within a city setting. The exceptional biodiversity, particularly as a sanctuary for numerous bird species, makes it a critical site for conservation and a unique attraction for nature lovers.

